Thread Number: 15976
Aerus Vacuums
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Post# 170359   2/21/2012 at 13:37 (4,418 days old) by GM1982 ()        

What are your impressions of the Aerus Guardian Upright?

Post# 170367 , Reply# 1   2/21/2012 at 14:55 (4,418 days old) by venson ()        
Aerus Guardian Upright . . .

I'm told that if you want to keep friends and significant others you should never discuss religion or politics. I have to add one more category -- Electrolux. Nonetheless, I'll say what I think and be done with it. After all I had my very own Silverado back in the day -- not ot mention an LX and a 1205.

The Aerus (erstwhile Electrolux) upright is just what should have been a canister lumped onto a power nozzle. Fancy things up and call it a two-motor system if you will but I have never thought much of the nozzle's deep-cleaning and grooming ability -- now or before. I have swapped out PNs for other machines with Lindhaus, Kenmore and Eureka product but still pass on the Lux PN as a good substitute. I will admit it appears current brushrolls bear a little more coverage by what appears to be more brush tufts.

Electrolux/Aerus uprights are vacuums that would leave me feeling uncomfortable if I slipped up on my weekly vacuum schedule for long.

What gets to me even worse, I'd rather thought the Aerus people would pick up the ball and run on toward bigger and better things but my feeling is that all I'm seeing out of them is rehash. They're doing nothing new nor are looking to do anything new despite -- "Formerly known as Electrolux and manufacturer of Electrolux Vacuums from 1924-2003, Aerus remains committed to providing products and services that enhance the wellness and comfort of its customers and their families."

I'd rather be hearing, "They were absolutely great folks but just wait until you see what we've got for you now."

For one, they could have (should have) worked the HEPA to fit in a more streamlined fashion but in truth it is the only place it can be on the vac as is. As well, despite the awkward arrangement, where else can you put the suction port for attachments?

However, as with every other brand, there are users who swear by it. Why? Because its an "Electrolux." Good for Aerus, considering its pricing, it's still got a hook to rope 'em in with. I still bank on doing better for less and getting better features in the process.


Post# 170373 , Reply# 2   2/21/2012 at 16:00 (4,418 days old) by kirbyloverdan (Egg Harbor Twp . NJ aka HOOVERLOVERDAN ❤️)        
Absolutely wonderful

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Upright vacuums . Great design , my family has owned these upright since they first came out as the discovery . Long lasting very good vacuum . Super easy to use and maintain . Why change a good thing ? If it`s not broken don`t fix it .

Post# 170388 , Reply# 3   2/21/2012 at 17:57 (4,418 days old) by joshdonnell ()        
Well

I would rather buy a miele not riccar or aerus. I might be 20 but in my 20 years ive seen the bad and good

Post# 170391 , Reply# 4   2/21/2012 at 18:15 (4,418 days old) by eurekastar (Amarillo, Texas)        

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I own one. It's a very good vacuum. It's also lighter than a Miele S7.

Post# 170394 , Reply# 5   2/21/2012 at 19:09 (4,418 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
I Agree:

That Aerus has been greatly lacking in innovation since splitting off from Electrolux. The current lower-line canisters have been around for, what - twenty years? - and are not up to current standards of filtration expected in a premium vacuum. The TOL machine is Lexan, which is a bit off-putting in such a high-priced machine; it makes the discriminating consumer feel that it's not as good as a metal-bodied machine.

Moreover, the shapes and colors are dowdy. The TOL canister is a two-tone blue that looks downright cheap; only a dyed-in-the-wool Aerus fan would even understand why it costs what it does, since it's not even as attractive as a Kenmore. Frankly, it looks like something from the former Soviet Union.

And the Aerus purchasing experience is not good. Stores are closing (we just lost the one here, though the owner still will come to see you for an in-home demo), and when you do find one, it's not an exciting or fun place to be.

I think shapes and colors need some serious updating, and that the machines should be available outside the Aerus stores. Filtration should be improved, and places found for the HEPA filter that don't make the machines look clunky.

And frankly, the name "Aerus" needs to go. It doesn't say anything to a consumer who doesn't know about the brand's heritage, and that damn amoeba they use for a logo means nothing.

The company owning Aerus also owns TriStar, and I've long thought that they ought to sell both machines at retail, canning the "home demo" model for TriStar, which has generated more consumer complaints than you can shake a stick at. It would be nice to see TriStar get more sales, and I think it would also benefit Aerus, since there would be an even more expensive machine in the store than the TOL Guardian.


Post# 170396 , Reply# 6   2/21/2012 at 19:36 (4,418 days old) by kirbyloverdan (Egg Harbor Twp . NJ aka HOOVERLOVERDAN ❤️)        
Sandy

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I think you should check out the Aerus website . The machines are 100% white blue has been gone for at least two years . The Guardian Ultra has replaced the Guardian and the chunky HEPA filter is gone . I love metal vacuums but we all know customers complain about them being heavy and getting dented if dropped down the stairs . The newest Kirby coming out will also be plastic . It`s sad but metal vacuums are a thing of the past . Aerus is the same company it always was it`s just that Eureka took back the name once the real Electrolux (Aerus) built the reliable vacuum name . Eureka in Europe has always been called Electrolux here in the US they used the name Eureka . Now Eureka is trying to pawn off the Electrolux name here in the US as if they are the original Elactrolux now known as Aerus . They tell that lie while selling the Eurekaluxes on QVC .

