What to keep in mind before buying a vacuum

1. Structure

The first factor to consider when choosing a vacuum cleaner is undoubtedly that of the structure, which serves as a point of reference in determining which model best suits our home.

However, we must point out that when we speak of vacuum cleaners we refer specifically to the traction vacuum cleaner, that is, the characteristic vacuum cleaner with a long hose and the tank/motor that drags behind it. If you are interested in vertical vacuum cleaners, see our page on electric brooms.

When considering the structure of a vacuum cleaner, we will first evaluate its weight and dimensions, together with its rest position, to understand if it is suitable for our domestic spaces in which we plan to maintain it when it is not in use and if it is appropriate for us and our forces.

In particular, houses arranged on two or more levels, with ramps of internal stairs, are not generally the ideal environment for a towed vacuum cleaner, which is somewhat uncomfortable to hold while you pass the brush on the stairs.

Secondly, it is interesting to consider the maximum length of the handle, also considering the possible presence of accessory extensions, which may be of special interest for those who have very high ceilings and furniture and want to use the vacuum cleaner also to free themselves from cobwebs.

The length of the tube, instead of the other, along with that of the cable, is an important factor to consider if you want to get an idea of ​​the range of action of a vacuum cleaner, that is, the distance it can cover from the socket to the which is fixed.

The small design details that can make the difference in terms of agility and comfort should not be overlooked: for example, a good ergonomic grip on the handle will make the brushing of the surfaces less tiring, while the characteristics of the steering can make the movement of the towing motor behind us more or less fluid, even in sudden changes of direction.

The size, the inclination and the possible covering of the wheels contribute to facilitating the direction and the ability to pass over small obstacles, such as a cable or a small difference in height. Larger wheels and models with more wheels, cross these obstacles more easily, and inclined wheels facilitate the direction.

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2. Brushes and nozzles

Another very important factor, which should be considered in relation to household furniture, is that of the nozzles and brushes supplied with our new vacuum cleaner.

Depending on the type of pavement we have and whether the carpets are present or not, it will be important to consider what brushes are available: some models have a universal brush, suitable for all surfaces, while others offer different brushes to be mounted depending on the surface to be treated.

We could then find in the package a ceramic floor brush, a parquet brush and a brush with carpet and carpet bristles.

Another advantage is the nozzles for working on surfaces and narrow spaces, such as a lance nozzle to intervene in cracks or, for example, in the dashboard of the car, or a T-shaped mouthpiece for padded articles, suitable for both sofas and for armchairs, as well as for the seats of our car.

Other accessories can be extension tubes, used to easily reach the corners of the roof and free them from cobwebs, as well as ventilation grilles with soft brushes suitable for cleaning shelves and wooden furniture without scratching them.

In addition to the variety of accessories, it is also important to evaluate the quality and care of the design : for example, we evaluate if it is possible to mount accessory nozzles in the tube or motor to have them always at hand, and if the nozzles have integrated elements that allow adapting them with a simple gesture to different surfaces.

3. Consumption and benefits

A third very important factor is the consumption and operation of the towing vacuum. Now all the vacuum cleaners carry the European energy label, which at a glance shows us how much a vacuum cleaner consumes, but also the performance it offers on hard floors and soft surfaces.

Consumption

Speaking of consumption, the scale is now well known, ranging from efficiency class A (or A +, A +, A +, A ++ and so on), the best, to class G, which represents the most energy intensive. Those who want to be careful with consumption, therefore, will have to prefer aspirators in a class of high energy efficiency, from B upwards.

We can also offer some peace of mind regarding the relationship between engine power (expressed precisely by energy consumption) and suction capacity : not necessarily lower-power engines correspond to more disappointing performance, on the contrary, modern technologies they have made possible a significant reduction of the consumption without penalizing the yield, since we will see better when we speak of the following factor related to the characteristics of the deposit.

