How To Choose A Vacuum Cleaner: Step By Step Guide

No one can imagine what modern life would be like without a vacuum cleaner; this product is on the list of priorities. However, being inside the stores, many people are surprised to find a vast number of models with different features and functions. In this article, we will talk about how to choose a vacuum cleaner that is right for us and what are the aspects that need more attention says mywetdryvac.

First we must decide what type of cleaning we need; the traditional dry or the wet/wet one. Floor coverings can also be cleaned when using the vacuum cleaner; this is called “washing”. Also, devices designed for dry cleaning are divided into many varieties. For example, they can collect the garbage in different ways (in a bag or a special container) and in addition, some models are equipped with water filters, called aquafilters.

Vacuum cleaners that dry clean

1. Models with dust bags.

Such devices are often found in stores. They are inexpensive and easy to use. Consumers especially like disposable paper bags, which can be removed and thrown away without sucking up dust in the process. Cloth bags can be used more than once, but this requires shaking them from time to time.

When buying a new vacuum cleaner, we usually get a cloth bag and several paper bags as well

When you run out of paper bags, you need to go out and buy new ones. Comfort pays. This not only means that we must spend a certain amount of money – even if it is small – but we must also spend time looking for these bags. Sometimes we may not even find the right size bags in the store.

However, it is possible to use a cloth bag that will serve us for years without needing any replacement. On the other hand, it is completely undesirable to inhale dust when shaking the bag, and it is even worse for those who are prone to allergies.

A vacuum cleaner with dust bags is powered by an electric motor, which turns on the fan. Because of this, a strange atmosphere is created in the chamber built into the body of this device. There, the dust enters through the brush of the vacuum cleaner and passes through the hose and suction tube to the entrance of the chamber. While inside, the air and the garbage go into the bag or dust collector, where all the garbage settles. The dirty air passes through the filter system, where the impurities are removed. The filtered air then exits from the outlet port into the room.

2. Models without bags.

Such vacuum cleaners are cyclone-type systems. These were first developed by Britain’s John Dyson. The essence of this system works as follows: the suctioned air, mixed with dust, enters a special conical-shaped container. There, masses of air move in a spiral shape, passing from the base to the apex of the cone. They rotate more and more strongly and the dust particles are pushed up to the walls of the cone as a result of the centrifugal force. When the air stops rotating, the dust particles fall to the bottom of the container.

Modern models of this type use the “double cyclone” principle, also invented by Dyson. For more solid dust particles, an external cyclone is used where the air moves in a spiral. Most of the dust remains on the separation plate, which is on the way to the inner cyclone. This is where the smaller dust particles are removed. Thanks to the transparent walls of this container, we can admire the process of how the dusty whirls are raised.

After finishing the exhalation, the container can be emptied by simply shaking out the garbage. It is recommended to rinse the container periodically.

Many people, when deciding how to choose a vacuum cleaner, opt for the cyclone models. Their advantage is that when the vacuum cleaner’s dust collector is at the top, the suction power does not decrease. This feature distinguishes them from devices equipped with dust bags, because when such a bag is full, the suction power of the device is significantly reduced.

However, the cyclone-type model is not free of faults. When the container is agitated, we inevitably come into contact with the powder. Moreover, the purified recycled air is not properly filtered, it retains about 97% of the dust. However, today’s HEPA filters, which serve as an additional air purification, reduce this second defect to nothing. With the use of these vacuums the destruction of the cyclone should not occur; but it can be damaged if the air intake is reduced. For example, this can happen when a folder or any other object gets caught in the vacuum cleaner brush.

3. Models with water filters:

These vacuum cleaners have a special container filled with water. During cleaning, dirty air is drawn in from the suction tube and through the hose. The air supply is large, so it immediately mixes with the water, forming a mass of bubbles. In this case, the large dust particles sink while the girls “hide” in the bubbles. To remove them, additional filters must be used.

Such appliances are very good because of their sustained suction power. In addition, it is easy to empty the dust collector; we only have to remove the water filter and pour the contaminated liquid into the sewer. Also, the models with aquafilter support the creation of a healthier microclimate. After filtration, they throw clean and fresh air into the room.

However, it is crucial to remember that the containers of these vacuums not only need to be shaken, but also need to be washed regularly (after each cleaning). So, sometimes we don’t want or have time to do it.