Post# 170397 , Reply# 7   2/21/2012 at 19:49 (4,418 days old) by joshdonnell ()        
Well

How do you know the new kirby is gonna be plastic

Post# 170400 , Reply# 8   2/21/2012 at 19:54 (4,418 days old) by kirbyloverdan (Egg Harbor Twp . NJ aka HOOVERLOVERDAN ❤️)        
Well `

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lets see the current Sentria motor housing base is plastic , the Shampoo attachment is plastic . They have been using plastic for a few years now .

A friend of mine who runs the local Kirby store is pretty high up in the Kirby company and that`s what he is telling me .


Post# 170401 , Reply# 9   2/21/2012 at 19:57 (4,418 days old) by Vacuumfreeeke ()        

They are hard to maneuver and snowplow terribly, not to mention they are not very powerful. However, they are well built for the most part (besides plastic on the handles cracking) and seem to last a long time.... the bags are easy to change.

Post# 170404 , Reply# 10   2/21/2012 at 20:03 (4,418 days old) by kirbyloverdan (Egg Harbor Twp . NJ aka HOOVERLOVERDAN ❤️)        
I really think

kirbyloverdan's profile picture
no one own`s the newest Aerus vacuums as they have been improved with more powerful motors .

They clean very well now and are very light and easy to use .

Owning Aerus (Electrolux) plastic machines since the 80`s and many of my family members own Aerus
and not one of us ever had any of the plastic crack or break .

Long lasting , powerful , quality built machines made in the USA .


Post# 170407 , Reply# 11   2/21/2012 at 20:16 (4,418 days old) by joshdonnell ()        
Blah

Still dont care for them

Post# 170409 , Reply# 12   2/21/2012 at 20:26 (4,418 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
Dan:

I stand corrected on the re-design of the Aerus machines. They are more attractive than before, though still a little bland.

I think it's a measure of how seriously fugly the previous Guardian was that I NEVER went back to the Website until you encouraged it.


Post# 170417 , Reply# 13   2/21/2012 at 21:03 (4,418 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
This Is the One:

The Guardian 9000 canister. Just never understood what possessed Aerus on this one - the styling wasn't handsome, and that two-tone blue was dead cheap-looking:

Post# 170418 , Reply# 14   2/21/2012 at 21:07 (4,418 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)        

Too much confusion!

The REAL USA Electrolux (Aerus) should continue to be branded Electrolux.

What the UK calls Electrolux (US calls it Eureka) should be called Eureka or EurekaLux.

TriStar should go back & make the old style CXL & sell them as a lower-tier vac (at vac shops) & the MG Series as a higher-tier at in-home demos.

Aerus (Electrolux USA) should be sold at dept. stores, if any more Aerus stores close (which I hope does NOT happen) like they did during the mid/late 1980s & early 1990s

I don't really know which of these events should occur, or should it not?


Post# 170421 , Reply# 15   2/21/2012 at 21:30 (4,418 days old) by joshdonnell ()        
Well

I dont like stores closing but there vacuums are cheaply made never will buy one yuck

Post# 170427 , Reply# 16   2/21/2012 at 22:00 (4,418 days old) by kirbyloverdan (Egg Harbor Twp . NJ aka HOOVERLOVERDAN ❤️)        
I agree

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100% with you Erik .

Josh that`s a very childish remark especially if you dont own any of the newest Aerus vacuums .

I thought this was supposed to be a discussion site not a bash a brand I hate site .

Sandy I always liked the old style Guardian I guess thats why we have so many brands to choose from .


Post# 170430 , Reply# 17   2/21/2012 at 22:31 (4,418 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

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I went to the AERUS site, too, and downloaded the pdf Owner Manuals for the three canisters.

 

What I find interesting is that the re-design is in fact a resurrection of the pre-Renaisance style body of the 1984 2100, right down to the bumper strips that wrap around on to the bag cover and motor/cord-reel cover cap.

 

The two lower tier models - Classic and Legacy - use the same basic filter pad over the exhaust port as every plastic body Luxs dating back to Canada's AP series from 1973. The Legacy has exposed tool storage on the slightly raised filter cover.

The top of the line Guardian Ultra uses the same body as the others but adds a much larger HEPA filter under a humped hinged lid.

 

Basically, the same reliable Electrolux cylinder as always...sheathed in high quality plastics...with improved motor.

Electrolux body molds have always been of a robust wall thickness and I don't recall ever seeing a cracked one because the formula they use has a flexible vinyl component same as GE's CYCOLAC..

 

What AERUS/Electrolux has done runs contrary to modern business canon - abandoning the Renaissance, they returned to a form factor that served them well for decades, rather than jump on the latest fad wagon..

And no, they could not be saving $ using the old tooling - those dies & molds would be well worn out years ago.

At least they did away with the afterthought stick-on HEPA box of the last Renaissance.

I would like to add the first Renaissance  with the blue trim to my collection some day - I like the smooth Typhoon submarine looks.

 

Dave - Electrolux first and foremost.


Post# 170432 , Reply# 18   2/21/2012 at 22:35 (4,418 days old) by aeoliandave (Stratford Ontario Canada)        

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No need to over-engineer to impress - simple effective integrated true HEPA filtration.


Post# 170433 , Reply# 19   2/21/2012 at 22:58 (4,418 days old) by kirbyloverdan (Egg Harbor Twp . NJ aka HOOVERLOVERDAN ❤️)        
Thank you Dave

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You are absolutely right simple is best .

Aerus/Electrolux has been around all these years because they just build one of the best vacuums on the market .

If they were junk as some unexperienced non Aeus owning people think they are they would have gone outof business years ago .


