How to use a Dyson V15 Detect

Putting it together

The V15 arrives in parts: the main body with the battery, the wand, one or more floor heads, tools and the wall dock with charger.

1. 1

   Charge the vacuum fully before the first use.

2. 2

   Push the wand into the main body until it clicks.

3. 3

   Push the chosen floor head onto the end of the wand until it clicks.

4. 4

   To remove any part, press the red release button and pull it apart.

Starting and changing modes

The original V15 Detect uses a trigger: pull and hold it to run, let go to stop. Some newer editions use a power button instead. Check which yours has.

Press the mode button above the screen to cycle through the power modes. Eco gives the longest runtime, the middle mode adjusts power to the floor (shown as Auto with heads that support it, otherwise as Med), and Boost gives maximum suction for stubborn spots. Our V15 power modes explainer covers each one.

What the screen shows

The LCD screen shows the selected mode and the remaining runtime in minutes. On the V15 Detect it also shows particle counts by size, from the piezo sensor. Use this to spot which rooms are dirtiest, or ignore it if you prefer.

The screen also shows maintenance alerts, such as a blockage or a filter reminder. If you see one, switch off and follow the on-screen prompt or the manual.

Which head for which floor

Editions with the Fluffy Optic head use it on hard floors. Its laser lights up fine dust and hair, so you can see what you have missed. The High Torque or Digital Motorbar head suits carpets and rugs, with combs that help stop hair wrapping.

Swap heads by floor type, or use the motorised head throughout if you have mostly carpet. Our Dyson heads explainer and Detect features explainer go into more detail.

Which tool for each job

Remove the wand to use the V15 as a handheld, and fit a tool directly to the main body or to the end of the wand for high places.

After each clean

Empty the bin over the bin by pointing it down and pushing the red release. Check the head for hair and the wand for blockages. Hang the vacuum on the dock to charge.

Wash the filter about once a month in cold water and let it dry fully, at least 24 hours, before refitting. Our Dyson emptying guide and Dyson filter guide cover each step.

Compare Dyson cordless models →

Tips for better results

Move the head slowly on carpet so the brush bar has time to work, and use overlapping strokes. On hard floors, the laser shows dust best when you keep the head moving forward in a steady line.

Use Eco for most cleaning to save battery, and Boost only where you need it. If runtime is short, check our runtime explainer and the runtime planner.

Frequently asked questions

How do I turn on a Dyson V15? Pull and hold the trigger on trigger models, or press the power button on button models.

How do I change modes on the V15? Press the mode button above the screen to cycle through Eco, Auto or Med, and Boost.

Which V15 head is for carpet? The High Torque or Digital Motorbar head. The laser head is for hard floors.

What does the hair screw tool do? It has a conical brush bar that spirals hair off and into the bin, for upholstery and pet beds.