Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Can You Get a Cheap Vacuum Cleaner That Really Does a Good Job?

Editors Note: Let's be honest, not everyone can afford a $500 Dyson vacuum, and in many cases a vacuum like that is overkill. So, our question is, Can you find a good cheap vacuum? The answer is I think we did.


You can find vacuums on the market today for just about any price point from $50 to $1600 or more! For some people, an expensive vacuum is just not necessary.

Maybe you live in an apartment or small home, or live on a limited budget. Is there a vacuum that can meet your needs and fit your budget.

We found a great choice that does a great job for about $74.00. It is the Hoover Tempo Widepath. In our tests in a normal residential setting, this vacuum does the job. Of course, you have to keep things in perspective.



Here is what we found.


  • Power: The Hoover Tempo Widepath has a full 12 amp motor, which produces very good suction at the carpet level as well as hose for attachments. Hoover is known for reliable, quality vacuum motors.

  • Simplicity: Control for height adjustment is located on the top of the vacuum head, which gives you the ability to adjust the cleaning height depending on your carpet. This also allows you to clean on bare floor, although you cannot turn off the brushroll. Great for carpet but not as good on bare floor.

  • Tools: Often, with vacuums at this price you do not get tools. The Hoover Tempo Widepath comes with an extension wand, crevice and dusting brush along with a 8 foot extension hose.

  • Bagged Vacuum: Unless you are going to spend more money, do not buy a cheap BAGLESS vacuum. The Hoover Tempo Widepath is a BAGGED vacuum. It produces great suction and stays clean inside. Inexpensive BAGLESS vacuums tend to clog quickly since they do not have very good filtration such as the Dyson. So, in this case, a bagged vacuum is the way to go.

  • Price: At $74.00, we found the The Hoover Tempo Widepath to be a excellent value. In our research, we found many at offices and retail settings. One comment we heard was they are cheap enough to purchase and throw away if something happens. You just go out and get another one. Also, bags are inexpensive, you can get 9 bags for about $8.00. Belts cost about $2.00 if you need them.


So, to answer the question, can you find an inexpensive vacuum cleaner that does a good job? it seems that the answer is yes, the
The Hoover Tempo Widepath is a good choice on the market today. We like this vacuum, especially for the price and performance features.


About The Author: Mike George has over 15 years in the cleaning and maintenance business. He has written many articles and reviews in regard to cleaning and maintenance around the home. He has field tested many vacuum cleaners in a variety of situations. Mr. George recommends only those vacuums that meet a very strict set of requirements in residential and commercial settings. You can read the full review of the Hoover Tempo Widepath, with pictures and links to other consumer reviews at A Good Cheap Vacuum Cleaner


Monday, October 19, 2009

Dyson Vacuums: Dyson DC28 Animal Vacuum Cleaner


Dyson vacuum cleaners came along and revolutionized the way consumers think about vacuum cleaners.

The design of a Dyson 28 Animal Vacuum Purple
is the result of function over form and is specially designed for people that have pets and do not want to spend a lot of time vacuuming.

How do Dyson vacuum cleaners work?

Before Dyson came along, all vacuum cleaners used bags, but as the bag filled up the vacuum lost suction power. Dyson vacuum cleaners don't have a bag and they don't lose suction. Instead, Dyson vacuums use centrifugal force to produce suction. The patented Root Cyclone technology spins the air at very high speed, which produces very strong suction. The dirt is collected in the vacuum's clear plastic bin drum - no suction power is lost, even when the bin is almost full.

What are the benefits of using a Dyson 28 Animal Vacuum ?

1. The number one benefit has to be its incredible suction power that lasts and lasts and has a sealed "cam" that generates even more suction to pick up tough pet hair.

2. The range of Dyson DC28 vacuum cleaner means you get the right machine to clean your floors, whether you have rugs, carpets, hardwood floors etc.

3.Power on pet hair. In the case of the Dyson DC28, this vacuum has been designed to pull out pet hair by using a second motor to power the brush roll.

