Henry Motor Brush / Commutator Failure

Motor emits burning smell or visible sparks from vents

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Worn carbon brushes, Dirty commutator, Overloaded motor from blockages, Shorted armature windings

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Unplug immediately. Do not continue to run a motor that smells burnt or is sparking heavily.

  • Check for blockages:
    • Clear all suction blockages to reduce load.
  • Inspect motor brushes:
    • Access the motor and remove the carbon brush holders.
    • Replace with genuine vacuum motor carbon brushes if worn short.
  • Inspect commutator:
    • If heavily burnt or grooved, the vacuum motor assembly should be replaced.
  • Do not ignore burning smell:
    • Persistent burning indicates serious damage; replace the motor rather than attempting to clean only.
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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Vacuum Motor Carbon Brushes
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