⚖ Consumer Rights Checker

Vacuum Cleaner Broke After a Year? UK Rights Explained

Loss of suction, a battery that won't hold charge, or a motor failure well before the model's expected lifespan are common, often successful Consumer Rights Act claims — especially on premium cordless vacuums.

Frequently asked questions about vacuum cleaner faults

My cordless vacuum's battery barely lasts any time after a year, what are my rights?

If the battery's performance has dropped far below what's reasonable for its age (not just gradual wear after several years), you can ask the retailer for a repair, replacement battery, or a claim under the Act. Keep any evidence of the drop-off being sudden or unusually early.

Is loss of suction always a fault?

Not always — a clogged filter or full bin is normal maintenance, not a fault. Persistent loss of suction after cleaning the filters and emptying the bin, especially if it's a known issue with that model, is a stronger claim.

Does not maintaining the filters affect my claim?

It can — retailers can point to filter maintenance instructions in the manual, so following the recommended cleaning schedule (and keeping evidence you did) strengthens your position if they push back.

Can I claim after the vacuum is out of its 1 or 2-year manufacturer guarantee?

Yes — your Consumer Rights Act claim against the retailer runs up to 6 years and is separate from the manufacturer's guarantee period.

The short version

Time since purchaseWhat you can ask for
0–30 daysFull refund
31 days–6 monthsFree repair or replacement, then refund
6 months–6 yearsSame, but you show the fault is inherent
General information based on the Consumer Rights Act 2015, not legal advice. See Citizens Advice: Return faulty goods or the Consumer Rights Act 2015 for the full legal text.