Dustbuster -- Can I Use Universal Transformer at Nearest Voltage?

[Pete E]

The power supply transformer for my 2.5 year old Dustbuster has apparently failed. It's rated at 11V, 200mA from a 230V source. I say apparently because the vacuum unit still has a little in its battery but the charging light on its body fails to illuminate. I just ordered this universal power supply as I couldn't find a specific 11V transformer. The input adjustment seems automatic but there's a rotating dial for the output voltage.

Universal UK Plug AC/DC 110-240V Adapter .Input:100-240V 0.25A 50/60Hz, DC Output:3V/4.5V/5V/6V/7.5V/9V/12V.USB port:5V 2.1A.

Can I run it on 9V or 12V to recharge my Dustbuster?

Thank you.

I have measured the output of many 12V transformers, and you would be surprised at the real world variance...from just under 11V to just over 13V.

Personally, I would try to measure the output of both your old and new transformer and use that info to pick the best setting...If you can't do that, start at 9v and if that does not work, try it at 12V and see how things go...

 

[Trevor2522]

Thanks Pete E (and all others) ... that's what I was thinking. Any risk of fire at 12V? Doesn't the battery take the current it needs and no more?

Rating is : 30W 100-240V TO 3V,4.5V,5V,6V,7.5V,9V,12V 2A & 2000mA

 

[Strima]

Doesn't the battery take the current it needs and no more?

The battery may not have an inbuilt controller, this could be done through the charger.

If your just chucking on a 12v supply this could potentially overload the battery and start a fire.

I would always use a manufacturers charger for their batteries.

 

[Trevor2522]

I tried the universal adapter at both 9V & 12V but the charging light on the vac body din't illuminate. Therefore likely the battery pack failed. Cost to replace £52. Cost of Dustbuster in 2015: £38. Go figure.

 

[Trevor2522]

Original spare parts are so expensive, plus the hassle and risk of changing them, that it's viable to junk the whole thing and buy a new one. Not greatly impressed by Black & Decker ... better-rated ones available from Amazon. Very useful tool though.

 

[static zap]

There was a time when B & D spares were the way to go ,
(but Nicads are now getting to be old stock )
As No longer allowed in new production items