Tineco vacuums stop working when the filter is too dirty. Whenever something like that happens, the vacuum will give you a sign to let users know what’s going on.
You’re likely here because of that sign since your Tineco vacuum keeps saying “clean filter”. The list below has a bunch of different things you can try to fix this.
I also made a short video on YouTube about this topic and you can watch it before you continue reading this article. You can watch it down below.
If the “Air Channel Blocked” symbol appeared try cleaning the main filter and then empty the dustbin. Clean also the other 2 filters.
If those solutions don’t work, remove the entire dustbin. Check if there’s a dust sensor malfunction. And lastly, you can also try to clean the brush roller.
6 Things To Try If Your Tineco Vacuum Keeps Saying “Clean Filter”
- Check For The Air Channel Blocked Symbol
First things first. Is the air channel blocked? If you see the air channel blocked symbol flashing on your Tineco, your vacuum might be struggling with airflow.
The same way I’m doing in the photo below, do a normal cleaning of the main filter with a dry brush. Also, empty the dustbin while you’re at it.
Any dust left behind could clog up the airflow again. Even if you think you’ve cleared it, give it another pass. You’d be surprised how sneaky dirt can be.
- Don’t Miss The Second Filter!
Did you know your Tineco has two filters? Many users overlook the second one, but it’s just as important. Start by finding the hidden filter. It’s usually near the motor.
The picture above shows where you can find it. Pull it out and clean it thoroughly once you find it. Dust buildup here can cause the same issue as dust in the first filter.
- Clean The Main Filter With Water
Dry cleaning isn’t always enough. If your vacuum still won’t stop nagging, it’s time to wash the main filter with water. This step removes stubborn dirt stuck deep inside.
Take out the main filter and rinse it under running water. If you have a garage or basement sink, or even a hose, probably rinse it in one of those locations.
Let it sit for at least 24 hours to make sure it is completely dry. Running your Tineco vacuum with a wet filter can damage it, so make sure you let it fully dry out first.
- Check The Dustbin For Hidden Blockages
Even if the dustbin looks clean, some blockages might hide in the corners. Take out the whole thing by releasing the inside button on your Tineco and inspect it closely.
Look for clogs in tight corners. While you’re at it, use a tool or compressed air to clear out anything that may be stuck.
- Is Your Tineco Dust Sensor Acting Up?
If you’ve tried everything and the “Clean Filter” message won’t go away, the dust sensor might be at fault. A malfunctioning sensor can misinterpret the tiniest speck as a dirty filter.
If you see the symbol from the photo below on your Tineco vacuum, it means the dust sensor is malfunctioning.
First things first, you have to locate that sensor. The manual doesn’t say where it is, but I believe it’s inside the dustbin. You’ll have to open the bin up and inspect the wiring to find it.
If you don’t want to go through that hassle, I suggest getting the dust sensor repaired/replaced instead. That way there’ll be much less troubleshooting on your end.
- Don’t Forget The Brush Roller
Blockages in the roller or wand can also mess with airflow and trigger the “Clean Filter” message. Remove the brush roller and clean it thoroughly.
Then, inspect the wand for debris or clogs. A clean roller ensures the vacuum works smoothly, without triggering false alarms.
Wrapping Up
With these steps, your Tineco vacuum should be back to running smoothly. If the problem continues, it might be time to reach out to customer support or look into getting a professional repair.
