Question 1

it's leaving behind a lot of pet hair and sand on my medium pile carpet, not picking up like it used to

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS The loss of suction and debris pickup on the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind (27909) is typically caused by a failure in the "agitation cycle." In medium pile carpets, pet hair and sand settle deep into the fibers. If the brush roll isn't making aggressive contact with the carpet, the vacuum simply glides over the debris rather than lifting it. This happens because the manual height adjustment dial has shifted or the brush roll has become "caked" with hair, reducing its rotational speed and effectiveness. Another common culprit is a partial blockage in the "Turbo" airflow path. Sand is heavy and abrasive; it tends to settle in the neck of the floorhead or at the bend where the hose meets the canister. If you notice the motor sounding higher-pitched than usual (a "whine"), it indicates a restriction. To confirm, check the brush roll for "hair rings"—tight bands of hair wrapped around the axle that prevent the bristles from extending fully into the carpet pile. FIX Follow these steps to restore the pickup power of your 27909 model: Calibrate the Height Dial: Locate the manual adjustment dial on the front of the floorhead. For medium pile, rotate the dial to setting '2'. If the vacuum feels like it is "floating" and not pulling the carpet upward, move it to setting '1'. You should feel a slight resistance (drag) when pushing the unit forward; this confirms the bristles are penetrating the pile to flick out sand and hair. Clear the Brush Roll: Turn the vacuum off and unplug it. Flip the unit over and locate the brush roll. Use a pair of heavy-duty scissors or a seam ripper to cut through the hair wrapped around the agitator. Be careful not to cut the bristles themselves. Ensure the ends of the roll spin freely by hand. Purge the Intake Path: Remove the canister and inspect the intake port. Use a flashlight to look down the throat of the floorhead. If you see a clump of sand or hair lodged in the curve, use a long flexible brush or a coat hanger to push it into the canister. Deep-Clean the Filter: Remove the foam filter from the canister. If it is grey or clogged with fine dust/sand, rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. Let it air dry for a full 24 hours. Installing a damp filter will kill the suction and may damage the motor. Test the "Turbo" Mode: Engage the Turbo Rewind feature and perform a slow, overlapping pass. The brush roll should be spinning at maximum RPM to lift the pet hair. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Inspect the Drive Belt: If the motor is running but the brush roll isn't spinning, the rubber drive belt has likely stretched or snapped. Remove the floorhead base and check for a loose belt. If the belt is slipping, it won't have the torque necessary to agitate medium pile carpet. Replace it with a genuine Bissell replacement belt. Check the Hose Gaskets: Inspect the connection points where the hose attaches to the canister. If the rubber gaskets are pinched or cracked, the vacuum will lose "static pressure," meaning it can move air but cannot create the vacuum needed to pull heavy sand particles from the carpet. Clear the Secondary Filter: Some users forget the pre-motor filter. If the primary foam filter is clean but the machine still struggles, check the secondary filter located near the motor housing. If this is clogged, the airflow is throttled, reducing the "lift" at the floorhead. Check for "Brush Roll Wear": If you have used the vacuum for several years, the nylon bristles may be worn down to the plastic core. If the bristles are shorter than 1/2 inch, they can no longer reach the base of a medium pile carpet, and the brush roll assembly needs to be replaced. HEADS UP Avoid "Over-Setting": Never use setting '1' on hard floors or very thin rugs, as this can overheat the motor by restricting airflow too severely. Sand Warning: Sand is an abrasive. If you vacuum sandy areas frequently, check your brush roll every two weeks, as sand can wear down the bristles much faster than pet hair does. Filter Maintenance: Wash your foam filters every 30 days. A clogged filter doesn't just reduce suction; it forces the motor to run hotter, which significantly shortens the lifespan of the Turbo Rewind system. Hair Removal: Always cut hair away from the brush roll immediately after a cleaning session. Allowing hair to build up into "ropes" puts immense strain on the drive belt and motor.