Post# 170434 , Reply# 20   2/21/2012 at 23:00 (4,418 days old) by kirbyloverdan (Egg Harbor Twp . NJ aka HOOVERLOVERDAN ❤️)        
I loved the

kirbyloverdan's profile picture
new Guardian Ultra so much I bought two !

Post# 170458 , Reply# 21   2/22/2012 at 05:42 (4,418 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
I Dunno....

....About reviving the CXL design. It might appeal to some consumers with retro tastes, but it was dropped for a good reason; it was just getting too dated for most people.

What I think COULD benefit TriStar is giving the MG series a better motor, and wands and tools of higher quality, preferably metal. If they did that, there would be a huge differential for consumers. The MG design isn't necessarily a bad one; it's just compromised by second-rate accessories, which should not be the case in a vacuum costing that much.

One of the HUGE satisfactions in owning a CXL is that metal floor tool and rug tool. Durable as can be.


Post# 170465 , Reply# 22   2/22/2012 at 08:17 (4,417 days old) by eurekaprince (Montreal, Canada)        

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I think many of you have this Electrolux/Eureka corporate thing backwards.

Sweden's Electrolux invented the name and the canister vac concept and provided North America with Electrolux vacs up until the American division cut its ties with Europe when Consolidated Foods bought it in 1968. Sweden's Electrolux bought Eureka Williams in 1974, at which point Eureka became just one of Electroluxes many worldwide brandnames, along with Frigidaire, Progress, Volta and Zanussi. Eureka does not own Electrolux, it's the other way around.

In 2000, Sweden's Electrolux bought back the right to use it's own name in North America, but allowed the North American division to keep using the name until 2007. Since 2007, it has been illegal for any other company in America to use the Electrolux name, and I think that is completely logical. The entire world knows Electrolux as a Swedish appliance company, not a door-to-door power nozzle canister vac maker.

Since 1968, these have been two totally independent companies. The only commonality was the combination dusting brush+upholstery nozzle sold by both. I understand the nostalgic fondness for the quality vacuum cleaners produced by the American and Canadian Electrolux companies between 1968 and 2000, but they were in essence only borrowing a name from a Swedish company whose roots in the vac business go far deeper than the North American companies. They had a right to do with their name whatever they wish. They could have bought the North American vac plants and designs in 2000 as well, but they chose not to since they already had bought a company with a much larger market share (Eureka).

If there is anything to lament, it is not the removal of the Electrolux name from the cylinder vacs Americans have come to love. It is the almost total disappearance of the Eureka Company at the hands of the Swedish company. The Eureka name we see now is but a childish-looking label on very cheap vacs made overseas. The least Electrolux could have done is left the Eureka name on all those classic Sanitaire vacs.

If you really want to bring some life and innovation back to the company that's now called Aerus, Aerus should change it's name to "Lux North America" and should fully integrate with Europe's Lux International and then you might see vacs like this in the Aerus stores:



CLICK HERE TO GO TO eurekaprince's LINK


Post# 170475 , Reply# 23   2/22/2012 at 10:20 (4,417 days old) by venson ()        
@eurekaprince . . .

I would love to see the Lux International's "Intelligence" here but, to my understanding, the company has an agreement of some sort with Aerus not to sell here in the State. I think they are nonetheless somehow connected as both use the "Clean Home" banner for their vacuum pages online.

If we're to be exacted exorbitant rates for product, not only high performance but a little flash and dash never hurt.

Though I think it would need a power nozzle upgrade for the American market, I like the "Intelligence" because, among other things, it employs pre-filtering as well as post- which Aerus does not. That prevailed in prior Lux International canisters too.

Though Canadian models had them, American Electroluxes had quite a long run from at least since the G without even post filters until the Renaissance brought them back into play I believe.

I have been trying for a while to learn how much of a connection there is between Lux International and our Aerus. I know Lux International has a connection with a European brand Eureka/Forbes.


Post# 170480 , Reply# 24   2/22/2012 at 11:22 (4,417 days old) by GM1982 ()        
Bought one

Well I bought an Aerus Upright.... I will agree with earlier comment, yes the purchasing process at the store is not too pleasant, almost like your negotiating on a car. However, the machine seems to work nicely. I did compare it to the Miele S7 which has on board tools, but I felt it would not go low enough to fit under some low furniture. Contemplated on getting the Sebo Felix, but felt harder to push on thick carpets. Also, I noticed you get longer warranties with the Aerus brand.

Post# 170482 , Reply# 25   2/22/2012 at 12:09 (4,417 days old) by countryguy (Astorville, ON, Canada)        

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I really like the look of the Lux Intelligence also and wish it was sold in North America. I'm glad it has the regular handle grip rather than the awful bulky pistol grip style.

Gary


Post# 170514 , Reply# 26   2/22/2012 at 14:04 (4,417 days old) by Sanifan ()        
My thoughts...

Electrolux/Eureka/Aerus has to be the most convoluted and confusing corporate history that exists. As an Electrolux newb, I found I had to ease my way into the sea of information regarding the companies and their products.

It doesn't help that there seem to be endless variations of the canister models over the years. They are all similar and there's a lot of information to juggle, so until you really commit to getting into it, it's all very confusing.

I currently have two tanks models. An Electrolux Ultralux 80th Anniversary with a VM3 motor, and a gold colored metal model which I understand may be a 50th Anniversary model. It's interesting, but for a while I guess Aerus/Lux continued with the body style that is now called the Classic. I believe this is when they went to the white and blue color scheme. The difference between those models and the current Classic, apart from the color perhaps, seems to be the wands, hose, and PN's were redisigned for a more modern look. I think this is when they went to the gas pump handle. Also, the Classic probably uses a different motor than those Luxes.

