Imagine how quickly your car would break down if you never changed the oil, air filter, spark plugs, or brake pads. This type of basic maintenance is essential if you want your car to keep running.
The same basic concept applies to backpack vacuums. If you fail to properly maintain them, they will break down much faster, meaning that you won’t get as much use as possible out of your investment. Additionally, when your vacuum breaks down, you will either need to repair or replace it – both of which can cost a lot of money.
A much better option is to stay on top of regular maintenance. Luckily, there are only a few tasks that need to be completed in order to keep your vacuum in great shape. By getting on a regular schedule with these tasks, you can avoid much larger expenses in the future.
Most vacuums have a series of filters. Typically, there is a basic air filter that is responsible for filtering out large dust particles, hair, and other types of debris. Depending on your vacuum, there may also be a microfilter or a HEPA filter. These filters are designed to capture even the tiniest airborne particles, helping to ensure that your vacuum doesn’t degrade your indoor air quality while it is in use.
You should check the filters every time you use the vacuum to see if they need to be cleaned. Empty the filters as needed. After they are emptied, closely inspect them to make sure that the pores of the filter are open. This will help ensure that air can flow freely through the filters, minimizing the strain on the vacuum’s motor.
You should also check the filters at least every two hours when using the vacuum. That way, you can ensure that they are still clear and are not clogged or blocked. It doesn’t take long to examine the filters and empty them if needed. By doing so, however, you can significantly prolong the life of your vacuum.
Once a week, you should rinse out any microfilters, setting them aside to air dry naturally. Never put these filters in the dryer or try to speed up the drying process in any other way. Make sure you have plenty of time for them to dry on their own before cleaning them. That way, you won’t be tempted to use them before they are completely dry or to try to speed things up in a way that could cause damage.
If your vacuum has a HEPA filter, you should inspect it every couple of weeks to see if it needs to be replaced. For the most part, these filter should be replaced every six months or so. This will help ensure that they keep working well. You can tell if your filter is starting to wear out by looking at its color. If it is slightly discolored, it means that it is almost ready to be replaced.
You should also examine the cord and the plug before each use. Make sure that the prongs of the plug are straight and that there are no signs of electrical problems. Wrap the cord carefully each time the vacuum is used to minimize the risk of cord damage.
Proper maintenance of backpack vacuums can go a long way toward helping them last longer. Don’t forget to read the user manual for your particular model. Usually, the manufacturer will include specific instructions on how to care for your machine. By following these instructions closely, you can keep it in great shape for a long time to come, allowing you to get your money’s worth out of your investment.