Question 2

the vacuum just won't turn on, no lights, no sound, nothing. checked the outlet and it's fine

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS The total absence of power—no LED indicators, no motor hum, and no brush roll activity—on the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind (27909) typically indicates a break in the electrical continuity between the wall plug and the motor. Because this model features an automatic cord rewind mechanism, the most common failure point is internal wire fatigue. As the cord is wound and unwound thousands of times, the copper strands inside the insulation can snap, particularly at the point where the cord enters the vacuum housing or near the plug molding. Another frequent culprit is the thermal overload protector. This vacuum is designed to shut down completely if the motor reaches a critical temperature to prevent a fire. This usually happens if the filter is clogged or the brush roll is jammed with long hair and string, causing the motor to draw excessive current and trip the internal thermal fuse. If the fuse has "blown" (permanently failed) rather than just "tripped" (temporary cooling period), the unit will remain dead regardless of how long it sits unplugged. You can confirm a cord failure by using a multimeter to check for continuity from the plug prongs to the internal switch terminals. FIX Follow these steps to isolate the power failure and attempt a reset: Hard Reset: Unplug the vacuum from the wall outlet. Leave it unplugged for exactly 60 minutes. This is the required window for the thermal protector to cool down and reset if the unit overheated. Bypass Power Strips: Plug the unit directly into a known-working 120V GFCI outlet. Avoid extension cords or surge protectors, as the Turbo Rewind motor has a high initial current draw that can trip sensitive power strips. Cord Stress Test: While the vacuum is plugged in and the power switch is in the "ON" position, slowly move and wiggle the power cord at the point where it enters the plastic chassis. If the lights flicker or the motor kicks in momentarily, you have a broken internal wire. Clear the Airflow: Remove the dirt tank and inspect the foam and felt filters. If they are grey or caked in dust, wash them with water and let them dry for 24 hours. A clogged filter is the primary cause of the thermal shutdown. Check the Brush Roll: Turn the vacuum over and use a pair of shears to cut away any hair wrapped around the brush roll. A seized brush roll can create an electrical load that prevents the motor from starting. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Replace the Power Cord Assembly: If the stress test indicated a flicker, the entire cord reel assembly must be replaced. This involves removing the outer casing screws and swapping the rewind spring mechanism and cord. This is a common failure on the 27909 model due to the tension of the rewind spring. Test the Power Switch: Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the power button. If the switch doesn't show a closed circuit when pressed, the internal spring contact has failed and the switch needs to be replaced. Inspect the Thermal Fuse: If you are comfortable with a soldering iron, open the motor housing and locate the thermal fuse (usually a small silver cylinder). Use a multimeter to check for continuity. If it reads "open," the fuse is blown and must be replaced with a part of the exact same temperature rating. Check for Motor Seizure: Attempt to rotate the motor fan manually (with the unit unplugged). If the fan is locked in place, the motor bearings have failed, which creates a "dead short" that prevents the unit from powering on. HEADS UP Avoid Over-winding: Do not force the cord into the rewind mechanism if you feel resistance; this accelerates the internal wire fatigue that leads to total power loss. Filter Maintenance: Wash your filters every 30 days. Restricted airflow is the #1 reason the thermal fuse trips on the Pet Hair Eraser series. Hair Removal: Use the integrated cleaning tool to remove hair from the brush roll every 2-3 uses to prevent motor strain. Voltage Warning: Never attempt to bypass the thermal fuse with a jumper wire; this removes the safety mechanism and can lead to a motor fire.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

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. FIX 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. Power down the unit and unplug it from the wall outlet to ensure safety. Press the release button on the dust cup and pull the canister away from the main body of the vacuum. Empty the debris from the canister into a trash bin. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Lay both filters flat on a drying rack or a clean towel in a well-ventilated area. 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. 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.

