The Power Button Location and Basic On/Off

Most Bissell vacuums have a power button on the handle or main body. Look for a button labeled "Power" or marked with a power symbol (a circle with a line at the top). Press it once to turn the vacuum on — the motor will start and you'll hear it running. Press the same button again to turn it off.

On upright models, the power button is usually on the handle near your right hand. On canister models, it's typically on the canister body itself or on the hose handle. Some older Bissell models use a foot pedal instead of a button — step down on the pedal to power on, and release it to power off.

Key Takeaways

  • The power button on most Bissell vacuums is located on the handle or canister body and turns the motor on with one press.
  • Some Bissell models use a foot pedal on the base instead of a button — step down to turn on and release to turn off.
  • If your vacuum doesn't turn on, check that the power cord is plugged in and the outlet works by testing it with another device.
  • Cordless Bissell models need to be charged before use; the charging dock or wall charger should show a light when the battery is charging.
  • Always empty the dust bin and check for clogs before assuming the vacuum won't start.

Cordless Bissell Models: Charging Before Use

If you own a cordless Bissell, the vacuum won't turn on if the battery is dead. Place the vacuum on its charging dock or plug the battery into the wall charger that came with it. A light on the dock or charger will indicate that charging is in progress — this usually takes 3 to 6 hours for a full charge, depending on the model.

Once the light changes color or turns off (the signal varies by model), the battery is fully charged. Remove the vacuum from the dock and press the power button. If the battery is low during use, the motor will slow down or stop — return it to the dock to recharge.

Corded Models: Plug and Power On

Corded Bissell vacuums need to be plugged into a working electrical outlet before they'll turn on. Unwind the power cord fully and plug it into an outlet. If nothing happens when you press the power button, test the outlet by plugging in a lamp or phone charger to confirm the outlet has power.

If the outlet works but the vacuum still won't start, check the power cord for damage — a pinched or frayed cord can prevent power from reaching the motor. Also make sure the cord is fully inserted into the outlet and not partially pulled out.

Safety Features That Prevent Starting

Some Bissell models have a safety switch that stops the motor if the dust bin isn't seated properly or if the filter compartment is open. If you press the power button and nothing happens, remove the dust bin and push it back in firmly until you hear it click. Check that any filter covers or compartment doors are fully closed.

A full dust bin can also trigger a safety shutoff on certain models. Empty the bin completely — even if it doesn't look full, debris can block the sensor. After emptying, reinsert the bin and try the power button again.

What to Do If the Vacuum Won't Turn On

Start with the simplest checks: Is the power cord plugged in (for corded models) or is the battery charged (for cordless)? Is the dust bin in place? Are all compartment doors and filter covers closed? These account for most no-start situations.

If those are all correct, try a different outlet to rule out a tripped circuit breaker. If a different outlet works, the original outlet may be on a circuit that's overloaded — unplug other devices from that circuit and try again. If no outlet works and the battery is fully charged (on cordless models), the vacuum may have an internal electrical fault and will need service from a Bissell repair center or authorized dealer.

Bissell Pet Hair and Crosswave Models

Bissell Pet Hair and Crosswave models work the same way as standard uprights — find the power button on the handle and press it to start. However, these models often have additional buttons for features like the brush roll or cleaning solution pump. The main power button starts the motor; the other buttons control specific functions once the vacuum is running.

Crosswave models also need water and cleaning solution added to the tank before use. If you press the power button and the motor runs but no solution comes out, check that the solution tank is full and that the solution valve (usually a small lever near the tank) is open.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Bissell turn on but then shut off right away?

The dust bin is likely full or a safety sensor is triggered. Empty the bin completely, check that all compartment doors are closed, and make sure the filter isn't clogged with debris. If the motor still shuts off after a few seconds, the vacuum may have a thermal shutoff — let it cool for 30 minutes and try again.

Can I use my Bissell while it's charging?

No. Cordless Bissell vacuums must be removed from the dock or charger before use. Using a vacuum while plugged in is not safe and can damage the battery or charger. Always charge fully, unplug, and then turn on.

My Bissell power button is stuck — what should I do?

Do not force it. Unplug the vacuum (or remove the battery on cordless models) and let it sit for a few minutes. Sometimes debris or moisture around the button can cause it to stick. If it still won't move after sitting, contact a Bissell service center — forcing a stuck button can break the switch inside.

Is it normal for the motor to sound different when I first turn it on?

Yes. Many Bissell models make a slightly higher pitch or different sound for the first few seconds as the motor ramps up to full speed. If the sound continues to be unusual or the motor sounds like it's struggling, turn it off and check for clogs in the hose or brush roll area.