Bissell's ProHeat 2X CleanShot Model 9500 carpet cleaner offers onboard heating, a single tank for clean and dirty water, a shot of pure cleaning solution whenever you need it and a built-in carpet dryer. Here's a look at the pros and cons of the 9500's features.
Water Tanks:
Most deep cleaners have separate tanks for clean water and extracted water, meaning you have two to carry and fill. But Bissell has designed a flexible bladder that sits inside a hard tank; as the clean water leaves the bladder, the extraction system pulls the dirty water out of the carpet and into the hard canister. Depending on how thoroughly you're cleaning, you'll probably be surprised at how quickly you deplete your clean water supply.
Heating:
Like others in the ProHeat line, the 9500 has an onboard heater that will raise the temperature of your hot tap water by 25 degrees. The hotter the water, the better it cleans. The heater also keeps the water hot as you clean, something other models don't do. You can also turn off the heating mechanism, so it's safe to use on delicate carpets, throw rugs and furniture upholstered in linen or wool.
Cleaning Fluid Use:
The Bissell 9500 has four settings to choose from: heavy traffic, normal cleaning, light and water rinse. Each setting controls the amount of cleaning fluid injected into the water flow. There's also a CleanShot button on the handle that allows you to shoot a jet of pure cleaning solution onto a soiled spot for better cleaning. Although the option to increase the flow of cleaning solution into the water is great, you'll also use the solution - and run out of it - at a much higher rate, so be prepared with a good stock on hand.
Dump out the unused clean water when you're finished, and leave the solution in the machine for next time. Another advantage to separate reservoirs for clean water and cleaning fluid is the ability to do a rinse without refilling the clean tank. Just turn the dial to "rinse," and no detergent will flow.
Drying Time:
Carpets usually take several hours to dry, and it's recommended that they be free of foot traffic during that time. The 9500 attempts to speed the process with the DryAire feature that blows hot air onto the carpet. But it's a minimal effect, because the machine doesn't stay in one spot for more than a few seconds.
Carpet Care:
Don't be alarmed if you see ample fuzzballs on your carpet or snagged on the rotating brushes. The "grooming" process of the DirtLifter PowerBrushes tends to pull up loose fibers. Bissell says its rollers are similar in speed and function to those on an everyday vacuum and are "safe, gentle and effective." Be sure to remove the fuzz from the roller brushes as you clean, though, for optimum results.
Fighting Bacteria:
Bissell has also incorporated Microban into its water tank, helping to prohibit the microbial growth of bacteria, fungi, algae and mold that can affect those with illnesses or allergies. Microban also helps eliminate odors in the tank.
Cost:
It's more expensive than most deep cleaners on the market, but it also has more features. MSRP from Bissell is $329, but it's listed on Amazon.com for $294. The cleaner is also carried by Linens 'n Things, which routinely mails out 20 percent off coupons, so it's worth shopping around. The cleaner will have paid for itself in one or two professional carpet cleanings forgone, so it's a good investment.
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