How To Choose A Vacuum Cleaner? Which One Is Better To Choose For An Apartment And A House? Choosing A Tabletop Vacuum Cleaner And Other Models. What To Look For When Buying? Revie

2024 Author: Beatrice Philips | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-18 12:09

Modern manufacturers of household appliances offer a wide range of equipment for cleaning the house, but the most popular among such products is still a vacuum cleaner. To date, a huge number of its varieties are produced, which is somewhat confusing when choosing. Therefore, before buying a vacuum cleaner, you should familiarize yourself with what they are, how they differ, what characteristics are inherent in them, and also study the reviews of the owners and specialists.

Varieties of vacuum cleaners

The general classification of vacuum cleaners is actually not that extensive. They can be divided according to several factors.

• By design features they are balloon, vertical, robotic, mop, manual.
• By purpose of use distinguish between household and professional options. Such devices differ in suction power and dimensions. The first option is designed for home use, the second - for industry and cleaning companies. Manufacturers are actively expanding the line of household appliances. For example, the smallest vacuum cleaner will be useful for cleaning the table, while the largest will help clean up debris from the warehouse.
• Another characteristic of home appliances is cleaning type , which divides the devices into washing and dry.
• There is a classification according to the filtration system . However, it should be warned that the cleaning work, as a rule, is performed by three main filters, the rest are a publicity stunt, no more. According to the specified criterion, the devices can be divided into two- and three-level. But manufacturers offer five, six, and even eight-tier models.
• The vacuum cleaner range also differs control system and indicators .
• Variety of devices by design , in general, defies any description, since each developer seeks not only to endow his devices with excellent technical characteristics.

But also create a unique style that is different from the competition.

What to look for when buying?

When buying a vacuum cleaner, first of all, you should pay attention to the technical characteristics of the equipment. These parameters are indicated in the documents. When buying a household appliance, decide in advance what criteria are your priority in order to facilitate the choice. If there are doubts or problems arise, feel free to contact the consultants in dealerships. Together with you, they will select an option that is beneficial in all respects.

Design

The ease of use of the unit depends on its size, weight and ease of maintenance. Therefore, you should pay attention to the design of the device. If the room is small, then it is impractical to purchase large devices, they are characterized by a low degree of maneuverability. Simply put, you will not deploy them in a small area.

The same goes for weight. Focus on your capabilities: if you cannot cope with a multifunctional washing vacuum cleaner, then you should choose a more compact model . Many young people live in the rhythm of megacities, they have no time to waste time on major cleaning of the house, then it is easier to pay attention to cyclonic modifications. They are easy to operate, do not require constant maintenance, are lightweight, maneuverable and do not take up much space.

So, according to the type of construction, vacuum cleaners are of the following types, each of which has its own pros and cons.

Balloon

As a rule, this is a household device we are used to for cleaning an apartment. The design is a housing that contains a motor and a dust collector, a flexible corrugated hose, a tube and a set of brushes.

Such devices, in turn, are divided into the following types in terms of size

1. Manual , adapted for cleaning cars or small spaces. They can also be used for superficial cosmetic cleaning, for cleaning the table, shelves in cabinets, furniture. It is convenient to store these models because they are small.
2. Compact , which are adapted for home use in small city apartments. They are characterized by the look familiar to us, small size and weight of about 4 kg.
3. Full-size .

Designed for complete cleaning of large rooms.

Vertical

More suitable for professional cleaning companies, as they have a significant cost, in addition, they are bulky and noisy. The body is located vertically, which influenced the name. A similar design is typical for washing vacuum cleaners.

Mops

If we consider their design in terms of size, then they are very compact, which makes it easier to store them. As for the power, it should be said that it will be enough for regular cleaning, but it will not be enough for general cleaning.

Robots

Models do not require human intervention in the cleaning process. Their cost is significantly higher than conventional manual modifications. The devices clean the room according to a given program. However, not all users are satisfied with the quality, so they prefer to use robots only as a preventive measure between full weekly cleaning.

Equipment

A standard set for a vacuum cleaner includes the unit itself, a flexible hose, a tube and 2-3 nozzles.

Brushes

The main brush has two modes - carpet and floor. It is adapted for cleaning common types of surfaces: linoleum, carpet, laminate. The slotted nozzle is a tube flattened on both sides. As a result, a gap is formed in it, with the help of which dust is pulled out from hard-to-reach places, for example, from heating systems, along the baseboards, in the corners.

