Shark vacuum cleaners are durable, convenient and budget-friendly. You can always count on them to clear your home of dust in seconds. However, occasionally the brush stops spinning.
This can be a disaster, especially if guests are coming soon. What if you don't have a backup vacuum? You can, of course, buy a replacement, but that would be an expensive solution.
Shark vacuum cleaner brush not spinning is a common problem. The problem is mainly caused by clogging, damaged belts, not emptied dust bins or loose nozzles. Fortunately, there is a solution available for each.
So don't panic and read on to learn all the possible causes and their solutions!
Why did my Shark vacuum cleaner brush stop spinning?
When the Shark vacuum cleaner stops rolling, it's pretty obvious there's a problem. But that's not the only sign. The Shark vacuum can also:
- Loses its suction
- Throw dirt back onto the floor when not in use
- Flashes a red brush roll indicatorlicht(in some models such asShark DuoClean and Shark Navigator)
These signs can occur independently or collectively. In any case, put the vacuum cleaner aside and locate the core of the problem.
Common Reasons Why Shark Brush Won't Spin
1. Constipation
It doesn't matter if you use the most powerful pet hair brush or a regular one. All Shark vacuum cleaner brushes experience clogging. This happens when pet hair and dander wrap around the brush roll.
Over time, the wrapped bristles tangle and the speed of the spinning brush slows down until it stops completely. You can hear the motor running, but the brush roll is not turning. It is best not to use the vacuum cleaner in this condition.
First remove the blockage in the Shark vacuum cleaner brush roll and then use it. Otherwise the motor will overheat and the whole device will become unusable.
2. Damaged rubber belt
The older models of Shark vacuum cleaners still use a drive belt. It refers to a small rubber band in the drive head that spins the roller brush. Since it is made of rubber, the belt eventually wears out and loosens.
This takes away the ability to roll the brush. The only solution to the problem of a worn/broken belt is to replace it with a new belt.
3. Dust cups not emptied
Dust cups are an excellent alternative tovacuum cleaners with bag. They are convenient, efficient and money saving. You don't have to spend money on buying bags every month.
However, this does not mean that you can leave the dust cups empty. As soon as the dust reaches the maximum fill line, you must empty the cup, otherwise the vacuum cleaner will not pick up the dirt anymore. The brush may also stop spinning.
4. Loose suction head
The suction head or nozzle of the vacuum cleaner makes contact with the floor. It receives power through the integrated wires in the hose. So if the nozzle becomes loose, the connection will be broken and the roller brush will not rotate.
5. Broken hose
We already mentioned that there are wires running through the hose that provide power to the suction head. If something is damaged in the hose, the brush will probably stop spinning. Blockages caused by gunk can also be a reason.
6. Internal technical problems
All causes so far have been linked to the external, non-mechanical onesparts of the vacuum(except the belt). However, sometimes the problem lies in the vacuum.
- Worn power switch
There are two power switches on the Shark vacuum. One is present on the outside of the suction head. It turns the engine on and off.
You know the vacuum cleaner is on and working when the power switch light is onvegetables. It turns red when there is a blockage on the roller brush.
Another on/off switch is located in the suction head. Its job is to ensure that the brush does not spin when the vacuum cleaner is upright. The brush therefore only rotates when the handle of the vacuum cleaner is tilted backwards.
Over time, this on/off switch may fail. Or the wires could become twisted and interrupt the power supply to the motor.
- Burnt engine
The motor in the suction head is the heart of the vacuum cleaner. It rotates the rubber belt and brush roll. So if this gets corrupted nothing will work.
Unfortunately,burnt enginesin an old Shark vacuum are not a rare problem. The worn out machines have to work extra, causing the engine to overheat and burn.
- Damaged Brushroll circuit board
The printed circuit board in the suction head contains several important electrical components. They are responsible for ensuring that the vacuum functions the way it does. Your vacuum cleaner brush won't rotate if it gets damaged.
Circuit board damage usually occurs due to additional moisture, heat, and general wear and tear. It can also happen if the vacuum cleaner is thrown away or misused.
How do you fix a vacuum cleaner brush that won't spin?
There's no reason why the Shark vacuum cleaner brush won't spin, so there's no solution. You will find different answers all over the internet. Below we have compiled the solutions based on the causes mentioned above.
1. Empty the dust cups regularly
It is best to empty the dust container after each use. This helps maintain suction and improve cleaning performance.
