On Wednesday, 14 December 2016 21:36:28 UTC, Murmansk wrote:
My Numatic Charles wet and dry vac, which hasn't had much use, suddenly stopped working today and gave off a burning smell. Now when I operate the switch it'll run for about a quarter of a second.

I've ordered another, one but I wondered what might have caused it - I though they lasted for years, must be unlucky.

It might only need new carbon brushes.