The turbo brush is a good purchase for pet owners . It removes wool from furniture and carpets faster. The natural bristle nozzle is designed for parquet, stone and other natural materials. There are many other adapters: for curtains, furniture, clothes.

A tube

Tubes differ in material and design. For their production, plastic or metal (usually aluminum) is used. The choice remains with the user, since there are no clear leaders in popularity here.

Structurally, the pipes are solid or telescopic. The second option is preferable due to ease of storage, convenience and practicality.

With the help of such a pipe, you can reach remote surfaces.

Control system

A system of various regulators is also included in the package. There are only two options: mechanical or automatic.

• Control by pressing buttons or levers - mechanics . In this case, power regulation is possible only according to clearly recorded data without intermediate values.
• Electronics allows for more precise control . The devices are equipped with an electronic display, which displays the actual characteristics, and a setting panel. Typically, such models have various indicators. All controls are located on the body, some for convenience can be brought out to the handle of the suction pipe.

A remote control is applied to the robotic devices as they are controlled remotely.

Dust collector type

The type of dust collector determines the degree of purification of the air entering the device. When choosing, many buyers are guided primarily by it.

With a bag

Such devices are the cheapest in their line. Their principle of operation is quite simple. When the electric motor is started, a fan is activated, which creates an area of discharged air inside the housing, and therefore the dust is sucked in and enters the dust collector. When the bag is full, it must be replaced, otherwise there will be no cleaning efficiency.

The air, passing through the filter system, is cleaned and goes back into the room . Manufacturers offer dust bags made of different materials: paper or fabric. The former can be used only once, the latter are reusable.

With container

Such devices are equipped with a cyclonic system. Principle of operation: when sucked in, air is directed into a cone-shaped reservoir, where a spiral movement is created. As a result, the dust is pressed against the walls and settles down. More advanced models are equipped with a double cyclone system, in which the external cycle cleans the air from coarse fractions, and then from the main tank - from finer dust.

The dirt is collected in a special container. It is emptied as it accumulates. Conveniently, a dust collector of this design can be washed under running water. Among the main disadvantages is contact with dust during tank cleaning.

With aquafilter

The devices are ideal for allergy sufferers as they not only purify but also humidify the air. Dirt particles are held securely by the water.

When cleaning the working container, it is enough to drain the dirty water, there is no contact with dust.

The most affordable modifications are with disposable bags. If speed and efficiency are first of all important, then this is your option. You can choose fabric bags that are reusable. However, they will have to be emptied regularly and washed at times. You should consider this factor when buying.

Slightly more expensive than a device with cyclonic dust collectors. In the modern market of household appliances, these modifications occupy a leading position, since they have the most optimal price-quality ratio. Such devices are present in almost every average family. They are easy to operate, but like any other equipment, they have disadvantages that should be taken into account. The main factors are the following.

• Fans are sometimes clogged with hair, fluff or wool, then the quality decreases. Keep rotating parts clean. Therefore, experts do not recommend animal owners to buy such models.
• The solid waste will be sucked into the plastic container. If it is large, it can deform the dust container.

Water filters are the "youngest" of the options presented . They were invented relatively recently. Such modifications are by far the most efficient at collecting and retaining contaminants. During the cleaning procedure, the suction power remains constant at any degree of filling the dust container. If you have small children or households with allergies, then systems with an aquafilter are a must.

Of course, the cost of such devices is significant, but is it worth saving on the health of loved ones? Factors to look out for are the size and weight of the equipment. The assortment allows you to choose a device according to your physical strengths and parameters.

Power

When choosing household appliances, please note that it is characterized by two types of power: consumed and suction. There is no relationship between them. The second indicator is decisive for a vacuum cleaner: the higher it is, the better. The technical parameter must be specified in the documents for the device.

It depends on several factors: the filling level of the dust collector-bag, the kinks of the hose, the type of brush. Measured in watts (W).

Typically, the power is reflected through a fraction, first - consumed, for example, 1500/450.

Household models are characterized by the following values:

• 350 watts - for cleaning smooth floor coverings such as linoleum, tiles and laminate;
• from 400 to 450 watts - suitable for carpets, including long-pile carpets;
• 550 watts - the indicator is typical for devices that carry out wet cleaning;
• 650 Watt - the unit is necessary for high-quality cleaning of soft surfaces, furniture;
• 800 watts and more - for professional models that can handle even construction waste.

The best option for a city apartment is a device with a suction rate of 350-450 watts. Professionals advise to opt for those models that are characterized by high suction power with the lowest power consumption. If it is possible to choose a modification with the function of switching the suction mode, then this is good. Then it will be possible to adjust the power for various pollution and not waste extra energy.

