The Kenmore Canister Vacuum 27914 is easy to maneuver, loaded with extras and sports an eye-catching red exterior. If you're looking for a lightweight canister vacuum that is heavy on features, the Kenmore 27914 is a solid choice.

The vacuum weighs in at a hefty 27 pounds, but its three-wheel system makes it easy to move from room to room. The canister is connected to the main nozzle by an 8-foot hose that expands to a roomy 12 feet. A telescopic wand nests in the main nozzle's handle; this is a handy addition for cleaning hard-to-reach areas like ceilings. The main nozzle has an impressive 14-inch cleaning path, which is wider than some upright vacuums we've tested. The nozzle includes motorized rotating brushes. These brushes power dirt and debris from carpets and, particularly with high-pile carpets, leave carpet fibers looking refreshed and fluffed. The nozzle has a swiveling head, which is a feature we really like. The adjustable nature of the swiveling head makes it easier to clean under furniture and in tight spaces.

The Kenmore Canister Vacuum 27914 has four onboard tools: a crevice tool, floor brush, wand and Powermate Jr. cleaning nozzle. The motorized attachment works especially well on pet hair, picking it up where other attachments fail. The controls to adjust the vacuum's speed or convert it from bare floor to carpet are located on the main nozzle's handle. The location of the controls is a nice touch because it makes them easily accessible. This canister vacuum also has an indicator light that alerts the user when dirt remains in the carpets. Although we typically find an infrared dirt sensor to be more of a "gimmicky" feature, this one really does seem to work. We tested it on carpets in a variety of conditions -- from filthy to previously cleaned -- and the sensor seemed to detect dirt more often than not.

We like the Kenmore's cloth bag and HEPA filter system, as well as its retractable cord. At only 26 feet, the cord doesn't have the length we'd prefer, but it's adequate. The Kenmore 27914 has four height adjustments, but unfortunately, the adjustments must be made manually. Our only other complaint is that portions of the exterior plastic are not as sturdy as we expected -- especially for a vacuum that costs upwards of $500. Armed with only these minor irritations, we can't help but give the Kenmore Canister Vacuum 27914 a glowing review.


Pros: Lots of features, cleans bare floors, dirt sensor
Cons: Exterior plastic seems flimsy

Warranty
1 year