Cylinder cleaners part 2

Common faults

For symptoms, possible causes and action relating to cylinder vacuums, see the Fault finder for upright vacuums. Unless the appliance has a power head attachment, references to the brush rolls can be ignored. Checking a long hose for blockages can be simply done by dropping a coin down one end, gradually lifting the hose and listening to the movement of the coin. If a blockage is present, the point at which the coin stops indicates the location. If the blockage is near either end of the hose, it may be necessary to remove the actual hose end if possible. In most instances, reversing the airflow through the hose frees the blockage.

Wet-and-dry models

Appliances suitable for wet-and-dry operation look like ordinary cylinder/canister cleaners, but the internal design, which incorporates a ball-type floating valve, is quite different. The valve mechanically closes the inlet (suction) point to the motor from the dirt/liquid container if an excess of water is drawn into it.

The operation of this valve is simple yet effective. The increase in water level lifts the ball from its normal position closer to the inlet (suction) duct. When close enough, the suction lifts the ball into the inlet and effectively seals it to prevent water from being drawn into the motor compartment.

This action also prevents any further liquid being drawn into the container. It is essential that the ball moves freely within its housing at all times.

There are both earthed and double insulated versions of this appliance. It is most important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and reposition all parts correctly.

Three-in-one machines

The basic operation of this machine is identical to the wet-and-dry type. However, it incorporates a tank for a water and detergent mixture which can be fed as required to a special cleaning head, thus combining carpet shampooing with dirty water extraction.

The tank which holds the detergent and water is pressurized by a feed from the motor exhaust. A tube runs from below the liquid level of the tank to a control valve on the end of the vacuum hose. When cleaning solution is required, the valve is opened and the solution from the tank is forced along the tube to the cleaning head. The solution is then fed into the pile of the carpet and as the head is moved over the surface, the now dirty liquid is sucked into the lower container via the normal suction hose. An alternative to this is the jet system which supplies the cleaning head with solution at a higher pressure via a small pump unit.

Warning

To use appliances for wet-and-dry or shampooing requires the fitting or removing of certain parts specific to each model. It is not possible to list all the variations here, so reference should be made to the manufacturer’s instructions before carrying out any of these operations.

Specialized cleaning fluids are required for use with these products. They usually have anti-foaming agents to prevent foam and water penetration of the motor unit. It is advisable to use only the products approved for use in these appliances; failure to do so could cause damage or create a safety hazard. Ensure that the machine is cleaned thoroughly after wet-and-dry operation or shampooing, because dirty liquids and detergent deposits can cause build-ups or blockages during normal use.

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