Has your Kirby vacuum been a challenge to start up? Today, we’ll discuss a few typical issues that might prevent your Kirby from functioning properly.
Important Safety Tips
- Before servicing your vacuum, make sure it is unplugged and the power switch is off.
- Always make sure your hands are dry and free of moisture before servicing your machine.
- To avoid any scrapes or cuts, always wear gloves when servicing your machine.
- Please don’t hesitate to contact us at service@greatvacs.com if you are uncomfortable working on your vacuum because we can guide you through the process or we can fix it for you.
Instructions
Initially, you should check the safety switches if your Kirby vacuum won’t turn on. With the one behind the power nozzle, we’ll begin.
First, let go of the belt.
Now let go of the latch.
The safety switch will be visible once the powerhead has been removed.
A tiny tab will activate this safety switch when you attach the head. About half an inch or so should protrude from the surface. If the tab appears short or has a jagged, broken edge, it is likely broken and not engaging the safety switch. We can assist you with replacing the power head, which is the solution. Send us an email at service@greatvacs.com with more information.
If your tab appears to be in good shape, check to make sure the head is attached securely. A bar and two hooks are present on the power head and the vacuum, respectively. These hooks must hook around the bar.
To make it simpler, adjust the vacuum’s height all the way up before attaching the head.
Belt engagement and securing the latch. There shouldn’t be more than a 1-2 mm gap at the power head. If yours resembles the one in the image above, everything should be fine!
By the bag is the following safety switch. This little vacuum switch can be seen when the bag is removed.
When properly fastened, a tab on the bag pushed the switch forward.
The bag must be properly aligned on the three brass tabs in order for the attachment to be secure.
When you feel it locking into place, place the bag on the tabs and turn it clockwise.
Why Kirby Vacuum Isn’t Powering ON
Kirby has a strong reputation in the market as a well-known producer of durable, high-quality vacuum cleaners. However, issues will arise with the Kirby vacuum just like they would with any other home appliance.
In most cases, when your Kirby vacuum stops working or won’t turn on, the following problems need to be resolved.
Safety Switches
In the event that your Kirby won’t turn on, the safety switches are most likely to be to blame. Each of these switches, which serve a variety of functions, can stop your Kirby from activating.
Prevention Safety Switch
The safety switch has two parts that work together to keep the vacuum cleaner from remaining on. These switches ensure that nobody gets hurt if they attempt to use the vacuum while the rod, fans, or motor are exposed and that dirt and dust don’t rise into the air.
The vacuum cleaner won’t work unless the switches are pressed.
The Bag Safety Switch
Near the vacuum’s bag is a tiny switch that you can find. Once the bag is firmly fastened, this switch is advanced. Incorrectly connecting the bag to the vacuum or removing the bag will prevent the Kirby from starting.
Solution
To prevent running into this problem, make sure the bag is properly locked.
Safety Switch on the Front
On the front of Kirby, there is a lower/upper switch. These switches stop the Kirby from starting if the vacuum cleaner’s hose or nozzles are not attached.
Solution
The switches are activated when the hose or nozzles of the vacuum cleaner are sufficiently tight.

Examine Kirby’s Power Cord
Now try turning on your vacuum after checking all of Kirby’s safety switches. You should inspect the power cable to see if it is defective.
Issues With the Power Cord
The power cord for the vacuum cleaner is put through a lot of stress, which could harm it and cause the power source to stop working altogether. The following are typical reasons why a power rode gets damaged.
- Cord stretching
- Split cord
- Chewed cord
- Twisted cord
Solution
- The damaged area should first be inspected.
- Only tape the cord if it has surface damage.
- The cord can be repaired in one of two ways: by cutting it and using a new plug, or by tying the wires together.
- If the electrical plug is broken, replace it.
The On/off Switch
The first thing that can prevent your vacuum from operating is the on/off switch. A multimeter must be used to check the vacuum’s on/off switch. If the power switch is the cause of your vacuum cleaner’s malfunction, you need to replace it right away.
Vacuum’s Drive Motor
Your next test should be the vacuum’s drive motor if the power switch turns out to be functional. If the blow wheel doesn’t appear to be functioning properly, the motor must be replaced. To replace the motor, you should get professional help.
The Fan Motors
If both the switch and the motor function normally, the issue might be with the vacuum’s fan motor. Your vacuum suction may decline or stop working altogether if your fan motor is damaged. You ought to have the vacuum fixed or its components replaced in this case.
Conclusion
Kirby vacuum cleaners may stop working if they are used frequently and aren’t properly maintained, and you might not be able to turn them back on.
We hope the article above, which addressed all the common problems, will help you repair your vacuum. Keep your vacuum in good working order.
FAQs
Where is the Safety Switch in a Kirby Vacuum?
Your Kirby has two safety switches. One is on the front of the unit and one is on the side where the bag attaches. The Kirby won’t operate if there isn’t anything attached to the front of the device, like a floor nozzle, attachment hose, or shampoo system.
What Do You Do When Your Vacuum Won’t Turn On?
To fix a vacuum cleaner that won’t turn on, first clean out the bag, filters, and check for blockages. Make sure the plug and power cable are clean and free of debris by plugging the vacuum cleaner into various plug sockets. These are the quick fixes, but you might need more information to fix this.
Why is My Kirby Shampooer Not Picking Up Water
One of two explanations could apply here. The suds screen and/or foam sponge are not in place. This prevents too much water from dispensing and overwetting your carpet if it weren’t in place. This would also result from repeatedly cleaning the same area.
What Does Green Light on Kirby Mean?
After completing that, you should check the power head’s sidelight. It should be lighting up green while the vacuum is on. The brush roll is not spinning if the vacuum is on but the light is not green.