In addition, the use of appliances with aquafilter requires more space than a conventional vacuum cleaner, as the teeth are larger. Therefore, before buying we should think about where the device will be stored. Also, if we buy this vacuum cleaner as a gift for an elderly person, it is worth asking if they need it. Maybe a granny prefers the classic compact model with a bag that does not need to be washed every time it is used.

Despite all the technical improvements and progress, in the process of using a vacuum cleaner with a waste container or water filter, some inconveniences can occur; which could lead to the refusal to use them. All this knowing that some smart manufacturers produce models in which we can use a container or aquafilter and a dust volume.

Vacuum cleaners with wet cleaning function

These devices clean both dry and “wet”. In the latter case, the water sprayed on the floor is absorbed into the vacuum cleaner. This ability is helpful when we need to quickly pick up a puddle on the floor. It is very convenient to clean carpets, tiles and masonry in general with this type of vacuum cleaner. In addition, by simply adding a special spike, we can make the window panes sparkle. It is enough to use it once a week to achieve the same cleaning that is achieved by using a “dry” dryer once every two days.

In addition to washing various surfaces, these devices can

• Clean up large messes (even wet ones);
• Humidify, purify and aromatize the air;
• Remove blockages in the bathroom or sink.

Now we will talk about the negative. The price for the models with washing functions is two and even three times higher, compared to one that can only dry clean. In addition, not every type of surface is friendly to wet cleaning. Carpets with natural weaknesses and parquet floors do not tolerate being treated this way. In addition, it can be difficult for a woman or child to clean with these vacuum cleaners; they are large and heavy. Also, after each cleaning they should be disassembled and cleaned. The consumption of electricity is high, as is the consumption of detergent. This is why, when cleaning carpets, the cleaner stays in them forever.

The mixture goes from the reservoir to the special nozzle, watering everything on the surface. In the suction mode, the second compartment receives all the spent liquid. The supply of clean water can be regulated independently.

Optimal suction power

This characteristic is decisive when comparing similar models. Naturally, it is best to stop the comparison when you find the one with the most power, after all, this indicates that it is a more efficient vacuum cleaner. Therefore, the house or apartment will be cleaned faster.

It is very important to remember that we should not confuse suction power with consumption. It is usually indicated on the body of the vacuum cleaner and is expressed in a large number of numbers and quantified in Watts. It is common for the quantities indicated there to be 1200, 1800, 2000 and 1500 Watts.

This information indicates how much power this model has. On the other hand, the suction power is also written on the body, but in small letters or simply may not be written. Therefore, we should check the device’s data sheet and look for the relevant information there.

The problem is that until now there has never been a standard measure for the suction power of vacuum cleaners; such as whether it exists in the washing and spinning of washing machines, which has long been a common measure in the world. This is why different manufacturers express the suction power in different ways. For example, some of them started measuring in aerowatts, a unit of measurement originated in England that is not standardized on a global scale. Likewise, another part of the manufacturers indicates the suction power simply in watts.

Usually, reputable manufacturers always specify two measurements for this feature: the maximum and the nominal. This helps the user to select the correct vacuum cleaner by means of the parameters. The point is that the maximum suction power takes place only in the first few minutes after switching on the vacuum cleaner; whereas the nominal power takes place after the first 5 or 10 minutes. It is acceptable that these powers differ between 14% and 16%, no more than that.

If this first indicator lies in the range of 300 to 350 Watts, then this vacuum cleaner will support tile, linoleum and carpets. For owners of large apartments, pets or carpets, we recommend the models that have a suction power of 300 to 500 Watts. A positive combination is low power consumption with a high suction level, which means that the model is the best possible class.

The efficiency of the filters

To remove a considerable percentage of dust and dirt, the air must be carefully filtered. Some elite vacuum cleaners are equipped with 10 or 12 filters. But, mostly this is just a marketing trick. Let’s just take a look at the filtration system. When air and dust with garbage is sucked in by the vacuum cleaner, it falls into one of three types of devices: air bag, aquafilter or container. The more substantial particles, while the smaller ones go their way along with the air, reaching the main filter of the engine. This protects the electric motor from dust. Then the air continues to move forward and reaches the output filter.

