If you own a Shark vacuum, you know it’s a powerful tool for keeping your floors clean. But to keep it working its best, you need to know how to empty a shark vacuum navigator properly. Doing it the right way prevents clogs, maintains suction, and helps your vacuum last longer. This guide will walk you through every step, for different Navigator models, and answer all your common questions.
A full dust cup doesn’t just mean weak suction. It can strain the motor and let dust and allergens escape back into your home. Emptying it regularly is the simplest form of maintenance you can do. Let’s get started with the basics.
How to Empty a Shark Vacuum Navigator
The core process is similar across most Shark Navigator models, like the Lift-Away, Professional, or Upright. The main parts you’ll deal with are the dust cup and the filter. Always make sure your vacuum is turned off and unplugged from the electrical outlet before you start.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Locate and Remove the Dust Cup. On most Navigators, the dust cup is attached behind the handle. Look for a release button or latch—it’s often clearly marked. Press the button and lift the dust cup straight up and away from the vacuum body.
2. Carry the Dust Cup to a Trash Can. It’s a good idea to do this over a garbage bin to avoid any spills on your floor. Some models have a “bagless” door on the cup itself.
3. Open the Dust Cup Door. Find the latch on the front or bottom of the dust cup. Push it to open the hinged door. The contents should fall out freely into the trash.
4. Clear Any Stuck Debris. If hair or large debris is stuck, use your fingers (wearing gloves if you prefer) or a dull tool like a butter knife to gently dislodge it. Avoid using sharp objects that could crack the plastic.
5. Check and Clean the Pre-Motor Filter. This is a crucial step many people miss. The filter is usually located inside the vacuum where the dust cup sits or inside the dust cup compartment. Remove it according to your manual’s instructions. Tap it gently against the inside of the trash can to remove fine dust. Most Shark filters are not washable unless specifically stated, so check your model’s guide.
6. Reassemble Everything. Place the clean, dry filter back into its slot. Then, align the dust cup onto the vacuum and push down until you hear a click, ensuring it’s securely locked in place.
Tools You Might Need
You don’t need much, but having these nearby helps:
* A trash bag or bin.
* A pair of scissors or a seam ripper for cutting tangled hair and fibers.
* A dry, soft cloth for wiping down the cup.
* Your user manual for model-specific details.
Emptying the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Canister
The Lift-Away version has a detachable canister. The process is very similar, but here’s the slight difference:
1. Detach the canister from the vacuum pod by pressing the release button.
2. Hold the canister over the trash. Find the bottom release latch to open the door and empty it.
3. The filter is often located inside the top of the canister. Remember to check and clean it too before snapping everything back together.
How Often Should You Empty the Dust Cup?
You shouldn’t wait until it’s completely full. For best performance, empty the dust cup after every two or three cleaning sessions, or whenever the debris reaches the “Max Fill” line if your model has one. If you vacuum up a large spill or a lot of pet hair, empty it immediately afterwards to prevent clogs.
Signs it’s time to empty include:
* A noticeable loss of suction power.
* Debris falling back onto the floor as you vacuum.
* The vacuum sounds like it’s working harder than usual.
Dealing with Clogs and Blockages
Sometimes, emptying the cup isn’t enough because a clog is stuck in the hose or pathway. If your vacuum has weak suction even with an empty cup, you likely have a blockage.
How to clear a clog:
1. Unplug the vacuum.
2. Check the hose first. Detach it from both ends if possible. Shine a flashlight through it to look for obstructions.
3. Use a long, flexible object like a broom handle or a dedicated vacuum hose cleaning wand to gently push the clog out. Never use anything sharp.
4. Check the opening where the dust cup attaches and the brushroll chamber for wrapped hair and string.
5. Reassemble and test the vacuum. Regular emptying greatly reduces the chance of tough clogs forming.
Maintaining the Filters for Peak Performance
The filters are just as important as the dust cup. A dirty filter is the most common cause of poor suction. Most Shark Navigators have two main filters:
1. The Pre-Motor Filter (Foam/Felt): This protects the motor from dust. Clean it by tapping it out monthly. Replace it every 12-18 months with heavy use.