Benefits

The efficiency of the vacuum cleaner, as we have already mentioned, is indicated in the European energy label: in it, a simple diagram informs us of the efficiency class in both hard floors and carpets and carpets. Also in this case, as in the energy consumption, the scale varies between A (excellent performance) and G (poor performance).

Class A means that all the debris accumulated in the spaces between the tiles and between the fibers of the carpet is effectively sucked, and the performance is good and sufficiently deep up to class C, while, on the contrary, class G represents a suction capacity able to remove only the dirt on the surface, without being able to intervene effectively in the joints and between the fibers of the carpet.

On average, the best vacuum cleaners will have an efficiency class on C or B carpets, while an A efficiency class on hard floors can be found even among low-end models.

4. Deposit characteristics

Another very important factor is related to the characteristics of the tank. The size of the container can determine how long a vacuum can be used before emptying the container or changing the bag. A capacity of more than 2 l can be interesting for those who have a large house, with the necessary clarification that, of course, the greater capacity of the tank will also correspond to larger dimensions and dimensions.

But what is also interesting to consider is the technology adopted by the tank: in fact, there are three types that can be found in the market, each with its strengths and weaknesses: tanks with bags, cyclone tanks, and water tanks. Let's see them one by one.

Deposit of bags

The deposit of bags, the most traditional and traditional of the technologies available today, accumulates the dirt sucked into the paper bags that also act as a filter, and that must be replaced once filled completely.

The advantage of this technology is that this type of tank generally offers greater capacity, with the same footprint, and it is necessary to think about changing the bag only when it is full, after several uses of the towed vacuum cleaner. In fact, the average capacity of the bags ranges between 3 and 4 liters, which allows cleaning the floor even in the largest homes without having to change the bag. In addition, bag vacuum cleaners generally cost less than the other two types.

Among the disadvantages are, of course, the recurring cost of having to maintain a supply of replacement bags, and the fact that the suction power is being significantly reduced as the bag becomes full. In addition, in general, with equal suction power compared to the other two technologies that we will see, bag vacuum cleaners require more power and therefore more consumption.

Water tank

One of the alternatives to the tank of the traditional bag, the towed vacuum of the water tank has several advantages. Of course, there is no maintenance cost, since it is not necessary to buy replacement bags, and the emptying of the tank is done in the wash tank without putting the powder back in the air since it dissolves in water.

Among the disadvantages, it must be taken into account that, on average, the capacity is lower than that of the sack deposits, since the deposit must necessarily be extractable for emptying and filling. However, the capacity is less important than the other two types of vacuum cleaners, since the tank must be emptied after each use and left empty and well dry between the cleaning sessions, otherwise, mold and odor may form.

Unlike the other two types of vacuum cleaners, therefore, a water vacuum cleaner is not always ready to use, because it must always be filled with water at the time.

Cyclone deposits

The cyclonic tank represents the latest innovation in terms of suction. The principle of operation is simple: the flow of air sucked is transported to the tank to form a small "cyclone" inside, whose spiral movement naturally creates a suction that helps the engine suction. Thanks to this simple physical principle, cyclonic vacuum cleaners can offer excellent suction performance even with a less powerful motor than the other two types.

Among the advantages of this technology, it is necessary to take into account, therefore, the energy saving in comparison with the other two types of vacuum cleaners, in addition to the absence of recurrent costs due to the purchase of bags. In many cases, the emptying of the tank, which can be carried out in the garbage container, can be done by completely avoiding contact with the collected dirt.

The negative aspects , on the other hand, include the lower capacity, as we have already mentioned: a cyclonic deposit can go from 1 liter to just under 3 liters, and therefore needs to be emptied frequently, approximately every 3-4 uses for the largest containers and every 2-3 for the smaller ones, since even in the case of cyclonic deposits the suction power decreases with filling, although less drastically compared to bag vacuum cleaners.

