How to Service a Sebo Vacuum Cleaner
If you own a Sebo X Series upright vacuum – whether it’s an X1, X1.1, X4, X5, X7, X8 or one of the XP models – then you’ll be pleased to know that routine servicing is something you can do yourself. Unless there’s something seriously wrong with the machine, most maintenance can be carried out at home with a few basic parts and a bit of know-how.
In this article (with the video embedded below), we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to give your Sebo a proper DIY service.
Which Models This Guide Covers
This servicing guide applies to the full Sebo X Series range, including:
- Sebo X1
- Sebo X1.1
- Sebo X4 (all variants)
- Sebo X5 and X8
- Sebo XP1, XP2, XP3, XP10, XP20, XP30
- Sebo X7 (including Pet Boost, Extra and Excel models)
Although there are minor differences in filters and fittings between some models (notably the X7), most servicing steps are broadly the same.
The Essentials: Bags, Filters, and Service Kits
Sebo sell ready-made service boxes, which are ideal for basic maintenance. These usually include:
- 8 vacuum bags
- 1 tower (or “standard”) filter
- 1 exhaust filter
- 1 sealing strip
For the X1, X1.1 and X4, the correct service box is part number 5828ER. For the X7, search 51094ER on our site.
X4/7 Pet owners: Sebo doesn’t make a service box with a charcoal filter. If your machine has a charcoal filter, you buy the service parts individually. Bags are here, here or here. The charcoal tower filter is here, the X7/X8/XP exhaust filter is here and the X1-X4 exhaust filter is here.
Prefer to buy parts individually? We also stock:
- Genuine and compatible Sebo bags
- Standard and charcoal tower filters
- Exhaust filters for each model
- Standalone sealing strips
Tip: The charcoal tower filter (part 5425ER) is ideal for homes with pets as it helps neutralise odours. If you’re after a standard replacement, look for part 5036ER.
Service a Sebo Vacuum: Brush Rolls – The Forgotten Hero
One of the most overlooked components during servicing is the brush roll. Yet, it’s one of the hardest-working parts of the vacuum and plays a key role in how the machine self-adjusts to floor height.
Even if your current brush roll looks clean or not visibly worn, it may still be affecting performance. If you don’t remember when you last changed it, it’s time. We stock:
- Genuine Sebo brush rolls
- High-quality aftermarket versions (not to be confused with the awful grey-ended ones sold on eBay)
- Optional green brush rolls for delicate flooring or wool loop carpets
If your brushroll has pale or white bristles, be sure to change it as those are as old as the hills now.
How to Replace Filters and Fit the Sealing Strip
Replacing your filters is straightforward:
- Tower filter: Slides in on a track inside the bag chamber. A metal clip secures it.
- Exhaust filter:
– X1/X4: Sits behind the front cover and simply clips in.
– X7/X8/XP: Located at the back – press two clips, slide the filter out, and replace.
The sealing strip, found behind the brush roll on the baseplate, is often overlooked but essential. It stops debris from flicking out behind the machine, particularly on hard floors. You’ll need to:
- Remove the old strip (pliers or a knife can help if it’s gummed up).
- Clean the channel thoroughly.
- Slide in the new strip and trim to length if needed (Sebo supplies a longer one in service boxes for wider models).
If the baseplate or front chrome strip is worn or damaged, we also sell replacements for those – ensure you order the correct version for your specific model.
Don’t Forget the Tools
To change the front strip or baseplate, you’ll need a T20 Torx screwdriver (a star-headed driver). If you don’t have one, we stock those too.
What About Air Fresheners?
A lot of people like to add a fresh scent to their vacuum. We stock both genuine Sebo air fresheners and aftermarket versions, but avoid putting them inside the bag – they’ll be buried in dust in no time.
Instead, place the capsule loose in the bag compartment. The airflow will pick up the scent and circulate it. Note: If your machine has a charcoal filter (like the Pet models), don’t bother with air fresheners – the charcoal will absorb the scent as well as pet odours.
Warranty Note
If your Sebo is still under its 5-year domestic warranty, bear in mind that fitting non-genuine bags or filters can invalidate the warranty. We’ve never seen Sebo enforce this, but it’s worth noting. As always, genuine Sebo parts are often the best in terms of fit and quality – and made in Germany. However, our own aftermarket parts are also of excellent quality, being selected by us.
Can You Use Paper Bags?
Yes – while all domestic machines come with microfibre bags as standard, Sebo also make paper bags (usually for the commercial XP range). Some customers prefer them for environmental reasons, and they fit all the X series the same way.
Service a Sebo Vacuum: Video Guide
Here’s the full video if you’d prefer to watch rather than read. Everything above is covered in detail:
Need Parts?
We stock everything you’ll need – from service boxes and filters to brush rolls and tools. Click the orange button below to shop for service items online.
If your issue goes beyond DIY servicing, we also offer a nationwide Sebo repair service, and you may only need to send us the base and handle.
Service a Sebo Vacuum
Servicing your Sebo at home is easy with the right parts and a little guidance. Replace the bags regularly, replace your filters as needed, don’t ignore the brush roll, and take a moment to check the baseplate and strips.
Look after your Sebo and it’ll last for years.
The Sebo Shop at Manchester Vacs are approved Sebo dealers offering the full range of domestic and commercial Sebo vacuums together with consumables and spare parts.