4. Dyson comes with a HEPA filter. Dyson's HEPA filter is a 'Lifetime' filter that never needs replacing, you simply wash it when it needs it and you ready to go. Also, about 99% of the bacteria and mold spores that are sucked up stay in the vacuum, making the DC28 a very good vacuum cleaner for allergy sufferers and those allergic to pet dander.

5. Dyson vacuum cleaners come with extensive tools and attachments so that you can clean every part of your home. Dyson's extendable hose is ideal for tackling stairs, while the telescopic reach allows you to vacuum curtains or overhead cobwebs without the hassle of assembly. The DC28 also comes with a turbo brush for eliminating pet hair on upholstery.

6. As you would expect from a vacuum cleaner that is highly rated by consumers, when you buy a Dyson, you also buy a vacuum with warranty and after sales service. In fact, the Dyson DC28 has a 5 year warranty that covers parts and labor top to bottom.

Are there any downsides?

Well, not everyone likes the styling of Dyson vacuums. Also, some prefer that their vacuums use bags; they don't like having to empty the dust bin. But, the biggest downside of buying a Dyson vacuum cleaner is cost. Dyson vacuums are more expensive that their competitors and the initial cost can be off-putting for many. However, buying a Dyson vacuum should be considered as an investment for the future; you should expect to get many years of service from your Dyson.

Here are the specs for this machine:

Dominate your floors with the powerful Dyson 28 Animal Vacuum The pneumatic actuator pulls the cleaner head deeper into the carpet, removing embedded dirt and pet hair, ideal for people with cats and dogs. The handy high-torque clutch delivers more power to the brush bar, opening carpet pile to dislodge dirt. Experience the cleanliness and ease of cleaning with this versatile vacuum.

Dyson DC28 Animal Vacuum with Filter and Mattress Tool Includes:

  • Dyson DC28 vacuum - measures approx. 14"L x 13-1/2"W x 42"H
  • Combo crevice tool
  • Mini-turbine head
  • Upholstery tool
  • Flat out head
  • Filter
  • Mattress tool
  • Manual
Product Features:
  • Advanced cleaner head technology
  • Engineered to pick up more dirt
  • Designed for homes with pets
  • Powered cam - adjusts the brushbar while the cleaner head seals to the floor; focusing section
  • Fingertip Controls - automatically adjusts (or de-activates) the brush bar for different floor types using a powered cam -Bends down - no awkward dials
  • Root cyclone technology - maintains constant suction; vacuum doesn't clog; powerful suction lifts stubborn debris and pet hair
  • Cleaner exhaust air - air expelled from a Dyson has less mold and bacteria than the air you breathe
  • Quick-draw telescope reach wand - extends instantly for stair and high-reach cleaning
  • Model #: Dyson 28 Animal Vacuum
  • ETL listed
  • Made in Malaysia
  • Comes with a manufacturer's 5-year limited warranty
For pricing information information on the Dyson DC28, Click here for the link

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Another Cleaning Company

My business associates just started another cleaning company in the St. Cloud MN area. They are looking to expand the company to a national level, so you might want to check it out and see what you think. It is a new concept in carpet cleaning, Abra Carpet Cleaning of St. Cloud MN.

The focus on just carpet and upholstery cleaning, using independent carpet cleaning contractors to complete the jobs. They are going to market their services aggressively and hope to get in on the fall cleaning season. You can check out their web site at St. Cloud MN Carpet Cleaners. They are putting up a nice blog as well.

Let me know what you think.

Dyson Vacuums... Worth The Money?

No doubt you have seen all of the advertising for the Dyson vacuum. But in practical terms, does the vacuum really work?

I would have to give a thumbs up to the Dyson for a few reasons.

1. The Dyson is expensive, but if you are set on purchasing a bagless vacuum, this one is going to save you money in the long run. If you buy a less expensive bagless vacuum, chances are good you will be purchasing one or more filters every 3-6 months. Most of the time, the filters are $20-$30 to replace.