I guess after that they went to the style with the big box Hepa filter. I'm ambivalent about that styling. I like the clean look of the white and blue, but I agree there's something plasticky and cheapish feeling about it.

Now they have the three current styles that Dave was kind enough to post the documents for. One of them is the Classic, which is actually identical to my Ultralux (from what I can tell in the diagram), save for the color and perhaps an improved motor in the current vac. The wands and PN are the older style, with the metal lower half of the wand barrel. Interesting they went all the way back to this style.

I'm ambivalent about the other two current styles. The Legacy has that ramped hump. I think it looks a little to much like a van or an RV for my taste. The Guardian ULTRA, I feel, looks too cumbersome at the front end. Like a strange whale or something. And the silver on top seems like it will look shoddy once is get scuffed and scraped. Correct me if I'm wrong on that.

Having said that, I would jump on any of them if I found a great price.

I like the styling of the Classic/Ultralux a lot. I'm not too jazzed about the ultimate performance of the PN (the current Classic may have an improved brushroll though). I do really like my Ultralux a lot for bare floor and above floor cleaning.

I notice that Aerus gives a CFM spec of 145 for the Guardian ULTRA. That's a lot. It pretty much matches the CFM specs of a Sanitaire upright. There are no CFM figures given for the Legacy or Classic, however. Anyone know why that is? Incidentally, all three have the same Airwatt specs. Could the Legacy and Classic have the same CFM given the Airwatts are the same?







Post# 170518 , Reply# 27   2/22/2012 at 14:39 (4,417 days old) by eurekaprince (Montreal, Canada)        

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Hey there Venson! See the link below for the global picture of Lux International - it shows Aerus as part of their global "partnerships."

Lux International was originally the direct sales/door-to-door division of Sweden's Electrolux. The division was sold to a Swiss company, and now operates independently of Sweden's Electrolux. Indeed the large Indian Eureka Forbes Group is part of Lux International. I guess they somehow got away with buying the rights to the Eureka name for use outside of North America! :-)


CLICK HERE TO GO TO eurekaprince's LINK


Post# 170534 , Reply# 28   2/22/2012 at 17:16 (4,417 days old) by venson ()        
@eurekaprince . . .

Thanks for the link to the map. I was very interested to find that Mexico is marked red as Lux territory. Wonder if rowing across the Gulf of Mexico could get me the Lux "Intelligence." They use 120-volt AC I'm told :)

Venson


Post# 170541 , Reply# 29   2/22/2012 at 18:00 (4,417 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
The Intelligent Intelligence....

....In Googling the Intelligence, I found one very interesting tidbit of information: It's a metal-bodied vac. That makes it much more desirable to me.

I know some here feel that plastic is okay, and that we'll never see metal vacs again, but I don't want plastic, and I think we will see metal vacs again.

One of the sad things about a plastic vac is that if you crack or break part of the housing, you are at the mercy of the manufacturer, who often has discontinued housing parts - or on cheaper vacs, never made them available as replacement parts in the first place. A metal housing can be repaired more easily.

Also, metal housings accept screws and fasteners better, and the screws can be removed and replaced without wearing the screw holes as much, important for longevity.

I personally think we're going to have to get back to manufacturing goods that really last, because this throwaway, overseas-made, plastic mentality we've got going on right now is unsustainable.

P.S. - Yes, I know metal housings dent. I have an otherwise minty Lux Model L with a heckuva dent in it. But - it still works, which might not have been the case with a plastic vac taking that kind of blow.


Post# 170546 , Reply# 30   2/22/2012 at 18:24 (4,417 days old) by joshdonnell ()        
Well

There not gonna make metal the only 2 canisters that are all metal or air tech and metro . Which i like

Post# 170547 , Reply# 31   2/22/2012 at 18:32 (4,417 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
Josh:

First of all, the Lux Intelligence is metal, as is the TriStar, as is the Patriot, among others. Not all metal - handles and control panels and such are plastic - but metal where it counts, which is the body where the suction is developed.

Also, as has been pointed out earlier in this thread, your posting style is a little annoying. If you disagree, you disagree, but to flatly say "They're not gonna make metal," is silly, unless you have some fact to back that up. It's your opinion, not a fact.

My opinion is that the days of easy, cheap plastic merchandise are about to come to a screeching halt, due to environmental concerns, availability of oil and shipping costs. In my opinion, the next twenty years are going to see a shift back to more durable consumer goods, with higher price tags; not everyone is going to be able to afford everything they might like to have.


Post# 170549 , Reply# 32   2/22/2012 at 18:45 (4,417 days old) by joshdonnell ()        
Well

Then ill find something backing that up. I like metal but here in the us thats not gonna happen i doubt it . The lux that you like wont come here i dont see that it will no one these days dont care when they to walmart to buy a cleaner. And some people care. And tristars are ok.

Post# 170561 , Reply# 33   2/22/2012 at 21:18 (4,417 days old) by bagintheback (Flagstaff, Arizona)        

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I never knew that the European Lux and Aerus were related! Knowing this, there are somethings I don't understand.

First of all, Aerus is using a quite outdated power-nozzle while Lux is using a very modern looking one. From what I have used and heard, European power nozzles, such as Sebo, Wessel Werk and Lindhaus, are better than American models. Why does Aerus continue with older Electrolux nozzles?

