If you don’t know much about vacuum cleaners, you could end up getting a cheap vacuum cleaner that catches on fire. Or, even worse, it could end up exploding.
Although vacuum cleaners are often harmless home gadgets, certain risks should be taken into account. Such a catastrophic event as a vacuum catching fire and exploding is highly unusual. But, its engine and bag can become extremely heated during usage, and if they aren’t cooled down properly, they might spark a fire in the trash or elsewhere in the vacuum cleaner.
Within this article, we discuss the likelihood of fires starting in vacuum cleaners and the possibility of explosions.
Can A Vacuum Cleaner Catch On Fire?
Fire hazards are present in every electrical device, including vacuum cleaners. It’s important to note that the vast majority of vacuum cleaners pose no health risks. If you stick to the instructions supplied by the company, your vacuum cleaner won’t overheat and catch fire.
However, overheating, obstruction, or the use of the wrong filter may all pose a fire risk. To avoid fire, most electrical systems employ circuit breakers or thermal fuses that will activate if an issue is detected.
What Causes A Vacuum To Explode/Catch Fire?
1. Overheating
The main cause of vacuum cleaner fires is overheating. Vacuum cleaners generally have a thermostat to prevent overheating. The thermostat will automatically turn off the power when it reaches a certain temperature.
However, some vacuum cleaners don’t always work as they should. To avoid this issue, make sure that the thermostat is working properly and that the machine is in good condition.
2. Contact with a Flame or Spark
Even using the lowest setting on the hose can cause sparks to jump. The hose should be kept away from all open flames or sparks when not in use. Keep it well-insulated. Do not put the hose in direct contact with your stove, oven, or radiator as heat from these sources can cause the hose to melt. Do not let the hose touch other metal items (like door frames or hinges) either.
A flame or spark can come from the power cord, which could cause a short circuit if touched; a wire that touches a hot surface (e.g., on an iron); or a loose plug. When the fuse has tripped or the breaker has turned off, a flame might have appeared on the metal casing.
3. Poorly Maintained
The best way to reduce the risk of fires is to take the time to clean your vacuum from time to time. As long as the carpet doesn’t get dirty, then there shouldn’t be a problem, but sometimes it’s just a matter of cleaning things up so they look new. Dirt particles can accumulate, which increases the heat inside the machine.
In some cases, the user isn’t cleaning the device regularly enough, leading to a buildup of carbon, grease, dirt and dust, which all have the potential to catch fire. A lack of cleaning is not only problematic for safety, but it can also lead to wear and tear, which can increase the risk of fires.
4. Filter Damage/Clogging
The filter of your vacuum cleaner collects dust and debris. When there is too much of these contaminants in the system, they will collect on the filter, making it dirty. As a result, the dirt may collect around the edge of the filter and cause it to get stuck in the suction.
This can be prevented by making sure the filter is clean and has enough airflow and using the right type of filter. Also, check to see that the hose and wand are free of obstructions.
5. Faulty Parts
Over time, mechanical parts like brushes, fan belts, and motor bearings can wear out. When they do, they may cause issues like loud noise, reduced power, and/or a decline in performance. In some cases, this can lead to overheating, which is one of the most common causes of fire hazards.
6. Improper Use
Overheating is more likely to occur when your vacuum is being used in an improper way. For example, if you’re vacuuming carpets with a brush attachment, don’t leave the hose unattended during operation.
Also, never pull out the power cord when your vacuum is plugged into an outlet because this will increase the chances of a short circuit.
Can Vacuum Cleaners Explode?
Most modern home gadgets are built with a safety feature that disables the device in the case of an explosion.
It’s quite unlikely that a typical home vacuum would explode and start a fire. Actually, there have been surprisingly few reports of vacuum machines blowing. In most of these incidents, a poorly kept, older type of vacuum cleaner was to blame.
You may reduce the likelihood of an explosion in your vacuum cleaner by treating it with care and always following directions.
Explosions in vacuum cleaners are very rare, but when they do happen, they may cause significant injuries. There is a risk that they might start fires or give burns and other damage. In the event of an explosion, you should leave the building and contact emergency services right away. Don’t risk your own safety by trying to put it out.
