In the world of vacuum cleaners there are “Big Differences” between models being sold on the market today. At one point, most everyone has been shopping for a vacuum that fits their needs and wants. So, how do you decide on which vacuum to choose from. Well, it depends on how you’re looking at the purchase and there are several questions you should be asking yourself.

  1. What are your specific needs?
  2. Are you using it for residential or commercial use?
  3. What options or accessories are you looking for?
  4. Is the vacuum maintenance friendly?
  5. Can you find parts when damaged or broken?
  6. What is the manufacturer’s warranty?
  7. Should I purchase a vacuum with a bag or canister filter?
  8. Steel frame vs. plastic frame?

Either way, these are things to consider when making a vacuum cleaner purchase. In most cases, the concept of a vacuum cleaner has not changed since the infancy of the invention itself. But, some companies today are trying new designs with the attempt to make vacuums more efficient and effective. The bottom line, a vacuum must do three things in order for the vacuum to be effective.

  1. Have a quality “Beater Brush” in order for the loose contamination to be vacuumed.
  2. A vacuum motor assembly that has enough power to pull the debris from the carpet.
  3. A quality filtration system that filters the exhaust without contaminating the room.

***40 + Amp motor is recommended for maximum vacuum suction***

You will notice a vast difference between vacuums being sold on retail shelves. Most are going to be “Consumer Grade” vacuums that will last a few years, but eventually break from regular use. Trying to buy parts for a consumer grade vacuum is difficult and mostly come only from the manufacturer (belts excluded). Most “Commercial Grade” vacuums are going to have much stronger frame, beater brush, vacuum motor and better built overall. Also, finding parts for a commercial vacuum is MUCH EASIER than a non-commercial model. Most local vacuum supply houses carry parts for commercial vacuums. Yes, you are going to spend more on a commercial vacuum, but if you’re thinking long-term and performance then commercial is definitely the way to go! But, for a more economical choice then consumer grade vacuums are effective if maintained properly.

How to choose a vacuum cleaner is also a personal decision. Some consider the weight of the vacuum a big part of the decision making process. Most commercial vacuum cleaners are commonly referred to as “Tank” models which are more difficult to push. Whereas, some of your lighter consumer grade vacuums are typically made from plastic and are much easier to manipulate over the surface of the carpet. Another thing to consider is a commercial vacuum typically will not have attachments for cleaning smaller crack and crevices.  Both commercial and consumer grade vacuums are engineered to obtain maximum power and performance, but there is still a “Big” difference between the two.