Firing up a vacuum is the surest and quickest way to keep carpet, hardwood, and even upholstery spick-and-span. But with countless options available, it's not easy to narrow down the best suction vacuums out there. So, if you're in the market for a new vacuum, here's what to consider:
Canister, Upright, Or Robotic Vacuum?
First, you'll want to decide what style of vacuum you want. Canister vacuums are the most powerful. Because the bulk of the vacuum stays on the ground, manufacturers don't need to worry about minimizing weight. As a result, they can utilize the most heavy-duty materials for superior suction. That said, upright vacuums are much more portable, and many of them still offer adequate suction for the majority of household jobs. If you're looking for convenience above all else, you'll also want to consider a robotic vacuum cleaner; it'll be less powerful than uprights or canisters, but they do all the work for you while still offering decent suction.
Power
Regardless of the style you choose, there are a few reliable ways to discern just how powerful a vacuum is. One of the best determinants is wattage, which measures the input power of the vacuum's motor. High-suction vacuums tend to use motors with 1,000 watts or more. Suction pressure, which is measures in kilopascals, is another great way to discern a vacuum's power, although fewer manufacturers disclose this number. But if they do — look for a range of between 5 to 20 kilopascals.
Finally, if neither of these specs are available, you can make your decision based on reviewer feedback. For example, these six vacuum cleaners come highly rated and recommended — and most importantly, buyers can't stop raving about their powerful suction.
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