If you've got a Shark Stratos cordless vacuum and you're wondering where the filters are, you're definitely not alone. Unlike some vacuum cleaners, the filters aren't immediately obvious when you look at the machine.
I've even had Shark Stratos vacuums brought into the workshop with virtually no suction simply because the owner didn't know these filters were there. Once they become heavily clogged, they can severely restrict the airflow into the motor.
This quick guide shows you where the filters are located, how to remove them and why keeping them clean is so important.
Which Shark Stratos Models Does This Apply To?
This guide covers the filter location on a number of Shark Stratos cordless models sold in the UK and overseas, including:
- Shark IZ400UKT
- Shark IZ420UKT
- Shark IZ840H
- Shark IZ862H
- Shark UZ865H
- Shark UZ865HCCO
The exact model number can vary depending on the country and version of the vacuum, but the filter arrangement on these Stratos cordless models is very similar.
Where Are the Filters on a Shark Stratos?
The filters are located behind the removable dust bin. This is why they're so easy to miss if you've never removed the bin from the main body of the vacuum.
You'll find both the pre-motor filters and the post-motor filter in this area.
How to Remove the Shark Stratos Filters
1. Remove the Wand
Press the wand release button and separate the handheld vacuum from the wand. This makes it much easier to access the dust bin and filters.
2. Empty the Dust Bin
Press the dust-bin release button and empty any dirt from the machine. Once you've emptied it, close the bottom flap again.
3. Remove the Dust Bin
Turn the handheld unit so you can see the eject symbol and release button. Press the button and pull the complete dust bin away from the vacuum.
With the bin removed, the previously hidden filter compartment is exposed.
4. Remove the Filters
Inside you'll find the filter assembly, including the sponge and felt-style pre-motor filters. These sit directly in the airflow before the motor and can become heavily clogged with fine dust.
You'll also find the post-motor filter, which filters the air leaving the vacuum before it is exhausted back into your room.
Can Dirty Shark Stratos Filters Cause Loss of Suction?
Absolutely. In fact, this is one of the first things worth checking if your Shark Stratos has poor suction.
As dust builds up in the pre-motor filters, airflow through the vacuum becomes increasingly restricted. In extreme cases, a heavily clogged filter effectively creates a barrier directly in front of the motor.
The result can be a Shark Stratos that appears to be working normally but has very weak suction or almost no suction at all.
How Often Should Shark Stratos Filters Be Cleaned?
As a useful routine, check and clean the filters around once a month, particularly if the vacuum is used regularly.
If they're visibly dirty before then, clean them sooner. Homes with pets, lots of carpet or particularly dusty conditions may cause the filters to become dirty more quickly.
When washing reusable filters, make sure they are completely dry before putting them back into the vacuum. Never refit a wet filter in front of the motor.
When Should I Replace My Shark Stratos Filters?
Cleaning can remove accumulated dust, but filters don't necessarily last forever. If yours have become damaged, heavily discoloured, misshapen or are no longer cleaning up properly, replacing them is a simple way of refreshing the filtration system.
We stock a replacement Shark Stratos filter kit for IZ400UK, IZ400UKT and IZ420UKT models here.
The kit contains replacement filters for these UK Shark Stratos models, making it useful if your existing filters have reached the point where cleaning alone isn't enough.
Shark Stratos Has No Suction? Check the Filters First
If your Shark Stratos suddenly has poor suction and you can't find an obvious blockage, remove the dust bin and inspect these filters before assuming there's a fault with the vacuum.
Because they're hidden behind the bin, it's very easy to own the machine for months without realising they're there. A filter that's completely covered in fine dust can dramatically restrict the airflow.
Keeping them clean is one of the simplest ways to maintain good suction – and if yours need replacing, you can find our Shark Stratos replacement filter kit here.