The Dyson handheld vacuum can be a reliable piece of equipment for cleaning different surfaces. But it can still encounter problems, such as frequent and seemingly random shutdowns. So what can you do if your Dyson handheld vacuum cleaner keeps cutting out? We researched for a possible solution, and here’s what we found.
Repairing a Dyson handheld vacuum cleaner because it cuts out frequently needs you to troubleshoot the appliance first. Find and verify the source of the problem, which might be (but isn't limited to):
- Low battery
- Faulty battery pack
- Clog in the bin
- Dirty motor
Use the appropriate solution to restore your Dyson vacuum’s optimal serviceability based on the underlying issue found. Continue reading as we talk about these concerns in greater detail. We’ll also tackle some ways that you might want to try to ensure your Dyson vacuum cleaner works as intended.
Why Does My Dyson Handheld Vacuum Keep Turning Off?
It's important to note that the specific steps to fix a Dyson handheld vacuum cleaner that frequently cuts out depends on the underlying cause. So it’s essential to know the possible causes of that concern before proceeding with the repair process.
Some of these potential reasons are:
Low Battery
Cordless Dyson handheld vacuum cleaners, such as the V15 Detect Absolute, can run by drawing power from a built-in battery pack. But if those units keep cutting out, perhaps it’s time to recharge the battery, which should take up to 4 hours to complete.
If you have a Dyson V10, don’t forget to check our post on that vacuum cleaner’s average battery life to help you use this model to its fullest.
Faulty Battery Pack
Dyson handheld vacuums have batteries that usually last four years. If the battery of your specific model is nearing or exceeding that period, the unit may run into problems like it turned off at seemingly random times. Experiencing this issue may also indicate it’s time to replace your vacuum cleaner’s battery pack.
Check out this replacement Dyson battery pack on Amazon.
You can also read our post on how long Dyson cordless vacuum batteries last to learn more about this particular topic.
Clog In The Bin
Certain Dyson vacuum cleaners will stop functioning if they detect their bins to be full. However, a blockage in that receptacle may prevent the vacuum from working as intended. These obstructions can be anything from dust to small debris.
Dirty Motor
Often, a Dyson handheld vacuum unit has a reasonably reliable filter to block dirt and other filth from entering the motor. But the filter can become dirty over time, causing dust and other unclean substances to enter the motor. If so, the vacuum’s mechanisms may cut in and out while in use.
Defective Motor
Aside from an unclean motor, a Dyson vacuum cleaner may also shut off frequently if something harms the motor. For instance, its wires might become frayed, or a connection loosened because of the frequent vibrations.
How Do You Fix A Dyson Handheld Vacuum That Keeps Cutting Out?
In this section, you’ll learn some possible solutions that may help eliminate the issue of your Dyson handheld vacuum cutting out repeatedly:
Charge The Battery
Take note that the process of recharging a Dyson vacuum cleaner’s battery generally depends on the specific model. Here are some vacuums from this brand and their battery-recharging procedures:
Dyson V11 Cordless Vacuum
Place the vacuum cleaner on its wall-mounted charging dock. An alternate method is to plug the charging brick into the battery pack of the unit. The charging LED indicator should begin flashing once the unit is receiving power. This light will turn off if the battery is full.
Watch the video below for a visual representation of this procedure:
Dyson V8 Slim Cord-Free Vacuum
The V8 Slim typically uses similar battery-charging procedures as the V11, but with some differences. For instance, the V8 Slim requires its users to slip it upward to the charging bracket instead of placing it down.
Also, the V8 Slim has three battery LED lights on the side. These LEDs will blink while the unit is charging and will turn off once charged fully.
An alternate method is to connect the battery pack to the main power source directly. If so, make sure to set the vacuum cleaner on a flat and level surface to avoid it from tipping or falling.