If that seems inconvenient, empty it when it's half full. Don't wait for it to fill and overflow.
- Disconnect the vacuum cleaner's main power supply.
- Remove the dust cup. There are release buttons, handles or tabsthe vacuum cleaner. You have to push or pull to release the cup.
- Empty the dust container into the trash can. Try doing this outdoors or indoorsgarage. Otherwise, some dust may come back inside.
If the dust cup still seems dirty, rinse it with plainwaterand let it air dry. Do not reassemble the vacuum cleaner until it is completely dry.
2. Check the suction head
The suction head can easily come loose, but repair is not a problem. Just disconnect it from the hose and follow these steps:
- Check the suction head and hose for dirt. Clean them with a microfiber cloth. If you notice any damage, please contact Shark vacuum cleaners customer service.
- Align the suction head and hose.
- Push the hose into the suction head until you feel it click into place. Sometimes you hear a clicking sound.
3. Replace the damaged roller belt
You will need a screwdriver, a metal spudger and a new belt for this. You can buy it on any online platform like Amazon. However, if the product is under warranty, you can get a free replacement from the company.
- First switch off the vacuum cleaner and remove the suction head from the housing.
- Turn it over and usethe metal spudgerto remove the wheels.
- Use the screwdriver to remove the screws. Usually 16mm screws are used in Shark vacuum cleaners. So select the size of the screwdriver accordingly.
- Lift the lid and take out the brush.
- The damaged belt is on the sides of the Shark vacuum roller. Replace with the new belt and reassemble.
4. Thoroughly clean the Shark vacuum cleaner brush
There is only one way to prevent blockages in the vacuum cleaner brush; clean it regularly and thoroughly. Here's how to do it:
- Switch off the power supplythe vacuumand turn it off.
- Remove the brush from the suction head.
- Pull all tangled hair and dirt out of your hand. Wear gloves to avoid a mess!
- Use scissors or stitch pickers if there are build-ups.
- Examine the belt, filter and roller brush thoroughly. If there are dirt buildups, use a microfiber cloth to clean them.
- Reassemble the brush. Make sure everything is aligned before using the vacuum cleaner again.
5. Fix the technical issues
All technical issues discussed above can only be resolved by component replacement. So you must first purchase a new part. Make sure you get an exact or compatible replacement.
When you are done, unscrew the top cover of the suction head. This will give you access tothe power switch, motor, circuit board and everything else. Then follow these steps:
- Power button-straighten the twisted wires and replace the damaged switch.
- motor –disconnect and lift out the burnt engine. Insert the new one and reconnect the wiring.
- PCB -carefully remove the circuit board. Install the replacement and connect the wiring as before.
When you're done, put the cover and everything else back in place. Secure it with screws and operate the vacuum to make sure the brush roll rotates properly.
last words
No vacuum cleaner is built to last forever. Shark vacuum cleaners have an average lifespan of 5 to 7 years. You will probably start having problems by the 6th year of use.
However, regular care will help keep the problems at bay. So take care of your vacuum cleaner as it takes care of your home!
In this article, we explained how to troubleshoot the Shark vacuum cleaner brush not spinning. Are there other common problems in the vacuum? Let us know in the comments below!
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FAQs
6 Reasons Why Your Shark Vacuum Cleaner Brush Isn't Spinning (Stuck)? ›
If you checked your brush roll, floor setting, and belt but your brush roll is still not spinning, that means you probably need a Shark micro switch replacement. This small switch tells the vacuums brush when to start spinning.
How do I fix my Shark vacuum brush not spinning? ›If you checked your brush roll, floor setting, and belt but your brush roll is still not spinning, that means you probably need a Shark micro switch replacement. This small switch tells the vacuums brush when to start spinning.
Why is my Shark duo clean brush not turning? ›There Is Blockage on the Brushroll
There may be debris wrapped around the roller that is preventing it from turning. This is often due to hair, string, or other larger items that may be suck in the roller. Open the brushroll garage by sliding both of the release buttons away from you and then lift off the garage door.
While this could be an indication that the brush roll is jammed up, a flashing red light usually means that your Shark vac is overheating. This issue is often caused by a compromised brush roll or some other kind of blockage on the vacuum.
Where is the Shark reset button? ›To reset your shark vacuum, put the Power button in the On-Off position and keep the vacuum unplugged. If necessary, clear the hose. Once it has cooled completely, plug the vacuum back in again.
