Bissell Bagless Vacuum Cleaner

[Jeff68]

Hi to all and I hope this post belongs in this section. My Bissel 3596 is passing dirt around the outside of the upper filter basket and filter instead of through the inside or center of the upper tank and down to the removable filter basket as it should. It gathers there in large amounts until the unit loses suction. Any suggestions on how to repair or clean this cleaner are much appreciated!