Filtration system

The health status of the user depends on the filtration system. When leaving the vacuum cleaner, the air pollution should be below 10%. This is the minimum acceptable limit. The higher pollution level is dangerous for humans. And for allergically unstable people, even 1% of dust can cause an adverse reaction.

Modern modifications are usually equipped with a standard three-stage system . More sophisticated models are equipped with advanced complexes, including up to 8 stages of cleaning. The more filtration levels, the cleaner the outlet air and the more expensive the device.

The filtration indicator must be included in the technical passport of the equipment. It shows the number of particles retained. The optimal indicator is 99.95%.

When buying a device, pay attention to the second stage, which protects the engine . It is better if the filter is replaceable, since the permanent one will have to be cleaned regularly. This procedure will eventually lead to wear of the parts. The cost of repairs will significantly exceed the cost of replacement filters.

The third stage is also called fine cleaning. Thanks to her, the air is cleaned by 95%. Additional filters perform other functions. Bactericidal disinfect. Coal cleaners remove unpleasant odors from the air.

Experts warn that only the first three levels of cleaning are key (dust collector, engine compartment filter, HEPA - fine cleaning), the rest are the marketing ploy of manufacturers.

Filters of the third level are the most important in the system, so let's take a closer look at them

• Electrostatic - the simplest and cheapest. They are used in budget modifications. For manufacturing, foam rubber, cellulose or pressed microfiber are used. They quite cope with their function, yielding only to modern filters. Microfilters need to be regularly washed or changed.
• HEPA - used in most modern units. Manufacturers are constantly improving them. The material is a fibrous substance folded in the form of an accordion. Cheap options are used once and are either paper or fiberglass. The frequency of their replacement varies depending on the model.

Permanent filters are made of fluoroplastic. They need to be rinsed regularly in running water.

The filter efficiency is regulated by the European standard. The cleaning level is indicated by the fixed values from H10 to H16, which are present in the technical documents. The more this parameter is, the better. For example, HEPA H10 captures 85% of dust, HEPA H14 - 99.995%.

S-filters also characterized by a high degree of air purification (up to 99, 97%). They are removable and reusable. The former will need to be changed annually.

Cleaning type

For some users, the choice depending on the type of cleaning is important. There are two main types: wet and dry.

Dry

Dry cleaning is carried out using vacuum cleaners based on bags or containers. Cleaning may become more or less effective depending on the type of dust collector.

Since machines using bags are the cheapest, they are chosen quite often. Experts advise choosing models with paper bags. They retain dirt better than fabric ones. Of course, they will have to be changed when buying new ones, but with them there is less risk of breathing in dust when shaking it out of the bag.

Devices equipped with containers are more expensive in cost, but convenient in that you do not have to change anything. The container is freed from debris and is much easier to clean, but contact with dust remains during this procedure.

Household appliances designed for dry cleaning are compact, lightweight, maneuverable, easy to use, and have a long service life.

Their dust collectors do not require attention and are emptied as debris accumulates. The main significant disadvantages are the risk of direct contact with dust particles during cleaning and the dependence of the suction power on the filling of the bag or container.

Wet

Wet cleaning is indispensable for allergy sufferers. It eliminates all contact with contaminants, since they settle in the water and pour out with it. Washing vacuum cleaners humidify the air, make it possible to clean different types of surfaces. Unlike previous modifications, the suction power does not decrease during the entire harvesting procedure. Of course, there are disadvantages: high cost and regular cleaning after each use, weighty dimensions and weight.

Noise level

It should be remembered that silent vacuum cleaners also emit a sound, it just does not exceed a comfortable level for the ears of 70 dB. When choosing, keep in mind that you will only pay for comfort, since this indicator does not affect quality. Manufacturers reduce noise in different ways. Some use vibration-damping materials in their construction. Experts warn that this increases the mass of the device.

Some models are equipped with a power regulator that allows you to change the suction power, respectively, and the volume . Cyclonic filtration systems and detergents are rarely silent.

Additional functions

Seemingly insignificant little things also influence the choice of the device. The extended line of nozzles is convenient for people who are professionally engaged in cleaning, since in ordinary life, apartment owners use only standard brushes. If there is a fundamental requirement for the availability of additional devices, then attention should be paid to this . It may be easier to purchase a separate attachment that is not included in the kit.

Convenient function of adjusting the size of the pipe. In most models, it is telescopic, but in different lengths. Monitor this factor as well.