Question 4

the brush roll on my pet hair eraser turbo won't spin at all on any setting

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS The primary cause of a non-spinning brush roll on the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind (Model 27909) is typically a mechanical failure of the drive belt or a triggered safety shut-off due to a "brush roll jam." When pet hair, long fibers, or debris wrap tightly around the ends of the brush roll, they create friction that exceeds the motor's torque capacity. This either snaps the rubber drive belt or causes the belt to slip off the motor pulley entirely, leaving the motor humming while the roll remains stationary. To confirm the diagnosis, listen closely to the vacuum while it is powered on. If you hear the motor spinning at a high pitch but the brush roll is dead, the belt is likely snapped or detached. If the motor does not sound like it is running at all, or if the vacuum shuts off immediately after you engage the power, the internal thermal protector has likely tripped because the brush roll is physically seized by a mass of hair or a foreign object (like a sock or string), preventing the motor from turning. FIX Follow these precise steps to clear the obstruction and replace the drive belt if necessary. You will need a coin or a flat-head screwdriver and a replacement belt (Part #160-4150) if the original is damaged. Disconnect the vacuum from the power outlet to prevent accidental activation. Tilt the vacuum back and remove the floorhead assembly from the main body if your specific sub-model allows for a detachable head; otherwise, lay the vacuum flat on its back on a clean workspace. Locate the four locking latches on the bottom plate of the brush roll housing. Use a coin or flat-head screwdriver to turn each latch 90 degrees to the "unlocked" position. Carefully lift the bottom cover plate away from the chassis. Be mindful not to lose the small alignment pins. Inspect the brush roll. Use a pair of seam rippers or heavy-duty scissors to cut through the hair and string wrapped around the brush roll, specifically focusing on the ends where the roll meets the axle. Check the belt. If the belt is snapped or stretched out (appearing loose and wavy), remove the remnants of the old belt from the motor pulley and the brush roll. Install the new belt (Part #160-4150). Loop the belt around the motor drive pulley first, then stretch it over the brush roll axle. Ensure the belt is centered and seated firmly in the grooves of both pulleys. Manually rotate the brush roll with your hand to ensure it spins freely and the belt remains seated. Replace the bottom cover plate and lock the four latches back into place by turning them 90 degrees. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Check the Brush Roll End Caps: Sometimes the plastic end caps of the brush roll crack or warp, causing the roll to wedge against the housing. Inspect the plastic for stress fractures. If the roll doesn't spin freely by hand even without the belt, the end caps are likely melted or jammed; replace the entire brush roll assembly. Inspect the Motor Pulley: Examine the small plastic pulley attached to the motor shaft. If the pulley has stripped its teeth or cracked, the belt will slip even if it is new. This requires a motor assembly replacement as the pulley is integrated. Reset the Thermal Fuse: If the vacuum is completely silent and won't power on, the motor has overheated. Unplug the unit and let it sit for at least 60 minutes. Ensure all filters (foam and felt) are cleaned, as restricted airflow causes the motor to overheat and trip the safety switch. Verify the Power Switch Connection: Check the wiring leading to the brush roll switch. If you have recently dropped the vacuum or hit a curb, a wire may have vibrated loose from the switch terminal, cutting power to the motor. HEADS UP Avoid "Over-Winding": Do not let pet hair accumulate for more than two weeks; the Turbo Rewind's high-torque motor can actually melt the plastic brush roll ends if the roll is completely seized while the motor attempts to turn. Belt Maintenance: Only use genuine Bissell replacement belts. Generic rubber bands or non-spec belts will stretch under the heat of the motor and snap within hours of use. Filter Synergy: Always clean the foam filter every 30 days. A clogged filter reduces airflow, which increases the motor's operating temperature and makes the drive belt more prone to stretching and snapping. Clear Debris First: Before installing a new belt, always clear the vacuum intake throat. If a clog exists between the brush roll and the canister, the motor will work harder, creating more heat and friction on the new belt.

Question 5

suction is really weak on my bissell pet hair eraser, even with a brand new filter

