Thread Number: 28259  /  Tag: Brand New Vacuum Cleaners
Hard decision
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Post# 315747   2/17/2015 at 10:46 (3,327 days old) by momof5 ()        

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading through several threads and have learned a ton. I own a couple older Electrolux canisters (super j I think) and am looking to invest in a newer vacuum to last a good few decades. I have been mulling over this purchase for almost 2 years buying my time with a new hose purchase or 2. Anyway I am quite smitten with 2 machines the Aerus Platinum and Riccar Immaculate. We have a local dealer here whose asking $3000 for the Aerus. I made a call to a dealer further away (Denver) and got the same price quote. I was hoping to stay closer to $1500. Is there any way to get a better price on the aerus? If not I am quite happy with what I have seen of the Riccar. Granted I have not seen either machine in person but is there anything not to like about an American made machine such as the Riccar?

Christy


Post# 315748 , Reply# 1   2/17/2015 at 10:48 (3,327 days old) by marcusprit ()        

Yes the price! :-)

Post# 315750 , Reply# 2   2/17/2015 at 11:05 (3,327 days old) by countryguy (Astorville, ON, Canada)        

countryguy's profile picture
Yes you can most certainly get a much better price on the Aerus. There is a dealer in Florida from which myself and 1 or more other members have purchased the Guardian Platinum. Send me a note to the email in my profile and I can give you the details.

Gary


Post# 315751 , Reply# 3   2/17/2015 at 11:06 (3,327 days old) by suckolux (Yuba City, CA)        

suckolux's profile picture
there is the option of having them rebuild your Super J, a wonderful machine.couple hundred bucks.

Post# 315755 , Reply# 4   2/17/2015 at 11:53 (3,327 days old) by marcusprit ()        

$3000 for a vacuum cleaner? All I can say is some people must have more money than sense!

Post# 315762 , Reply# 5   2/17/2015 at 12:57 (3,327 days old) by Miskini (Northville, Michigan )        
I guarantee

miskini's profile picture
They will take $1400 for the aerus. You can't go wrong with either vac. I would imagine the distributors don't pay over $500 for the machines. Tell them what your willin to pay, show them the cash, they'll take it, not to risk losing a sale.

Post# 315768 , Reply# 6   2/17/2015 at 13:38 (3,327 days old) by Kirbysthebest (Midwest)        
Either machine will do you well.

My experience with Simplicity/Riccar dealers is they have a retail price, and retail price and not willing to move. One here locally did offer other store items as incentives, claiming they have a price mandate or set pricing they have to follow. I do hear this is true, Miele has this same mandate.

An Aerus dealer will deal, just depends on how hungry he is. They used to have set pricing much like Rainbow, but the dealers are more independent now and are free to make the sale how they like.

My advice is wait til the last day or so of the month when the dealer is wanting to make his/her quota then hit them with a fair offer. They will usually take it.
I bought my Lux Guardian Platinum for WELL below retail and the end of the month, I have to pay the rent, move inventory sale.


Post# 315781 , Reply# 7   2/17/2015 at 15:07 (3,327 days old) by momof5 ()        

Thanks for the tips. Like I mentioned I was hoping to stay around $1500 and not willing to pay $3000. I do have sense to not buy anything off the shelf at the local wallys. As far as rebuilding this old machine, which in fact my husband has suggested, I do then have some concerns. I am admittedly hard on my machines. But I am working on that. We have had to replace the hose/nozzle 3 times in the past 3 years. When I originally inherited this machine from my husbands mom 10 years ago I tried so hard to get rid of it. Too bulky and awkward to maneuver. Now I am sold as I have watched vacuums die by the handfulls all around me. Even borrowed someone elses while ours was in the shop and was begging for my machine back. I have grown to love my Electrolux, mostly the suction power! After 40 years. Back to my issue...My machine had the old fabric hose until it wore to a shred. Got it replaced 3 times and I have determined that the newer hose/nozzle is not durable enough to support the heavy old metal canister. I am hoping that a lighter machine will not cause so much wear on the hose/nozzle. $100 every time I yank the machine too hard is getting expensive.
Fyi I am a homeschooling mom of six, any cleaning that does get done needs to be quick and efficient or its not happening.