Well-known and popular manufacturers not only make their devices from high-quality materials, but also provide certificates of their reliability check. That is, vacuum cleaners are tested for the strength of the joints, impact resistance and other indicators.

Additional features include various indicators and controls that simplify operation.

Among the most requested are the following functions

• "Smooth start". They are equipped with powerful devices with a high level of noise.
• Auto power off when heating. This function is inherent in powerful devices, as they can overheat and fail.
• Blocking of the "start" command in the absence of a dust collector in place.
• Indicator showing the level of filling the container with garbage.
• Power regulator.

Another popular feature is the auto-rewinding of the electrical cable. An insignificant thing, but very convenient. Many high-quality models are equipped with rubberized wheels to protect the floor from scratches and the same bumper that protects the body from impacts. Some manufacturers have provided a storage compartment for attachments in the design. This is convenient if the apartment is large and you need to clean up in all the nooks and crannies. There is no need to go anywhere specifically for brushes, they are always at hand.

Rating of the best models

Before you set out to buy a vacuum cleaner, check out the major manufacturers. The name of the brand often speaks about how many years the company has been established in the market, how it has improved its products. It depends on whether you buy a quality product or not.

The leaders in this area are, of course, German companies

• Bosch - one of the leaders in the production of household appliances all over the world. Its devices are reliable, efficient and long-lasting. The company has been operating on the market for over 120 years.
• Thomas Is another well-established German brand, a world celebrity. The assembly of vacuum cleaners is carried out only at production sites in Germany. The products differ from competitors in the high degree of reliability and efficiency of filtration systems. Recently, the company introduced the Aqubox innovation, thanks to which the air filtration reaches a limit of 99.99%.
• Karcher - mainly aimed at large production units.

They are designed for professional needs.

Among other European companies, such well-known brands can also be distinguished

• Electrolux - The Swedish company sells its household appliances in 150 countries around the world. It gained popularity thanks to a wide range of devices. It presents budget options, as well as elite and middle-income people. A variety of additional functions allows you to select devices according to your needs.
• Philips - a company from the Netherlands is well known in our country as well. It is characterized by the release of powerful vacuum cleaners at affordable prices.
• Dyson - An English company produces vacuum cleaners with special collection and filtration systems. Filters can withstand up to 2-3 months of operation without cleaning. The products are durable, but there are no budget modifications.
• Hotpoint-ariston - a brand from Italy specializes in the production of dry cleaning machines. Offers models with dust collectors in the form of a bag or cyclone type. In addition to traditional horizontal modifications, it produces vertical ones. The main advantages are noiselessness and good suction power, which affects the efficiency of the cleaning procedure.

In the group of Asian companies, the following are the most popular

• Samsung and LG - giants from Korea offer such a huge assortment that it is impossible not to find something suitable in terms of price and quality. Some models are equipped with CycloneForce and Kompressor features. The first guarantees the efficiency of the filtration system, the second automatically compresses the dust.
• Hyundai - The Japanese manufacturer has also established itself as an affordable pricing policy, reliability and unique design of the manufactured equipment.

Vacuum cleaners from Asia do not have a long service life. On average, it is 5-6 years, but with proper care and careful use, it can be higher.

The most famous American brands are Kirby and Rainbow. Their cleaning appliances are made of high-strength materials and are characterized by a high degree of reliability.

Unfortunately, the cost of such units significantly exceeds the price of analogs of European brands.

Russian-made household appliances are somewhat different in quality from European and American counterparts, however, they are quite affordable and suitable for city apartments at an opportune moment

• Kitfort Is a Russian company that assembles equipment in China. The main type of product is vertical vacuum cleaners with cyclone-type filtration system. They are characterized by an interesting design, compactness, optimal battery performance, and noiselessness.
• Vitek - a domestic company, in the development of the concept of which the Austrian expert An-Der Products GMBH was involved. As a result, a unique quality system was developed, and the latest world achievements in construction and design are used in production. According to research in recent years, every fifth family in Russia chooses devices from this company, including vacuum cleaners. The assortment line includes versions with dust bags, cyclonic, with aquafilter, automobile, manual and vertical.
• " Dastprom " - a domestic manufacturer from Noginsk, specializes in the production of universal industrial units that can cope with various industrial pollution. The devices are configured to work during the day without additional adjustment. They are subject to the cleaning of construction and industrial waste. In particular, these types of pollution .

1. gypsum, cement, polymers, powder paints, graphite-containing compounds;
2. metal shavings, sawdust, broken glass, fine gravel and sand, abrasives.