Frequently, electrostatically charged micro-filters, “S” filters are used at the outlet and HEPA filters are used in the higher cleaning devices. This name is an abbreviation for “High-Efficiency Particulate Air”. In other words, we get “highly effective air purification”. The micro-particles of dust that can be captured by these output filters can be as small as 0.3 microns. The various filter models can have different degrees of efficiency and durability.

HEPA filters are peculiarly harmonic, composed of a special fiber that has a diameter of 0.65 to 6.5 microns. The disposable filters are made of glass fiber and paper; while the reusable ones are made of fluroplastic or fluorinated plastic. Products made of fluoroplastic require periodic cleaning. Based on this we can say that they can be used as much as the same vacuum cleaner. The efficiency of HEPA filters is determined by European standards, specifically EN 1822. We will talk more about models with HEPA filters later on.

Modern vacuum cleaners are usually equipped with HEPA filters H13, H12 or H 11. It is rare to find devices equipped with HEPA 10. The larger it is, the more efficient the work of the filter system. At the same time, the cost of the vacuum cleaner will also be higher. However, those who suffer from asthma and allergies should not skimp on their own health. Experts know how to choose a good vacuum cleaner for different types of patients; recommended models are with HEPA 13 filters or larger versions. These not only remove dust from the air, but also take away tobacco smoke and plant pollen.

Vacuum suction system

This is the system that turns the vacuum on and off, but also regulates the suction power. There are usually buttons for this purpose; either on the tube or on the control panel on the body of the vacuum cleaner. The vacuum cleaner can be controlled electronically or mechanically.

1. Mechanical system: The mechanical system consists of a rotor or slide switch located in the body of the vacuum cleaner. With its help, the power of the vacuum cleaner is regulated. This system has some disadvantages. During cleaning, when we want to change power, we must tilt the vacuum cleaner, but the possibility of adjustment is limited if it is not fixed.
2. Electronic system: The electronic system is a rheostatic type regulator, which allows smooth changes of power, just as the sound of a radio is regulated. The regulator is located in the body or in the tube. Some models have liquid crystal displays, which show the power and also other operating parameters. In general, it is much more convenient to use electrical devices than mechanical ones, as they even consume less electricity.

According to the principle on which they operate, the following types of vacuum cleaners are distinguished:

1. The wiring system assumes that the wires go through the body, to the tube and then to the hose. The reliability of this method is high enough, but the wires make the hose heavier and cleaning uncomfortable.
2. The infrared control is no less reliable than the above, but the hose remains lightweight. This system works in the same way as a conventional remote control.
3. The radio control is one of the best; its reliability is the highest. The only downside is that models with this control are expensive.

Some modern vacuum cleaners are equipped with a very useful function: The power adjusts automatically according to the type of surface to be cleaned. For example, if we must clean a soft floor, books or some kind of furniture, then we will have a power of 250 or 300 Aerowatts, which will be more than enough. However, coated surfaces require increasing the suction power to 300 or 400 Aerowatts.

The Suction Tube – How it should be

In the design of the vacuum cleaner, this part plays an important role. Some time ago many models were sold with plastic tubes; although it is rare, we can still see some of them. If we do not know how to choose the right vacuum cleaner we should listen to advice from professionals. They do not recommend buying appliances with tubes made of plastic. If they are made of metal, the vacuum cleaner will have a much longer life.

Structurally, the tube can be fixed or removable, which connects two tubes, one inside the other. Usually, we can also find telescopic-type tubes as in the picture.

These can be carried to the desired length, like a fishing rod; arranging for different positions. This is a feature that distinguishes the cooler models of vacuum cleaners.

The nozzles: How many and which

To return the universal cleaner to the vacuum for any surface we can add different nozzles. These allow us to deal with the cleaning of smooth floors and carpets alike. Even cleaning velvet curtains and upholstered furniture. There are usually three or five types of nozzles in a set.

