Sebo ET-1 and ET-2 powerhead trouble shooting

Initial Troubleshooting

When a machine comes into our repair shop, the first thing we do is verify the reported problem. In this case, the brush roller isn’t spinning, and our team has already confirmed this issue. Now, we’ll walk through the potential failure points that could cause this problem.

Important Note:

This guide is intended for professional dealers and authorized service centers. If you’re a home user, please ensure your warranty has expired before attempting any repairs. Opening your vacuum could void your warranty. If your machine is still under warranty, we recommend bringing it to a certified service center for a free repair.

Step-by-Step Diagnosis

1. Verify Power Button Functionality:

   • Start by checking the power button, which doubles as a power light. Sometimes, these buttons can stick. If the power button is stuck, it could prevent the brush roll from spinning.

2. Remove the Vacuum Head:

   • Detach the vacuum head by pressing the button that allows you to remove the upper body. This gives you access to the internal components.

3. Inspect the Micro Switch:

   • One common failure point is the blue micro switch located inside the vacuum. This switch disengages the brush roll motor when the vacuum is in an upright position. Use a multimeter to check for continuity through the switch. If the switch is working, move on to the next step.

4. Check Wiring Continuity:

   • Inspect the wires that run from the power source to the brush roll motor. These wires can sometimes lose continuity due to the stress of constant movement. Use a multimeter to check for continuity from the power supply to the motor.

5. Test the Power Switch:

   • The power switch itself can sometimes fail. After removing the switch, check for continuity when the switch is turned on.

6. Test the Motor Directly (Advanced):

   • If you’re comfortable working with electrical components, you can directly test the motor by supplying it with power using what’s known as “suicide cables.” This involves feeding live 120 volts directly into the motor to see if it spins. Warning: This step involves a risk of electrocution. Proceed only if you’re experienced and confident in handling live electrical components.

7. Evaluate the PCB (Printed Circuit Board):

   • If the motor works and the switch and wiring are all intact, the issue likely lies with the PCB. Unfortunately, there’s no direct way to test the PCB, so you’ll need to inspect it visually for any signs of damage, such as burnt components.

Conclusion

After following these steps, if you’ve determined that the PCB is faulty, it’s time to replace it. Installation is straightforward, but take a photo of the wiring before you begin to ensure everything goes back in the correct place.

Remember, Sebo Felix vacuums are designed for easy repair and maintenance, and there’s plenty of documentation available. If your machine is under warranty, avoid any DIY fixes and bring it to a service center. Otherwise, follow this guide to troubleshoot and repair your vacuum.

For detailed diagrams and part numbers, refer to the link provided below.

Happy repairing!