WHAT'S AVAILABLE
Hoover, the oldest and largest vacuum manufacturer, is a division of Maytag and offers roughly 50 models priced from $50 to $500 as well as central vacuum systems priced higher. Many of Hoover’s conventional models are similar, with minor differences in features; the “variety” is mostly in the marketing. Some Hoover machines are made exclusively for retail chain stores. Kenmore is the biggest name for canister models, accounting for about 25 percent of U.S. sales.
Other players include Dirt Devil, which sells uprights and canisters as well as stick brooms and hand vacuums; Eureka, which offers low-priced models, central vacs, and high-end Electrolux-branded models; Bissell, a mostly mass-marketed brand; Dyson, a British brand, which recently introduced a canister to its brightly-colored line up; and brands such as Miele, Panasonic, Samsung, Sanyo, Sharp, and Simplicity, which are likely to be sold at specialty stores. Higher-priced Aerus (which also makes central vacs) and Oreck models are sold in their own stores and by direct mail, while upscale Kirby and Rainbow models are still sold door-to-door.
Along with a vacuum’s brand, your choices include several types:
Uprights. These tend to be the least expensive. Their one-piece design also makes them easier to store than canister vacs. A top-of-the-line upright might have a wider cleaning path, be self-propelled, and have a HEPA filter, dirt sensor, and full-bag indicator.
Price range for most: $75 to $300.
Canister vacuums. These tend to do well on bare floors because they allow you to turn off the brush or use a specialized tool to avoid scattering dirt. Most are quieter than uprights, and their long, flexible hose tends to make them better at cleaning on stairs and in hard-to-reach areas. The added clutter of the loose hose and wand makes canisters somewhat harder to store, however. While canister vacs still tend to cost the most, you’ll find a growing number of lower-priced models.
Price range for most: $150 to $500.
Central vac systems. They clean like a canister vac without your having to push, pull, or carry the motor and body around. They’re also relatively quiet, and require less-frequent emptying. But they’re the most expensive option, and generally require professional installation. The 35-foot hose can be cumbersome, and there’s no place to carry tools while you work. Price range: $500 to $1,250 for the unit including tools, plus $300 to $750 to install.
Stick vacs and hand vacs. Whether corded or cordless, these miniature vacuums typically lack the power of a full-sized vacuum cleaner. But they can be handy for small, quick jobs.
Price range: $20 to $75.
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