Abstract: A vacuum motor bearing protection system includes a barrier wall interposed between a motor assembly and a fan assembly. A shaft interconnecting the assemblies is rotatably received within a bearing received by the barrier wall. In order to prevent moisture and debris from attacking the bearing, apertures are position in the top plate of the fan assembly nearest the bearing and in juxtaposition thereto for drawing air away from the bearing and into the fan eye. Accordingly, this scavenging action draws any moisture or debris from the area of the bearing. To assist in the pumping action, the barrier wall, fan top plate, or a spacer interposed therebetween may be provided with vanes positioned and configured to direct moisture laden air to the apertures in the fan top plate and into the fan eye.