Should you get your vacuum serviced, or just buy a new one. Here are the guidelines.

It all has to do with the quality of the vacuum cleaner in the first place. If you buy an inexpensive vacuum cleaner from a discount chain or big box store, you have to understand that these vacuums are not made to be serviced. They are made to be used and disposed of when they have problems. These vacuums are made to last two or three years. With careful use they can last much longer.

Vacuum cleaners sold by independent vacuum retailers are generally better quality because the dealer also services the vacuums. So the dealers will tend to want to sell vacuums that will not be thrown out, but will get regular service.

Generally, when a complete repair is equal to half the cost of replacement, it’s time to replace the vacuum.

Here is how to make your vacuum cleaner last longer;

Make sure the belt is tight around the roller brush. If you use your fingers to "spin" the roller while it has the belt on, and the belt slips, it’s time to replace the belt. Never do this while the vacuum cleaner is on.

Check your bag and filters. If your bag is more than half full, change it. A completely full vacuum cleaner bag will restrict the air flow that cools the motor. Your motor will overheat and need to be replaced. In most cases, and motor replacement is over half the cost of a new vacuum cleaner. If you filter is dirty over its entire surface, change it. This will also restrict airflow.

If you have pets that shed, or someone in your home has long hair, check the roller brush every several months to make sure hair did not get stuck in the roller bearings. If the hair has wound around a bearing, use a knife to get the hair out. Obviously, do this with the vacuum unplugged.

Vacuums are usually made of some grade of plastic. All plastic will break if slammed hard enough into the walls. Use your vacuum with care. Show anyone else who will be using the vacuum how to use it. In our store in Wooster Ohio, 90% of our repairs come in from people loaning their vacuum cleaner out to a friend or relative. Make sure they know how to take care of it.

Your vacuum cleaner will last for ten years or more, if serviced regularly. Take it into a vacuum cleaner retailer for annual service. The belt, bag (or filter) should be replaced at least once a year.