How to Reverse a Vacuum Cleaner to Inflate? Step by Step

A vacuum cleaner is designed to tidy up a space by sucking up debris, dust, and dirt. On the other hand, it is always better to have a cleaning appliance that can suck up air and blow it out. 

Why? Because it prevents you from buying two different machines.

Fortunately, modern-day vacuum cleaners come in a dual-purpose blower. Keep reading and learn how to reverse vacuum cleaner airflow. 

How to Reverse Vacuum Cleaner Airflow 

If you want to reverse the vacuum cleaner airflow, simply follow the steps below:

Step #1: Know the Type of Vacuum Cleaner You Have 

First, you have to determine the vacuum type you have. If you do not want to spend money on actual money, switching your vacuum cleaner into a blower is a practical idea.

Plus, that idea is excellent if you only have to use the pressurized air for light tasks at home. 

The best types of vacuum cleaners to reverse into blowers are canister vacuums and bag vacuums. Most household vacuum cleaners today do not use bags. Instead, they are designed with plastic cylinders fitted with filters. 

If you own older-style vacuum cleaners, you can switch them into makeshift blowers. On the other hand, shop vacs, plastic-canister-style vacuums, and bag vacuums can be transformed into blowers with no hassle.

Step #2: Make the Proper Equipment Ready 

Before you can transform the vacuum cleaner into a blower, you have to prepare several things.

Ensure to make the necessary tools ready to prevent unnecessary damage. You will need items like:

• Duct tape
• Screwdriver
• Vacuum’s user manual

If you cannot find a copy of your vacuum’s user manual, you can search it online.

Make sure to carefully read the instructions on dismantling the cleaning appliance before you start. That way, you can familiarize yourself with the location of specific parts.

Step #3: Turn the Vacuum Into A Blower

As mentioned earlier, there are several kinds of vacuums. So, the process of turning them into blowers varies.

Bag Vacuum 

After unplugging the vacuum and having familiarized with the parts and manual, follow the steps below:

• Unzip the vacuum bag;
• Remove the interior vacuum bag from where is it is being attached to the appliance’s intake hole;
• Turn the vacuum cleaner;
• Allow the appliance to blow out as much dirt, debris, or dust as possible;
• Shake the vacuum a little to loosen the buildup;
• Seal and secure the vacuum tube to the intake hole tightly.

Canister Vacuum 

The vacuum has two major airflow sections: the hole located in the vacuum’s base that sucks in the dust and dirt and its opposite end responsible for blowing air into the container or collection bag. 

• Unplug the vacuum;
• Remove the hose’ end part that filters dirt, debris, or dust into the collection bin;
• Bring the vacuum outdoors;
• Turn the appliance back on;
• Let the vacuum run for several minutes to blow out debris;
• The vacuum will function as a blower after clearing the buildup.

Shop Vac 

Below are the easy steps on how you can reverse shop vac airflow:

• Unplug the vacuum;
• Remove the flexible hose by unlatching, twisting, or pulling the clamp straight out;
• Remove the exhaust cap from the vacuum’s opposite end;
• Reinsert the flexible hose into the hole where you removed the exhaust cap.

How do I Switch from Vacuum to Blower 

If you plan to switch your vacuum into a blower, ensure to remove the vacuum mechanism. Do not forget to install the blow tube. 

Below are the easy steps on how to switch your vacuum into a blower:

Step 1: Press in on the vacuum bag elbow tabs. Remove the bag assembly by pulling the elbow down.

Step 2: Use your hand to turn the tube counterclockwise until it unlocks from the blower’s front. Then, pull the tube away from the blower.

Step 3: Ensure to lower the vacuum door over the hole. This door operates on the hinge above the tube. Use a flat-head screwdriver to carefully turn the door lack clockwise and secure the vacuum door.

Step 4: Over the lower blower outlet, carefully insert the blower tube. Next is to push the tube down until the tabs lock into place. 

You can also watch this video…

How to Use Your Vacuum Cleaner as a Leaf Blower

Even if you do not have a special leaf blower, you can still blow out debris, dirt, and dust using your regular vacuum cleaner. Follow the steps below on how to use a vacuum as a leaf blower:

Step 1: Disconnect the vacuum’s motor unit from the collection tubs to ensure safety.

Step 2: Take out the hose from the vacuum suction. Then, switch it to the blowing side. 

Step 3: Turn the vacuum on and direct it to the surfaces you want to clean. A powerful air stream comes out of the hose that will blow away the dust, dirt, and leaves in seconds. This function is helpful for the lawn because removing the litter in that area is quite tricky. 

Tips and Cautions 

When reversing the vacuum airflow, ensure to follow all the safety precautions, including:

• Before dismantling your vacuum, ensure to unplug it to prevent electrocution. It also helps you prevent from accidentally turning on the appliance while you are working on it;
• Ensure not to break any parts since this appliance come in some small pieces;
• When locating the airflow, ensure to do it before the dismantling process;
• If you plan to use the blower outside, keep the cord away from water to prevent short-circuiting or electrocution;
• Never cut or nick the power cord while dismantling the vacuum cleaner.

Check out this video about cleaning a cordless vacuum cleaner.

Conclusion 

There you have it! Hopefully, you can seamlessly reverse your vacuum cleaner airflow. Always keep in mind that before doing the steps above, figure out what type of vacuum you have. That way, you can be sure you are doing the proper steps. 

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