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS Suction loss in the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind (27909) despite a new filter almost always indicates a "bottleneck" blockage. Because this model is designed specifically for pet hair, the dense clumps of fur often bypass the initial debris chamber and lodge themselves in the narrow transition point where the hose connects to the vacuum body or inside the flexible hose itself. When the filter is clean but suction is weak, the motor is spinning at full RPM, but the air cannot move through the system, creating a vacuum seal that prevents debris from being lifted. To confirm this is a blockage and not a motor failure, perform a "seal test." Remove the hose from the main body and place your palm firmly over the intake port of the vacuum. If the motor sounds strained (a higher-pitched whine) and the suction against your hand is powerful, the motor and filter are functioning perfectly. This confirms the obstruction is located further down the line, specifically in the hose or the brush roll head. FIX Follow this precise sequence to clear the airflow path and restore maximum suction: Isolate the Hose: Detach the flexible hose from the vacuum body. Inspect the interior of the hose using a flashlight. Look for "plugs" of hair and dust, typically found near the bends. If a clog is visible, use a stiff wire coat hanger or a plumbing snake to push the debris through toward the floorhead. Clear the Intake Port: Look directly into the port on the vacuum body where the hose connects. Pet hair often accumulates in a dense ring around the edge of this opening. Use a pair of long-nose pliers or a vacuum-attachment tool to pull out any compacted hair clumps. Inspect the Brush Roll Head: Turn the vacuum over. Remove the floorhead from the hose. Check the "neck" of the floorhead—the plastic tube that connects the brush roll to the hose. This is the most common failure point. Use a flashlight to ensure there is a clear tunnel from the brush roll up into the hose attachment. Clear the Brush Roll: Use a pair of scissors to cut away hair wrapped around the brush roll. If the hair is too tight, the brush cannot spin at full speed, which reduces the "agitation" necessary to push debris into the suction stream, making it feel like a loss of suction. Verify Dust Cup Seal: Ensure the dust cup is snapped fully into place. If the latch is slightly skewed or a piece of debris is trapped in the seal, air will leak from the sides of the cup rather than being pulled through the hose. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Check for "Ghost Clogs" in the Hose Ribs: Sometimes a small object (like a coin or a pebble) gets stuck in the ribs of the flexible hose. This doesn't fully block the air but creates turbulence that kills suction. Drop a heavy coin or a small ball through the hose; if it doesn't slide through instantly, there is a partial obstruction that needs to be cleared with a vacuum or a rod. Inspect the Motor Exhaust: Check the exhaust vents at the rear of the machine. If the exhaust is blocked or if there is an internal leak in the motor housing, the vacuum cannot create the pressure differential needed for suction. Ensure no fabric or curtains are blocking the rear vents. Deep Clean the New Filter: Even brand new filters can occasionally have manufacturing debris or a plastic film that restricts airflow. Ensure the filter is seated perfectly flush against the housing. If it is slightly tilted, the air will bypass the filter and the vacuum will lose prime. Inspect the Gaskets: Check the rubber gaskets where the hose meets the body. If the rubber has perished or been pinched, you will lose significant CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) of airflow, resulting in weak suction at the floorhead. HEADS UP Avoid Overfilling: Never let the dust cup exceed the "Max Fill" line. Once the cup is too full, the airflow is restricted, and pet hair begins to back up into the hose, causing the exact suction loss you are experiencing. Filter Maintenance: While you have a new filter, remember that the 27909 requires the filter to be tapped out over a trash can every 3-4 uses to prevent "micro-clogging" of the pores. Brush Roll Care: Cut hair off the brush roll weekly. When hair builds up, it creates friction that slows the motor and prevents the "turbo" action from lifting pet hair out of the carpet fibers. Hose Handling: Avoid sharp kinks in the hose during storage. Permanent creases in the plastic can create permanent airflow restrictions that cannot be fixed by cleaning.

Question 6

my vacuum smells like burning when i use it, especially on carpet

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS The burning smell emanating from your Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind (Model 27909) is almost certainly the result of thermal friction. This occurs when the motorized brush roll becomes obstructed by tightly wound pet hair, long threads, or carpet fibers. When the brush roll cannot spin at its intended RPM, the drive belt—which is made of a synthetic rubber compound—continues to be driven by the motor pulley. This creates a "slipping" effect where the belt rubs violently against the pulley, generating intense heat and a distinct acrid, burning rubber odor. In some cases, the smell is caused by the motor itself overheating. If the vacuum's airflow is restricted due to a clogged filter or a blocked hose, the motor has to work harder to pull air, leading to internal heat buildup. However, if the smell intensifies specifically on carpet, it indicates that the resistance of the carpet pile is triggering the brush roll obstruction, confirming that the friction is happening at the floorhead level rather than the motor housing. FIX To resolve the burning smell and prevent permanent motor damage, follow these precise steps to clear the drive system: Power down the unit completely and disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet to prevent accidental activation. Press the two release latches located on the sides of the floorhead to detach the vacuum head from the main canister body. Flip the floorhead over to expose the brush roll. Locate the brush roll guard or the end caps. Using a pair of heavy-duty scissors or a seam ripper, carefully cut through the hair and string wound around the brush roll. Do not pull the hair out by hand, as this can stretch the bristles or damage the belt. Cut along the length of the roll and then peel the debris away. Check the belt tension. If the belt looks "glazed" (shiny/melted) or has visible cracks, it has been compromised by the heat and must be replaced. Manually rotate the brush roll with your hand. It should spin smoothly with minimal resistance. If it feels "crunchy" or stuck, check the end bearings for trapped debris. Reattach the floorhead, ensure the connection is clicked firmly into place, and test the vacuum on a hard surface before moving back to the carpet. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Inspect the Pre-Motor Filter: A clogged filter reduces airflow, causing the motor to overheat and emit a burning plastic smell. Locate the filter, tap it firmly against a trash can to remove fine dust, or replace it if the fabric appears grey or blackened. Check for Hose Blockages: A partial clog in the suction hose creates backpressure. Remove the hose and drop a heavy coin or a small ball through it. If it doesn't pass through instantly, use a flexible plumbing snake or a wire hanger to clear the obstruction. Examine the Motor Pulley: If you replaced the belt but the smell persists, inspect the motor pulley for melted rubber residue from the previous belt. Use a small piece of fine-grit sandpaper to clean the pulley surface so the new belt can grip without slipping. Verify the Height Setting: If you are using the vacuum on very low-pile or thin carpets, the brush roll may be digging too deep into the fibers, creating excessive drag. Adjust the height setting to a higher position to reduce the load on the motor. HEADS UP Weekly Maintenance: Cut hair off the brush roll every two weeks regardless of whether you smell burning; once the belt starts slipping, it loses elasticity and will fail prematurely. Avoid "Wet" Carpets: Never use this vacuum on damp carpets. Moisture causes debris to clump and stick to the brush roll, increasing friction and the risk of belt burnout. Scent Warning: If the burning smell is accompanied by a visible spark or a loud grinding noise from the motor housing, stop using the unit immediately as this indicates a bearing failure in the motor. Belt Replacement: Only use genuine Bissell replacement belts. Generic rubber bands or non-spec belts will either snap instantly or slip, causing the burning smell to return.

