The airflow of a vacuum cleaner is very important for maintaining good suction power. If an air duct is blocked or there is a blockage, the air can no longer flow through. The suction power is lost and the vacuum cleaner can even break.
To prevent damage in the event of a blockage in the air duct, a Dyson may pulse. This is an audible function, where the Dyson starts to stutter. The vacuum cleaner stops functioning immediately to prevent any damage. In this article I will tell you why a Dyson pulses and how you can solve this problem.
Dyson pulsates due to airflow problems
A Dyson is designed to pulse, so don't worry that your motor will break or your Dyson will get stuck: “The device is designed to pulse. This is an audible function that indicates a restriction of airflow and damage to the motor. This is usually caused by a blockage in the unit or a clogged filter,” says Dyson on its website.
The pulsing can best be described as a Dyson stuttering or stuttering. It seems like the Dyson turns on and off in quick succession. When a Dyson pulses you can hear this clearly. In many cases, a blue light will blink too.
The pulsing can best be described as a Dyson stuttering or stuttering. It seems like the Dyson turns on and off in quick succession.
Causes: blockage in air duct or filters
The pulsing of a Dyson is not for nothing: the vacuum cleaner indicates that there is a problem with the airflow. This may include the following problems:
- A blockage in the vacuum cleaner itself
- A blockage in the vacuum cleaner rod
- Blockages in the attachments
- Clogged or worn filters
After the stutter, the Dyson will stop functioning immediately. This is not without reason: if an air duct of a vacuum cleaner is blocked, the air can no longer flow through. Not only does the suction power decrease: the Dyson vacuum cleaner can also no longer cool down.
Make Dyson stop pulsing
To make a Dyson stop pulsing, you will have to look for the blockage in the vacuum cleaner. I have made a checklist to quickly discover the location of the blockade.
- Remove all Dyson parts from the vacuum cleaner
- Now check if the Dyson is still pulsing
- Does the vacuum cleaner still stutter? Then the blockage can be found in the vacuum cleaner itself. Empty the dust container and check the air inlets
- Does the Dyson stop pulsing? Then there may be a blockage in the vacuum cleaner rod or in one of the Dyson parts. Go to step 3
- Check the vacuum cleaner rod and suction brushes for blockages and remove them
- Click all parts back on the Dyson vacuum cleaner and check that the Dyson no longer pulses when you turn it on.
- Does the Dyson stop pulsing? Then the problem is solved!
- Does the Dyson pulse again? Go to step 5
- Remove the filter from the Dyson vacuum cleaner and check whether it is dirty. Cleaning a Dyson HEPA filter is easy, so don't hesitate to do this if in doubt.
Not familiar with the different airways of a Dyson vacuum cleaner? In the manual for a Dyson airway blocked I show all possible locations for a blockage.
Dyson pulses after filter cleaning
If you've thoroughly cleaned the Dyson filter (and let it dry for at least 24 hours), but the pulsing still hasn't gone away, you probably need to replace the Dyson filter.
| Dyson vacuum* | No. of filters | Filter level | Check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dyson V8 | 2 | ULPA 15 | Check filters |
| Dyson V10 | 1 | HEPA 13 | Check filters |
| Dyson V11 | 1 | HEPA 13 | Check filters |
| Dyson V12 | 1 | ULPA 15 | Check filters |
| Dyson V15 | 1 | ULPA 15 | Check filters |
Although a Dyson filter is washable, you should still replace it at least once every twelve months.
* Replacing a Dyson filter is not difficult, but it is important to buy the right one. Always keep the serial number of your Dyson to hand (find out here which Dyson you have).
Robbert Tigchelaar has made testing vacuum cleaners his life's work. He has dedicated himself to conducting fully independent and valuable tests of vacuum cleaners to provide consumers with honest advice. His expertise in vacuum cleaners has been highlighted in The Washington Post and the Daily Express.
I have confirmed there is no blockage in the roller or its connecting tube. I e also washed the filter and knocked quite a bit of dirt from the vaccuum intakes after removing the dirt collector. It still pulses withe the icon tell7me it’s plugged.
Ron Dennis
Hi Ron, thanks for your response. Ask your; does the Dyson also stutter when you take the suction nozzle off?
This article did the trick. The soft roller floor brush for my V7 was full of debris.
thank you!!
Hey! Thanks for your response, and it’s great to hear that the soft roller brush was the issue. It’s essential to check it regularly for dirt (as this can also cause scratches on your floor). You can check my guide about how to clean a Dyson brush if needed! Good luck, and happy vacuuming!
I have a Dyson cyclone v 10. All parts are cleaned no clogging yet my vacuum keeps pulsing ‼️
After watching several videos regarding pulsing, the only thing it said is, I may need a new filter.
“ May “ what if I purchase a new filter and it’s still pulsing ? I don’t wanna invest in the filter and my machine is still not working. Has anyone else experience this? I would appreciate any feedback. Thank you so much.
Have you tried cleaning the entire filter thoroughly? Cleaning the filter completely often helps with a blockage.
I’ve same problem with my v11 .. i did everythings, and it still pulsing.. its like the clog is inside the turbine..
In that case, it sounds like a motor issue. Most likely, replacing the main body is the only solution. I assume you’ve thoroughly cleaned the filter and checked the accessories for any dirt as well.
Have new filter no blockages and my Dyson v6 is still pulsating what else can I do
Hi Kathy! Have you also checked if there is any dirt in the accessories (for example, in the brush roll)?
My v7 still pulsating after I have bought new filter also bought new battery and brush head I’m gutted
Hey Karen,
Sorry to hear that. Could you let me know if you purchased the filters and batteries from Dyson or if they are third-party components? If not, have you checked the vacuum for any blockages? In this article, you can find a guide on what to check for possible obstructions in the air channels.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Robbert
I am on the same boat and I think it is an issue with the motor at the end of the day.
Without any attachment it stutters.
I opened up and disassembled the entire vacuum
Cleaned everything and I mean everything to the point I was worried if I would still be able to put it back together.
After cleaning and putting it back together, it STILL stutters.
So I am on Amazon looking for a body replacement.
I hope it works…
Hey Anthony, sorry to hear that. It does sound like there’s a motor issue. I’m really curious if replacing the main body will solve the problem. By the way, you can find a guide here on how to replace a Dyson Main Body.
I’ve a Dyson V11. I’ve taken it apart and have cleaned it thoroughly. It still says that the airway is blocked. The filter has been cleaned as well, but it’s still the original and is almost two years old now. I’ve asked a family member with the same machine (which still works) to bring me their filter to see if that changes anything, but something tells me that ain’t gonna solve the issue… Will see tomorrow.
Hey Tom!
Thanks for your response. I think the filter might be the possible issue. Vacuuming with the same filter for two years can cause problems. I’m really curious if your family member’s filter might solve the problem. If the filter is the cause, here’s a guide on how to easily, quickly, and inexpensively fix and replace new filters!
Greetings,
Robbert