The versatility of the units is due to the following factors

• The body is not made of plastic, as in ordinary household devices, but of metal. It is covered with powder paint, which protects it from chips, stress and aggressive chemicals.
• The control system is mechanical, powered from a 220 V network. The electronics were deliberately abandoned in order to eliminate the risk of equipment failure in case of power outages.
• The degree of cleaning reaches 99.9% even when working with very small debris up to 5 microns in size.
• The design includes a car filter that is easy to change and hassle-free to purchase.

The unit is easy to use.

Selection recommendations

To choose the right vacuum cleaner, you must first prioritize. You need to soberly assess your wishes for each category of choice described above. We start with what kind of area cleaning we need a household appliance, as well as what function the room has.

• For a small apartment you need to find an efficient compact device that is suitable not only for cleaning carpeted floors, but also for linoleum or laminate. These materials are most popular in modern urban interiors.
• For home or cottage you need a device that can handle a large area. Therefore, we choose a reliable vacuum cleaner with a diverse set of functions that allows you to effectively remove any dirt on different surfaces.
• For kitchen where dirt needs to be removed on a daily basis, a tabletop hand-held unit is suitable. It is better if it is equipped with a paper bag, as this will reduce the cost, reduce the risk of dust settling when shaking debris from the dust container. A kitchen vacuum cleaner should be compact so as not to take up much space, convenient for cleaning crumbs, scattered cereals, fine dust.
• For office or other public spaces cleaning companies are usually invited. In their arsenal there is always a good household vacuum cleaner. It is usually bulky and bulky because it is designed to handle a significant amount of dust and dirt.
• For warehouses, garages or technical workshops you will need a device that would suck up large debris. Such devices are the largest and most massive. They are characterized by the highest suction power.

Having decided on the functionality, you can dwell on other criteria. For example, what type of cleaning is supposed to be carried out using the purchased device. If only dry is enough, then there is no need to spend money on expensive washing household appliances. In the case of allergy sufferers or young children, experts recommend purchasing washing or combined models so that the cleaning procedure becomes more effective, and the air is additionally humidified.

Of course, in a house with small children or elderly people, noiselessness is an important factor . Many manufacturers offer such models. It should be remembered that some companies reduce the power of the motor for this purpose, but the filtration system must remain at a high level. For frequent cleaning, it is better to purchase a vacuum cleaner with a bag or container.

They do not require regular cleaning and maintenance, they are easy to store, they are characterized by maneuverability and economical energy consumption.

Vacuum cleaners with an aquafilter are able to carry out different types of cleaning, having an average size and weight . It is profitable to purchase them for high-quality complete cleaning. If the top priority is cost, experts urge you to pay attention to models with a standard set of functions, with a dust collector in the form of a bag. We warn you that unreasonably cheap modifications are usually made of low quality plastic, therefore, they have a short service life.

Reviews

Most owners of household appliances are convinced that a vacuum cleaner is indispensable for complete cleaning of any room. Their choice depends on individual tastes and preferences. Housewives with small children prefer washing models. First, they are satisfied with the efficiency of such a device and its versatility. Secondly, it humidifies the air and completely eliminates interaction with dust particles, which is important for babies and their mothers.

Allergy sufferers like devices with aquafilters . Sometimes doctors recommend them, because whatever the cost of the unit, it will still be less than the amount spent on medicines.

In metropolitan areas, people get home after a working day for a long time, so there is not enough time for daily cleaning. Some are purchasing robotic devices. For example, the iClebo Arte vacuum cleaner has earned positive reviews. It is enough to set a regime for him, and he will do everything himself. Of course, high-quality full-fledged cleaning is beyond his powers, but as a preventive measure it is quite suitable.

Young people with crazy schedules rarely have time to clean up. They are happy to talk about compact mop vacuum cleaners. The dust bag is removed only after filling, the device is unpretentious in storage, it is possible to hang it on the wall.

Reviews of cyclone apparatus are not eloquent, but only because these units are everyday workhorses. They are absolutely unpretentious, invisible, always at hand. Models like these have become part of everyday life throughout the country. The only thing that pays attention to when choosing is the design.

Sometimes there are amazing futuristic modifications.

In large cottages, daily cleaning is very problematic, so the owners have several options for household appliances available. Hand-held compact models help to cope with dust on bookshelves in a library or office, small units with a bag are convenient for a kitchen where you constantly need to put things in order, and a washing vacuum cleaner is used only for thorough general cleaning.