Choosing the Best Type of Vacuum Cleaner

Wet and Dry Vacuums:

Once delegated to home shops, garages or basement, wet/dry vacuums are quickly gaining popularity for general home use due to the dual function. You can clean up after a flood or spill, vacuum gravel from the truck cab or clean carpet or bare floors. They are rather economical for the function they provide, however, wet/dry vacuums are generally noisy, designed for rough use and surfaces and attachments are limited.

They don't generally have good filtration features and will often return a certain amount of dust to the room. However, suction is usually very good and they'll remove gravel from an entrance rug more quickly than other vacuums. With the increase in home use, some of the newer models now include quieter operation and assorted tank sizes. Some models require dust filters.

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Learn about Central Vacuum Systems and More on page 2

About Vacuums 101

b]Central Vacuums:

Central vacuum systems are not necessarily more expensive than higher-end canister models, it's the installation that increases the cost or can prove to be a challenge. Though not impossible to install after the home building is completed, it's easier to include one in the building plans to avoid unnecessary renovations to install duct accessories later.

Once installed, central systems provide most vacuum functions with extended hoses that can reach a considerable area away from the wall connectors. Although the main unit is usually installed in the garage or basement, only the hose and attachments require storage in the main living area. Good planning of the duct connector layout is necessary to ensure you can reach and vacuum every area of your home. For obvious reasons, central systems are not an option for apartment dwellers.

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Vacuum Type Conclusion & Other Considerations:

When buying a vacuum, decide what type of floor or area you'll be cleaning and whether the unit will be the main vacuuming appliance or a secondary cleaning tool. Will it be used for regular cleanings or only for quick touch-ups.

If you're building a home or doing extensive renovations, it may be wise to consider a central vacuum system.

Consider vacuum features such as attachments, filtration enhancements, air purification and bag/bagless, keeping in mind that adding features generally will increase the purchase price.

The heavier the vacuum, the more difficulty transferring it from level to level of your home. If you intend to have only one vacuum for multi-levels, choose a lightweight all-floors model.

It's a good idea to note where bag or filter supplies can be purchased and consider warranty periods as well as proximity to service centers before deciding on a brand.

A vacuum is necessary for keeping your home clean and while sweepers may provide a quick surface cleaning, bare floors as well as carpets require regular vacuuming with enough suction to lift and remove dirt, dust, dander and debris from rug fibers, floor joints and crevices. You also need to clean into corners, under and behind furniture, entrances and stairs, as well as reach the higher areas above curtain rods or the top of tall furniture items in order to do a thorough cleaning.

Read More About Floor Care:

Vacuums & Floor Care Resources
Vacuums 101 - From Buying to Caring for Your Vacuum
Halo Vacuums
Robotic Vacuums
Upright of Canister Vacuum?
Vacuum Buying Tips

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