Here’s a video of these ways to charge the Dyson V8 Slim vacuum cleaner:
Dyson V12 Slim Vacuum Cleaner
You can recharge this Dyson vacuum cleaner using one of four methods:
- Method #1: Place the vacuum cleaner into the wall-mounted dock.
- Method #2: Remove the battery pack from the vacuum cleaner and place that into the charging dock.
- Method #3: Take out the attachment and plug the vacuum into the main power source directly.
- Method #4: Attach the V12 into the Grab and Go Dok (might require separate purchase).
Check out this optional charging dock for Dyson vacuum cleaners on Amazon.
The following video will also show you a visual guide on how to do those methods:
Remove Blockages
Clumps of dirt or large debris may enter your Dyson vacuum cleaner as you’re cleaning your space. If so, follow these steps to dislodge the offending objects and allow the appliance to continuously suck up dirt without cutting out.
Step #1: Remove The Clog From The Attachment
If the blockage is in an attachment, disconnect it from the Dyson vacuum’s main body. Then, use your hands to remove the obstruction. Otherwise, use a pair of needle-nose pliers or a reasonably long pair of tweezers to remove the clog.
Step #2: Remove The Clog From The Main Pole
Getting rid of the obstruction that’s seemingly stuck in the Dyson vacuum cleaner’s main pole may require an item that’s long yet thin to pass through the tube. An example would be a PVC pipe. Insert that item into one of the holes in the pole, and push the blockage out of the other end.
Step #3: Remove The Clog From The Vacuum Head
Often, the dust and debris may enter through a relatively small hole near the appliance's motor. Slide the dirt collection container to reveal the hole. Then, use your hand or a small brush to remove the blockage from the vacuum’s head.
Step #4: Replace The Filters
Sometimes the cause of the clogs and frequent cutouts on your Dyson handheld vacuum is a damaged filter. Check your owner’s manual on how to take out the old filter and the steps to install the new model.
Keep in mind that you should pay attention to the compatibility of the replacement filter. Otherwise, you might purchase the wrong model.
Check out these replacement filters for Dyson vacuum cleaners on Amazon.
Watch the video below to gain additional insight on how to remove blockages from your Dyson vacuum cleaner to help restore its functionality:
Also, if you have a Dyson stick vacuum, you can watch this video that should help you troubleshoot your model and find blockages:
How Do I Reset My Dyson Vacuum?
Resetting a Dyson handheld vacuum cleaner may also help in eliminating its problem of cutting out frequently. The process is generally the same for each Dyson handheld vacuum cleaner, which uses these steps:
Step-by-Step Guide
- Disconnect the vacuum cleaner head from the main body or pole.
- Flip the vacuum head to expose its brush.
- Undo the end cap by using a coin and rotating the cover counter-clockwise.
- Take out the brush bar and remove the debris lodged in the spindle if any.
- Remove the end cap of the brush bar and clean any dirt and debris in it, if any.
- Reinstall the parts and test the Dyson V10 if the problem persists.
Watch the video below to see a visual guide of these steps:
What Kind Of Warranty Do Dyson Vacuums Have?
Dyson offers a 2-year warranty for their cordless handheld vacuum cleaners. But the company provides a 5-year warranty to their corded vacuum units. While the vacuum cleaner is under warranty, owners can take advantage of different services, such as parts repairs and replacements.
How Long Should A Dyson Vacuum Last?
Dyson vacuums can usually last about 7 to 10 years. Some models, such as the DC17 and DC33, can last over 10 years with proper care and maintenance. Owners may also extend the lifespan of their Dyson vacuum cleaners if they don’t use these appliances more often than usual. But that might be quite challenging for some households, particularly those with pets or if they live in dusty areas.
Final Words
If a Dyson handheld vacuum cleaner keeps cutting out while you're using it, the underlying cause of this problem may originate from certain sources. For instance, the unit may have a clog, or you need to replace its battery pack. Make sure to use the correct solution to avoid spending additional time and money to fix the appliance.