If your Shark Navigator Professional not picking up hair, you’re not alone. This is a common frustration, especially in homes with pets or long-haired family members. The good news is that this problem is almost always fixable with some simple troubleshooting. Let’s walk through the steps to get your vacuum cleaning effectively again.
Often, the issue isn’t that the vacuum is broken. It’s usually a clog, a full container, or a part that needs a good clean. We’ll cover everything from quick checks to more detailed solutions. You’ll likely have your Shark working like new in no time.
Shark Navigator Professional
This powerful upright vacuum is known for its strong suction and versatility. But for it to work right, all its parts need to be clear and properly connected. When hair isn’t being picked up, it means something is blocking the path or the brushroll isn’t spinning as it should.
Immediate Checks to Do First
Before you take anything apart, do these three quick checks. They solve the problem more often than you’d think.
- Check the Canister: Is it full? An overfilled dust cup drastically reduces suction. Empty it, even if it doesn’t look completely full.
- Inspect the Hose: Detach the hose from both ends. Look through it for blockages. A large clump of hair or debris can get stuck in there.
- Verify the Settings: Make sure the vacuum is set to the correct floor setting. The “floor” setting is for carpets, while “bare floor” lifts the brushroll.
Step-by-Step Deep Clean Guide
If the quick checks didn’t help, it’s time for a deeper clean. Follow these steps in order.
Step 1: Completely Empty and Clean the Dust Cup
Don’t just dump the contents. Hair and dust can cling to the filters inside the cup.
- Remove the dust cup from the vacuum.
- Open the bottom latch to empty it.
- Take out the foam and felt filters. Rinse them under lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Let them air dry for at least 24 hours. Never use them while damp.
Step 2: Clear the Brushroll (The Most Likely Culprit)
Hair, string, and carpet fibers wrap around the brushroll, stopping it from spinning. This is the number one reason for poor hair pickup.
- Turn the vacuum over. You’ll see a plate covering the brushroll.
- Use a coin or screwdriver to unlock the latches on the plate.
- Lift off the plate. You’ll now see the brushroll.
- Use scissors or a seam ripper to carefully cut and remove all wound-up hair and debris. Pull it all out from both ends of the roller.
- Manually spin the brushroll to ensure it moves freely. If it’s still sticky, wipe it down with a damp cloth.
- While the plate is off, also clear any debris from the chamber around the brushroll.
- Reattach the plate securely, making sure it clicks into place on both sides.
Step 3: Check for Clogs in the Air Path
After the brushroll, suction problems are often due to a clog. The air path goes from the floor nozzle all the way to the dust cup.
- Detach the Hose: Check for clogs at both connection points and along its full length.
- Check the Pod: Where the hose connects to the vacuum’s body (the pod), there can be a blockage. Use a long, flexible object like a broom handle to gently dislodge anything stuck.
- Look at the Floor Nozzle: The opening where dirt enters can get blocked by larger objects. Inspect it visually and by feel.
Step 4: Inspect and Clean the Filters
Dirty filters are a major suction killer. Your Shark Navigator Pro has more than one filter.
- Pre-Motor Foam and Felt Filters: These are in the dust cup. You should of cleaned them in Step 1. Remember, they must be completely dry.
- Post-Motor Filter (HEPA Filter): This is usually located near the top of the vacuum, behind a cover. Take it out and tap it gently to remove dust. Most HEPA filters can be rinsed too, but always check your manual first. Allow it to dry for a full 24 hours.
Never operate your vacuum without all filters in place and fully dry. It can damage the motor.
When the Problem Might Be Mechanical
If everything is clean and clear, but hair still isn’t being picked up, a part might be worn out or broken.
Worn Out Brushroll or Belt
The belt turns the brushroll. If it’s stretched or broken, the brushroll won’t spin.
- Check the Belt: With the brushroll cover off (like in Step 2 above), look at the belt. It should be snug and intact. If it’s loose, stretched, or has a break, it needs replacement.
- Inspect the Brushroll Ends: The plastic ends of the brushroll can wear down over time. If they are excessively worn, the brushroll won’t align properly and may not spin.
Faulty Suction Motor or Clutch
This is less common, but possible. If you hear the motor pitch change when you engage the brushroll, but the roller doesn’t move, the clutch that engages it could be faulty. Also, if the suction seems weak even after all cleaning, the motor itself might be failing. For these issues, contacting Shark customer support is your best bet.
Prevention Tips for the Future
Stopping hair from causing problems is easier than fixing them. Here’s how to maintain your vacuum.
- Regular Brushroll Maintenance: Get in the habit of checking and cutting hair off the brushroll every two weeks, or weekly if you have pets.
- Empty the Canister Often: Don’t wait for it to be completely full. Empty it after every few uses to maintain strong airflow.
- Clean Filters on Schedule: Rinse the foam/felt filters monthly, and clean the HEPA filter every 3 months, or as recommended in your manual.
- Pre-Vacuum Picking: For large clumps of pet hair or string, pick them up by hand before vacuuming. This prevents immediate jams.
FAQ Section
Why is my Shark vacuum not picking up dog hair?
Dog hair is fine and can quickly clog filters and wrap around the brushroll. Follow the deep clean steps above, paying extra attention to the brushroll and filters. More frequent maintenance is needed in homes with pets.
How do I get hair out of my Shark Navigator brushroll?
Turn the vacuum over, unlock the cover plate, and lift it off. Use scissors to carefully cut the hair along the length of the roller. Then, pull the strands out from the sides. Avoid pulling without cutting, as this can damage the bearings.
Why has my Shark vacuum lost suction?
Loss of suction is almost always due to a clog, a full dust cup, or dirty filters. Systematically check the hose, air path, empty the canister, and clean all filters. Ensure all filters are 100% dry before reinserting them.
Can I use my Shark without the HEPA filter?
No, you should never operate your Shark vacuum without all its filters. It can cause permanent damage to the motor and will blow dust back into your home. Always wait for rinsed filters to dry completely.
Where is the reset button on a Shark Navigator Professional?
Most Shark vacuums have a thermal reset button on the main body, often near the power cord. If the motor overheats and shuts off, unplug the vacuum, let it cool for an hour, then press the reset button. Plug it back in and try again.
Final Thoughts
A Shark Navigator Professional not picking up hair is a solvable problem. Start with the simple solutions: empty the canister, check for easy clogs, and clean the brushroll. In the vast majority of cases, one of these steps will restore performance. Regular maintenance is the key to preventing the issue from coming back.
If you’ve tried all these steps and the vacuum still isn’t working, it might be time to consult the user manual for specific part diagrams or contact Shark’s customer service for direct support. They can help with troubleshooting and ordering genuine replacement parts like belts or brushrolls. With a little care, your Shark can keep your home clean for years to come.