Why is my vacuum brush head not spinning? ›The brush roll or its bearings may be clogged with hair, threads or dirt. Make sure they are clean and the roll spins. The belt may also have slipped because it was loose. Check the fit of the new belt when it is installed.
How long is Shark warranty? ›Our confidence in our design and quality control means that your new Shark vacuum cleaner is guaranteed for a total of 5 years. Our cordless handheld vacuum cleaner models are covered by a 12-month guarantee extendable to a total guarantee period of 2 years subject to registration.
Does my Shark Duoclean have a belt? ›Remove old the belt from the two gears by prying it off using the metal spudger. The new belt will be very tight and difficult to put back on. In order to reinstall, start with the belt on one gear, then slowly rotate the other gear, pushing on the belt and allowing it to catch the teeth.
Do Shark vacuums have belts? ›The Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away has one rotatory belt. The belt is responsible for the mechanical rotations of the brushroll. Without it, the vacuum will not function.
What does 2 flashing lights on Shark battery mean? ›Please try again later. From the manual: • Top and bottom LED lights are flashing: Battery temperature is not optimal, so charging is temporarily paused. Leave battery plugged in and charging will resume soon.
Why is my Shark vacuum light blinking blue? ›
If the vacuum's “CLEAN” light is flashing blue, the front wheel sensor, drop sensor, or bumper is reporting an error. Move the robot to a new location on a level surface to make sure it is able to move freely. Make sure that the vacuum's front bumper is not stuck on an obstacle.
How do you reset the brush on a Shark vacuum? ›You can find the shark brush-bar reset button on the underside of the vacuum.
How do I manually reset my Shark vacuum? ›- Flip your shark Ion vacuum upside down.
- Locate the power button on the robot's side.
- Press the power button for about 10 seconds, and the shark robot should power off.
- Wait for about 10 seconds and power it back on. The shark robot resets and powers on.
If your Shark IQ Robot is not responding to the app, you may need to factory reset it. To do this, press and hold the clean button on the robot for 3 seconds. The light on the button will flash, and the robot will beep 3 times to indicate that it is resetting.
How do you test a vacuum brush motor? ›Inspecting the Vacuum Commutator for Motor Brush Problems
Test that by turning the motor off and pushing on the center shaft, the armature. If it has any play, besides spinning, then replace the motor. If solid then replace the brushes - motor brush replacement instructions.
You must call 1-877-581-7375 to initiate a warranty claim. You will need the receipt as proof of purchase. We also ask that you register your product online at registeryourshark.com and have the product on hand when you call, so we may better assist you.
Do Shark vacuums have a lifetime warranty? ›The Lifetime VIP Limited Warranty applies to eligible purchases* made directly from SharkNinja Operating LLC. Warranty coverage applies to the original owner and to the original product only and is not transferable.
How many years should a Shark vacuum last? ›That depends greatly on the vacuum itself and what you're using it for. A Shark vacuum that spends its days cleaning pet hair and other everyday messes might last as long as a decade. Investing in the best portable steam cleaner can last for a long time as well if they're well taken care of.
Can I return my Shark vacuum? ›You must return the item within 60 days of receipt of the product along with the original receipt and a signed letter stating your full name, telephone number, address, and the reason for the return. Please contact our customer service center to request a pre-paid mailer for your return by calling us at 877-581-7375.
Can you remove brush roller from Shark vacuum? ›Press the Eject Roller button to detach the small roller. Pull the roller away from the vacuum to remove it.
How do I know which Shark DuoClean I have? ›
- Check your box. On the bottom of your box, you should see the model number near the bar code.
- Check your unit. The main body of the vacuum (back of the unit) should have a rating label that features your model number.
- Check your manual.
DuoClean® technology is a dual-brushroll system designed to deep-clean carpets and directly engage floors for a polished look. • The vacuum that deep-cleans now cleans itself. The self-cleaning brushroll delivers nonstop hair removal.
Is my vacuum belt broken? ›Your Vacuum Has Suddenly Gotten Extra Noisy
Just like noises under your car hood, belts that are stretched to the breaking point, or that have become loose can indicate that problems are on the way.
You should replace the belts on your vacuum at least every three to six months if the vacuum is regularly used. This is very important for proper cleaning.
Do Shark vacuums overheat? ›After prolong uses of the vacuum, it's normal for it to get hot. When the vacuum gets too hot, it'll overheat and the motor protective thermostat will automatically shut off the power.
