If the Dyson V15 Detect has weak or no suction, Dyson's manual points to four things in order: a blockage (the motor pulses and the machine will not run until it is cleared, and it cuts out if you try), a dirty or wet filter (wash it at least monthly and dry it at least 24 hours), a bin filled above MAX (empty it as soon as dirt reaches MAX) and a tangled or blocked brush bar or tool. Check the air inlet on the right side of the main body just below where the bin joins, the wand at both ends and the cleaner head.
Also confirm the screen is not in Eco when you need more power, and that Auto mode has a cleaner head or Hair screw tool attached.
Differential
Likely causes of “Dyson cordless vacuum has weak or no suction”, and how to tell them apart
- 1
A blockage
What separates it The motor pulses or the machine cuts out because there is a blockage
How to confirm Clear the bin area, air inlet, wand and cleaner head
- 2
A dirty or damp filter
What separates it The suction fades and the filter alert shows because the filter is dirty or damp
How to confirm Wash at least monthly and dry 24 hours before refitting
- 3
An overfilled bin
What separates it There is dirt above the MAX line because the bin is overfilled
How to confirm Empty the bin as soon as the dirt reaches the MAX line, and try again
- 4
A wrapped brush bar
What separates it The pickup at the floor is weak because the brush bar is wrapped
How to confirm Remove and clear hair and fibers from the bar
Before you touch a setting
Record this first — changing settings destroys the evidence
- Which alert the screen shows on the machine
- Whether the motor pulses or cuts out
- When the filter was last washed and dried
Try in this order
0 of 5 completedRead the screen
ReversibleRead the screen, and look for Airways blocked, Filter needs cleaning or Filter not sealed.
Empty the bin
ReversibleEmpty the bin as soon as the dirt reaches MAX, since overfilling reduces the performance.
Check for blockages
ReversibleRemove the bin and look at the air inlet on the right of the main body, then the wand and cleaner head.
Wash the filter
ReversibleTwist counter-clockwise to remove, tap out dust, rinse in warm running water, shake dry and leave at least 24 hours.
Refit
ReversibleRefit only parts that are completely dry, since a damp filter can damage the machine.
Model-specific
What is true of this model and not of its siblings
- The settings menu
- Hold the button on the screen until the menu appears and tap to scroll. The options are particle count and graph (turning it off stops the automatic suction adjustment and hides the graph), the sensitivity of the reactive suction, the language and the alerts. To save a choice hold the button until the countdown ends and a green tick appears; release during the countdown to cancel. Exit the menu with the Exit option. Turning the run time alert off stops the three-pulse warning, but blockage pulsing always stays on to protect the machine.
- Where to get more help
- Dyson's manual points owners to its support site for the V15 Detect, and says the serial numbers are printed on the machine, the battery and the charger, which you use to register. To keep the machine performing, wipe a dusty body with a damp lint-free cloth, check the cleaner head, tools and main body for blockages, wash the filter regularly and leave it to dry completely, and never use detergents or polishes on any part.
- Other models this page answers
- These steps also fit the Gen5detect cordless vacuum, V11 cordless vacuum, Cyclone V10 cordless vacuum, V8 cordless vacuum.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !If suction is weak after every blockage and filter check, contact Dyson support
- !If the alert stays on with all parts clear, contact Dyson
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Exact questions
Common questions
Why does it pulse?+
It has detected a blockage and will not run until it is cleared.
How often do I wash the filter?+
Wash the filter at least once a month, using cold water, and let it dry.
How long must the filter dry?+
At least 24 hours in a warm ventilated place.
Can I use a dryer?+
No: not a tumble dryer, microwave or near a flame.
Can I wash the bin?+
Only with a damp cloth; it is not dishwasher safe.
Does Eco cut power?+
Eco is for longest run time; Boost is for spot cleaning.
Is unblocking covered by warranty?+
No, unblocking the machine is not covered by the warranty, so clear it yourself.
Where is the air inlet?+
On the right side of the main body just below where the bin joins.