If your Shark Professional vacuum is losing suction or the brush roll has stopped spinning, you might need to change the belt. Knowing how to change belt on Shark Professional vacuum is a simple repair that can save you time and money. This guide will walk you through the entire process, step by step. You’ll learn what tools you need, how to access the brush roll, and how to install the new belt correctly. We’ll also cover some common mistakes to avoid and answer your frequently asked questions.
How to Change Belt on Shark Professional
Before you start, it’s important to gather the right tools and parts. Having everything ready makes the job smoother and faster. You don’t want to be searching for a screwdriver halfway through the repair.
What You’ll Need for the Job
- A replacement drive belt specifically for your Shark Professional model. Check your user manual or the old belt for the part number.
- A Phillips head screwdriver. A small or medium size usually works best.
- A clean, flat workspace with good lighting. The floor or a table is fine.
- A pair of scissors or a seam ripper (optional, for removing tangled hair and debris).
Step 1: Safety First – Unplug the Vacuum
This is the most critical step. Always, always unplug the vacuum cleaner from the electrical outlet before you begin any maintenance. This prevents any risk of electric shock or the brush roll accidentally turning on.
Step 2: Access the Brush Roll Chamber
Most Shark Professional models have a latch or clips on the bottom of the vacuum head (the nozzle). Turn the vacuum over so you can see the brush roll cover. Look for two latches on the sides or a single release lever near the front. Depress the latches or slide the lever to open the cover. If it’s secured with screws, use your Phillips head screwdriver to remove them.
Step 3: Remove the Old Belt and Brush Roll
Once the cover is off, you’ll see the brush roll. Carefully lift it out of its chamber. You may need to tilt it or gently wiggle it to get it free. The old belt will be stretched around one end of the brush roll and hooked onto a motor pulley inside the housing. Slip the belt off the brush roll first, then carefully stretch and unhook it from the motor pulley. Take this moment to inspect the brush roll for damage and clean it thoroughly.
Cleaning the Brush Roll and Chamber
- Use your scissors to cut away any hair, string, or carpet fibers wrapped tightly around the brush roll ends.
- Pull out any large debris stuck in the bristles.
- Wipe out the empty brush roll chamber with a dry cloth to remove dust and dirt.
Step 4: Install the New Belt on the Brush Roll
Take your new, correct replacement belt. Slide it onto one end of the clean brush roll. It should fit snugly in the groove meant for the belt. Make sure the belt is sitting straight and not twisted. Then, place the brush roll back into its chamber, aligning the ends with the slots or bearings. You’ll need to hold it in place with one hand for the next step.
Step 5: Hook the Belt to the Motor Pulley
This is the trickiest part but easy once you get the hang of it. With the brush roll seated in its chamber, stretch the free end of the belt over to the small metal motor pulley. You will need to stretch the belt slightly to loop it onto the pulley. Use your finger to guide it on, ensuring it seats properly in the pulley’s groove. Give the brush roll a gentle spin with your hand to check that the belt is tracking correctly and doesn’t slip off.
Step 6: Reassemble the Vacuum Head
Carefully lower the cover back onto the vacuum head. Press down firmly around the edges until all the latches click securely into place. If you removed screws, now is the time to put them back in and tighten them. Don’t over-tighten them, just make them snug. Finally, turn the vacuum right-side up.
Step 7: Test Your Repair
Plug the vacuum back into the outlet. Turn it on and listen to the brush roll. It should spin smoothly and quietly. You can check by leaning the vacuum back and observing the brush roll through the opening at the front of the head. If it’s not spinning, turn the vacuum off and unplug it again. Reopen the cover to check if the belt came off the pulley or if the brush roll is jammed.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful installation, you might encounter a small problem. Here’s what to look for.
- Brush Roll Won’t Spin: The belt may not be on the motor pulley correctly. It could also be the wrong belt size or a faulty motor.
- Loud Grinding Noise: Something is likely caught in the brush roll or it’s not seated properly in its bearings. Check for obstructions.
- Burning Smell: Immediately turn off and unplug the vacuum. This often means the belt is too tight, the brush roll is jammed, or the motor is struggling. Never ignore this sign.
How to Maintain Your Vacuum Belt
Regular maintenance can make your belts last longer. A little care goes a long way in preventing premature wear and tear.
- Clean the brush roll and chamber every month, or more often if you have pets or long hair.
- Check the belt for signs of wear like cracks, fraying, or stretching every time you clean the brush roll.
- Avoid vacuuming up large objects, cords, or clothing that can jam the brush roll and snap the belt instantly.
- Always use the correct height adjustment setting for your floor type to reduce strain on the brush roll and belt.
Finding the Right Replacement Belt
Using the wrong belt is a common mistake. The best way to find the right one is to check your vacuum’s user manual for the part number. If you don’t have the manual, you can often find the model number on a sticker on the back or bottom of the vacuum’s main body. Search online for “Shark Professional [your model number] drive belt.” You can also take the old belt to a appliance store for comparison, though buying a genuine or compatible part online is usually easiest.
Signs You Need a New Belt
- The brush roll does not spin when the vacuum is turned on.
- You hear a loud whirring or slapping noise coming from the vacuum head.
- Suction seems fine, but the vacuum isn’t picking up debris from the carpet.
- You see a broken or shredded belt when you open the brush roll cover.
FAQs About Shark Vacuum Belts
How often should I change the belt on my Shark Professional?
There’s no set timeline. It depends on how much you use your vacuum and what you vacuum up. For most homes, checking it every 6 months and replacing it when it shows wear is a good rule. Some belts last a year or more.
Can I use any vacuum belt on my Shark?
No, you should not. Belts are designed for specific models. Using an incorrect belt can cause poor performance, damage the brush roll or motor, and even void your warranty. Always get the belt meant for your specific Shark Professional model.
Why does my Shark vacuum belt keep breaking?
Frequent breakage usually points to an underlying issue. Common causes are a jammed or dirty brush roll, a damaged brush roll bearing, a misaligned motor pulley, or vacuuming over objects that snag the roll. Address the root cause, not just the symptom, to stop repeated breaks.
Is it hard to replace a Shark vacuum belt yourself?
Not at all! As you’ve seen from this guide, it’s a straightforward repair that most people can do in 10-15 minutes. You only need a screwdriver and the correct replacement part. It’s much cheaper than taking it to a repair shop.
Where can I buy a Shark Professional belt?
You can purchase genuine Shark replacement belts from their official website, major online retailers like Amazon, or at large appliance stores. Make sure you enter your exact model number to get the right fit.
What if my brush roll won’t come out after I open the cover?
Sometimes hair and thread get wound so tightly around the ends that they act like locks. You’ll need to carefully cut through that material with scissors or a seam ripper to free the brush roll. Be patient and avoid pulling hard on the brush roll itself.
Changing the belt on your Shark Professional is a simple and satisfying DIY task. By following these clear steps, you can get your vacuum working like new again quickly. Remember to always unplug the vacuum, use the correct belt, and keep the brush roll clean to prevent future problems. With a little routine care, your vacuum will provide reliable cleaning for years to come.