1. The slotted nozzle type is a flattened tube with a slit at the end. This is a fixture in the most normal nozzle kit for any vacuum cleaner. It helps to deal with the dust inside the intricate places and behind them, also the slots and edges.
2. Round brush with long hair. Suitable for cleaning books in a library, carved furniture and any other complex surface.
3. The oval, stiff brush armed with short hairs. Used to clean carpets and things on the walls, as well as heavy curtains and upholstered furniture.
4. The turbo brush is very useful for owners of cats, dogs and other pets. It goes very well with wool, removing it from furniture and carpets (applies also for hair). In addition, the seamstresses will be an excellent companion, since it collects all the threads. In the summer it deals very well with lint.
5. The electric brush or turbo electric brush. It has all the advantages of the previous nozzles but works much more quietly, as it rotates thanks to electric current. It also has a negative point, due to the wires coming out of the body the tube becomes heavier. Like the traditional turbo brush, it cannot be used on carpets that are more than half a centimetre high.
6. The brush with natural bristles is necessary if we want to clean coats and expensive surfaces. Parquet, granite, stone (artificial and natural) and laminate mainly. Natural bristles will not scratch the coating and will clean it effectively.

The tolerable noise level

This is also important; devices that are too loud can make us nervous and give us headaches. So we must pay attention to the number of decibels expressed in the data sheet.

On 12 March 2012, in Brussels, a convention declared the noise level accepted by different devices. This document was signed by representatives of many famous brands that produce vacuum cleaners. The most important brands were Miele, Philips, Rowenta, LG, Bosch and Electrolux. The convention determined that the vacuum cleaners must be tested by the manufacturer to be at their maximum suction power.

This is how the measurements are made: The device is plugged into an electric socket and a microphone is placed 30 or 50 cm from it. In addition, a device is used to measure and record the noise level. Tests are made two and three times or until the noise level becomes constant. In this way each vacuum cleaner is checked. Even if only 7% of a batch is on the “very noisy” scale, this will be declared as the maximum noise level for that model.

Most modern models of vacuum cleaners should not make a noise higher than 80 decibels. As an example, when a person makes a whisper they make a noise greater than approximately 40 decibels. Stores have models that make 70 and even 65 or 60 decibels. Cyclone-type vacuum cleaners are the loudest, much louder than bagged models.

What else to consider when choosing a vacuum cleaner?

1. The weight of the device can vary from 4 kilos (in the most compact models) to 5 or 6 kilos in the full equipment models. The latter are the most convenient if we use the equipment regularly. A reduction in weight and size usually ends up being a saving in the volume of the container.
2. The way they are parked and can be stored varies between vertical and horizontal. The horizontal type does not change anything about the natural way of using the vacuum cleaner. Upright parking means that the device is lying down, usually in the area where the wiring is located. In this case, it is possible that the pipe can be placed vertically on the body, resulting in a significant gap in the space of the storage area.
3. The nozzle compartment, usually located on the body, helps to keep all of the accessories in place and to make them easy to get to. Some manufacturers put this place on the handle, where the nozzles are attached to a special panel. When working, this panel dries and is put back on when finished. However, user reviews say that this is extremely uncomfortable when storing the device; so cleaning is complicated and time-consuming.
4. Overheat protection is a necessary feature. If it’s not available, a motor that heats up to a critical state can burn out. Vacuum cleaners heat up for several reasons, the most frequent being a full tank. Another common cause is a blockage inside the pipe. Virtually all modern vacuum cleaners have an automatic shut-off system if a certain temperature is exceeded. So they can be used safely.
5. The false start lock is necessary if you accidentally turn it on without the bag or tank inside. This lock will remind us about forgetting and the device will not turn on.
6. The monitor indicates the condition and operation of the vacuum cleaner. If it does not have a screen or monitor, we must open and check the vacuum cleaner constantly so that everything is in order. Vacuum cleaners can indicate things like: overheating; contaminated filter, filter change or compartment cleaning.
7. The length of the power cord determines the mobility of the vacuum cleaner. Only when it is disconnected from the socket does the length of the hose determine its radius of action. Modern appliances usually integrate auto-rewind and sometimes auto-reverse functions. This is when the vacuum cleaner is moved, the cable is automatically retracted.
8. The wheels of the vacuum cleaner define its manoeuvrability by 90%. If they are on the sides of the body of the appliance, it can only move in a straight line. Another thing is when the wheels are at the bottom, so the vacuum cleaner is able to move in different directions and even skillfully in corners. Plastic wheels are not practical, sometimes they scratch the floors; it is better to choose models with rubber wheels.
9. Another convenient item is a shield or bumper that wraps around the perimeter of the vacuum cleaner. This will protect the other surfaces and itself from impact.