5. Filters

Finally, it is also worth spending a few minutes to understand which filters and how many are equipped with a vacuum, especially if there are people in the house who suffer from the most common allergies (rollers, mites, hairs). For the latter, in fact, vacuum cleaners equipped with high-efficiency filters can be very interesting, they retain almost all the smallest particles, including bacteria and allergens. Let's see in the following sections which filters can be equipped with a vacuum cleaner.

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What Things to Pay Attention to When Buying a Vacuum Cleane

Purchase Guide for Vacuum Cleaners

Purchase Guide for Vacuum Cleaners

Bag Vacuum

They are the most common, and have a rigid main structure that inside contains a bag in which the dust and dirt are lodged. This bag can be removed to clean its interior and achieve better results during vacuuming. They are ideal for any surface, and have a complete set of accessories such as nozzles and brushes of different sizes to access all corners of the home.

Recommendation

Cleaning the dust container (bag or rigid structure) is essential to achieve good results and ensure a longer life of the vacuum cleaner. It is advisable to empty the dust and dirt every time it is used to prevent them from returning to the environment.

Broom vacuum cleaner

Its operation is similar to that of bag vacuum cleaners, as it also has a container in which dust accumulates, although its capacity is much lower. It is ideal for older people because thanks to its lower weight and extended arm can be operated without the need to bend, and reach with great ease to all places where dirt accumulates. They usually work with a rechargeable battery.

RECOMMENDATION

Being a vacuum cleaner with less capacity, it is ideal for smaller spaces such as small apartments, or to clean places that need cleaning more regularly, such as bathrooms, living room or kitchen.

Water vaccuum

They are much larger models, ideal for covering more extensive surfaces. The great particularity is that its interior have space that must be filled with water before starting to inhale, and have great power. The main advantage of this system is that it helps to better contain the dust particles inside, preventing them from returning to the outside.

RECOMMENDATION

To achieve better performance it is important to change the water each time the vacuum cleaner is used. Cleaner water will help to better contain dust and dirt particles.

Vacuum cleaners

This type of vacuum cleaner works with hot steam, which eliminates complex stains from any surface. They must be loaded with water, which thanks to the heat evaporates and helps achieve excellent results throughout the home. This system also reduces the levels of fungi and bacteria in the home, making it ideal for homes with pets or buses.

RECOMMENDATION

You must respect the instructions of the manufacturer so that its operation is optimal, and you must also pay special attention when you use it near other people, because they could be burned with steam.

Hand vacuum

These are much more specific models, and often complementary to other vacuum cleaners. Its main advantage is that it allows to reach smaller and less accessible places, where cleaning becomes more difficult, although it has a deposit with less capacity to contain the dust. They are also very useful for cleaning cars.

RECOMMENDATION

When operating with a rechargeable battery, it is important to note that it is always connected to the power supply, to ensure the power needed to achieve a good result.

Automatic vacuum cleaner

They are the great novelty of the market. These are true robots that aspire to themselves, using sensors to autonomously navigate all corners of the home. They can be programmed so that your route considers only a room of the home or a certain period of time, and thus achieve greater energy efficiency. They have a container that should be cleaned regularly due to its low capacity.

RECOMMENDATION

It is advisable to always use surfaces with the least amount of elements (furniture, masseters, ornaments), to achieve a deeper cleaning.

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What Things to Pay Attention to When Buying a Vacuum Cleaner 

What to keep in mind before buying a vacuum

 

What Things to Pay Attention to When Buying a Vacuum Cleaner

The vacuum cleaner is the electrical device that best facilitates cleaning anywhere. It uses an air pump to suck up dust and other small particles of dirt, and deposit them inside, either in a replaceable bag, or in a removable tank, usually from the ground. If you still do not have clear which model of vacuum cleaner suits you best, we advise you to read Types of vacuum cleaners in the market . If you have it clear, pay attention to the following characteristics before buying your vacuum cleaner in a store or online store (Amazon.es, Media Markt, Carrefour, Worten, etc.)