Secondly, Aerus is selling all these home products, such as air purifiers and heaters, that are manufactured by other companies. Riccar sells the exact same heater as Aerus. It looks to me that Lux is selling original products. Lux has for sale as much different air purifier. Now I don't know if it is an original Lux product, but why can't the same company sell the same products?

To me the Lux product lines looks much more appealing, even to Americans. Does anyone have any idea why Aerus is not progressing at the same rate?


Post# 170611 , Reply# 34   2/23/2012 at 10:08 (4,416 days old) by rolltide ()        
I'm a huge Aerus/Lux fan !

I have always had a love for the then Electrolux canisters and uprights. Yes I know up until now that the suction motor in the uprights were lacking, but all those Southern ladies in my family stand by them as probably the most utilized appliance in the home with exception only to the dishwasher. There are about 16 canister Electrolux canisters and 12 uprights among my big family I can remember in the last 20 years. Paying attention tho my mother, grandmothers, aunts, and/or their maids.. I've seen other vacs come into the household only to be passed over in preference to the upright. Even when some of the folks purchased the D4 Rainbows in the boom season, The Lux still remained the most favored. Other than the sleek design and brushroll on and off, I attribute this to my favorite feature.. The pistol grip handled hose and dusting brush. The hose handles very closely to the Silverado and model L I grew up using. The Discovery, ProLux, and Epic uprights are the only upright I would consider using to really put a cleaning on my house because of the ease of use with attachments. As I generally always use a canister vac due to the ease of cleaning EVERYWHERE. To me cleaning is an everywhere detailed clean. Whether Aerus canister or upright, that pistol grip hose and brush get so much use in my home. I like my Renaissance ok but when getting down to business with a hose, I'm not going to do hours of dusting with that hose! My parents have it at their house for daily cleaning now and love it. I tend to stick to my Luv Classic, Silverado, upright or even the Rainbow because of the no nonsense hose.
All that being said.. I love Aerus products including the new upright but I agree the Aerus branding schtick and the games the dealer played with a family member of mine made me want to never make another purchase. I hope this company can get it together and resemble more of the "ELECTROLUX" we grew to love. So sorry this is long but I'm glad this topic was mentioned. It just so happened I picked up a $3.00 Lux grey 3500 upright in new condition yesterday. It was like Christmas ! Does anyone know how and if I can retrofit this with the newpowerful guardian motor ?
Thanks for letting me share and I hope to hear from some of you !


Post# 170625 , Reply# 35   2/23/2012 at 13:23 (4,416 days old) by venson ()        
@bagintheback . . .

Hoover, Kenmore and Eureka have put out some very good power nozzles in past and present. However, I think the assessment of "good," no matter where it comes from, is by user's judgement of things due to "surface cleaning". It great to have a vac that swoops up whatever you see in front of it in a couple of passes or less but what we "see" is on top of the rug. What's going on where I usually don't look?

If you are a regular vacuumer, my rule of thumb is get down on your hands and knees -- every once in a while -- and use your fingers to gently separate your carpet tufting and see what's going on down near the carpet backing.

The areas best to do this "check" in are in high traffic areas, at entry doors and spots situated directly in front of seating. If you see a lot of accumulated grit and dirt, you're either not vacuuming enough or your cleaner may not be quite up to par if you are.

There are many brands of vacuum dearly loved in this country more for doing what's obvious than for what's not.

Deep cleaning ability is an issue but may not have to be depending upon the frequency of use of any decent machine. Again my own opinion, quick passes of a vac every couple of days or so in at least high traffic areas prevents the "bad stuff" from getting ground down into carpet fibers and may lessen a lot of to-do come your designated cleaning day.



Post# 170752 , Reply# 36   2/24/2012 at 11:43 (4,415 days old) by GM1982 ()        
one advantage over the others

I think what sold me on the Aerus is the amount of dirt it captures even with the mini turbo add on...I don't know of any other vacuum brand with and electrified turbo that deep cleans beds, chairs, etc... Miele, sebo and the others all seem to have an air driven.

Post# 170753 , Reply# 37   2/24/2012 at 11:53 (4,415 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
George:

That turbo attachment is called a Sidekick, and it's either included or optionally available for all Aeruses and Luxes, including any canister that can accept a PN.

I would not want to be without mine, particularly because of my little furry friend Tony, seen in the picture. He's cute, he's sweet, he's loyal. But, my LORD, the shedding! The Sidekick makes short work of the hair he leaves.


Post# 170807 , Reply# 38   2/24/2012 at 16:48 (4,415 days old) by petek (Ontario)        

The Sidekick was also produced as the Kenmore Powermate Jr. back in the 90's, identical except for the molding around the electrical connection to fit the Kenmore.

Post# 170808 , Reply# 39   2/24/2012 at 16:57 (4,415 days old) by eurekaprince (Montreal, Canada)        

eurekaprince's profile picture
Sweden's Electrolux is also now selling an electrically powered mini power nozzle which fits on most of their power nozzle canisters in North America. It's called the "@hand" power brush....see link below:



CLICK HERE TO GO TO eurekaprince's LINK


Post# 170811 , Reply# 40   2/24/2012 at 17:33 (4,415 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)        
Lux SideKick PNs

The SideKick was also known as a RainbowMate (except the RM has a pigtail cord & no snap-lock mechanism)

SideKick II is also a TriStar MiniStar.


Post# 170815 , Reply# 41   2/24/2012 at 17:57 (4,415 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
Figures!

