Can you wash canister and vortex assembly in Dyson DC17

Hi Ashley,

I have the DC17 Animal and my assumption would be that you could clean your canister the same way as you could clean an upright.

I've found Dyson's site pretty useful (for this specific question it may be outside their scope but maybe worth a try) http://www.dyson.com/support.aspx

I hope that's at least somewhat helpful.

Boulder Epoxy Garage Floors

Hi there,

Sorry to hear you're having difficulties with your Dyson cleaner. If your machine smells, it may be because the filters weren't completely dry when you replaced them after washing them. There are a few steps you can take to remedy this:

• Re-wash both filters, following the steps shown in the video embedded below, and make sure they're totally dry before replacing them. It may help to leave them under a radiator for at least 24 hours.
  
• Remove the clear bin and cyclone assembly from the cleaner, and separate the two parts.
  
• Wash the clear bin, and try tapping the cyclone assembly gently to dislodge any damp dust which might be caught up inside. Do not wash the cyclone assembly, and make sure the clear bin is totally dry before reassembling both parts and replacing on the cleaner.

Here is a copy of the cleaner's user guide, in case you don't have yours to hand:

http://media.dyson.com/downloads/us/floorcare/manuals/dc25_opmanual_usa.pdf

Following these steps should help you resolve your issue. However, if you try this and are still concerned about your cleaner, or if you have any difficulties carrying out these steps, it's probably best if you get in touch with us directly. One of our experts will be happy to provide further assistance - you can call us free on 08002980298 (UK), or 1866MYDYSON (US).

Kind regards,

Jack
Dyson Customer Service

Try buying "Citronella" from an essential oils dealer (maybe eBay?) Apply 6-12 drops on the paper filter element...you'll LOVE the smell.
P.S.
Haven't you asked this question before?

The Cyclone Cylinder needs to be cleaned with hot water poured over the cyclinder and into the cylinder until the water is clear. Afterwards, shake the cylinder several times to get the excess water out. Then let the cylinder dry out for at least two days along with the filter. When my DC17 began to smell like a dirty dog, I discovered that the cylinder had a ton of hair inside it. It took quite awhile to get all of it out. Be patient. Now I know to clean my Dyson every month; otherwise, it will emit a doggy odor.

You cannot clean out the ports in the turbo. I tried and tried! Broke down and took it in. Needed a whole new vortex/canister assembly. There was a known warranty issue about the gasket at the bottom of the canister causing issues with clogs in the turbo/vortex area. Of course mine was out of warranty; also got a new HEPA filter; about $100. This is where I took it and they were very knowledgable about Dyson's.

http://www.aaavacs.com/

is it a burning smell

I had this problem along with a clogged filter. I used the solution for clogged filter here on Fixya and the dog smell went away too. It has to do with the flange on the cylinder getting pushed up out of position. Give it a try. 

I have the same problem with my Dyson dc17...there is dog x2 hair collecting in the 'cylinders' just underneath the purple cap on top of the cyclone/canister. And i can see twisted 'braids' of hair coming out of each pea-size hole. I called Dyson's Support number and after they asked a few questions about the round filter (tell them you clean it every month or so), the representative told me that you should not see anything collecting on top of your filter located at the base of the canister (mine was covered with dog hair, etc.). They told me that nothing larger than minute dust particles should be there...which eventually travel into the purple cap. They said the cyclone canister has since been redesigned to correct the faulty rubber seals, etc., and they are going to send me a whole new cyclone/canister within a week or so. so call Dyson directly before you try to get inside "the purple chamber"...I know I could not figure it out! 

yes clean with a jet wash

Hi.

Yes you can use lots of soapy water & pressure washer or hose to clean the vortex unit but remember it will take at least 36 hrs to dry out internally.