Vacuum Cleaner Buying Tips

There are many brands and models of solidly build vacuums which will last you several years without any maintenance problems, but the type or model you choose will greatly depend on your specific floor care needs and tastes. Below are a few tips that will outline the important features to look for when purchasing a vacuum cleaner. 

Types of Vacuums

For residential use, upright and canister vacuums are usually the most popular vacuum options, but for specific areas such as furniture or hardwood floors, a cordless or stick vacuum may be able to do the job more efficiently. Here are a few types of residential vacuums, but for a more complete list of vacuum types, Click Here.

Upright & Canister - Upright vacuums are ideal for cleaning large, carpeted surfaces, and are usually more efficient than their canister counterparts. However, canister vacuums may be more versatile, as they can clean many hard-to-reach spots such as stairs and furniture and offer greater mobility.

Handheld Vacuums - These vacuums are usually either battery or electrical powered and used for cleaning up specific spots that may be difficult to reach with a tradition vacuum, such as a chair or even an automobile.

Stick Vacuums - These vacuums look very much like upright vacuums, but offer less power than both upright and canister vacuums. They are convenient, ideal for smaller areas such as rooms and apartments, and are relatively inexpensive.

On the other hand, for industrial or commercial applications, drum vacuums and back pack vacuums seem to be very common.

Drum Vacuums - These sit on top of an industrial drum and use it as the waste or recovery container of the vacuum.

Back-Pack Vacuums - These essentially work like canister vacuums and allow for rapid cleaning of large areas. There are straps that help carry the vacuum's canister on the user's back.

Different Vacuum Features to Consider

1. Motor Power - This is usually measured in amps and determines the amount of current used by a vacuum's motor. While this measurement is important, higher amps do not necessarily equate greater cleaning power. Instead, airflow is a greater indicator of a vacuum's effectiveness.
2. Air Flow - Without airflow, there is no way for a vacuum to pull dirt and carry it away. This is usually measured in cubic feet per minute, or CFM.
3. Suction - This demonstrates the pulling power of a vacuum's motor, and strong suction power is especially needed when a vacuum is used on thick, plus carpeting.
4. Construction - Vacuums can be made of either plastic or metal, but as a rule, metal vacuum cleaners are generally more durable.
5. Dust Collection - There are bagged vacuums (usually composed of thick paper) or bagless models which use cyclonic technology and a plastic container to catch dust and dirt. Both systems are effective, and your choice will usually be based on personal preference. Click Here for more information on the differences between these two styles.
6. Cord Length - Be sure that the cord of the model you choose is long enough for you to effectively clean an area of your home without having to change outlets.
7. Filtration System - Bagged vacuums do not usually utilize filtration systems, but bagless varieties can often boast sophisticated filtration systems which can filter out pollen and dust particles up to a certain micron size. Vacuums with filtration systems are generally a bit more expensive, but they can be extremely helpful for those who suffer from allergies or asthma.
8. Comfort - Test out a vacuum before making a purchase, and see how it handles and whether it is comfortable enough to use.
9. Noise Levels - If noise is an important factor, be sure to choose a model that keeps noise considerations in mind. Some manufacturers have designed vacuums with insulated materials around the motors as a way to decrease noise, and central vacuums also tend to produce much less noise than conventional vacuums.
10. Additional Tools - Detachable hoses, extensions, and upholstery brushes are just some examples of tools that can be included with a vacuum. Decide which accessories you will need to clean and make sure it is included with the model you choose.