When the vacuum cleaner is in operation, the container turns into a resonator. Therefore, cleaning with the help of such models of vacuum cleaners can hardly be called quiet. A vacuum cleaner with a water filter is a real machine for creating a good microclimate. The sucked-in air is flushed with water, and the wet dust settles in a special container.
The modern vacuum cleaner market offers a wide range of vacuum cleaners of different models. Before deciding which vacuum cleaner to choose, orient yourself with a set of basic parameters that determine the functionality and performance of the device.
Vacuum cleaner power
One of the main indicators of the efficiency of a vacuum cleaner is its power. Distinguish power consumption vacuum cleaner and suction power dust.
The power consumption of the vacuum cleaner ranges from 1000 to 2000 watts on average.
The maximum power consumption is valid for several minutes after switching on the vacuum cleaner.
The buyer is mistaken in thinking that the more power consumed, the better the vacuum cleaner collects dust.
Cleaning efficiency is not directly related to power consumption. It is influenced by other indicators. Therefore, several vacuum cleaners with the same power consumption may have different suction power.
Which vacuum cleaner to choose according to the suction power
When choosing a vacuum cleaner, pay attention to the ratio of power consumption and suction power, which suits you in terms of power and energy efficiency. The cleaning efficiency depends on the suction power.
Allocate the average effective and maximum suction power.
Average effective power suction - the ability of a vacuum cleaner for a long time with a certain power to suck dust. It is determined after the first 5 minutes of vacuum cleaner operation.
Maximum suction power is the power with which the vacuum cleaner sucks up dust for the first few minutes. It is 15-30% more than the average effective suction power. This is the highest suction power.
The average suction power decreases as the dust container becomes dirty and fills up.
Before choosing a vacuum cleaner, pay attention to the average suction power, since vacuuming is a process that takes longer than the first 5 minutes.
The higher the suction power, the stronger the suction air flow inside the vacuum cleaner.
The consumer has the opportunity to independently select the suction power of the vacuum cleaner, using the switch, depending on the degree of pollution of the room to be cleaned. Buy a vacuum cleaner with a higher power and use the regulator to increase or decrease the suction power, based on the degree of dirtiness of the surfaces.
The suction power of the vacuum cleaner is determined through the vacuum (h) and the air flow (q) and is equal to their product.
P = qh (aero W)
Vacuum refers to the ability of a vacuum cleaner to suck in dust. Measured in Pascals (Pa).
The air flow rate shows how much air the vacuum cleaner passes through itself per unit of time. Measured in m³ / min or dm³ / sec.
The suction power depends on both criteria, on their normal ratio. If the air flow is good and the vacuum is weak, then any resistance will cause a decrease in the efficiency of the vacuum cleaner.
If the vacuum is sufficient and the air flow is weak, heavy particles will remain on the floor or carpet.
A vacuum cleaner with a suction power of 250 W is suitable for cleaning small apartments.
In case of significant contamination, pay attention to models with a power of 300 watts.
When using turbo brushes, look at models with power from 350 watts.
Vacuum cleaner filtration
The following filtration systems are used in vacuum cleaners:
- Aqua filter systems, dust bag or bagless dust collector collect dirt and dust. They don't purify the air;
- motor filter, protects the motor from large debris. It can be removable or permanent. Replaceable changes through the use of each set of dust collectors. The permanent motor filter is periodically cleaned according to the requirements specified in the operating instructions. Do not purify the air;
- Fine filters (microfilters, S-class filters or HEPA filters) are dust collection and air purification systems.
Fine filters
Fine filters are designed to trap the smallest particles, allergens and microorganisms, purifying the air.
There are two main types of such filters:
- electrostatic microfilters - located in most vacuum cleaners;
- HEPA - filters and filters S-class - are included in the set for some models of vacuum cleaners or can be installed there.
Electrostatic microfilters trap microparticles more than 0.3 microns. They purify the air at the outlet by 80-99.9%.
S-class filters absorb at least 99.97% of the smallest particles. According to PIN24184 standard: particle retention of more than 0.3 micron (0.03mm). Such filters are used from one year to several years.
HEPA-class filters (High Efficiency Particulate Air), that is, "high efficiency air purification" provides four classes of protection with varying degrees of efficiency. They serve, like S-class filters, for several years. They can be replaceable or reusable, which are washed with water and then they serve until the end of the life of the vacuum cleaner.