Any idea which machine might handle a little more abuse for a good cause.




Post# 315783 , Reply# 8   2/17/2015 at 15:14 (3,327 days old) by marcusprit ()        

I know of someone who paid $800 for a Riccar Radiance so they might be open to an offer on the Immaculate. I'd certainly give it a try!

Post# 315791 , Reply# 9   2/17/2015 at 15:47 (3,327 days old) by RUGSUCKER (Elizabethton TN)        
If you like the Super J--

--features such as 4 ply filter bag(easiest ever to change),quality attachments,cordwinder,power nozzle with gear belt(not smooth),blower and more BUT not the weight you might want to find a newer,lighter plastic body Electrolux.These were called 2100,LE and other names.You would keep the good features of the Super J style and add after filter and less weight with plastic body.A low milage plastic body style with good vinyl hose might be a good solution at reasonable cost.

Post# 315796 , Reply# 10   2/17/2015 at 16:21 (3,327 days old) by Luxman107 (USA )        
Mom of 5

Sent u an email,with a contact of a dealer in Orlando for your Aerus platnum.. Just ordered a second one from him.

Post# 315805 , Reply# 11   2/17/2015 at 17:30 (3,327 days old) by momof5 ()        

Thank You Gary and Mike. Now I have a new problem. I just watched a video showing a Riccar upright, the Brilliance premium and now I am trying to talk myself out of an upright. Anyone want to help me. When I first started my search I was stuck on having an upright for convenience sake. (8 people in a 1000 sq foot apartment, a day doesn't go by that someone doesn't get stepped on or ran into.) I later decided that quality and versatility were my top priorities as we are in the process of building a larger home and this vacuum will be my only vacuum. We are planning on a mix of carpet(mostly) with some hard flooring also but still, one vacuum. What do you all think. Maybe I should not watch any more lovely videos. I should add also that my husband already has plans for a central vacuum, so perhaps I will end up with more than one.

Christy


Post# 315806 , Reply# 12   2/17/2015 at 17:41 (3,327 days old) by Miskini (Northville, Michigan )        
I love

miskini's profile picture
My riccar radiance. I built my house 2 yrs. ago and installed a central vac. I rarely use the central vac.
The 35' hose is a pain in the ass to drag out and put away. It's easier for me to grab a ricccar or a Kirby


Post# 315808 , Reply# 13   2/17/2015 at 18:11 (3,326 days old) by Kirbysthebest (Midwest)        
I promise

You would love the Riccar/Simplicity uprights.  The tandium air machines are some of the best.    There have been some lightly, seldom used and some abused machines show up on Ebay recently.  

 

One went for $199.99, one $499.  There is currently a simplicity with a starting bid of $499.  I think this seller is offering a warranty, but I could be wrong.  

 

I bought a "salvage" "for parts" Synergy last month for $35.  I put about $150 in repairs and it works perfectly.  My house is  a Kirby House, but the Simplicity is up there with abilities.  Then again I am very fond of the Lux Guardian Platinum.  That sucker is so quiet.

 

 



CLICK HERE TO GO TO Kirbysthebest's LINK on eBay



This post was last edited 02/17/2015 at 21:02
Post# 315815 , Reply# 14   2/17/2015 at 19:01 (3,326 days old) by momof5 ()        

Ah. And see that was also what I was wondering. How noisy of a machine is the Riccar (Upright or canister) Compared to the Aerus?

