Press the Power Button to Start Your Bissell

Most Bissell vacuums turn on with a single power button located on the handle or main body. Find the button labeled "Power" or marked with a power symbol (a circle with a line at the top), press it down, and the motor will start. The button stays pressed while the vacuum runs — you do not need to hold it continuously.

The power button's exact location depends on your model. On upright vacuums, it is usually on the handle near your right hand. On canister models, look on the main unit itself or on the hose handle. Check your model's manual if you cannot locate it — the manual comes in the box or is available on Bissell's website by searching your model number.

When you press the button, you should hear the motor engage within a second or two. Some models have a light that turns on at the same time. If nothing happens after pressing, check that the vacuum is plugged in and that the outlet works by testing it with another device.

Key Takeaways

  • The power button is usually on the handle of upright models and on the main unit of canister models.
  • Press the button once and it stays engaged — you do not hold it down while vacuuming.
  • The motor should start within one or two seconds of pressing the button.
  • If the vacuum does not start, confirm it is plugged into a working outlet before troubleshooting further.
  • Your model's manual shows the exact button location if you cannot find it on the unit itself.

Check That the Vacuum Is Plugged In

Before pressing the power button, make sure the cord is fully inserted into a working electrical outlet. Push the plug in firmly until it seats completely — a loose connection will prevent the motor from starting even if you press the button.

Test the outlet itself by plugging in another device, such as a lamp or phone charger. If that device does not work, try a different outlet in another room. Outlets can fail, and a tripped circuit breaker in your home's electrical panel can cut power to an entire room.

Make Sure the Dust Tank or Bag Is Not Full

Many Bissell models have a safety feature that prevents the motor from starting if the dust tank or bag is full. On bagless models, remove the tank and empty it into a trash can, then reinstall it firmly until you hear it click into place. On bagged models, replace the bag following the instructions in your manual.

Even if the tank looks only half full, a clogged filter can trigger the same safety lock. Check the filter — it is usually a cylindrical or accordion-shaped part inside the tank or near the motor. If it is visibly dirty or caked with dust, rinse it under running water (if your manual says it is washable) or replace it with a new one.

Reset the Power Switch If It Stays Off

If you press the power button and nothing happens, the switch itself may have tripped a safety mechanism. Turn the vacuum completely off, wait 30 seconds, then press the power button again. This reset often clears a temporary fault.

Some Bissell models also have a thermal reset button — a small red or black button separate from the main power switch, usually on the motor housing or handle. If the motor overheated (for example, from a clogged filter), this button pops out and stops the motor. Press it back in, wait a few minutes for the motor to cool, and try the power button again.

Confirm the Brush Roll Is Not Jammed

On upright vacuums, a jammed brush roll (the spinning bristle bar at the bottom) can prevent the motor from starting or cause it to shut off when ready after you turn it on. Flip the vacuum over and look at the brush roll. If hair, string, or debris is wrapped around it, turn the vacuum off and remove the obstruction by hand or with scissors.

After clearing the jam, turn the brush roll by hand to make sure it spins freely. Then flip the vacuum back over, plug it in, and try the power button again. A stuck brush roll is one of the most common reasons a Bissell will not start.

Check the Hose and Attachments for Blockages

On canister models and some uprights, a clogged hose or attachment can trigger a safety shutoff. Hold the hose up to a light and look through it — you should see light on the other end. If you see a blockage, use a broomstick or plumbing snake to push it out, or run warm water through the hose to dissolve stuck debris.

Check all attachments and connections too. Make sure the hose is fully seated where it connects to the main unit and that any brush heads or nozzles are not clogged. Reattach everything firmly, then try the power button.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Bissell turn off right after I turn it on?

The most common cause is a full dust tank, clogged filter, or jammed brush roll. Empty the tank, rinse or replace the filter, and check the brush roll for wrapped hair or string. If none of those are the problem, the motor may have overheated — turn it off, wait 10 minutes, and try again.

Is there a switch I need to flip before pressing the power button?

Most Bissell models do not have a separate on/off switch. The power button itself turns the motor on and off. However, some older or specialty models may have a separate switch on the cord or handle — check your manual if you are unsure.

What should I do if the power button feels stuck or does not click?

Do not force it. A stuck button usually means debris has entered the switch housing. Unplug the vacuum, wait a minute, and try pressing the button gently a few times. If it remains stuck, the switch may need replacement — contact Bissell's customer service with your model number.

Can I use an extension cord with my Bissell?

Yes, but use a heavy-duty extension cord rated for the vacuum's amperage (check the label on the back of the unit). A standard light-duty cord can overheat and create a fire risk. Keep the cord as short as possible and avoid running it under rugs or furniture.

Does my Bissell need to warm up before I start vacuuming?

No. Bissell vacuums are ready to use when ready after you press the power button. You can begin vacuuming right away — there is no warm-up period required.