How To Troubleshoot A Riccar Vacuum Cleaner

California-based Riccar vacuum cleaners are assembled in the United States. A production facility is based in St. James, Missouri. Problems with the appliances include failure to turn on; failure to pick up debris, or poor suction; and dust being left behind. Follow a few troubleshooting steps to determine what's wrong with your Riccar vacuum cleaner.

Step 1

Plug the power cord in firmly if the vacuum won't turn on.

Step 2

Empty the vacuum cleaner bag if the thermal motor protection kicks in. Riccar vacuums are equipped with a thermal motor protection circuit that will shut the vacuum down if it detects excessive heat up. Heat up can be caused by overloading due to a clog, or the bag being full. The motor will shut down, but the headlight will remain on.

Step 3

Remove any obstacles in the hose pipe or the upright's mouth. Use a broom handle to poke any debris that may become trapped in the hose. Unplug the machine and use your fingers to pull out any debris in the machine's mouth. Cut any thread or string that may have become wound around the rollers. Plug the machine back in and press the reset button on the back of the vacuum.

Step 4

Switch the carpet switch to the "Carpet" position if you are using the vacuum on carpet and the vacuum won't pick up debris. Turn the tool activation switch to the "Off" position. Take a look at the light marked "Brushroll." If it's illuminated, remove the cause of the jam at the brushroll.

Step 5

Verify that all the covers are tight if the vacuum allows dust to escape. The filters and vacuum bag must be installed correctly. The filters snap into place and cannot be washed and re-used. Make sure the base of the bag collar is on the bag supports.