Questions and answers

How long should a vacuum cleaner last?

A few things need to be considered to determine the life of a vacuum. Price point, origin of manufacture and proper maintenance will all affect life expectancies. The less expensive vacuums tend to last less than five years while the more expensive German made vacuums can last up to twenty years. Manufacturing quality including plastics, motors and hoses also determine whether repair vs. replacement is required and when. General maintenance like bag, filter and belt changes are likely the largest determination of how long machines will last.

For vacuums we carry we can give approximate life expectancy based on our experience as we have been selling a number of brands for many years above factors along with hours of use per week, pet hair, type of carpeting it’s used on, as well as many other high traffic conditions.

Cushing’s carries the full line of Miele vacuums which are produced in Germany and which we have had great success with in that they last a long time. As with most things they cost a little more and last longer with less issues. For maintenance our repair department carries all parts relating to this line. We also carry all bags, filters and accessories relating to this line.

How do I get rid of a bad odour coming from vacuum

The first step is to determine where smell is coming from. If smell is a burning rubber smell the issue is probably a belt that is worn out. This can be replaced which should correct the issue. If smell is one of electrical burning then it may be the motor is overheating. The filters should be checked and replaced as well as bag if it is full. If this doesn’t solve the problem please contact our repair desk.

Bad vacuum odours can also arise due to pets where the vacuum is used to collect pet hair. Cigarette smoke can also attach to furniture and carpet along with other surfaces and collect in the vacuum. Many products mask the odour without eliminating it and may smell worse than original odour. First you must get to the source of the odour by changing the bag and filters. With the bag out the inside surfaces can be washed. Cushing’s carries Fresh Wave Odour Neutralizing Liquid that can be used for this purpose. If washing make sure all surfaces are dry prior to closing. Cushing’s also carries Fresh Wave odour removing vacuum beads Adding Fresh Wave odour removing vacuum beads to the vacuum bag or bagless dirt cup will will add a fresh scent to the air leaving the vacuum.

Some odours may attach to places inside the vacuum that will require taking the vacuum apart. Our repair facility can assist with this.

What is the best vacuum for pet hair

There are several considerations for cleaning pet hair starting with a larger capacity bag or bin which will cost less to run. If cleaning carpets with pet hair a revolving brush will be required. Stiffer bristles on bare floor brushes work better on pet hair but most of all filtration is a key factor. If a vacuum has poor filtration and is cleaning large amounts of pet hair the life of the motor will be shorter. This will also lead to very strong pet odours emitting from the vacuum. This is usually taken care of with an optional charcoal filter. The bag if equipped should be changed regularly and before bag is full. For dealing with odours please see question and answer regarding dealing with odours.

What’s better, an upright or a canister vacuum?

Upright vacuums are quick and easy since you plug them in and push them around in front of you. They are better for single floor homes and to clean carpets rather than bare floors. Canisters are more versatile as they have a broader range of attachments that will allow them to clean virtually any surface and reach just about anywhere. The biggest difference is that unlike pushing an upright, a canister is pulled behind you. Our showroom has both and you can try each one to see what would be best for you.

When Should I Buy a New Central Vacuum?

If your current central vacuum system is not working or not working the way it should you should first review the troubleshooting section within our support section.

If your unit is over 20 years old it is probably going to be less expensive to replace the unit vs repairing. High quality central vacuums such as Cana-Vac that Cushing’s carries will last 20 years depending on usage and proper maintenance being carried out.

Keep in mind that if central vacuum unit is replaced you don’t necessarily need to replace the power head, hose or other attachments at the same time.

If your central vacuum system is giving you trouble call our store for a discussion with our highly trained repair staff.

How often should I change my Vacuum’s filter?

Vacuum filters should be changed as suggested by the manufacturer. This can range from every six months to over a year. When in doubt, change the vacuum cleaner filter at least every year. Most vacuum cleaners use self-cooling motors which means that they use the air that’s sucked in to stay cool. If the filters are clogged, the motor will overheat and greatly reduce the life span of the vacuum.

What is a good vacuum for quick pick-ups?

An easy vacuum for quick cleaning are the stick vacuums. These vacuums are designed for handling little spills where a full size vacuum cleaner is more than needed. There are three styles available; corded, cordless and push sweepers. Stick vacuums with a cord will always have more suction than its comparable cordless model. This is due to the amount of energy it requires to generate good suction. Cordless models are more convenient because you don’t have to worry about a cord but are more expensive. Cushing’s carries various models that you can try to see if they will do what you want them to.

Why is my vacuum leaking dust?

If your vacuum does not use a bag to collect the dirt and is a less expensive make it may be leaking dust around the bag-less dirt cup or around the exhaust filter. The Miele line of vacuums is of high quality with a good seal.

Common leaks occur where the hose connects to the vacuum, also around the bag door and around the exhaust filter.

Change the bag and filter on a regular basis. The bag at least when it reaches 75% full and filter according to manufacturer’s recommendation but at least every 6 to 12 months.

How often should I change my Vacuum’s filter?

Vacuum filters should be changed as suggested by the manufacturer. This can range from every six months to over a year. When in doubt, change the vacuum cleaner filter every year. Most vacuum cleaners use self-cooling motors which means that they use the air that’s sucked in to stay cool. If the filters are clogged, the motor will overheat and greatly reduce the life span of the vacuum.