Shark UV700 Brush Not Spinning: Troubleshooting and Solutions

Is the brush roll on your Shark UV700 vacuum not spinning? This is a common issue that can be frustrating, but it’s often easily resolved. This guide will walk you through the troubleshooting steps and potential solutions to get your vacuum back in top working order.

Why is the Brush Roll Not Spinning?

There are several reasons why the brush roll on your Shark UV700 might not be spinning:

• Blockage: Hair, string, and debris can get tangled around the brush roll, preventing it from spinning freely.
• Floor Selector Switch: The floor selector switch might be disengaged.
• Overheating: The vacuum may have overheated, causing the motor to shut off the brush roll.
• Broken Belt: Although rare in Shark vacuums, the belt that drives the brush roll could be broken.
• Micro Switch Issues: A faulty micro switch, which signals the brush roll to start spinning, might be damaged.
• Connection Problem: A connection issue between the vacuum and the Motorhead might exist.

Troubleshooting Steps

Follow these steps to diagnose and fix the issue:

1. Check for Blockages

This is the most common cause of a non-spinning brush roll.

1. Turn off and unplug the vacuum: Safety first!
2. Inspect the brush roll: Look for any hair, string, or debris wrapped around the brush roll.
3. Remove the debris: Use scissors to carefully cut away any tangled materials.
4. Check the brush roll garage: On the floor nozzle, slide both release buttons away from you, lift the lid, and clear any obstructions.
5. Spin the brush roll manually: Try spinning the brush roll with your hand. If it’s difficult to turn, there may be a more significant blockage or the brush roll may be seized.

2. Verify the Floor Selector Switch

Many Shark vacuums have a floor selector switch for hard floors or carpets. When set to hard floor mode, the brush roll may be turned off.

1. Locate the floor selector switch: This is usually located on the vacuum body or handle.
2. Ensure it’s on carpet mode: Switch to the appropriate setting for carpet or rugs.

3. Reset the Vacuum

1. Turn off and unplug the vacuum.
2. Empty the dust cup: Remove the dust cup and empty all debris.
3. Clean the filters: Remove and clean the foam and felt filters. Rinse them under water until the water runs clear, and let them air dry for at least 24 hours before reinserting.
4. Check for blockages: Inspect the hose, wand, and floor nozzle for any obstructions.
5. Cool Down: If the headlight or brush roll indicator is flashing red, the motor may have overheated. Turn off the vacuum, unplug it, and let it cool down for at least 60 minutes before restarting.

4. Inspect the Belt

While less common, a broken belt can prevent the brush roll from spinning.

1. Turn off and unplug the vacuum.
2. Access the brush roll: Depending on your model, you may need to remove a base plate or access panel to view the belt.
3. Check the belt: Look for any signs of breakage or damage.
4. Replace the belt: If the belt is broken, you’ll need to replace it with a new one. Contact Shark customer service or a local vacuum repair shop for assistance.

5. Check the Micro Switch

If the brush roll still isn’t spinning after checking the above, the micro switch might be the issue.

1. Turn off and unplug the vacuum.
2. Access the micro switch: This requires disassembling the vacuum.
3. Test the switch: Test the switch with a multimeter to see if it’s functioning correctly.
4. Replace the switch: If the switch is faulty, replace it with a new one.

Note: Disassembling your vacuum can be tricky. If you’re not comfortable doing this, it’s best to take it to a qualified repair technician.

Other potential issues

• Loss of Suction: Check for blockages in the hose, dust cup, and filters. Make sure the dust cup is empty and the filters are clean and dry.
• Loud Noises: This could be due to a blockage or an issue with the brush roll. Check for any obstructions in the hose and dust cup, and ensure the brush roll is free of debris and spins properly.
• Vacuum Shuts Off: Many Shark vacuums have a motor protective thermostat that will automatically turn the unit off if it overheats. Wait 60 minutes for the vacuum to cool, and check for any clogs.
• Connection Problem: If you carry the vacuum not by the handle piece but rather on the Motorhead connection, that connection will loosen up over time, and you will end up with a brush roll that looks clean but doesn’t work anymore because there is a connection problem.

Tips, Warnings, and Best Practices

• Regular Maintenance: Regularly clean the brush roll, empty the dust cup, and clean the filters to prevent issues.
• Avoid Overloading: Don’t try to vacuum excessively large or heavy debris, as this can strain the motor and brush roll.
• Check for Blockages Regularly: Make it a habit to check for blockages in the hose, wand, and floor nozzle.
• Professional Help: If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting or repairing the vacuum yourself, take it to a qualified repair technician.

FAQ Section

What do I do if my Shark UV700 loses suction power?

Check for blockages in the hose, dust cup, and filters. Ensure the dust cup is empty and the filters are clean and dry. Also, inspect the brush roll for debris and clean it if needed.

How can I maintain the brush roll of my Shark UV700?

Regularly check for hair and debris wrapped around it. Use scissors to carefully cut away any entangled materials. Ensure the brush roll spins freely and is free of obstructions.

Why is my Shark UV700 making a loud noise during operation?

If the vacuum is making a loud noise, it might be due to a blockage or an issue with the brush roll. Check for any obstructions in the hose and dust cup, and ensure the brush roll is free of debris and spins properly.

How often should I replace the HEPA filter on the Shark UV700?

The HEPA filter should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage. Regularly check the filter for dirt and reduced performance to determine if a replacement is needed sooner.

Can I use the Shark UV700 on hardwood floors?

Yes, the Shark UV700 is suitable for hardwood floors. Use the appropriate setting on the vacuum to ensure optimal cleaning without damaging the floor surface.

What is the best way to store the Shark UV700 when not in use?

Store the Shark UV700 in a cool, dry place. Keep the vacuum in an upright position to prevent damage to the brush roll and ensure the power cord is wrapped neatly.

Conclusion

A non-spinning brush roll on your Shark UV700 can be a nuisance, but with a systematic approach, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself. Remember to regularly maintain your vacuum to prevent issues and keep it running smoothly. If you’ve tried these steps and your brush roll still isn’t spinning, it may be time to contact Shark customer service or take your vacuum to a qualified repair technician.