When shopping for a vacuum cleaner, we suggest that you go to a vacuum cleaner specialty store. Be sure they can do warranty work. Try to stay away from stores that sell only a few brands. They will only recommend the brand they sell. Here are some good things you should consider before looking for a vacuum.
Questions click on the question in which you are interested.
The size or square feet of your home?
The larger your house, the better vacuum you should invest in. You may want to have two vacuums like for stairs, hard floors, or up stairs. We will recommend a vacuum that fits your total needs and keep your house clean and get the longest life possible out of your carpet.
Do you have stairs?
Stairs are not easy to clean. A canister will always be able to clean them well. If you like an upright, tools on board with some extension hose is best. For example the Panasonic, Sharp, Sanyo, and Simplicity have an optional deluxe tool set available that comes with 2 wands and a 12ft. hose which is great for stairs. Make sure that all other models have good hose reach especially if there are tools onboard.
This is usually preference. Both can work well. Most people prefer uprights. There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of cleaners.
Upright Advantage:You have one piece and it is always in front of you, only the cord is behind you. Most uprights have tools on board or tools attachable. Some uprights like Sharp, Sanyo,
and Panasonic have by-pass motors. Rocks, coins, bolts and any hard object can not get into the motor fan system. This type always has more suction than vacuums where everything goes through the fan system. You won't have broken fans with this type of vacuum. By-pass motored units typically have more supplemental filters for cleaner exhausted air. This means cleaner air in your room.
Upright Disadvantage:Uprights do not have a low profile, about 5 ½ inches, and will not get under some items.
Canister Advantage:The power nozzle is very low profile and gets under things such as beds, sofas, base boards, etc. Usually it is easy to push.
Canister Disadvantage: You have to maneuver 2 pieces. The canister behind you and hose and power in front of you. This can be difficult in a tight place.
Your ratio of carpet verses hard floors (hardwood, vinyl, tile, etc.) or do you want one that cleans both?
Some vacuums have a rug-floor selector. This is usually a premium. Add $40 to $60 to the cost of the vacuum. This feature will allow you to clean both rugs and hard surfaces with the same vacuum. Electric brooms are effective on hard floors. If you choose a canister they usually have a soft floor brush to do hard floors.
Are allergies a problem?
Some vacuums have high filtration, others try to lead you to believe they do. With a built-in (sometimes referred to as a Central Vac) the air is exhausted outside where it came from. The system is 100% effective. From the best and on down, the name of the game is:
1. Central vacs takes the air out of the house. --- Eureka Boss 1820 built-in
or Central Vac's twin-motor Direct Connect System
2. Water traps it all ---Rainbow, Thermax
3. HEPA, HEPA,HEPA filters without water, traps harmful particles!
Nilfisk - Allergy Vac with an unsurpassed ULPA filter system
