15 CRITERIA FOR CHOOSING A RELIABLE VACUUM CLEANER
Choosing a reliable vacuum cleaner requires taking into account several essential criteria to ensure that you are investing in a device that will meet your needs over the long term. Here is a guide to help you in your choice:
DETERMINE YOUR SOIL TYPE
The nature of your floor is a determining factor in the choice of your vacuum cleaner. For hard floors, a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush will be more suitable. For rugs and carpets, choose a model with a motorized brush which allows you to remove embedded dirt more effectively.
CONSIDER THE TYPE OF VACUUM
There are several types of vacuum cleaners: sleds, brooms, robots, and handheld. Canister vacuum cleaners are versatile and powerful, ideal for large areas. Upright vacuum cleaners are lightweight, handy and perfect for small areas or quick cleanups.
Robot vacuum cleaners offer maximum comfort thanks to their autonomy. Finally, handheld vacuums are useful for small tasks and hard-to-reach places.
POWER AND PERFORMANCE
Electrical power (in watts) is not always a reliable indicator of suction performance. Instead, look for information on suction power (in airwatts) or look at reviews and performance tests to gauge the effectiveness of the device on different floor types.
FILTRATION
For people with allergies or asthma, the quality of the filtration system is crucial. A vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter can capture up to 99.97 % of fine particles, improving indoor air quality.
TANK OR BAG CAPACITY
The capacity of the tank or bag affects how often you will need to empty or replace it. A large tank is practical for larger homes, while a bagged model can be more hygienic when emptying, although this involves an additional cost for purchasing bags.
SOUND LEVEL
The noise level is an important criterion for comfort of use. A vacuum cleaner with a noise level below 70 dB will be relatively quiet and more pleasant to use, especially if you live in a space where noise is a factor.
ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES AND FEATURES
Look into included accessories, like specific brushes for furniture or tight spaces, which can make cleaning more effective. Certain features such as the power variator, the accessory storage system, or the motorized brush should also be considered depending on your needs.
READ REVIEWS AND COMPARE PRICES
Before making your choice, read consumer reviews and compare prices. The experiences of other users can give you insight into the reliability and durability of different models.
AFTER-SALES SERVICE AND GUARANTEE
Check the length of the warranty offered and the reputation of the manufacturer's after-sales service. Good support can make a big difference if something goes wrong.
ENERGY CONSUMPTION
With the growing awareness around the environmental impact of household appliances, it is important to consider the energy consumption of the vacuum cleaner. Energy labels provide information on estimated annual consumption in kilowatt hours (kWh). Choosing an energy-efficient vacuum cleaner can help you reduce your carbon footprint and electricity bills.
BAG TYPE
Vacuum cleaners can be bagged or bagless. Bagged models tend to be more hygienic when emptying, as dust and debris are contained within the bag, which is particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers.
However, purchasing bags represents a recurring cost. Bagless vacuums are easier to empty and don't require the purchase of bags, but emptying can be messier, and they require regular cleaning of the filters.
HANDLING AND WEIGHT
Ease of maneuvering is crucial for a pleasant cleaning experience. Some vacuums come with advanced steering systems or wheels that make it easier to move around furniture and around corners.
Additionally, the weight of the device is an important factor if you have to carry it often, for example when cleaning stairs.
INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES
Vacuum cleaner manufacturers are constantly innovating to improve efficiency and comfort of use.
For example, some models feature dirt sensors that automatically adjust suction power, while others offer anti-tangle systems for pet hair. Evaluating these technologies can help you find a vacuum cleaner that simplifies your household chores.
BUDGET
Cost is obviously a determining factor. It is possible to find reliable and efficient vacuum cleaners at different price levels. However, investing in a more expensive model can pay off in the long run in terms of durability and functionality.
Determine your maximum budget and compare the options available within that price range.
CONSUMER REVIEWS AND TESTS
Finally, don't forget to check out consumer reviews and independent test results.
This information can give you valuable insight into how the vacuum cleaner actually performs under everyday use conditions and help you avoid models with known defects or reliability issues.
By following these tips, you will be better equipped to choose a reliable vacuum cleaner that will meet your cleaning needs and serve you faithfully for many years.