Clean your air while you clean your rug. That's the whole premise of Electrolux's Oxygen vacuum EL6988A. While this concept may seem original, it's really a catchy marketing tool to sell a high-end canister vacuum with just another HEPA filtration system.

Is this model as good as many other machines with HEPA? Absolutely! The truth is most machines in this price range do a similar job of filtering dust particles from the air. The differences lie in the quality of the parts used in the machines, the comfort of using the unit and the ease and efficiency of maneuvering from carpet to floor to tools.

Like many other HEPA models, this machine captures about 97.97% of particles in the air. It offers a powerhead with a separate motor for cleaning deep pile carpeting. To move to bare floors, you simply flip a fingertip control and switch off the brush roll. The same goes for switching to tools for above-the-floor cleaning, such as under sofa cushions and along the woodwork.

Equipped with just one speed, this unit could pose some problems if you intend to use it for dusting lightweight, delicate items, such as sheer curtains. Otherwise easy to use, this model has large wheels and a 7-foot hose that rotates a full 360 degrees so it follows the user easily about the house without tipping.

Three various height adjustments make it possible to clean all different depths of pile effectively. This model requires a bag and uses a fairly common S-type replacement.

All the tools store conveniently onboard so they're there when you need them. We especially liked the motor-overload switch that turns this vacuum off if the bag is overfull. This simple feature can save many a vacuum from an untimely death.

Available at Sears and other retailers, the Electrolux Oxygen Canister vacuum EL6988A is an excellent performer with lots of beneficial features.

Pros: HEPA filter, on-off brushroll, fingertip controls for all functions, ride-along tools
Cons: offers only one speed, requires replacement bags and an occasional belt for the brushroll

Warranty
2 years