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 Canister Vacuum Buying Guide

Canister Vacuum Buying Guide



The Basics: Canister Vacuums

A canister vacuum cleaner is a lightweight, easily portable alternative to an upright vacuum. The majority of canister vacuums have a rolling tank connected by a flexible hose to a wide nozzle. Many canister vacuums also have a tool caddy attached to the canister body, as well as rotating bristles in the nozzle. Canister vacuums may be used on carpeted surfaces, including areas that can be difficult to reach with an upright vacuum, such as stairs.

Canister vacuums are a versatile option for those who need to clean multiple surfaces, ranging from carpets to tile to hardwood floors. Thanks to an option to turn off the rotating brushes on the main nozzle, many canister vacuums are safe to use on bare floors. Canister vacuums with adjustable suction are ideal for the cleaning fabrics and rugs.

Canisters are typically easier to push than upright models, but may be more difficult to store if the flexible hose does not nest on the canister body. Hoses that swivel at the base are the best option for ease of use and maneuverability.

Most canister vacuums have some type of filtration system, onboard attachments and retractable power cords. Most feature collection bags, but a few bagless varieties are available. Although a greater variety of upright vacuums are typically found on store shelves, canister vacuums are slowly gaining in market share and popularity, and have always maintained a loyal following of tried-and-true canister users.

Canister vacuums range in price from $60 to more than $1,000. Most canister vacuums have a 1-year warranty that covers parts and labor. Some brands offer a 3- to 5-year warranty. Nearly all brands offer an extended warranty for an additional cost.

How to Shop

When you shop for a canister vacuum, look for needs-based features, such as versatile tools if you have a lot of furniture, molding and drapes to clean; longer cords and hoses if you have a large space; and lighter-weight machines if you need to transport the unit between floors. If possible, take a vacuum for a test drive and make sure the attachments are easy to use, the collection canister is easy to empty, and the unit is easy to maneuver.

If the occupants of your home are allergy prone, consider a HEPA (high efficiency particular air) system. A HEPA system is a sealed filtration system that retains up to 99 percent of the dirt, dust, pollens and mites encountered during vacuuming.

Carefully examine the brush roll located on the main nozzle. Some units have independent motors that let the brush roll dig deeper into thick-pile carpet. Others have turbo- or suction-driven brush tools, which have less strength but might still be adequate for your needs. A few models now come with "pet" tools, which are essentially hand tools with rotating, agitating brushes marketed to tackle problem pet hair.

Don't be fooled by gimmicky features. Even though a vacuum may have a pet hair system or the newest HEPA filtration system, that doesn't mean it is a perfect performer. For example, a vacuum's ability to pick up all the dust, dirt and pollen possible depends just as much on the design of the vacuum as on its filter system. The same applies for dirt sensors. Some canister vacuums have a light-up "dirt sensor." However, this sensor only indicates when the vacuum has stopped picking up dirt, not necessarily whether there is still dirt left in the rug.




Glossary

Amps
The amount of electrical current used by the unit's motor, not a measurement of suction power.


Cyclonic Action
A cyclonic action suction system funnels dirt into two channels and pulls it away from the agitator to keep it from being redeposited into the carpet. Cyclonic action vacuum cleaners are bagless.


Dirt Sensor
An indicator system, typically using red and green lights, that alerts users when dirt is being picked up by the vacuum. A dirt sensor does not indicate the actual cleanliness of a surface, only whether the vacuum is still picking up debris.


HEPA or High Efficiency Particulate Air
A filtration system that keeps 99.97 percent of dust and common household allergens as small as 0.3 microns in size from being redeposited into the air. Filters must be changed regularly to remain useful. HEPA-like and HEPA-type systems also trap allergens, but may not be as efficient as True HEPA systems.


Motor Protection/Bypass System
Dirt is pulled directly into the vacuum's collection bag, bypassing the motor, and hence, extending the life of the appliance.


Onboard Tools
Most full-size upright and canister vacuums on the market today come with a variety of attachments, or tools, for cleaning surfaces above the floor. When tools are stored in compartments on the vacuum, they are said to be onboard.


Suction Control
Many canisters feature suction control, or the ability to decrease suction power when vacuuming delicate items such as rugs, drapery, or blinds--preventing them from being pulled into the agitator or hose and possibly damaged.




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