2. The HEPA Post-Motor Filter: This captures fine particles and allergens. It usually sits at the top or back of the vacuum. Gently tap it to clean it every 3 months. Replace it once a year, or as recommended.
Always let filters dry completely for at least 24 hours if you wash them (only if your manual says they are washable). Putting in a damp filter can cause mold and motor damage.
Cleaning the Brushroll and Wheels
For a truly thorough clean, attend to the brushroll every month or so. Hair and string can wrap around it tightly, making it hard to spin.
1. Turn the vacuum over. You may need a screwdriver or coin to unlock the brushroll cover.
2. Remove the cover and pull out the brushroll.
3. Use scissors to carefully cut and remove all wound-up hair, threads, and carpet fibers.
4. Clear any debris from the brushroll chamber before putting everything back.
5. Also, wipe the wheels with a damp cloth to remove any stuck-on dirt or hair that can scratch floors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
* Overfilling the dust cup. This strains the motor and reduces suction.
* Forgetting the filters. They need regular attention, not just once a year.
* Using water on non-washable parts. It can ruin filters and cause electrical issues.
* Not checking for clogs in the hose. Weak suction often points to a blockage.
* Reassembling the vacuum incorrectly. Make sure every part clicks securely into place.
Troubleshooting After Emptying
What if you’ve emptied everything, but the vacuum still isn’t working right? Here are some quick fixes:
* No suction? Double-check that all parts, especially the hose and dust cup, are connected securely. Ensure the filters are completely dry and correctly placed.
* Vacuum turns off? The motor may have overheated. Unplug it, let it cool for 45-60 minutes, and check for a major clog.
* Strange noise? Something might be caught in the brushroll or fan. Inspect and clear the brushroll and intake openings.
* Dust leaking? The dust cup or filter is likely not sealed properly. Take it apart and reassemble, ensuring every latch is closed.
If problems persist after these checks, consult your user manual or contact Shark customer support for help.
Keeping Your Vacuum Smelling Fresh
Over time, vacuums can develop a musty odor. To fix this, ensure you empty the cup after every use, especially if you pick up wet messes. You can also occasionally sprinkle a small amount of baking soda into the empty dust cup, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum it up to freshen the internal pathways. Always clean filters regularly, as trapped dust can cause smells.
FAQs About Emptying Your Shark Navigator
How do I empty my Shark vacuum without making a mess?
The best trick is to empty it directly into a plastic grocery bag. Hold the dust cup inside the bag, open the door, and let the debris fall in. Then, you can just tie up the bag and throw it away, containing all the dust.
Why does my Shark vacuum have no suction after I emptied it?
This almost always means a filter is dirty, wet, or missing, or a part isn’t sealed. Check that both filters are clean, dry, and correctly installed. Also, make sure the dust cup is clicked all the way into place. A missed clog in the hose could also be the culprit.
Can I wash the dust cup on my Shark Navigator?
Yes, the dust cup itself is usually removable and washable. Check your manual to be sure. You can rinse it with warm water and let it air dry completely for at least 24 hours before reinstalling. Do not put it in the dishwasher.
How often do I need to change the filters?
You don’t change them as often as you clean them. The pre-motor filter should be cleaned monthly and replaced roughly every year. The HEPA filter should be cleaned every 3 months and replaced about once a year. This depends on how frequently you use your vacuum.
Is it bad to empty the vacuum outside?
Emptying outside is a great idea if you have allergies, as it prevents dust from recirculating inside your home. Just be mindful of wind blowing the debris back at you or into your neighbors yard.
Where is the reset button on a Shark Navigator?
If your vacuum overheats and shuts off, it has a thermal reset button. After letting it cool for an hour, find the button—it’s usually a small red or black button on the back or side of the vacuum body near the motor. Press it firmly to reset.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your Shark Navigator running like new for years to come. Regular emptying and basic maintenance are the keys to powerful, reliable cleaning performance every time you need it.