Choosing the design of the vacuum cleaner

There are four versions of vacuum cleaner designs. We must know this to understand how to choose a vacuum cleaner for a house or apartment. The types of appliance can be: balloon, upright, handheld, or a mop or mop type vacuum cleaner.

These devices have the following main characteristics:

• Cleaning of horizontal and vertical planes, including shelves, stairs and wall mats.
• Cleaning of hard surfaces such as floors and carpets (except for a few models) A special nozzle is required to clean carpets.
• Standard kit: suction tube, floor brush nozzle, slotted nozzle, and upholstered furniture nozzle.
• Device for automatic cable rewind.

Additionally you can have:

• Excellent cleaning filters (HEPA).
• Special brush for hard to reach surfaces.
• Additional cable length.
• Suction tube with additional length.
• Upright vacuum cleaners

Vertical vacuum cleaners

Main features

• Rollers and hinges that increase maneuverability.
• Brush equipped with bumper, which protects furniture and walls.
• Adjustable control for carpet cleaning.
• Rear light.
• Automated brush movement.

In addition:

• Availability to change the brush to a special one for other type of carpets and furs.
• HEPA filters.
• Special tube type nozzle for curtains and candlesticks.
• Elongated cable and automatic rewind.
• Longer suction tube
• Pollution level sensor to regulate suction power.
• Nozzle for hard to reach places.
• Electric motor protection system in case of coins, paper and large garbage.

Mop or mop type vacuum cleaner

This device is best for small rooms, where the floor is hard. Ideal for those who cannot carry heavy and regular sized vacuum cleaners. We can clean the floor, carpets, stairs and carpets every day with this vacuum cleaner

Mop-type vacuums have the following advantages:

• Simple storage; they are compact and lightweight.
• They do not make noise when cleaning.
• They use a compartment instead of a bag.
• There are cordless models that do not need a cable.

Handheld Vacuum Cleaners

These small devices can remove the garbage easily and quickly. Depending on their variation, they can be operated from an electrical outlet or they can be battery operated.

Main characteristics:

• Light weight and small dimensions.
• Plastic container.
• Possibility of cleaning in vertical planes.

Additional to some models:

• Extended brush nozzle.
• Upholstered furniture brush.
• Brush for cleaning stains and liquids spilled on the furniture.
• Ignition lock.

Robot Vacuum Cleaner

Amazing automated cleaning assistants. They are programmed to vacuum carpets and all kinds of floors. They are ideal for quick cleaning or for small places.

Their main features are:

• 100 to 120 minutes cleaning time.
• Charging time between 4 and 6 hours.
• Limited space in garbage compartments.

Additional to the more expensive models:

• Various heads for floors and carpets.
• Mapping of places for better location in the room and therefore better cleaning.
• HEPA filters.
• Scrubbing accessories for carpet and hard floor stains.

Car Vacuum Cleaner

These vacuum models are the ideal assistant to keep a vehicle clean. Compact size and high power, designed this way because they are made for cleaning on the road, away from any power outlet.

These are their main attributes:

• Washable and reusable filters.
• They support wet waste.
• Light weight and ergonomic design.

The best models can also include:

• Seat brush kit made of fabric or leather.
• Special nozzles for fabric or rubber carpets.
• Shoulder strap.
• Also works while loading, ensuring cleanliness at any time.

Professional Vacuum Cleaners

Powerful and large models in size, designed to clean any surface in seconds and with large containers to stop our work as little as possible. They are designed for industrial cleaning (carpenter’s or blacksmith’s workshops) or for large cleaning days in the yard (swimming pool, grill area and corridors), robust but compliant.

Their main characteristics are:

• Designs with blowing or reverse engine functions.
• They suck up dry and wet waste.
• Long cables.
• Smooth movement in all directions.
• Long hoses and flexible tubes.

The best models on the market also include:

• Lower power function and special carpet nozzles.
• Tanks up to 30 litres capacity.
• Compartment for parts inside the body of the vacuum cleaner.
• Spin lock, to avoid that vacuum cleaner film scene spinning.

The Conclusions

With this step-by-step guide we hope to make clear how to choose a vacuum cleaner that suits your needs, tastes and budget. Reviewing it in detail will ensure you choose the ideal vacuum cleaner for your home, apartment or office.