Question 7

the rewind function on my pet hair eraser turbo isn't working, i press the button and the cord just jerks a little

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS The "jerking" motion you experience when pressing the rewind button on the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind (Model 27909) indicates that the internal clock-spring mechanism is under tension, but the cord is physically obstructed or "bird-nested" within the spool housing. This typically happens when the cord is pulled out at an extreme angle or if the vacuum was stored with the cord twisted, causing the cable to overlap itself on the drum rather than winding in a neat, concentric circle. When the cord overlaps or bunches, it creates a friction point that exceeds the torque capacity of the rewind spring. The "jerk" is the spring attempting to engage, but the friction from the bunched cord acts as a mechanical brake. In some cases, a small piece of debris or a stray thread may have entered the housing through the cord aperture, jamming the guide wheel that ensures the cord feeds smoothly. If you hear a clicking sound but see no movement, the spring is likely intact, but the physical path is blocked. FIX To resolve a jammed rewind mechanism, you must manually reset the tension and clear the path of the cord. Follow these precise steps: Disconnect the vacuum from the wall outlet and place the unit on a flat, hard surface. Ensure the vacuum is stable so it doesn't tip over during the process. Locate the rewind button. Press and hold it firmly while slowly and steadily pulling the power cord outward. If the cord resists, do not yank it; instead, gently wiggle the cord side-to-side while pulling to loosen any internal bunches. Extend the cord to its absolute maximum length. You should feel the tension in the spring release completely. Ensure the cord is fully extended and straight, with no kinks or loops. Inspect the cord aperture (the slot where the cord exits the machine). Use a flashlight to check for any hair, lint, or small objects that may have migrated into the opening. Use a can of compressed air or a thin toothpick to clear any visible debris. Hold the cord taut and let the rewind button release. If the button was held down, let go of it. Slowly feed the cord back into the housing by hand. Do not simply press the button and let it zip back; instead, guide the cord in a straight line, ensuring it enters the housing without twisting. This "hand-feeding" process re-seats the cord on the internal drum. Once the cord is nearly all the way in, press the rewind button one final time to snap the plug firmly into the housing. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Spring Calibration Reset: If the cord still jerks, the internal spring may have "set" in a bound position. Fully extend the cord again, but this time, gently tug the cord outward an extra inch beyond its normal stop point (without forcing it) while holding the rewind button. This can sometimes "pop" a misaligned coil back into place. External Lubrication: If the cord feels "sticky" as it enters the housing, it may be due to residue or dust buildup on the jacket of the cord. Wipe the entire length of the power cord with a damp microfiber cloth and a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to remove grime, then dry it completely before attempting to rewind. Mechanical Housing Check: If the button feels "mushy" or doesn't click, the plastic actuator arm inside the chassis may have slipped off the spring hook. While the unit is unplugged, gently tap the side of the rewind housing with the handle of a screwdriver to see if the mechanism jars loose. Internal Debris Removal: If the vacuum was used in an area with heavy sawdust or drywall powder, these fine particles can enter the spool. Use a vacuum hose on the highest suction setting to vacuum the cord aperture itself for 30 seconds to pull out any internal grit. HEADS UP Avoid Over-Extension: Never pull the cord to its absolute mechanical limit; stop when you feel the first sign of resistance to prevent the internal spring from snapping or slipping. Storage Habit: When storing the vacuum, always ensure the cord is fully retracted. Leaving the cord partially extended for long periods can weaken the spring tension over time. Avoid Cord Twisting: When pulling the vacuum across a room, avoid letting the cord wrap around the wheels or the base of the unit, as this introduces twists that lead to the "bird-nesting" jam described above. Voltage Warning: Never attempt to open the rewind housing while the unit is plugged in, as the stored energy in the clock-spring can cause the housing to snap open violently, potentially causing injury.

