Category: Home How To

Checking for obstructions; changing a drive belt

Caution: Unplug the vacuum cleaner before doing any work on it.

If a vacuum cleaner fails to work properly, first check that the dust bag isn’t full. When replacing the bag, check the condition of the filter and clean it, if necessary. Replace the filter at least once a year.

In a canister vacuum cleaner, check for obstructions in the hose and attachments. Plug the hose into the exhaust port, if there is one; run the other end into a paper bag and turn on the motor. Or try pushing a broom handle through the hose. If there are no obstructions and air flow is weak, the hose probably has a hole or split and will have to be replaced.

Doing an effective job

By vacuuming frequently you can diminish wear on floors, carpets, and upholstery. Before beginning, pick up debris, especially metal objects, that could damage the hose or the belt.

For best results on rugs and carpets, use a vacuum cleaner with a beater brush-either an upright or a canister with a power nozzle. The brush agitates carpet fibers and loosens dirt so that it can be sucked away easily. For bare floors, use a floor brush ( a beater brush may scratch the finish).

A finishing touch for windows

Valances are decorative coverings for the tops of curtains or draperies. There are two types. A soft valance is a short curtain or drapery in the same style as the window treatment and is usually hung on a separate rod. A hard valance, or cornice. is a fabric-covered, painted, or stained box, mounted above the window. Whatever the type, valance length should be 1/8 to 1/6 the length of the window treatment. Fabric can match or contrast with the curtains or draperies.