Sadly, nothing lasts forever, and even the best vacuum cleaners will naturally come to the end of their lifespan.
If you’ve noticed declining performance with your vacuum or are considering an upgrade to enjoy newer features, you’re in the right place.
We’re breaking down how long a vacuum cleaner lasts on average, the things you should double-check before buying a new Hoover, and how you can best prolong the life of your vacuum.
How long does a Hoover vacuum last?
First of all, it’s important to remember that how long a Hoover lasts can vary considerably depending on the model you own and its use.
Naturally, a person living alone in a smaller apartment will use their vacuum less than a family in a large house with pets, so you may find your vacuum reaches the end of its lifespan sooner if it sees more regular or heavy use.
However, there are some general guidelines on how long you can expect your vacuum to last, depending on the type.
How long should an upright vacuum last?
Upright vacuums are one of the most popular Hoovers and the most common type of vacuum cleaner. This stand-up style is very durable, making it ideal for general cleaning around the home. On average, an upright vacuum will last around eight years.
How long should a cordless vacuum last?
A cordless vacuum is usually more lightweight than its upright counterpart, making it slightly less durable and, therefore, having a slightly shorter lifespan. You’ll often find a cordless vacuum lasting around five years.
How long do cylinder vacuums last?
Cylinder (or bagless) Hoover vacuums offer compact main units with flexible hoses, making them an excellent versatile choice for cleaning difficult-to-reach areas. The lifespan of a cylinder vacuum is similar to that of an upright vacuum, sitting at around eight years on average.
What are the signs your Hoover needs replacing?
The main indicator you may need to consider replacing your Hoover is if you notice a declining performance. The suction may not be as powerful, and the vacuum may not pick up dirt like it used to. Other signs it’s time to start thinking about replacing your vacuum include:
- Your vacuum is overheating during use. Overheating indicates that your vacuum motor isn’t working correctly and may need to be replaced.
- Your vacuum is producing excessive noise. While vacuums can be loud, be aware of any changes in the volume or type of noise your appliance makes. Rattling or unusual noises can indicate something is stuck in the machine or that its internal components are wearing out.
- You’re noticing strong or strange smells when using your vacuum. If you ever notice a burning smell while using your vacuum, turn it off, unplug it immediately, and troubleshoot to locate the source of the smell.
Of course, declining performance isn’t always the nail in the coffin for your Hoover. Sometimes, poorer performance can be due to clogs within your vacuum. Clogs or issues with your Hoover can often be solved with a deep clean or by finding replacement parts, helping save you the cost of a new model and giving you even more time with your vacuum.
Things to check before replacing your Hoover vacuum
As we’ve discussed, it’s not always time to upgrade if you notice issues with your Hoover – especially if your model isn’t old. You can often solve problems by troubleshooting and avoiding replacing your entire vacuum.
If you’re noticing a decline in performance, you should:
- Check the filter
The filter inside your vacuum can clog with dirt after a lot of use, which restricts the airflow, impacting the suction on your Hoover and its ability to pick up further dirt. Try deep cleaning your Hoover filter by rinsing with water under the tap, or replace it if it’s extremely clogged, to see if you notice a difference. To avoid issues in the future, it’s important to clean your Hoover and its filter regularly.
- Check the hoses
Clogs in the hose of your vacuum can cause similar issues. Hoses can become clogged by larger bits of debris, so double-check that nothing is present in the hose that could be restricting airflow.
- Check the nozzle
You may find a build-up of debris in the Hoover nozzle, contributing to a decline in performance. If you don’t notice an improvement after cleaning, buying a new nozzle could give your vacuum a new lease of life at a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire model.
- Check the battery
Issues with your vacuum could be down to an old or overheated battery. Replacing your battery could help prolong the life of your appliance.
At Hoover, we stock a range of spare parts and attachments for your Hoover, helping you prolong its lifespan.
If your vacuum is relatively new, for example, in the first year after purchase, we recommend checking your warranty and guarantee, as parts and labour may be free depending on the issue.
How to prolong the lifespan of your Hoover vacuum
Looking after your Hoover properly will help it perform at its best for longer. To ensure you get the most from your vacuum, you should:
Be careful with what you vacuum
Before you start hoovering, check the floor and ensure that any larger pieces of debris, or items such as coins, jewellery, hairpins or small accessories, are picked up manually. Picking these up with your vacuum can damage the internal components and reduce the life of your Hoover.
You should also take care not to vacuum water or damp areas, as moisture can also affect the performance of your Hoover.
Clean your Hoover regularly
Regular cleaning helps ensure dirt and debris don’t build up inside your Hoover, stopping blockages before they happen.
Replace filters and parts
As well as regular cleaning, keep an eye on your Hoover filter and nozzle and ensure you replace them when they become old, clogged or inefficient.
Empty your Hoover and check the brush regularly
Try to empty your Hoover after each clean to eliminate the risk of overfilling. You should also check the brush of your Hoover, as hair can become wrapped around it and affect its capabilities.
Many newer Hoover models come with ANTI-TWIST™ technology that automatically removes hair from the brushbar. If you find you’re vacuuming a lot of hair and having issues with the brush because of this, it’s worth exploring a new Hoover with ANTI-TWIST™ features.
Looking to replace your vacuum? Explore Hoover
Time to replace your vacuum?
Whether you’re having issues with your old vacuum cleaner or simply want to upgrade and enjoy new, more powerful features, we’ve got you covered.
Don't forget to dispose of your old vacuum responsibly by taking it to your local recycling centre. If your vacuum is still working and you just wanted to upgrade, why not donate it to someone in your local area via Freecycle.
At Hoover, we have a range of vacuum cleaners to suit any needs, from robust, powerful upright vacuums perfect for deep cleaning to nifty cordless models for quicker tidy-ups. Explore the full Hoover collection today to find a new vacuum that makes cleaning a breeze.