"SideKick II is also a TriStar MiniStar."

That makes sense, since Aerus and TriStar are owned by the same company.


Post# 170818 , Reply# 42   2/24/2012 at 18:42 (4,415 days old) by kirbylux77 (London, Ontario, Canada)        

kirbylux77's profile picture
Pete, in addition to the slight styling changes & changes to the electrical connections to suit Kennmore's hose handles, they also put a flat belt on the Power Mate Jr, whereas the Sidekick & RainbowMate used cogged belts.

Post# 170823 , Reply# 43   2/24/2012 at 18:55 (4,415 days old) by petek (Ontario)        

Hmmmm didn't know that. I've got a Powermate version but I've never opened it up

Post# 170829 , Reply# 44   2/24/2012 at 20:30 (4,415 days old) by kirbyloverdan (Egg Harbor Twp . NJ aka HOOVERLOVERDAN ❤️)        
No the

kirbyloverdan's profile picture
Sidekick 3 is the Tristar mini star not the Sidekick 2 . Looks the same but it`s not .

Post# 170831 , Reply# 45   2/24/2012 at 20:33 (4,415 days old) by Blackheart (North Dakota)        
Sidekick II and Ministar

blackheart's profile picture
The ministar is the same as the newest sidekick for the guardian ultra, i know the sidekick II does not fit on the tristar. Gotta love those mini electric nozzles!

Post# 170835 , Reply# 46   2/24/2012 at 20:43 (4,415 days old) by kirbyloverdan (Egg Harbor Twp . NJ aka HOOVERLOVERDAN ❤️)        
I just said

kirbyloverdan's profile picture
the sidekick 3 is the mini star : )

Post# 170838 , Reply# 47   2/24/2012 at 21:01 (4,415 days old) by bimmer740 (Long Island, New York)        

bimmer740's profile picture
I've owned many different machines over the years, I haven't been alive as long as some other members of this club or had as many vacs, but never the less I have owned many high-end machines. Miele's are fabulous machines, Kirby is my #1 choice for an upright, I'll never live without one and my VacuFlo system beats any portable/traditional vacuum I've had, but sometimes you just want to use a regular machine. With that said I have always owned an Aerus/Electrolux machine and they are the one I go back to again and again. They may not be the best at deep cleaning or filter as well as a Miele, but they last for many years and they are easy to use. Miele isn't necessarily difficult to use, at least not for people like us, but for the average person they can certainly be a bit complicated. A new Aerus machine may not be my number 1 choice if I was in the market for a new machine, but if they improved the current Guardian canister I just might change my mind. The Electrolux tank style machines and their L-shaped power nozzles are a tried and true design that makes them easy to use and steer around the house, and for me that makes using an Electrolux more enjoyable than any other canister vacs.

Post# 170878 , Reply# 48   2/25/2012 at 05:10 (4,415 days old) by venson ()        
@bimmer740

Hi,

Thanks for the broader view proving that for at least some of us it's not all about one brand or vacuum. However, the Electrolux/Aerus PN is not the only PN with an el.

Both Sebo and Lindhaus offer similar, and have more features. Before I purchased my Miele Capricorn I had a Miracle Mate that I'd acquired with out a power nozzle. I opted for adding on a Lindhaus PB14PRO. The price at the time -- 250 bucks -- was what it cost to buy a canister complete with everything but I sprang for it and was extremely pleased.

Albeit sans headlight, the PB14PRO offered a governed motor, height adjustment, a foot-operated lever to release the handle and a couple of small rollers to lessen chance of marring when getting up close and personal with walls and baseboards. The thing even had a small filter to keep dust out of its motor compartment. Better yet, like Sebo, it had a removable end cap that allowed for painless removal of the revolving brush. There was no fiddling with base plates or belts to get the brushroll in or out of the power nozzle.

Besides the pro-version, Lindhaus also offers PNs for non-commercial use with similar features. Had it not been that one, I went on to a Miele that's PN works perfectly well and, two, that there would have been need to go messing round with adapters and cords to get to fit onto my Miele, it would have made the trip south with me.

The investment was admittedly disproportionate but I saw far more value by way of workmanship in the PB14PRO than I seen in any power nozzle in quite some time. Unfortunately, I'm not of the miserly sort even though I should be. However, as far as I'm concerned, PB14PRO is the kind of power nozzle you bring when you show up at my door asking me for 1,700 bucks for the vacuum cleaner you've got in your hand.

I couldn't find any downloadable images of the model I had so I've linked to someone's website. Please be advised, I have no affiliation of any kind with Lindhaus or Vac Depot.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO venson's LINK


Post# 170906 , Reply# 49   2/25/2012 at 13:08 (4,414 days old) by Sanifan ()        
Lindhaus...

That Lindhaus looks similar but not identical to the one on my Lindhaus Healthcare Pro upright. I haven't used the Lindhaus enough to have a firm opinion on the PN. I do recall, however, a thread sometime back comparing Lindhaus and other PNs. I can't recall in what context.

The upshot was that folks preferred the Edgelift PN over the Lindhaus, though again, I don't recall which specific Lindhaus PN was being discussed. I do recall some folks having a bit of a low opinion of that particular Lindhaus PN. Maybe something about the brushroll not being agressive enough, or not enough airflow. Can't fully recall.

Having said that, I think the Lindhaus Home Healthcare is a pretty cool vac.

Maybe it's not productive to discuss with such shoddy recall about the specifics, but maybe it will jog someone's memory.


