How to Clean a Hoover SmartWash Carpet Cleaner
A Hoover SmartWash carpet cleaner retains dirty water in its recovery tank and clean solution around removable tanks, nozzle, brushes and hose paths. Hoover's FH52000 and FH53000 manuals call for switching off and unplugging before service, emptying and rinsing the dirty-water tank, keeping its filter clean, and removing the nozzle and brushes for running-water cleaning. The brushes contain lifetime-lubricated bearings, so adding oil can cause damage. This guide covers SmartWash+ and SmartWash PET Complete models while noting that release tabs and accessory tools can differ. Every washed part must air-dry, and solution should not remain in the machine during storage.
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Primary reference: Hoover official SmartWash FH52000 and FH53000 owner manuals. Always check the manual for your exact model.
Quick reference
- Power
- Turn off and unplug before removing tanks, nozzle, brushes, hose or tools.
- Tanks
- Empty, rinse and air-dry; keep the recovery filter and float area clear.
- Nozzle
- Remove forward, rinse under running water and reinstall only when dry.
- Brushes
- Remove Side A first, rinse, align Side B to the gear and snap Tab A down.
- Avoid
- Stored solution, added lubricant, sharp hose tools, damp assembly and freezing.
What you will need
- The Hoover manual for model FH52000 or FH53000
- A utility sink
- Clean running water
- A soft nonabrasive cloth
- A soft brush for removable tank debris
- A towel to catch post-use drips
- A ventilated drying rack
- Gloves for handling dirty recovery water
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Finish with extraction and move to a safe surface
Use Dry Only mode until little water is visibly passing through the nozzle when the model provides it. Turn the cleaner off, unplug by the plug and move it from carpet to a hard water-safe surface covered with a towel. Hoover notes that brushes can drip after use, so do not leave the machine on wood or laminate.
Step 2: Remove and empty all tanks
Lift off the clean-water and solution tanks, then pull the dirty-water tank from the base at the angle shown in the manual. Empty unused solution according to its label rather than storing it in the unit. Place the recovery tank on a flat surface, unlatch its lid and pour dirty water into an appropriate drain.
Step 3: Rinse the dirty-water tank and lid
Rinse the tank, removable lid and accessible float area with clean water. Remove hair and lint from the filter because Hoover says a clean filter is critical for suction. Do not bend the float or lose its seal. Shake out water and place the pieces open on a rack to air-dry rather than closing a damp recovery tank.
Step 4: Rinse and dry the clean-water tanks
Empty the clean-water and solution reservoirs and rinse them with plain water if the manual permits. Clean cap threads and inspect gaskets without stretching them. Leave caps off while the tanks air-dry. Do not use bleach, dishwasher heat or a brush that scratches clear plastic and obscures fill lines.
Step 5: Remove the nozzle in the correct direction
Keep the handle upright and all three tanks removed to prevent leakage. Lift the nozzle release and pull the nozzle carefully forward—not upward—as Hoover directs. Rinse debris from the detached nozzle under running water, clearing the transparent channel with fingers or a soft cloth. Do not probe it with a sharp object.
Step 6: Remove and rinse both brushes
After the nozzle is off, grasp Side A of the first brush and pull upward, then repeat for the second. Remove hair, carpet fibers and residue and rinse the brushes under running water. Do not soak the machine base. Hoover says the motor and brush-roll bearings are lifetime lubricated; adding oil or other lubricant can damage them.
Step 7: Clean the hose and accessory tool
For PET Complete accessories, disconnect the hose and tool according to the FH53000 manual. Rinse only the removable non-electrical tool sections approved for water and clear hair from the suction opening. Never use a knife or wire to clear a hose. Drain the hose with both ends positioned for air movement before storage.
Step 8: Dry and reinstall in the documented order
Allow tanks, lids, filter, nozzle, brushes, hose and tools to air-dry completely. Install each brush by aligning Side B with the drive gear and pressing Tab A until it snaps, then align and snap the dry nozzle into the foot. Seat the recovery-tank lid securely because a misplaced lid causes poor or no suction.
Step 9: Store empty, dry and above freezing
Return completely dry empty tanks to the machine or leave caps ventilated as the manual permits. Coil the cord loosely and store the SmartWash upright indoors in a dry place. Hoover says not to store the extractor with solution in its tanks or expose it to freezing temperatures. A brief dry inspection before the next use should confirm every latch.
Specific cleaning questions
Open a question for a concise answer about stains, odors, safety, frequency, and troubleshooting.