To test the motor, I would check for 120 volts across the two wires going to it with the switch on, and the power cord plugged in. If you have that voltage, check the brushes. If the brushes look good, replace the motor.
Full Answer
What to do if your shop vac is not working?
If your shop vac is properly plugged into a functioning socket with the switch turned on, and still, it’s not responding, the switch could be faulty or damaged. To be sure that the problem is coming from the switch, get a multimeter or any other continuity checker and check if the current is flowing through, and the motor is getting power.
What does hp mean on a shop vac motor?
It does not denote the operational horsepower of a wet-dry vacuum but rather the horsepower output of a motor, including the motor’s inertial contribution, achieved in laboratory testing. In actual use, Shop-Vac® motors do not operate at the peak horsepower shown.
How do you test for voltage output on a motor?
If you do see a spark and hear a "click" then you want to test for voltage output. Attach any 110 volt electronic device (or functional vacuum motor) to the output terminals - "Motor Neutral" and "Motor Power" for a complete circuit. (240 volt output cannot be tested on a 110 volt appliance.)
What is the difference between Shop-Vac® and svx2®?
In actual use, Shop-Vac® motors do not operate at the peak horsepower shown. Vacuums containing the SVX2® Motor Technology have more power and longer motor life when compared to a vacuum containing a standard Shop-Vac® motor of equal Peak HP.
How do you test a vacuum motor?
Test that by turning the motor off and pushing on the center shaft, the armature. If it has any play, besides spinning, then replace the motor. If solid then replace the brushes - motor brush replacement instructions.
How do I fix my shop vac electric motor?
1:306:55Shop Vac Repairs - Motor Replacement - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo getting to the motor assembly is actually really easy just like you're changing in a filter. SoMoreSo getting to the motor assembly is actually really easy just like you're changing in a filter. So my filter is actually relatively.
What would cause a shop vac to stop working?
Filter not installed. Filter damaged. Filter clogged or dust is too fine. Filter not functional.
How do I know if my shop vac switch is bad?
0:181:42How to Test a Faulty Ridgid Shop Vac Switch w/ link to parts neededYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipStart jumping around here that means that this switch is working let's try this switch. Here IMoreStart jumping around here that means that this switch is working let's try this switch. Here I connect it and there's no there's no change and the number here it's just one.
Can you replace the motor on a shop vac?
After removing the cover to the motor, you can replace the motor.
How do you clean a shop vac motor?
To clean your shop vac, fill the canister basin with water and bleach to kill germs and bacteria. Rinse out the hose with water and run it through until the water comes out clean. Use a power washer or a high-pressure hose to rinse out the filters. Dry the unit entirely with a clean rag so it is ready for its next use.
How do you fix a vacuum that won't turn on?
Check if the switch is turned on. If the power at the wall has been turned off, turn it back on and start the cleaner. If it does not start, plug in a different socket to find if the problem is with your vacuum or your electricity connection. The breaker might have tripped and needs to be reset.
How long do shop vacs last?
eight yearsHow long do vacuum cleaners last? According to Consumer Reports, vacuum cleaners last a median of eight years.
Do shop vacs wear out?
Over time, paper filters become clogged, tear or otherwise wear out. Check the label of your particular filter choice to determine its expected lifetime, and shorten that span if your shop vac gets heavy use or is frequently used to control fine particles.
How do you test a vacuum switch?
1:313:26testing carpet Cleaning rocker switches with a multimeter - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe're going to test these. Two. So to turn these two on and get a zero on the meter. We should haveMoreWe're going to test these. Two. So to turn these two on and get a zero on the meter. We should have to turn the switch to the away from those two this way there it is on the rest of it would be off.
Why does my Shop-Vac smell like it's burning?
A Clogged, Dirty or Damaged Filter If the filter in your shop vac is dirty or damaged, air won't be able to circulate through it properly. This can cause it to overheat, resulting in the loss of suction and a burning or smoky smell.
How do I fix my loud Shop-Vac?
3:384:51Easy Shop Vac Fix for noisy bearings (WnW #43) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo if it's really fixed or just fixed for a while either way I come out ahead and you know I canMoreSo if it's really fixed or just fixed for a while either way I come out ahead and you know I can always take it apart again if I need to lubricate it some more.
Caution!
When troubleshooting or repairing your Shop Vac, be sure to disconnect the unit from its power source. That will prevent the danger of electrocution and protect your fingers from being injured by moving parts.
Dust Is Coming Out From The Hose Or Exhaust
When a Shop Vac is in good working order, it will have no problems trapping wet and dry waste inside the bin (sometimes called the ‘tank assembly’). However, a tell-tale sign of a problem is when the dust comes out from the hose or exhaust.
Weak or No Suction
A Shop-Vac with weak suction can be very frustrating, and one without any suction at all is useless. If you’re facing this problem, there are three possible reasons:
Static Shock
When it comes to using a Shop-Vac, a common occurrence is when you receive static shocks from the unit. This issue can be very annoying, especially when you’re trying to get work done. However, you can rest assured that it is entirely harmless.
Shop Vac Stopped Working (Causes & Solutions!)
First, let us look at the possible causes of shop vacs stopping to work. And, then we’ll see the solutions to these problems.
Final Thoughts!
There are several reasons your shop vac may stop working and we have listed and explained some of them to guide you. We have also given probable solutions based on the causes of this problem.
