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Kirby Vacuum Burning Smell

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Does your Kirby smell like burning rubber or produce a burning smell during use?

If you smell burning while operating the Kirby, please stop using it and remove the plug from the power socket before investigating. The smell could be due to a number of reasons such as broken or stretched belt, obstruction or blockage, electrical/motor issue.

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Common Signs

✅ Burning rubber smell
✅ Strong smell during vacuuming
✅ Brush roller not spinning properly
✅ Kirby not picking up as well as it should
 

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Common Causes of a Kirby that Smells of Burning

Worn or Slipping Belt

One of the most common causes is a worn or incorrectly fitted Kirby belt.

If the belt is worn, stretched or non genuine, it could be slipping on the brush roller which will produce a strong rubber burning smell. 
You may also notice poor cleaning performance and the brushroll may stop when lowered to carpet.

QUICK FIX - Fitting a new belt will remedy this issue

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Clogged Brush Roller

Hair, fibres and threads can build up and tangle around the brushroll over time.

This creates extra resistance which can strain the belt create a burning smell.​

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QUICK FIX - clean and remove anything wrapped around the brush roll

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Restricted Airflow

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Kirby systems rely on proper airflow to operate correctly.

If airflow becomes restricted due to an overfull bag or a blockage then you may get reduced performance and a burning smell. 

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QUICK FIX - remove any blockage or obstruction the main head and change the filter bag

Internal Electrical Issue

​Kirby's are built to last, but with age can sometimes develop wear to electrical components over time.

This may include worn motor brushes, damaged wiring, component wear and motor issues.

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  • burning smells

  • intermittent power

  • sparking 

  • machine cutting out
     

If this occurs, the machine should be inspected professionally before continued use. Call our Help desk on 0800 024 8495 and we will be happy to assist and get your Kirby running the way it should.

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Should I keep using my Kirby

If the smell is strong or accompanied by smoke, you should stop using the machine until the cause has been identified.
 
Call our Kirby Centre on 0800 024 8495

Can A Kirby Burning Smell Be Fixed?

In most cases, burning smell issues can be fixed quickly and easily.


Common repairs include:

  • belt replacement

  • brushroll cleaning

  • airflow cleaning/blockage

  • electrical repairs

  • general servicing
     

In the first instance we recommend fitting a new belt to the brush roller and removing any build up of hair around it. If this doesnt remedy the problem then please call us so we can help  to identify the exact cause. 


Call our Help Desk 0800 024 8495

How to get Kirby Service and Repairs

Our Kirby Service Centre provides Kirby servicing, repairs, genuine parts and support.​
We regularly assist customers with burning smells, loss of suction, intermittent power, brushroll problems which in almost all cases are a very simple fix.

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If your Kirby vacuum cleaner has developed a burning smell and you would like advice or servicing assistance, contact our team today.

     Call: 0800 024 8495
 

Areas Covered

To find Kirby Vacuum repairs near you, please call 0800 024 8495.
We can organise assistance for most parts of the UK. 

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