Post# 170908 , Reply# 50   2/25/2012 at 13:40 (4,414 days old) by pr-21 (Middletown, OH)        
Lindhaus Power Nozzle

pr-21's profile picture

I have used the Lindhaus Power Nozzles. They are very well built. The only thing I didn't like was there is a lot of dead space on the underneath side and I don't think they can edge clean as well, due to this. I do like the weight of the power nozzle, it has enough weight to groom the carpet well, without just gliding across the carpet.

 

 

 

Sincerely,

 

Bud Mattingly


Post# 170936 , Reply# 51   2/25/2012 at 19:41 (4,414 days old) by bimmer740 (Long Island, New York)        

bimmer740's profile picture
@Venson,
I think you may have misunderstood my post about the Electrolux L-shaped power nozzle. I wasn't implying that they are the only machine with that style nozzle, its just been a very recognizable feature of Electrolux/Aerus machines since it was introduced about 30 years ago on the Silverado.

I agree with you about the Miele power nozzle though, I had the 236 PN on my Red Velvet and it was probably one of the best I've ever used.

As far as the Lindhaus power nozzle goes, I really hate it. Please don't take offense to that, we all don’t love the same machines or accessories, which is what makes this club so interesting. I purchased the residential version, the PB14E brand new several years ago and I'm just glad I didn’t pay the full retail price. The Lindhaus is well made and for the most part it is very well thought out. However, for me if it doesn't clean well then it doesn’t matter how well constructed it may be. The brush roll is just awful considering the price of this p/n, and for all the time and money that must have been spent designing it they really missed the most important part of the entire nozzle, a well-designed high performance brush roll. Electrolux power nozzles certainly aren’t the best out there but I'll take a Lux PN over all the Lindhaus' electronic features, as the Lux can certainly clean much better than the Lindhaus.


Post# 170953 , Reply# 52   2/25/2012 at 21:22 (4,414 days old) by djtaylor (Salt Lake City, Utah)        

djtaylor's profile picture
I have a question about deep cleaning. I own a 1205, I love it... but, it's not a deep cleaner. Are later models better? Of those who LIKE Electrolux/Aerus vacuums, which models are more powerful and will deep clean carpets?
Thanks
Justin


Post# 170956 , Reply# 53   2/25/2012 at 21:35 (4,414 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
Justin:

Later models were better in some ways, and not as good in others. I own a Diamond Jubilee, which has a more powerful motor and develops much more suction than my 1205.

However, the PN-5 supplied with the Diamond Jubilee and other, later models through the Grand Marquise/Ultralux is not as deep a cleaner as earlier PN's, due to a "floating" design that was supposed to help the PN adjust to different carpets' pile heights. The PN-5 tends to ride the surface of carpet, rather than "biting" it to brush dirt from between the carpet's fibers.

All of that having been said, an Electrolux can still be an excellent choice for frequent vacuumers who have carpet that has been well-maintained.

If you want a PN canister capable of deep cleaning, I personally think very highly of the TriStar CXL. Mine was first used in a house previously maintained with a Kirby, and the schmutz it pulled up was phenomenal. That carpet was off-white, and a side benefit of the CXL was that it greatly extended the interval between steam cleanings. I should stress, though, that I'm a daily vacuumer; other people might have different results.


Post# 170957 , Reply# 54   2/25/2012 at 21:38 (4,414 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
P.S,, Justin:

My comments apply only through the Grand Marquise/Ultralux, which were the last of the metal-bodied machines. The later, plastic-bodied machines are not vacuums I have personal experience with, so someone else will have to chime in about those. Aerus has re-designed its power nozzle since the PN-5, and the new one may be a better performer.

Post# 170958 , Reply# 55   2/25/2012 at 22:12 (4,414 days old) by venson ()        
@bimmer740

I agree. We're all entitled to like what we like and buy what we want to buy bimmer740.

I have also owned the Electrolux Silverado but mine came with the rectangular cast-metal PN prior the plastic el-shape version. The paint job on mine matched the gray color of the cleaner. I do not recall seeing a chromed version of it until around the time the Super J came out.

My problem was yours in reverse it would seem. I've used many models but I've never been quite satisfied with the way the Electrolux power nozzles work on deep pile. They were certainly decent and adequate but that was about all. And, the el versions aren't really all that adjustable -- if the spring action that brings up the front of the PN up when you push down on the wand is an adjustment.

The Silverado ended up being kicked out of Dodge for a Hoover Dimension 1000 canister and was given to a friend. It somehow survived more than twenty years despite his cleaning person's best efforts to kill it.

The Lindhaus nozzle I purchased served quite well while I had it. I had it at my apartment and then my office for a time. It was used with a Miracle Mate and a Nilfisk 90 and it performed very well with either machine. Were I to ditch the Miele today, I'd be looking to add a Lindhaus nozzle onto what ever my replacement machine was to be if affordable. Next choices would either be a Kenmore-clone or Eureka-cloned PN. What machine did you use your Lindhaus PN with?

In any event, when I chose my Capricorn, now almost four years ago, I could have quite easily gone for the Lux/Aerus current at the time but it didn't register as a consideration for the reason I stated before. It's not hard to get money out of me but you must show up with something I can use.



