Are You Wondering When You Should Replace Your Vacuum?

How Often Should You Replace Your Vacuum Cleaner? Here Are My 6 Telltale Signs That It’s Time for a New One, My Top Picks for the Longest-Lasting Vacuums, & More. Read On…

When to Replace Your Vacuum

How Often Should You Replace Your Vacuum Cleaner? Here Are My 6 Telltale Signs That It’s Time for a New One, My Top Picks for the Longest-Lasting Vacuums, & More. Read On…
This article contains tops tips from our experts, backed by in-depth research.
Last Updated: 18 Apr 2025
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Replace Your Vacuum

Just like any other electrical equipment, vacuum cleaners don't last forever. 

Eventually, your vacuum's performance will wane, the cleaning and repairs will have little effect, and you'll need to consider getting a new one.

But how would you know when to replace your vacuum cleaner

As experts in our field, we discuss the following in this article:

    With so much uncertainty, knowing which step to take next can be tricky, but the ByPurify team is here to guide you…

    How Long Do Vacuums Last?

    Vacuums last, on average, for about 8 years1.

    When considering replacing a vacuum cleaner, it’s important to consider the brand, how often you’ll be using it, the cost, and the size of your home before making the purchase. 

    It could be more convenient just to dispose of the old vacuum, and in other cases, it might be cheaper to clean or fix it.

    Consider this

    If you're not ready to buy a new vacuum and are still happy with its work, you can perform a few easy checks to see if it needs to be repaired or simply requires a thorough cleaning.

    Should I Repair or Replace My Vacuum?

    When your vacuum cleaner stops picking up particles like it used to, you might jump to the conclusion that it needs to be replaced. 

    Your vacuum may only be a few years old, but that doesn't mean it has reached its end, and it might be worth your time to investigate whether your old vacuum cleaner just needs to be cleaned properly or if it can be repaired.

    Keep in mind

    A vacuum that hasn't been used much might just need minor maintenance, compared to one that sounds like a growling lion. 

    In that case, replacement parts might cost as much as a new one, and this is when you could start to consider a replacement.

    6 Signs It’s Time for a New Vacuum

    The 6 signs it’s time for a new vacuum cleaner include that it's noisy and that the drive belt is faulty.

    Here's the full scope:

    Your Vacuum Is Very Noisy

    If you're used to a quieter vacuum that’s now making dangerously excessive and unusual noises, then it might be time for something new. 

    You might even want to consider opting for something a little more subtle and modern.

    Your Vacuum Is Losing Suction

    If your vacuum loses suction, it could be because the hose is clogged or because your vacuum is reaching the end of its lifespan. 

    You might be able to find out why by taking it apart.

    The serviceable parts can then be checked and replaced accordingly, or it may be the sign you need that it’s time to replace your vacuum.

    Your Vacuum’s Filter is Failing

    A clogged filter will also reduce or block airflow, and thus your vacuum can’t properly pick up dust or air anymore. 

    Cleaning or replacing the filter can quickly and easily resolve any additional suction problems, but if this also doesn’t improve your vacuum cleaner's performance, then you might consider getting a new one.

    Your Vacuum’s Drive Belt Is Faulty 

    The drive belt in your vacuum cleaner can rot if it's not dried properly, if it comes loose, or if it stretches. 

    Changing the drive belt can be a cheap way to make it work better, but if the damage is too bad, you may have to replace the whole vacuum. 

    You've Got Different Needs

    In today's world, you can easily get a vacuum cleaner that suits your lifestyle and needs. 

    You might have added a new furry member to your family, moved into a bigger apartment, or just need a new vacuum cleaner that’s quieter and more efficient.

    Whichever situation you might face, your vacuum should always be a match for you and your current living situation. 

    You Want to Modernise

    Vacuum cleaners have developed and increased in performance. 

    From battery-operated, cordless vacuums to robot vacuums, there are a growing number of types, brands, and price ranges to choose from. 

    Vacuums have also become easier to use, more agile, and lighter, making them more comfortable to operate.

    Top 3 Vacuum Types that Last the Longest

    The top 3 vacuum types that last the longest are upright vacuums, canister vacuums, and stick vacuums.

    Let's go into more detail:

    Upright Vacuum

    Upright vacuum cleaners have a handle, a head, and a collecting unit that are all connected to each other. 

    They have a more vertical shape, are taller than they are wide, and are the vacuum cleaners that most people are used to seeing.

    Most upright vacuums are designed to clean large areas, cost less, are excellent for cleaning carpets, and are easier to operate, clean, and store. 

    On the other hand

    Although they can be stored well, they can be heavy, ‌which can prove troublesome if you’re cleaning stairs or have a bad back.

    They lack maneuverability and, therefore, can't reach crevices and corners well. 

    Finally, most of the time, upright vacuums don't have a retractable cord, which can become a tripping hazard.

    Canister Vacuum

    In canister vacuums, the dust canister and motor compartment are separated from the handle and head by a flexible hose; the canister part is usually on the ground on wheels, which enables it to be dragged around easily in the room.

    Canister vacuum cleaners are better for bare floors, and by design, they may feel less burdensome. 

    They might just be the best when it comes to cleaning places that are hard to reach while also feeling lighter to use because you’d only need to move the wand and its head when operating.

    Keep in mind

    Canister vacuums are quieter and cheaper, but they take up more space when they are not in use and are easy to bump into furniture and other things when they are being moved.

    Stick Vacuum

    Stick vacuum cleaners (also known as cordless vacuum cleaners) are thin machines that have the head, collection area, and motor all built into one single unit. 

    Stick vacuums are easy to move, don't weigh much, can be used with different attachments, and are sometimes even cordless.

    Some of its flexible attachment tools allow you to get into tight spaces, making it ideal for cleaning the inside of your car or quickly cleaning carpets and floors.

    In short

    Even though cordless/stick vacuums are the easiest to move and store, they may run out of battery quickly and aren't as powerful as upright vacuums.

    How Can I Keep My Vacuum Working Longer?

    You can keep your vacuum cleaner working longer by simply giving it love and care. 

    Regular cleaning and maintenance will extend its lifespan, just like other appliances and equipment. 

    It's also crucial to pay attention to your vacuuming technique.

    Make sure to pay close attention to the following:

    • Don't overfill the bag, and change it frequently. 
    • The belt might stretch and need to get replaced - this can be up to 4 times per year. 
    • Bagless vacuums may contain several filters, some of which can and need to be washed.
    • The brush roll and the hose need to be checked for build-up and obstructions.

    Don't forget to give your vacuum a good cleaning now and then, as a thorough cleaning may improve performance as well.

    Why You Can Trust ByPurify

    You can trust ByPurify because my aim is to bring you the most recent and up-to-date information while remaining unbiased. 

    I have been reviewing hundreds of vacuums over the years, and we’ve developed an extraordinary understanding of how vacuums should work and which ones are best suited to you. 

    I conduct all the research so that you don't have to!

    Common Questions

    How Often Do You Need to Replace Your Vacuum?

    Do Vacuums Lose Suction Over Time?

    How Long Should a Dyson Vacuum Last?

    How Long Do Shark Vacuums Last?

    In Conclusion

    If your vacuum has been around for almost a decade, it may definitely be time for an upgrade, but investigating exactly why it has lost its magic and if it's worth repairing might be the key to saving you money.

    If you choose to upgrade your vacuum, the ByPurify team suggests always considering the type of vacuum you want to buy, its pros and cons, features, performance, and ease of use. 

    I trust this guide has given you a better understanding of when to replace your vacuum, and what to look out for that suggests that you should.

    Learn More: In-Depth Vacuum Reviews

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