Question 8

my bissell pet hair eraser 27909 just stopped in the middle of vacuuming and now the power button light is flashing red

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS The flashing red power indicator on the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind (Model 27909) is a critical system alert indicating that the vacuum has triggered its thermal overload protection. This is a safety mechanism designed to prevent the motor from burning out when it encounters excessive resistance or a lack of airflow, which causes the internal temperature to spike rapidly. When the motor cannot "breathe" or the brush roll is seized, the motor works harder, generates more heat, and eventually trips the thermal fuse to shut the system down. You can confirm this is a thermal event if the vacuum stopped abruptly during a period of heavy use, or if you notice the exhaust air felt unusually hot just before the shutdown. Common triggers include a "slug" of pet hair and debris lodged in the intake throat, a completely saturated foam filter, or a brush roll that has become so tightly wound with long hair and string that the motor can no longer rotate it, creating a mechanical stall that leads to electrical overheating. FIX To reset the system and clear the fault, follow these precise steps: Immediately unplug the unit from the wall outlet. Do not attempt to restart the vacuum for at least 45 to 60 minutes. The thermal switch requires a complete temperature drop to reset; pressing the button repeatedly while it is hot can permanently damage the motor. Release the dust bin by pressing the release button and empty all debris. Inspect the "cyclonic" shroud inside the bin for any clumps of hair blocking the entry port. Remove the foam filter located at the top of the bin. Wash it under warm water until the water runs clear, then let it air dry completely for 24 hours. If the filter is grey or black, replace it with a new Part #206010. Flip the vacuum over and remove the brush roll. Use a pair of seam rippers or heavy-duty scissors to cut through the hair wrapped around the bristles. Ensure the ends of the brush roll can spin freely without resistance. Check the hose for obstructions. Remove the hose from the unit and drop a coin or a small ball through it. If it doesn't fall through the other side, use a flexible plumbing snake or a wire hanger to push the clog out. Once the unit is cool and all blockages are cleared, plug it back in and press the power button. The red flashing light should now be solid or off, and the motor should engage. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Check the Brush Roll Belt: If the motor sounds like it is running but the brush isn't spinning, the drive belt may have snapped or slipped. Remove the bottom plate and inspect the rubber belt. If it is stretched or broken, replace it with a genuine Bissell replacement belt to prevent the motor from over-revving and tripping the thermal sensor again. Inspect the Intake Throat: There is a narrow gap where the hose meets the vacuum body. Use a flashlight to look for a "plug" of pet hair. Even a small blockage here restricts airflow significantly, causing the motor to overheat within seconds of startup. Test on a Different Circuit: If the light flashes immediately upon plugging in, you may be experiencing a voltage drop. Plug the vacuum directly into a wall outlet rather than an extension cord or power strip, as these often cannot handle the amperage required by the Turbo Rewind motor. Hard Reset: Unplug the unit and hold the power button down for 15 seconds to discharge any remaining capacitors in the control board. Plug it back in and attempt a restart. HEADS UP Never operate the vacuum with a damp filter; this restricts airflow and is the leading cause of thermal shutdowns and permanent motor failure. Clear the brush roll every 2-3 uses if you have long-haired pets to prevent the motor from straining. Avoid using the vacuum on high-pile shag rugs for extended periods, as these create more friction and heat than low-pile carpets. If the red light continues to flash even after a full cooling period and thorough cleaning, the thermal fuse may have blown permanently, requiring a professional motor assembly replacement.

Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind Vacuum 27909

Other Vacuums