Post# 315817 , Reply# 15   2/17/2015 at 19:24 (3,326 days old) by Ctvacman (CT)        

The simplicity/ riccar tandem uprights are going to be very loud compared to the platinum but they clean carpets very well. The Sim/Ric canisters are pretty quiet. I have a platinum and wish the power nozzle was a little quieter, it is the the new "quieter " model but still find it to have a more annoying tone compared to what they used to be

Post# 315818 , Reply# 16   2/17/2015 at 19:26 (3,326 days old) by Ctvacman (CT)        

I will say that the riccar vibrance ultra premium is very quiet and cleans well and with the optional 15' hose that plugs in the back it's pretty convenient to use for above the floor use

Post# 315819 , Reply# 17   2/17/2015 at 19:35 (3,326 days old) by countryguy (Astorville, ON, Canada)        

countryguy's profile picture
The choice between upright and cannister depends a lot on how you do your vacuuming. Do you do all your above the floor cleaning and then the floors/carpets (or vice versa) or do you vacuum room by room where you would be constantly switching between floor/carpet and above the floor cleaning? Personally I prefer a cannister because I vacuum room by room. I like to be able to detach the wands while I'm vacuuming the floor to quickly pick up a piece of stubborn dirt or something that's in a corner, etc. I love how quiet the Guardian is. I also have uprights and have had homes with central vac...out of all 3 I prefer a cannister.

Gary


Post# 315821 , Reply# 18   2/17/2015 at 19:42 (3,326 days old) by suckolux (Yuba City, CA)        

suckolux's profile picture
Your replacement hose failures makes me wonder if they were copy hoses and not genuine Electrolux? Mine is 18 years old and looks new. One person, might have helped. Good luck!

Post# 315825 , Reply# 19   2/17/2015 at 20:13 (3,326 days old) by Kirbysthebest (Midwest)        
I agree

Your choice will depend on your usage.  I actually prefer an upright because I like to back out of a room without stepping where I just vacuumed.  With a canister I am always kicking it out of my way.  

 

Having grown up with an upright, I usually go through with the hose doing above the floor and furniture, then with the upright doing carpets. 

 

P.S. I dust first, then vacuum.  

 

 


Post# 315836 , Reply# 20   2/17/2015 at 23:43 (3,326 days old) by dlb764 (Central Florida)        

If you or anyone in your family has allergies then I would highly recommend that you go forward with installing a central vacuum. It is the only vacuum that can offer you zero emissions if vented outside. Just make sure that you stay away from air-driven tools (incredibly loud and do an overall poor job) and choose an electric power nozzle. I'm not exactly a vacuum enthusiast but since the job has always fallen on me (I give up trying to find a girlfriend that enjoys it lol) I prefer vacuums that work well. For me I have only used canisters and central vacuums. A power nozzle can fit and go under many places that an upright just can't touch. With an upright you just don't have the ability to easily go under and around beds, tables, chairs, etc.

Post# 315838 , Reply# 21   2/18/2015 at 00:29 (3,326 days old) by Marks_here (_._)        

This post has been removed by the member who posted it.



Post# 315913 , Reply# 22   2/18/2015 at 09:50 (3,326 days old) by rugsucker (Elizabethton TN)        
vacs present and future

A few more thoughts--
It is usually best if your main vac is a CANISTER with hose,attachments(for hard floors,furniture and more)and a power nozzle(to reach under beds and furniture).
An UPRIGHT is great for quick cleaning of rugs and carpet but not really best for large areas of nice hard floors or under furniture.
Anyone building should at least install the piping(easy & relatively cheap before sheetrock goes up)for a CENTRAL VAC.You would then have the option of continuing with whatever you choose now or add the vacuum unit and atts at any time.Many good features including the outside exhaust mentioned above.And as above there are different quality att kits to choose from.Also added resale value as many home buyers look for CVs.



Post# 315953 , Reply# 23   2/18/2015 at 11:18 (3,326 days old) by momof5 ()        

I'll confess. And in my defence let me say that it is because of our small space. When I get into a corner or other small space and because my canister is metal and heavy, I give it a swift kick to back myself out of a corner or a small room. What else can I do? Looking forward to having a bigger space and hopefully having a canister wont be such an annoyance.

Post# 315988 , Reply# 24   2/18/2015 at 15:19 (3,326 days old) by ronni (USA)        

Even more ideas to consider ...

1) Will you want your children to help with vacuuming at some point?
2) Do you want to go easier on your back (and others')?
3) Do you want more efficiency in changing from floor to above-the-floor cleaning?

or

4) Do you want more deep-cleaning capability with height adjustment?
5) Would you prefer to use a felt pad attached to the nozzle on your hard floors?
6) Would you like to have one machine for both vacuuming and dry-foam shampooing?


