Bissell Steam Mop Trigger Not Working? – Complete Fix Guide

Is your Bissell Steam Mop trigger not working? That can work for many reasons, and it will prevent you from cleaning the house as you normally would. Fortunately, we know how you can fix it.

If the trigger on your Bissell Steam Mop is not working, you might want to descale the device or find out if there is a leak from the water tank.

Additionally, you might need to check if there is a clog in the water components, as well as the nozzle and vents, or if the trigger mechanism is simply defective.

Fixing the Bissell Steam Mop trigger will require you to work a bit. Each solution might take at least a few minutes, but it will be worth the time invested. Below we will detail what you need to do.

Bissell Steam Mop Trigger Not Working – Reasons

Cleaning tools you use to help keep the house comfortable can be very useful at times, but they will present issues occasionally.

That is the case with the Bissell Steam Mop. You are left wondering why the trigger is not working on the Bissell Steam Mop.

Let’s see some potential causes for that:

✅ Low Water Level

The steam mop may have a built-in safety feature that prevents the trigger from working when the water level is too low.

Ensure there is enough water in the tank, as indicated by the water level indicator.

✅ Clogged Nozzle or Steam Vents

Over time, mineral deposits or debris can accumulate and block the nozzle or steam vents, preventing steam from being released. That can affect the trigger’s functionality. 

✅ Blockage in the Water Supply System

If there is a blockage in the water supply system, it can affect the trigger’s ability to release steam.

Check for any clogs or obstructions in the tubes or valves and clean them if necessary.

✅ Faulty Trigger Mechanism

There may be a problem with the trigger mechanism itself. That might require a manual repair or replacement.

How To Fix Bissell Steam Mop Trigger Not Working 

Now that you know the possible causes behind the trigger malfunctioning, you must be eager to learn how to fix it.

We will go from solution to solution, and you must check them to see which fits your situation.

1. Descale The Device

Here we will deal with one great recommendation that has been tested and proven by many owners of the Bissell Steam Mop.

Sometimes its trigger will get stuck, and the quickest way of releasing it is to free the valve. Doing that requires descaling the unit.

Let’s do it:

1. Remember to unplug the steam mop before starting;
2. Fill the device with vinegar and water (if possible, use filtered or distilled water);
3. Screw the cap back on;
4. Place the unit in a sink upside down;
5. Wait for the vinegar and water to reach the valve;
6. Wait some minutes, then press down the trigger repeatedly.

Initially, the trigger is stuck, but as the mixture reaches the valve, the descaling process should make the trigger work. As you can see, this solution is a chemical one. 

2. Adjust The Water Tank

Some issues that cause the trigger not to work on your Steam Mop are related to the water supply/tank.

For one, the low water level doesn’t allow the trigger to work as a safety measure.

On the other hand, there might be a blockage in the water supply/water path.

Let’s see some initial measures you can take:

1. Check if the water tank is leaking;
2. If it is leaking, you must verify if the leaked water has damaged any other component;
3. Determine how the leak is occurring;
4. If the tank itself is the cause, replace it;
5. If the tank is fine, check if it can fit well into the mop;
6. There could be debris preventing it from fitting well, so clean the mop.

Find If There Is Blockage

If the water tank is not leaking and its connection is not the problem, it is time to check if there is some sort of blockage in another part involving the tank.

1. Disconnect the steam mop
2. Remove the water tank from the steam mop;
3. Empty any remaining water.
4. Check the water tank for any visible debris or blockages;
5. Rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove any potential obstructions;
6. Inspect the tubes and valves for any signs of blockage (mineral deposits or debris);
7. Use a soft brush or pipe cleaner to gently remove the debris;
8. Ensure that you clear any obstructions and restore the flow of water.

Next, it is time to flush the system:

1. Fill the water tank with clean water and reattach it to the steam mop;
2. Activate the trigger or steam release mechanism and observe if water flows freely through the system;
3. If the blockage has been successfully cleared, water should flow without any issues.

Note:The cleaning steps might be repeated if necessary.

3. Clean The Nozzle Or Vents

Since the Bissell Steam Mop deals with a lot of debris and water, mineral build-ups can happen more frequently than you’d think.

Those can compromise the trigger’s ability to work. Some of that build-up can be located in the nozzle or vents.

Here is how to clean safely:

1. Unplug the steam mop from the power source for safety;
2. Remove the water tank and empty any remaining water;
3. Locate the nozzle and steam vents on the steam mop;
4. Grab a small brush or a pin;
5. Carefully remove any debris or mineral deposits from the nozzle and steam vents;
6. If the blockage persists, soak a cloth or cotton swab in white vinegar;
7. Gently rub the vinegar-soaked cloth or swab against the clogged areas to dissolve the deposits;
8. Wipe away any loosened debris with a clean cloth;
9. Rinse the nozzle and steam vents with clean water to remove any remaining vinegar residue;

After the above, you can reattach the water tank and ensure it is securely in place. Then plug the mop into the power again and check if all is working as intended.

4. Examine The Trigger Mechanism

Suppose you have already tried all of the suggested solutions, but none has worked. In that case, it is time to examine the trigger mechanism.

In this situation, you might need to manually repair or replace some components.

But first, let’s check if the mechanism is truly at fault:

• Check for obstructions or debris blocking the trigger mechanism;
• Press the trigger and observe if there is any resistance or movement. If the trigger feels loose, unresponsive, or doesn’t spring back into position, it could indicate an issue with the trigger mechanism;
• Visually examine the trigger mechanism for any signs of damage, such as cracks, breaks, or loose parts.

Clean And Lubricate The Mechanism

Suppose you are positive that the issue lies in the trigger mechanism. In that case, the first option is to disassemble it and see if maintenance does the trick.

1. Disassemble the trigger mechanism;
2. Clean all the components;
3. Apply a silicone lubricant to ensure smooth movement.

That may resolve any sticking or friction-related issues.

Replace Damaged Parts

If cleaning and lubricating don’t solve the issue, you must disassemble the trigger mechanism again.

Then do this:

1. Inspect carefully and check if any parts are damaged or broken;
2. If you find damaged parts, remove them;
3. Buy replacements.

Tip: Replacements can usually be found at the Bissell site. If your Mop is still under warranty, then contact support. If not, you must simply order what you need.

What We Learned

When the Bissell Steam Mop trigger is not working, you will need to inspect the device very closely and look for signs of clog, debris, cracks, and damage.

Sometimes the issue stems from water-related parts, and those will be easy to fix. Anyway, we hope that this guide has helped you fix your Mop!

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