HEPA filters according to EN1822 standard retain particles larger than 0.06 microns (0.0006 mm). There are several types of HEPA filters, the efficiency of which according to the EN 1822 standard is as follows:
- HEPA H 10 - not less than 85%;
- HERA H 11 - not less than 95%;
- HEPA H 12 - not less than 99.5%;
- HEPA H 13 - not less than 99.95%.
These filters are made of a special porous material based on fiberglass, which provides a branching network of tiny pores.
Types of vacuum cleaners
Vacuum cleaners for the home are designed for both dry cleaning and wet cleaning (washing vacuum cleaners).
Vacuum cleaners for dry cleaning:
- with bags for collecting dust. Bags in vacuum cleaners are removable (paper) and reusable (fabric). It is more convenient to use paper bags. They are thrown away when filling and a new bag is inserted into the machine;
- with water filter. The vacuum cleaner has a water reservoir that acts as a filter. During cleaning, all dust settles in the water, the air in the room is humidified;
- with a container for collecting dust (cyclone system). Dust is collected in a container, which is cleaned as it fills. The containers are made of transparent plastic, which makes it possible to visually determine the degree of filling. The disadvantage is the high noise level: air is sucked into the container, moves in a circle at high speed and creates a tornado effect.
Washing vacuum cleaners
Washing vacuum cleaners have a lot of functionality. They do dry and wet cleaning of carpets and floors, clean clogged sinks, wash windows and tiles.
The disadvantages are the high cost, large size and weight, the need to disassemble and clean the vacuum cleaner after each use.
According to the power level, they are classified into low-power (up to 500 W), medium (500-2000 W) and increased power (more than 2000 W).
Classification of vacuum cleaners
- classic vacuum cleaners. Ideal for cleaning floor surfaces, wall hangings, bookshelves, stairs;
- hand-held vacuum cleaners. Convenient for cleaning vertical surfaces. Some models have slotted brushes with an extended brush head. Also included are brushes for collecting liquids, removing stains from furniture, fabrics and carpets;
- vacuum cleaners 2 in 1. They remove dirt efficiently, are convenient to use, and fight allergens well. Quite noisy and cumbersome;
- mop vacuum cleaner. Suitable for daily cleaning of hard floors, stairs and rugs;
- vacuum cleaner for construction (industrial). Has increased air filtration, reduces dust during operation. The powerful motor easily sucks up industrial dust with a brush. Equipped with a long cord;
- steam vacuum cleaners. Designed for thorough cleaning of carpets and furniture upholstery with steam.
Suction pipe
The vacuum cleaners are equipped with a steel, telescopic, plastic, aluminum or two-piece tube.
Telescopic tubes easy to use, set the optimal length individually for the user. They take up little space and can be stored folded. Telescopic pipes with a special latch-lock and pipes with a handle are comfortable in operation.
Composite pipes less comfortable. They must be collected before harvesting. For storing the assembled pipe, additional space is allocated in the closet or closet.
Plastic pipes - easier, steel - stronger and more reliable, durable.
Brushes and nozzles
Each brush and nozzle has its own area of application. The more brushes and attachments, the wider the functionality of the vacuum cleaner.
To the standard set dry vacuum cleaner attachments include:
- nozzles for floors and carpets;
- universal brush head with a floor / carpet switch that allows you to extend and hide the bristles;
- crevice nozzle for cleaning dust accumulating in hard-to-reach places.
To non-standard set relate:
- a turbo brush removes animal hair. A brush is located on the nozzle, rotating due to the air flow passing through it. For your information, due to rotation, the suction power of the vacuum cleaner is reduced;
- brush for cabinet furniture. Small brush with thick, high bristles. Ideal for cleaning polished furniture. Long pile prevents the base of the attachment from scratching furniture;
- nozzle for upholstered furniture. Small in size, sometimes has plush inserts;
- brush for cleaning parquet, laminate, tiles. Special wide, narrow brush with a long bristle that protects against accidental scratches.
Vacuum cleaner noise level
The noise level of a vacuum cleaner is a serious factor that draws attention to itself. The noise level is measured in dB. For vacuum cleaners, a certain norm of the maximum permissible noise level has been established. It ranges from 71 to 80 dB.
We invite you to the Fotos.ua catalog, where you can, guided by the theses of this article, choose a vacuum cleaner to your liking.
Watch a video review of truly true workers - Zelmer washing vacuum cleaners