If items 1-3 are more important to you, then go with a cylinder such as the Model C177A/Lux Guardian Platinum.

If items 4-6 are more relevant to you then go with an upright such as the new Model G10/Kirby Avalir.


I do encourage you to be more gentle with any vacuum cleaner or other appliance you use. Even if they appear to withstand it in the long-run you will end up with more related expenses as you've already discovered. In addition, periodic home maintenance such as cleaning threads and hair from the brush roll and checking the hose and power nozzle intake for obstructions, replacing or cleaning filters (if applicable) as needed will ensure top performance and prevent undue mechanical problems. Otherwise, instead of brand new you may want to invest in a like-new cleaner.

No matter what, keep the Model 1401/Super J--either as your main cleaner or as a back-up or auxiliary unit for vehicles, campers, et cetera. You didn't mention it, but I will take for granted that your power nozzle is a Model PN-4 (that was originally factory paired with the cleaner). In that case, you could always upgrade to an L-shaped one with a headlight and a double-helix brush roll for even more powerful cleaning, too.

One final thought ... each vacuum cleaner has pluses and minuses. You won't find a 'perfect' machine for all your needs.

Best wishes on your decision. Let us know what you decide.

Also, I applaud your efforts to home-school your 6 children. They are fortunate and so are you!



Post# 315989 , Reply# 25   2/18/2015 at 15:34 (3,326 days old) by rosiembanks (Dayton, OH)        
don't just watch videos, try them out

If you don't mind me inserting my $.02 here, I think you need to go to a vac shop and try out a few of these, either upright or canisters. When I was searching for a new vac last year, I thought I was going to get a Miele upright until I tried it and discovered it was way too heavy for me to maneuver--not just heavy, but tall. Especially compared to the Riccar Brilliance I ended up with, which I found very comfortable to use. (btw, my Riccar shop seems to discount off the retail price about 1/3; everything is marked that way.) I needed a vac with a really good dust bag for my asthma, so this new design is a good match for me (as a Miele would have been). I agree, also, that a canister is more versatile for getting underneath beds and sofas (I have a not-great Kenmore canister for that), but I more often use my Riccar with the WOW floor attachment on my hardwood--its a great tool. When I was exploring my options, I tried a variety of machines--the Riccar canisters seemed quieter than their uprights, and I'll eventually buy one--just waiting for a model the size I want (the full-size are too heavy for me, but have the pn I prefer). The cleaning lady likes an upright, my old Panasonic leaks dust (not good for asthma), so the Brilliance was my choice. Anyway, you may find as you try some of these models that they handle differently from what you were expecting or that they are missing features you take for granted (e.g. headlights, perhaps). Or maybe you need a canister with really good casters that roll every which way, so it moves of your way when you kick it! Just a couple thoughts.

Post# 315990 , Reply# 26   2/18/2015 at 15:56 (3,326 days old) by sbakerde (Millsboro, DE )        
Hi momof15!

This sure sounds like quite the canundrum. The battle between and canister, upright, or central vac I think really comes down to personal preference. I myself prefer a canister or ideally a central system. I know a nice upright such as a Kirby or Riccar will do the same thing but that just not my cup of tea. I had a Kirby for a year or so and while it worked great I just didn't care for the design. I clean homes for a living and truthfully I mostly use and old electrolux canister. It's an early plastic model and trust me I am not gentle on it by any means. I find these to be easy to use and they sure do take a beating. I have used several newer Aerus canisters and honestly I haven't liked any of them, sorry guys. I found them to be absurdly overpriced, and not at easy to work with as my old one. I also don't think the new motors pull the airflow the old ones do. Again sorry guy, if that's what you like then that's fine by me. I also refuse to spend over $600 on a portable vacuum cleaner. I can put in central vac for around 1800 so I wouldn't spend that much on a canister or an upright.

