1. Inconsistent performance across floor types

Search terms: "Vacuum not working on hard floors, "Vacuum sucks on carpet only" 

If your vacuum works well on carpet but struggles on hard surfaces like tile or vinyl, it may indicate worn components, poor seal contact, or incorrect height settings. This imbalance can lead to incomplete cleaning, especially in mixed-floor environments, and may signal that your requirement needs servicing or adjustment.

What causes it:

• Auto-adjustment heads not adapting correctly to surface changes

• Damaged brush rolls or worn out squeegee blades

• Loss of nozzle seal pressure on smooth floors
  

Why it matters in commercial settings:

• Leave debris behind

• Cause operators to overwork areas  

• Potentially damage certain floors due to brush roll wear or vibration
  

This leads to in-efficient labour, re-cleaning, or worse - non- compliance with cleanliness standards, especially in food pre zones or medical facilities.

2. Musty, sour, or mouldy smells from the vacuum

Search terms: "Vacuum not working on hard floors, "Vacuum sucks on carpet only" 

While a burning smell is hard to miss, a musty, sour, or damp odour - similar to mould or wet fabric - is often overlooked. However, this type of smell is a clear hygiene warning, particularly in humid or moisture-prone environments. 

What's likely happening:

• Filters have absorbed moisture and now harbour bacteria

• Organic waste in the dust bag/bin is decomposing

• Vacuum was used on wet floors or carpets not fully dry
  

Why it's dangerous:

A musty-smelling vacuum is potentially spreading bacteria and allergens back into the air-counteracting your cleaning efforts. In schools, aged care, and clinics this can tigger asthma, allergic reactions, or even infection spread.

What's likely happening:

• Immediately replace all filters and thoroughly clean dust containers
  

• Never vacuum wet surfaces with a dry-use-only vacuum
  

• Sanitise internal compartments monthly with a disinfectant safe for electronics 
  

  

3. Power loss, tripped breakers, or short-circuiting  

Search terms: "Vacuum keeps shutting off", "Vacuum trips power", "Vacuum won't stay on"

If your commercial vacuum frequently shuts off, loses power, or trips circuit breakers, it's more than just old age - it likely signals an electrical fault. Ignoring these issues can cause serious safety hazards, equipment damage, and cleaning disruptions. Stop use immediately and seek professional inspection. 

Underlying Issues:

• Internal electrical faults

• Faulty capacitors or power regulators

• Overloading power boards or incompatible extension cords 
  
  

Facility impact:

In environments that rely on strict time windows for cleaning (e.g. event venues, medical rooms between appointments), electrical failure can derail schedules and create hazards.

Worse, unaddressed faults can result in motor burnout or even electrical fires, putting both staff and property at risk.

Professional tip:

• Use grounded, commercial rated extension cords
  

• Never run a vacuum with signs of power surging or shutdown
  

• Schedule an electrical inspection immediately if issues reoccur
  

4. The power cord is hot or physically damaged

Search terms: "Vacuum not working on hard floors, "Vacuum sucks on carpet only" 

If your vacuum power cord feels warm or shows signs of damage like fraying, cracks or loose prongs, stop using it immediately. Continuing to use a damaged cord risks electrical shock, fire, and further equipment damage. Inspect cords regularly and replace if needed for safety.

Why this happens:

• Overuse and bending stress wires over time  

• Cords are wrapped too tightly around the unit during storage.

• Exposure to heat, sunlight, or cleaning chemicals weakens insulation
  

The risk you're running: 

A warm or worn cord can result in:

• Electrical shocks

• Intermittent outages

• Short-circuiting or equipment failure

• This is particularly dangerous in wet environments or near flammable cleaning products.

What you should do:  

• Replace power cords showing any visible wear

• Use proper cord management practices (no tight wraps) 

• Store vacuums in dry, temperature-controlled areas when not in use

5. Allergy flare-ups after cleaning 

Search terms: "Vacuum causing allergies", "sneezing after vacuuming", "dust still in air after vacuum"

Are your staff or occupants sneezing or coughing after cleaning? This may mean our vacuum isn't capturing allergens properly and is releasing dust back into the air.

Root Causes:

• Worn-out or clogged HEPA filters

• Poor seal between dust bag and housing

• Cracks in casing or improper filter installation

Why it's serious:

This is especially critical in:

• Childcare centres and schools

• Healthcare settings

• Hospitality and aged care 

   

Here, airborne allergens and fine dust can cause real health risks  - even open you to legal or compliance consequences.

6. Your vacuum is getting harder to push or control

Search terms: "Vacuum hard to move", "wheels dragging on vacuum", vacuum feels heavy"

If cleaning staff find the vacuum heavier, dragging, or jerking during use, it's more than a nuisance. These signs often indicate mechanical problems like worn wheels or damaged brushes. Addressing them promptly helps maintain cleaning efficiency and prevents further damage. 

Likely causes:

• Worn or damaged wheels/casters

• Misaligned or jammed brush rolls

• Bent vacuum head frame or warped base plate
  

Why it matters:

• Staff fatigue and potential injury  

• Reduced productivity and cleaning time

• Floor surface damage from uneven drag or scraping

Quick maintenance tips

• Inspect wheels monthly and replace cracked or seized rollers 

• Realign brush heads after heavy-duty use or storage

• Don't ignore user feedback - it's often the first sign of wear
  

Maintenance schedule for commercial vacuums 

Stay ahead of breakdowns with this practical maintenance routine for facility teams.

Daily:

• Empty dust bags/bins

• Check for clogs

• Wipe extractor

Weekly:

• Clean or replace filters

• Inspect brushes and belts 

• Test cord

• Clear motor vents

After heavy-use:

• Perform suction test  

• Check wheels and cord

• Sanitise vacuum

Monthly:

• Inspect housing and seals

• Test electrical components   

• Check brush roll 

Every 6-12 weeks

• Schedule professional servicing

• Inspect motor performance

• Replace worn internal parts

Smart equipment choices prevent 90% of these problems 

Investing in durable, maintenance-friendly vacuums helps prevent most of these issues from happening in the first place. At capital equipment Hire, we recommend trusted models like:

Nilfisk VP300 Vacuum:

• Lightweight & compact

• Certified H13 HEPA filteration

• Great for offices, clinics, and low-noise areas

Nilfisk VP600 Vacuum:

• Modular build with interchangeable parts

• Low energy use 

• Ideal for large multi-site cleaning operations

Nilfisk VU500 Upright:

• Fast, powerful carpet cleaning   

• Easy to maintain

• Built for event venues, hotels and conference centres
  

Explore the full range of industrial and commercial vacuums at Capital Equipment Hire.

Final thoughts: Small signs lead to big problems - unless you act early

Commercial vacuums are the backbone of your cleaning operations, and ignoring warning signs - especially the lesser-known ones - can lead to: 

• Costly repairs  

• Staff downtime

• Safety and hygiene risks

• Lost productivity and client trust
  

Don't wait for a total breakdown. Early detection, regular maintenance, and quality equipment are your best tools for reliable, safe and compliant cleaning.

Need expert advise, spare parts, or a servicing quote for your fleet? Reach out to our team at Capital Equipment Hire for commercial vacuum support Australia-wide.