2. Powerful. Most of the Dyson models are powerful. They have and good suction and maintain that power even when the dust cup begins to fill up.

3. Warranty. A 5 year warranty helps. This covers defects and issues top to bottom. You can save yourself a tremendous amount of money with a Dyson for this reason alone.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Maintenace for your Dyson DC07 or DC14 including the Dyson DC14 Full Kit: Dyson Maintenance


If you have a DC07, or a DC14 Dyson vacuum, including the DC14 full kit, like one of the models shown above, here is a tip for you that can save your vacuum from a slow death, and restore its performance back to like new. You will not find this info on any other web site or Dyson maintenance information.

This information comes from experience with these vacuums and trial and error.

Here is the maintenance tip. You might have kept your washable filters clean, but have you ever taken a look at the"Dyson Permanent Filter" under the dust cup base? This filter needs to be changed, and can be changed easily. This filter clogs over time and it will reduce the suction of your vacuum. Also, the chamber under the filter can then be cleaned to reduce the chance of sand or debris from entering the vacuum motor.

Here is what you have to do...

Step 1: Remove the dust cup from the vacuum.
Step 2: Use a flat screwdriver and gently loosen the tabs of the cap covering the permanent filter.
Step 3: Remove the filter.
Step 4: Shake out any sand or debris from the vacuum chamber of the vacuum.
Step 5: Replace the old filter with a new replacement filter and replace the cap.
Step 6: Your vacuum is ready!

You can find these filters for $42.00 or I have a source you can get these for $18.00.

Please post any questions you might have about maintaining your Dyson dc07 or dc14.

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Kenmore Progressive 35922 and 35923

I put together a killer squidoo site about the #1 vacuum pick by Consumer Reports, which is the Kenmore Progressive upright vacuum (bagged) with Intelli-Clean. Check it out, I uploaded a bunch of pictures with a very in-depth review of the vacuum I have not found anywhere else.

Friday, January 2, 2009

Maintaining The Dyson DC25 Ball Vacuum


The Dyson DC25 is the most powerful of the "ball" vacuums. It is very smooth steering, lighter weight than other uprights and flexible to use on carpet or floors. They made (2) models of the Dyson Ball, but do not get confused. The DC 24 has half the power of the Dyson DC25 model. The DC25 has a larger dirt cup and more "air watts". In fact, the DC24 has 115 "air watts" of power, while the larger, powerful DC25 has 220 "air watts" of power.

Maintaining either of the "ball" vacuums requires a few steps that you should know before you purchase one. This way, you will know exactly what to expect up front.

1. Filters. Yes, the filters are durable, and washable. But you MUST remember to wash them and if you do a lot of vacuuming, you will want to wash them more often than every six months, which is what Dyson suggests. There is a filter INSIDE of the Dyson DC25 that needs cleaning so make sure you do not neglect it.

2. Dust cup cleanliness. The dust cup of the Dyson DC25 is the same as other models. The main consideration is to keep hair and debris out of the small holes that line the cyclone head. You can use a putty knife to remove any hair that clogs these holes. Do not get the cyclone head wet! Instead, if it is very dirty use a damp cloth to wipe off the fine dust. You can also use pressurized air to clean the cyclone head of dust.

3. WD-40. A bit of WD-40 may be needed occasionally as the Dyson DC25 can start to squeak over time.

Hinges and rubber gaskets. There is a rubber gasket that can become dusty over time. This is the part that joins the vacuum and the dust cup together. A little WD-40 can keep the seal from drying out over time. Also, the hinge that releases the dirt out the bottom of the cup can be lubricated.

4. Plastic cleanliness. A simple wipe down with a general cleaner can do the trick. make sure to wipe the area where the dust cup sets, so dust does not accumulate in or around any contact points. This will make everything fit correctly to maintain proper suction.

The Dyson DC25 has a 5 year warranty. This makes it a good choice since any defects are repaired or replaced by Dyson. Most vacuums are lucky to have a one year warranty!

So, if you follow my advice, you can keep your Dyson DC25 running for a long time.