Chosen Solution
It is impossible to find any information on this vacuum on the internet! I see that this Kenmore model (115.78423210) has been discontinued, but I need to clean the pleated filter since I cannot find any replacement parts on this discontinued vacuum. I am wondering if the part with the pleated filter can be soaked in a cleaning solution, or not (something like white vinegar). I also lost the foam filter (black on one side, white on the other) which goes next to the pleated yellow filter. I am unsure if the pleated filter is a HEPA filter or not, since there is no online manual for this particular model. Having lost the foam black and white filter, the pleated filter is getting everything stuck between the pleats. Taking a toothbrush to the filter and brushing the debris out is no longer effective. Any advice on whether I can soak the pleated filter?…or suggestions for another efficient way to clean it out? Also any suggestions as to if there is a foam filter that I can buy which is compatible with this vacuum? (I measured the plastic casing of the pleated filter to see what size foam filter it would need and I measured about 4.25" x 4.25") Thanks in advance!
Hi Morgan, Well, I put my not inconsiderable internet shopping skills to work on your filters, but I’m sorry to say that I didn’t have any more luck than you did. So here’s what I did find. The only place I found that even lists your filters is a Sears Hometown site. Kenmore 83003-1/2 83004 Canister Filter Pack model The bad news is they list that part as out of stock for the few zip codes I tried; not knowing yours I couldn’t check it, but I’m skeptical that they’re available anywhere. However, they do have a picture that you might be able to use as a pattern to cut another foam filter sheet.
Speaking of which, you mentioned that the foam filter is about 4-1/4" x 4-1/4", and I ran across some foam filters that are listed as 5" x 5" that should work with the help of a pair of scissors. UltraCare Replacement CF-1 Kenmore Canister Vacuum Motor Filter 81002 - Kitchen Scales As far as the pleated filter, the only thing I’ve ever done with them is to use a brush attachment on another vacuum and use that to vacuum out the pleats; I’m not sure what would work best for actual cleaning, especially given that it’s almost certainly paper and won’t take much damage from liquids. As far as finding a substitute, that’s a little trickier. From what I can see of the picture, the filter element appears to sit in a plastic frame. If that frame can be disassembled, it might be possible to find a paper element roughly the same size and fit it into the frame. My best idea on that would be to take your filter to a vacuum cleaner store and see if they can help you find something close that you can use. Sorry I couldn’t be more help, but hopefully that will get you started and let you keep using your vacuum.
