I found out that I could disassemble my vacuum's dirt container further so I can clear it out easier. The container has a big plastic tube that runs through it and I've been squeezing my hand around it to grab clumps of pet hair that get stuck. The other day while I was trying to clear the container, the plastic tube fell out. Turns out I just needed to twist and pull the tube. I've had this vacuum for 8 years.