Power (suction power) and energy consumption

The power is expressed in watts (W). The higher the engine's power, the better the performance. It is considered a good power from 1,100 watts but there are models of up to 3,000 watts. However, it is important that the vacuum cleaner has a power regulator since it is not always recommended to use the maximum power or suction flow, which consumes more, but adapt it to each surface. The suction capacity will depend on the power and also the design of each model and its features. The suction power is measured in suction watts or in kilopascals (kPpa), which is a unit of pressure. The higher the suction power, the more cleaning capacity. To vacuum large surfaces, we recommend opting for electric cord models rather than battery models, which have lower power and a much reduced operating autonomy. The power required will also depend on the frequency of the aspirate: the higher it is, the less dirt you will have to clean, the less power you will need and the lower the energy consumption on your electricity bill. The key to finding the best vacuum cleaner is the information of its energy label, which since 2017 reports its energy efficiency (the most efficient is the A +++ and the least the D) and its energy consumption in kilowatt hours over a year , with normal daily use. Here is an example of the current energy label of a Bosch vacuum cleaner :

The volume or capacity of the bag or deposit (expressed in ml)

The more volume, more comfortable to use because it avoids having to change the bag or empty the tank. Some models are equipped with light indicators to fill the tank. The sled vacuum cleaners and the vertical ones are the ones with the highest capacity. The capacity of paper bags ranges from one and a half liters to more than six liters. Disposable bag models are preferable because less dust is spread when exchanging the bag than when emptying the tank or container, although the suction power is reduced as the dust bag becomes full since air circulation becomes difficult. There are models without a bag that incorporate powder compression technology, which forms compact blocks of dust that are more hygienic and easy to empty, thus avoiding dispersing the dust particles collected by the house. Almost all vacuum cleaners incorporate suitable filters, both to protect the motor and so that the dust aspirated does not return to the environment. Better if they are washable. The HEPA filters (English High Efficiency Particulate Air ) have excellent properties. But other filter models are equally effective. HEPA filters have small glass fibers that form a very dense sieve that captures tiny particles. Once the contaminant particles have passed through the filter they can not return to the air again due to their highly absorbent pores. There are different levels of Hepa filter quality on a scale of 10 to 14. There are also washable antibacterial filters, such as CORE filters . Activated carbon filters eliminate odors and are practical if there are pets at home. The "ecological" models have a water filter that cleans all kinds of dry, liquid or damp dirt.

The length of the cable and the arm or vacuum tube

The longer the cable, the greater the radius of action of the vacuum cleaner, that is, the area that you can clean without having to look for another plug. The average acceptable length is around 7 to 8 meters . For its part, the long tube facilitates the cleaning of high places and it is convenient that additional extension tubes are incorporated. Almost all models include retractable cable or automatic cable winding. Better with rotating elbow to suck in different directions without having to drag the motor, and better the flexible hose aspirators and ergonomic handle.

Noise that emits in operation

Do not just look at the volume reached by the vacuum cleaner in operation (measured in decibels, dB) but also in the sound frequency (measured in hertz, hz). It is expressed as follows in the energy label: "Noise level: Noise (dBA) / Frequency (Hz)". In online stores you can do a search " silent vacuum cleaner " and find many models designed for people (like the one who writes), sensitive to the noise of vacuum cleaners.

Security system

It is convenient that the vacuum cleaner has safety devices such as: stopping the engine in the absence of a bag or when it is misplaced, indicators that indicate the filling of the bag, to change it or that the filter is saturated, or thermal safety systems protections on the parts exposed to blows against corners or furniture protections on the wheels to avoid scratching the floors, etc.

Other features that facilitate the use

Make it easy to transport : look at the weight, on the handle (which is ergonomic), that the wheels are multidirectional, that it can be stored in a small space, etc. That is easy to handle : that the controls can be operated with the foot, that it brings different extension tubes and brushes, that it has dirt sensors that indicate when to go over a specific area of ​​the floor or the carpet (although this feature makes the product more expensive), Bring bumpers to avoid damaging furniture, etc.

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What to keep in mind before buying a vacuum