The AeroSpin MC-UL675 is one of just two upright vacuums remaining in Panasonic's mass merchant line. With all of the company's other uprights now sold only by independent vacuum dealers, this cleaner is the top-of-the-line model that you will find in big-box stores such as Best Buy and Fry's, and online at mega-merchant Amazon.

The Panasonic MC-UL675 relies on a new twist for keeping the vacuum from getting clogged: As the power cord is pulled out of the unit to be put into use, the filter turns. This turning loosens the dust and debris that tends to gather in the filter, thus preventing it from blocking the airflow and potentially clogging the machine. This was a design flaw we noted on previous Panasonic bagless models, but this new solution appears to work. What remains to be seen is if this method will continue to keep the vacuum unclogged after it is used for a long period of time.

We like that the MC-UL675 offers a floor/carpet switch and has a large dust cup that will hold what is vacuumed. The machine moves easily from floor to carpet and features a flexible head that adjusts up or down with the depth of the pile. When it's time to empty, the anti-static dust cup resists holding fibers and pet hair.

The motor protection system is yet another feature that for us is a must. If the machine should clog or overheat, this feature shuts down the vacuum without burning out the motor. When you invest this amount of money in a machine, you will want to protect it from the almost certain destruction a burnout would cause.

Equipped with an unusual dirt sensor, this Panasonic model has a light indicator that lets you know the suction is working. If dirt is not being picked up, the red light comes on to let you know that there's no airflow and that you have a potential clog.

Weighing in at a moderate 24 pounds, the AeroSpin MC-UL675 falls in the middle of the pack for heaviness. Three types of filtration are used, including the often-touted HEPA type. At some point, each of these filters will require replacement, depending on the frequency of the vacuum's use. Like some of the earlier Panasonic models, the AeroSpin offers a telescopic handle. We enjoyed the comfort of adjusting the handle to just the right individual height, which is especially good for long bouts of vacuuming.

A fair price for a vacuum with these features, Panasonic's AeroSpin MC-675 is fairly typical of uprights in this price range and includes a floor/carpet switch and an unusual filter cleaning method.


Pros: Motor protection feature, telescopic handle
Cons: Remains to be seen if this new method controls clogging for the long term

Warranty
1 year