how do i clean the filters on the 27909 model, the manual is gone and i don't want to ruin them

Diagnosis

The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind 27909 utilizes a dual-stage filtration system designed to trap fine allergens and pet dander before air is exhausted back into the room. Over time, microscopic dust particles lodge themselves into the porous structure of the foam pre-filter and the deep folds of the pleated felt filter. When these pores become clogged, the vacuum loses suction power, the motor may overheat due to restricted airflow, and you may notice a "musty" smell during operation.

You can confirm your filters need cleaning if the vacuum feels like it is "pushing" air out of the sides of the canister rather than pulling it through the nozzle, or if the motor sound has shifted to a higher, strained pitch. If you see a visible cake of grey dust on the pleated filter or if the foam filter has lost its springiness and feels stiff, they have reached their saturation point and require immediate maintenance to prevent permanent motor damage.

How to Fix It

Follow these exact steps to clean the filtration system without compromising the material integrity of the filters. Note that the foam and felt filters have entirely different cleaning requirements.

1. Power down the unit and unplug it from the wall outlet to ensure safety.
2. Press the release button on the dust cup and pull the canister away from the main body of the vacuum.
3. Empty the debris from the canister into a trash bin.
4. Locate the foam filter (the soft, sponge-like cylinder) and the pleated felt filter (the rigid, folded paper-like filter). Carefully slide them out of their housings.
5. Take both filters outside or over a trash can and firmly tap them against a hard surface to knock loose the heavy clumps of pet hair and dust.
6. Place the foam filter under a stream of lukewarm tap water. Gently massage the foam with your fingers to release trapped dirt. Do not use soap or detergents, as chemical residues can attract more dust and clog the pores faster.
7. Squeeze the foam filter gently to remove excess water. CRITICAL: Never wring or twist the foam filter, as this will tear the cellular structure and create gaps that allow dust to bypass the filter and enter the motor.
8. For the pleated felt filter, use a vacuum hose or a soft brush to remove remaining debris from the pleats. Do not saturate this filter with water; if it is excessively dirty, use a damp cloth to wipe the surface only.
9. Lay both filters flat on a drying rack or a clean towel in a well-ventilated area.
10. Wait a full 24 hours for the filters to air dry completely. Installing a damp filter will lead to mold growth inside the canister and can cause the motor to short-circuit.
11. Slide the filters back into their designated slots and reattach the dust cup.

If That Didn't Work

• Replace the Filter Set: If the foam filter remains grey or brown after washing, the particles have become embedded. Replace the filters entirely. Look for the Bissell 27909 compatible filter kit to ensure the seal is airtight.
• Deep Clean the Canister: Sometimes the "clog" isn't in the filter but in the gasket seal of the dust cup. Wipe the rubber O-rings around the filter housing with a damp microfiber cloth to ensure a vacuum-tight seal.
• Check the Pre-Motor Intake: If suction is still low after cleaning filters, use a flashlight to check the intake port where the canister connects to the motor. Use a long pipe cleaner or a flexible brush to remove any "hair plugs" that may have bypassed the filters.
• Clear the Brush Roll: Ensure the lack of suction isn't actually a blockage at the floor head. Cut away wrapped hair from the Turbo Rewind brush roll using scissors, as a clogged brush roll mimics the symptoms of a clogged filter.

Heads Up

• Air Dry Time: Never be tempted to use a hairdryer or heater to speed up the drying process; high heat will shrink the foam filter, making it too small to seal properly.
• Frequency: For homes with multiple shedding pets, the foam filter should be rinsed every 2-4 weeks to maintain maximum CFM (cubic feet per minute) airflow.
• Wash Warning: Never put the pleated felt filter in a dishwasher or washing machine; the agitation will destroy the pleats and render the filter useless.
• Replacement Cycle: Even with regular cleaning, foam filters degrade over time. Replace the entire filtration set every 6 months for optimal performance.