I hope you find something that suits your needs. Take a look at the perfect canister vacuums. They are a close copy of the old electrolux canisters and sell for around $500. Another plus is the bags, hoses, and attachments are interchangeable with the older electroluxs.


Post# 315993 , Reply# 27   2/18/2015 at 16:22 (3,326 days old) by ralph123 (Little Rock, AR)        

Since you are rough on the hoses, I would recommend that you consider one of the lightweight (9-pound) Simplicity/Riccar/Maytag upright vacuums. They are well made in the USA, and they clean well. The downside is no onboard tools. They can also be a little noisy - although the newer models are supposed to be more quiet. They are durable, but the dirt does go through the fan. So you can't pick up army guys with them. You could get a light weight canister for cleaning with tools. My mom has a Riccar supralite and a Riccar Sunburst canister - they're a great combination. The Sunburst has a very nice wood floor brush.

If you've got to have a canister, Simplicity has the new Wonder (Riccar version is the Prima). These midsize canisters are designed to be durable and easy to maneuver. Tom Gasko, the curator of the vacuum museum in St James, Missouri, has posted on these. He's a great resource for picking a vacuum.




Post# 316563 , Reply# 28   2/23/2015 at 16:43 (3,321 days old) by momof5 ()        
A few more questions

Planning a trip to a vac shop a couple hours away. Until then...I am almost certain I will go with a canister. I am leaning heavily towards a Riccar. Just wondering if the Aerus Platinum is going to be less durable ( for me) than the Riccar canisters. As far as I have seen the Aerus is completely plastic and that may be the deciding factor. Thoughts?

Post# 316566 , Reply# 29   2/23/2015 at 17:26 (3,321 days old) by eurekaprince (Montreal, Canada)        

eurekaprince's profile picture
I prefer having two vacs: an upright for carpets (no onboard tools), and a suction only canister for everything else (no power nozzle nor bulky electrified hose).

I have assembled an excellent lightweight team for under $1,000: My Hoover Platinum Lightweight upright ($300) plus my Miele S8 FreshAir canister ($575). Each of these is lightweight and easy to use, yet powerful and effective.

I use the Miele canister to clean all surfaces, furnishings and nooks and crannies in a room, then finish off the room by deep cleaning the carpet with my upright.

Together, both take up as much room as one power nozzle canister in my closet. The Hoover upright has an extra large bag to accommodate the large amount of dirt and carpet fluff it takes in. The Miele bag is large enough for the dust it collects and won't need to be changed more than 2 or 3 times a year.


Post# 316694 , Reply# 30   2/24/2015 at 18:26 (3,319 days old) by funeraldirector (Boston)        
Lux and Riccar

Hi Christy,

Both the Riccar and Lux are good choices. If you go Riccar, get the purple Impeccable and save yourself a couple bucks unless you love that Super J-1976 gold color. The Riccar uprights are really nice. I find them clunky and loud, but stylish, well made and high quality performers. The Lux Platinum is super. The finish scratches and the metal front cover on mine suffered a ding in a crash with my 3.5 year old German Shorthair when it contacted the leg of a bar stool. I really like the Riccar unit and had that series machine when I worked for Lux in Boston. It does everything well! The Lux does too just hate those wands and hose handle and the dated power nozzle. Mine is about 5 mos old.

Suggestion: Buy one of the new NSS Pacer 12 UE uprights new in the box (commercial CRI gold cert. hospital vacuum in black and Arctic Cat green) like I did on EBAY (mine was NIB for $173.00 last month) and wait till later this year when the Sauber SI-200 Intelligence becomes avail here with the braided-remote control hose, better attachments and add the ET-1 Sebo nozzle to it. Aerus is only offering the "Classic" version of this machine (Platinum), no Swissaroma scents designed for it, true variable speed etc. See the thread discussion below and the Youtube vids of the Sauber version which is the higher-end version of this vacuum and the machine/combo Lux should be peddling. I worked for Lux 12 years part-time and my Platinum is gone the day the Sauber shows up with 2 power nozzle options and the beautiful hose that wont turn yellow due to its clear urethane coating. You will like the NSS too especially for the price of a Hoover.

Brian



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