Virtually every type of vacuum cleaner must first prove that it is safe to use before it can be put up for sale, and manufacturers are not permitted to supply vacuum cleaners that have the potential to explode.
How to Avoid Fire and Explosions in a Vacuum Cleaner?
- Check the vacuum cleaner for any leaks.
- Make sure that the vacuum cleaner is properly grounded.
- Inspect the vacuum regularly for any signs of wear and tear.
- Do not use the vacuum cleaner in an area where there is flammable or explosive vapors present.
- Keep the vacuum cleaner away from any heat sources.
- Do not use the vacuum cleaner if it is damaged in any way.
- Always unplug the vacuum cleaner before performing any maintenance or repairs.
- Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using the vacuum cleaner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Could Be Causing the Vacuum to Have a Burning Smell?
There might be several causes for the burning smell coming from your vacuum. After the vacuum has been unplugged, you may check to see whether hair or other debris has been caught in the rotating brush.
When using a rotary brush, it is quite common for human hair or pet fur to get caught up in the bristles of the brush. This might lead to a burning odor when the hair rubs against the brush’s components. When putting the brush back into use, make sure you completely clean it.
Can A Canister Vacuum Cleaner Catch On Fire?
Overheating and subsequent fire are risks associated with canister vacuums that lack reliable automatic shut-off mechanisms.
When utilized to remove combustible and flammable debris, vacuum cleaners run the risk of overheating and breaking down.
A brush, mop, and bucket are preferable to a vacuum for removing fireplace ashes, although a vacuum is a convenient shortcut. Similarly, a blocked filter in a canister vacuum might cause it to catch fire. That’s why it’s important to clean the canister as often as you can.
Can I Get a Refund on My Burnt/Exploded Vacuum?
Different brands have quite different terms and conditions. Many vendors promise refunds within 30-60 days, but exclude damage caused by fire from eligible returns. When a company receives a request to return a product, they will first examine the terms of its service agreement.
Do Hoovers Normally Overheat?
The heat generated by your vacuum cleaner is quite acceptable. A vacuum cleaner’s motor is similar to that of a car’s. After driving, the engine of every vehicle will inevitably become hot. Similar considerations apply to a vacuum.
And yet, it’s not common for a vacuum to become too hot. What constitutes “overheating” is subjective and will probably differ from individual to individual and from model to model.
Vacuums may become dangerously hot, so pay attention to warning signs and turn it off if it seems of extremely high temperature.
How to Deal with a Smoking Vacuum?
Don’t go running out to get a new vacuum if your old one begins coughing up smoke. A smoky vacuum might indicate a number of problems, including a frayed belt, a blocked brush roller, or a damaged engine.
It is very uncommon for vacuum belts to get damaged or to fall out of position due to the constant rotation they experience when the suction is in operation. Simply replacing the belt will solve the problem.
Blocking the brush’s rollers will cause it to cease moving, which in turn will cause the belt to overheat and smoke to be released. A new vacuum is expensive, but clearing out the brush is a far more cost-effective option.
How Common Is It for a Vacuum to Catch fire?
A fire in a vacuum cleaner is highly unusual. Fires in vacuum cleaners are almost never the result of natural causes. Rather, they are the result of faulty construction, electrical malfunctions, or operator negligence. You may avoid these disasters by following the vacuum’s safety instructions.
In their annual study, Consumer Reports compiled data on the number of fires caused by various appliances from 2002 through 2009, but vacuums were noticeably absent.
Some may find the information out of date, but all it does is demonstrate how much more often it is for a microwave or fridge to burn up than a vacuum.
Can I File a Lawsuit Because If My Vacuum Goes on Fire?
You would have grounds for a lawsuit against the manufacturer if your vacuum went up in flames owing to any defect in the product.
However, you will need to provide evidence to demonstrate that the fire was not caused by your carelessness. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are free of known safety issues before they are released to the public.
Take Away
A vacuum cleaner explosion may not happen often, but when it does, it may cause significant injuries. In the event of an explosion, get everyone out of the home and call 999 or 112. Nearly all vacuum cleaners must undergo a safety test before they can be sold, and those that fail are banned from the market.
