How To Replace A Defective On/Off Switch On A Hoover Vacuum

A Hoover-brand upright vacuum cleaner has an on/off switch in the handle that activates the motor. You can replace a defective switch yourself, with a few household tools. No electrical skills are necessary to replace the switch.

Step 1

Unplug the vacuum cleaner's power cord from the wall outlet, if it is plugged in. Rotate the Hoover so that the back is facing you. Remove the two screws at the top left and right sides where the handle tapers in — use a Phillips screwdriver to do this.

Step 2

Slide the handle down as you pull it toward you and off the back of the Hoover. Place the handle aside.

Step 3

Rotate the Hoover 180 degrees. Open the bag compartment lid at the top of the Hoover and set it aside. Remove the three screws — top and left and right sides — that are now revealed using the Phillips screwdriver. Pull the plastic casing out from the top of the Hoover and place it aside.

Step 4

Unbend the two contacts on the back of the switch with the needle-nose pliers. Grip the end of one of the wires attached to the back of the switch with the pliers. Pull the wire off the switch using the pliers. Repeat this procedure with the end of the other wire attached to the back of the switch.

Step 5

Rotate the Hoover so that the back is again facing you. Insert the tip of a flat-edged screwdriver beneath the switch. Lift up on the tip to loosen the switch from the compartment it is in. Pull the switch off and dispose of it properly.

Step 6

Place the replacement switch in the position that the original switch was occupying. Turn the switch to "Off" if it is not already set so. Rotate the Hoover 180 degrees.

Step 7

Grip the end of one of the wires with the needle-nose pliers. Push the end of the wire through one of the contacts on the back of the switch. Bend the contact over with the pliers. Repeat this with the other wire.

Step 8

Put the plastic casing back over the switch. Reattach the screws. Close the bag compartment lid.