Is your Shark Apex vacuum brush not spinning? If you’ve noticed your vacuum isn’t picking up dirt like it used to, or the brush roll has stopped moving entirely, you’re not alone.
This frustrating issue can make cleaning a chore and leave your floors less than spotless. But don’t worry—you can fix it. You’ll discover the common reasons why your Shark Apex brush roll might stop spinning and simple steps you can take to get it working again.
Keep reading to save time, avoid costly repairs, and bring back the powerful cleaning your vacuum was built for.
Common Causes Of Brush Roll Failure
The brush roll is a vital part of the Shark Apex vacuum. It sweeps dirt and debris from carpets and floors. When the brush roll stops spinning, cleaning power drops. Several issues can cause this failure. Understanding these common causes helps fix the problem quickly.
Broken Or Worn Belt
The brush roll depends on a belt to turn. Over time, the belt can wear out or break. A broken belt stops the brush roll from spinning. Signs include a burning smell or visible belt damage. Check the belt by removing the vacuum’s base plate. Replace it if it looks cracked, stretched, or snapped.
Brush Roll Obstructions
Hair, threads, and debris often wrap around the brush roll. This buildup blocks its movement. The brush roll may stop spinning or spin slowly. Remove the brush roll and clean off all obstructions carefully. Regular cleaning prevents this issue and keeps the vacuum working well.
Switch Settings And Modes
The Shark Apex has different cleaning modes and switches. Some modes disable the brush roll, especially on hard floors. Ensure the vacuum is set to carpet mode for the brush roll to spin. Double-check all switches and settings before troubleshooting the vacuum’s parts.
Signs Of A Broken Belt
Recognizing the signs of a broken belt in your Shark Apex vacuum helps prevent further damage. A broken belt stops the brush roll from spinning, which reduces cleaning efficiency. Noticing these signs early can save time and repair costs. Here are the key indicators that the belt might be broken.
Brush Roll Not Spinning
The brush roll is the main part that sweeps dirt and debris. If it stops spinning, the belt may be broken or loose. You can check by turning the vacuum off and inspecting the brush roll. If it does not turn freely or feels loose, the belt likely needs replacing.
Loss Of Suction Power
A broken belt often causes a drop in suction power. The vacuum may seem weak and unable to pick up dirt well. This happens because the brush roll helps loosen dirt from carpets. Without it spinning, the vacuum cannot clean properly.
Burning Smell And Debris Trails
A burning smell is a warning sign of belt problems. The belt may be slipping or overheating, causing this odor. You might also see trails of debris left behind after vacuuming. This means the brush roll is not working to collect dirt as it should.
How To Inspect The Belt
Inspecting the belt is a crucial step to fix a Shark Apex vacuum that is not spinning. The belt connects the motor to the brush roll, making it spin. A damaged or loose belt stops the brush roll from turning. Follow clear steps to check the belt’s condition and tension. This helps you find the problem and decide if the belt needs replacement.
Safety Precautions Before Inspection
Unplug the vacuum cleaner from the power outlet. This prevents accidental starts and electric shocks. Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp parts. Work in a well-lit area for better visibility. Keep small parts away from children and pets. Take your time and avoid rushing the inspection.
Accessing The Brush Roll Panel
Place the vacuum on a flat surface. Turn it upside down to see the brush roll panel. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws securing the panel. Lift the panel carefully and set it aside. This reveals the brush roll and the belt for inspection. Avoid forcing any parts to prevent damage.
Checking For Cracks And Fraying
Look closely at the belt’s surface for cracks or splits. Check for frayed edges or worn spots. A belt with damage cannot grip the brush roll properly. Also, see if the belt is completely snapped or loose. Replace the belt if you find any signs of wear or damage.
Assessing Belt Tension
Try to move the belt by pressing it gently. It should feel tight but flexible. A loose belt slips and stops the brush roll from spinning. A belt that is too tight may break quickly. If the belt has lost tension, replace it with a new one. Proper tension keeps the vacuum running smoothly.
Step-by-step Belt Replacement
Replacing the belt on your Shark Apex vacuum is a simple fix when the brush roll stops spinning. This step-by-step guide shows you how to change the belt quickly and safely. Follow each step to get your vacuum running smoothly again.
Removing The Old Belt
Unplug the vacuum before starting any work. Lay the vacuum on its back to access the base plate. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the base plate. Lift the base plate carefully to expose the brush roll and belt. Slide the brush roll out gently. Remove the old belt from the motor shaft and brush roll. Check the brush roll and motor shaft for dirt or damage.
Installing The New Belt
Place the new belt around the motor shaft first. Then loop the belt around the brush roll. Make sure the belt fits snugly and is not twisted. Slide the brush roll back into its position. Spin the brush roll by hand to check the belt’s tension. The belt should turn the brush roll smoothly without slipping.
Reassembling The Vacuum
Replace the base plate over the brush roll and belt. Align the screw holes and secure the base plate with screws. Double-check that the base plate is tight and secure. Turn the vacuum upright and plug it in. Test the vacuum to ensure the brush roll spins properly. Your Shark Apex is now ready to clean effectively again.