How do I know if my Shark vacuum needs a new battery? ›Your Shark robot vac should have blue LED indicator lights on the top of the unit to show battery strength. As long as at least one of these indicator lights is on, then your bot probably has enough remaining battery life to go back to its charger automatically.
How long does a Shark battery last? ›With the Shark cordless hoovers with dual batteries, you can achieve a runtime of around 100 minutes. But one or the other model with a single battery also has a runtime of up to 50 minutes. Generally speaking, the battery life of Shark cordless vacuum cleaners is around 40 minutes on average.
What causes a Shark vacuum to not turn on? ›If the vacuum is not plugged into its power outlet correctly, it will not turn on. Check to make sure that the vacuum's electrical cord is completely plugged into the outlet. Additionally, the power outlet could be a problem.
What is error 9 on Shark vacuum? ›Error nine (9) means the bumper is stuck and is not moving freely. Briskly tap the bumper several times to dislodge any debris that may be trapped underneath, and then press CLEAN to restart. If no debris is found, it is also possible the bumper could be dislodged from the robot.
What are the fault lights on the Shark vacuum? ›A solid green light shows that the vacuum's brush roll is spinning correctly. In contrast, a solid red light indicates that there is a blockage that's preventing the brush roll from spinning. A flashing red light also indicates an error, but this is usually related to the vacuum overheating.
How do you reset a shark vacuum motor? ›
- Move the power button to the “O-Off” position.
- Unplug the vacuum.
- Check for a clogged hose or filter; unclog the hose and replace the filter.
- Wait 45 minutes for the vacuum to cool; then plug in the vacuum.
- Turn the power switch to the “I-On” position to start the vacuum.
Error 10: Check the filter. If wet, use a dry one. If dry, clean it and try again. On your app, it says "Fan speed lowered due to blocked strainer.
What is error 21 on the shark robot? ›Charging error twenty-one (21) indicates the robot is on the Home Base/Clean Base, but is not able to charge. To resolve this issue, please start by cleaning the charging contacts. Unplug the base and wait 60 seconds. Remove the robot from the charging station and place the robot upside down on a flat surface.
What is error 26 on shark IQ robot? ›Error twenty-six (26) means the vacuum is experiencing insufficient airflow. It is recommended that you clean or replace the bin filter. Then try to run the robot again.
How do you force restart Black Shark 2? ›To force a restart on your Black Shark 2 Pro press and hold the power button (or unlock button) for at least 8 seconds until the Xiaomi or Android logo appears on the screen and release the button while it turns on again.
How do you reset a Shark vacuum motor? ›- Move the power button to the “O-Off” position.
- Unplug the vacuum.
- Check for a clogged hose or filter; unclog the hose and replace the filter.
- Wait 45 minutes for the vacuum to cool; then plug in the vacuum.
- Turn the power switch to the “I-On” position to start the vacuum.
The Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away has one rotatory belt. The belt is responsible for the mechanical rotations of the brushroll. Without it, the vacuum will not function.
Why is my Shark vacuum brush spinning but no suction? ›Check the hose for any clogs
If your Shark vac has a hose, feel along the length for any lumps. That indicates a clog that's causing your suction issues. See if you can break the clog by applying gentle pressure with your hands, or gently move it to the end of the hose to remove it.
That depends greatly on the vacuum itself and what you're using it for. A Shark vacuum that spends its days cleaning pet hair and other everyday messes might last as long as a decade. Investing in the best portable steam cleaner can last for a long time as well if they're well taken care of.
Will Shark replace my vacuum? ›What is covered by this warranty? The original unit and/or non-wearable parts deemed defective, in SharkNinja's sole discretion, will be repaired or replaced up to five (5) years from the original purchase date.
How do I know if my vacuum belt is broken? ›
- Your Vacuum Has Suddenly Gotten Extra Noisy. ...
- Your Suction Power has Slipped. ...
- Your Vacuum Cleaner is Leaving a Trail. ...
- Conclusion.
Are Shark Vacuums Good? Three Shark vacuums make our list of the Best Vacuum Cleaners of 2023. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 Upright Vacuum ties at No. 1, while the Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E S2 Professional Upright Vacuum comes in at No.
Can you wash roller brush on Shark vacuum? ›To clean the soft front roller, simply tap off any loose debris, use a dry towel to wipe the brush-roll clean and remove any debris caught in the teeth behind the brush-roll. Hand wash if needed, using only water, and let it air dry completely for at least 24 hours before reinserting.