Resetting The Shark Apex Vacuum
Resetting the Shark Apex vacuum can often fix the spinning issue quickly. This simple step clears any temporary glitches that stop the brush roll from moving. It is an easy and effective solution to try before looking for deeper problems.
Knowing how and when to reset your vacuum saves time and effort. Follow the steps carefully to ensure the reset process works correctly. This can help your Shark Apex vacuum run smoothly again.
Locating The Reset Button
The reset button on the Shark Apex vacuum is usually near the brush roll area. You may need to remove the vacuum’s base plate or brush guard to find it. Look for a small, often red or black button. The manual also shows its exact location.
When To Reset
Reset the vacuum if the brush roll stops spinning but the motor runs. Also reset if the vacuum loses suction or the lights flash. If you hear a burning smell or see debris trails, try a reset before checking the belt or motor.
Reset Procedure
First, unplug the vacuum from the power source. Press and hold the reset button for about 10 seconds. Release the button and wait a few moments. Plug the vacuum back in and turn it on. Check if the brush roll spins properly now.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
Preventive maintenance plays a vital role in keeping your Shark Apex vacuum running smoothly. Simple care routines help avoid common issues like the brush roll not spinning. Regular checks and cleaning extend the vacuum’s life and improve its performance. Follow these tips to keep your vacuum in top shape.
Regular Brush Roll Cleaning
Remove the brush roll frequently to clean hair and debris. Wrapped hair can stop the brush from spinning. Use scissors to cut tangled threads gently. Clear dust and dirt with a soft brush or cloth. Clean brush rolls keep suction strong and spinning consistent.
Avoiding Belt Damage
Check the belt regularly for cracks or signs of wear. A damaged belt causes the brush roll to stop spinning. Replace worn belts promptly to maintain vacuum function. Avoid running the vacuum on rough surfaces that strain the belt. Proper belt care prevents sudden breakdowns.
Proper Storage Practices
Store the vacuum in a dry, cool place to protect components. Avoid placing heavy items on the vacuum, which may harm moving parts. Keep the vacuum upright to prevent belt and brush roll damage. Proper storage reduces the risk of mechanical issues.
Troubleshooting Other Brush Roll Issues
Brush roll issues can cause your Shark Apex vacuum to lose performance. Troubleshooting beyond the belt is important. Some problems hide deeper inside the vacuum. Check the motor, electrical connections, and bearings. These parts affect brush roll spinning.
Motor Problems
The motor powers the brush roll. If the motor fails, the brush roll will stop spinning. Listen for unusual sounds like humming or grinding. No sound might mean the motor is dead. Test the motor by running the vacuum briefly. Replace the motor if it does not start or runs weakly.
Electrical Connections
Loose or damaged wires can stop the brush roll. Inspect wires near the brush roll and motor. Look for frayed or disconnected wires. Tighten any loose plugs or connectors. Use a multimeter to check for voltage. Fix or replace faulty wires to restore power to the brush roll.
Worn Brush Roll Bearings
Bearings allow the brush roll to spin smoothly. Over time, they wear out and cause friction. This slows or stops the brush roll. Remove the brush roll and spin it by hand. Rough or stiff movement means worn bearings. Replace the bearings or the entire brush roll to fix the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Fix A Shark Vacuum That Won’t Spin?
Switch the vacuum to carpet mode. Unplug and remove the brush roll cover. Check the belt for damage or looseness. Replace the belt if broken. Ensure the brush roll spins freely. Reassemble and test the vacuum.
Where Is The Reset Button On My Shark Apex Vacuum?
The reset button on a Shark Apex vacuum is located near the motor or on the bottom side. Unplug the vacuum first before pressing it.
How Do I Know If My Shark Vacuum Belt Is Broken?
Your Shark vacuum belt is broken if the brush roll stops spinning while the motor runs. Check for loss of suction, a burning smell, or visible belt damage like cracks or fraying after unplugging and removing the brush roll cover.
What Is The Average Lifespan Of A Shark Vacuum?
The average lifespan of a Shark vacuum is 5 to 7 years with regular maintenance. Proper care extends its durability.
Why Is My Shark Apex Brush Roller Not Spinning?
The brush roller may stop spinning if the belt is broken or worn out. Dirt and hair can also jam the brush, causing it to stop. Check and clean the brush area regularly to keep it spinning smoothly.
Conclusion
Fixing the Shark Apex not spinning problem is usually simple. Check the brush roll and belt for damage first. Make sure the vacuum is set to carpet mode. A broken belt often causes the brush roll to stop spinning. Clean any hair or debris wrapped around the brush.
Always unplug the vacuum before inspecting or fixing it. Taking these steps can restore your vacuum’s performance quickly. Regular maintenance keeps your Shark Apex working well longer. Don’t ignore signs like loss of suction or burning smells. Act fast to avoid bigger problems with your vacuum.
Brandy A. Cherney lovingly refers to herself as a cleaning geek, born and bred in South Carolina but moved to New York City to earn her B.A. in English. She is currently a wife, and mother of two children, two cats, and a dog. Brandy has always loved writing, but never thought she would write for a living.