Post# 170963 , Reply# 56   2/25/2012 at 22:44 (4,414 days old) by bimmer740 (Long Island, New York)        

bimmer740's profile picture
@danemodsandy
I haven't used the very latest power nozzle from the Guardian Ultra, although I don’t know what has changed about it other than the LED headlight, but I have used those that came right before it. The Lux PN has improved since the DJ PN5 but I don’t know if its so much that the nozzle was "redesigned" as I personally haven't noticed that there is a marked significant difference between the internal structure of the different power nozzles. What does make a very noticeable and welcomed difference is the improved brush roll. Electrolux/Aerus improved the brush roll several years back by adding an extra "turn" to the chevron style roller, which added a significant amount of extra bristles. As far as I know this new brush roll can be used in all PN's from the PN5 up to the most current models.

Below is a picture of the new and old brush rolls. The one on top that is in the PN to my Epic 6000 is the new style brush roll, the one below is the old style which came out of my Renaissance circa 1994. I hope you are able to see the difference between the two, its much more noticeable in person.

BTW I have noticed your posts recently about your Tri-Star on this thread and a few others, and it really looks wonderful. I remember reading a few years ago about all the trouble you went through and buying parts from Tri-Star in Canada to restore it to like new condition. I've never used a Tri-Star before but it has certainly made me want to buy one :)


Post# 170964 , Reply# 57   2/25/2012 at 23:01 (4,414 days old) by bimmer740 (Long Island, New York)        

bimmer740's profile picture
Venson, I use the Lindhaus with my VacuFlo 566Q central vac but its hardly been used in the past two years and just collects dust in a closet now. I guess we will just have to agree to disagree, as no one vac is a perfect fit for everyone.

You mentioned a Eureka power nozzle or clone of one, now you are talking! The Eureka Express power nozzle that has been used under different private labels and by several central vac companies, is a fantastic p/n. The VG3 brush roll does a great job cleaning carpets, it really digs the dirt out of the rug. And, its a straight foward and simple to use design. I have been using the Express power nozzle with my vac system which came from my mom's blue Eureka Express canister that she bought new in 1986. After 25 years though, the motor needs to be replaced but haven't gotten around to buying a new one yet.


Post# 170965 , Reply# 58   2/25/2012 at 23:13 (4,414 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
Steven:

My PN-5 has the improved brush roll, which did make a difference, but the "floating" feature still interferes with the brush roll's "bite," in my opinion. Sadly, the Diamond Jubilee has been in storage for a while; I haven't used it in a long time, because the PN-5 has to have a new bottom plate. One of the problems with the PN-5 is that the screw mounts for the bottom plate are built into the plastic of the plate. Works just fine until something jams the PN. Then, WHAMMO! - you end up with broken screw mounts. So, that's going to have to be fixed before I can use the DJ and its PN-5 again, and frankly, it's not my favorite machine, so I have been lazy about it.

Thanks for the compliments on the TriStar. Do not EVER follow my example on that machine, LOL. It was kind of rough when I got it, and I decided nothing less than perfection would do. Set me back WAY more money than I should have spent - around $400. If I had it to do over again, I'd hold out for one in better condition. Oh, well, live and learn. And it is a pleasure to own and use.


Post# 170970 , Reply# 59   2/26/2012 at 00:22 (4,414 days old) by bimmer740 (Long Island, New York)        

bimmer740's profile picture
Sandy, did you install a VG2 brush roll in your Tri-Star power nozzle. I know you have been a member of the forum for a long time and over the years there have been many discussions about converting the Tri-Star p/n to use the Eureka brush roll. Some seem to swear by the VG2 conversion and others prefer the original brush roll. Just curious to know if you changed yours and if it makes a noticable difference in cleaning performance.

Post# 170975 , Reply# 60   2/26/2012 at 04:58 (4,414 days old) by pr-21 (Middletown, OH)        
PN6 took care of the floating problem

pr-21's profile picture

Hi Venson,

 

The Electrolux/Aerus PN6 took care of the floating issue, the back wheel spring is much harder to push down when pushing the power nozzle forward.....They still sale the one that would fit your Electrolux, it comes standard with their Lux Classic.

 

 

Sincerely,

 

Bud Mattingly

PR-21


Post# 170976 , Reply# 61   2/26/2012 at 05:28 (4,414 days old) by venson ()        
@bimmer740

Hi,

I don't know if it still does but Nilfisk sold the Eureka power nozzle as an option for some time. I think now the Wessel Werk nozzle may be being picked up. Rainbow debuted its first model fitted for power nozzle use with a Eureka nozzle.

It's great that you have a central vacuum system because you can pick and choose the suction cleaning tools you prefer as long as you can fit them onto the working end of the hose. In the end, design means everything -- not just for power nozzles but even down to tools like upholstery nozzles, straight suction rug tools, bare floor tools, dusting brushes and so on. Once off the drawing board and on a decent machine, people notice even things seemingly small. I'd like to think that's not due to needless fussiness but a requirement for best efficiency.


Post# 170983 , Reply# 62   2/26/2012 at 06:54 (4,414 days old) by sanifan ()        
Identifying Lux PNs...

How would one go about telling which PN one has?

When the Ultralux was mentioned my ears perked up. But I have the plastic 80th Anniversary Ultralux and not the metal one.

I suppose ther must be some designation on the bottom plate of the PN?


Post# 170986 , Reply# 63   2/26/2012 at 07:51 (4,414 days old) by venson ()        
@pr-21

Hi Bud,

Thanks much for the info.

Venson


Post# 170996 , Reply# 64   2/26/2012 at 10:19 (4,413 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
Steven:

My TriStar's PN has the stock brush roll. The restoration goal on that machine was to return it to absolutely complete and correct stock condition, exactly as it was when it left the factory.

The PN is reasonably heavy, and does not have the tendency to "ride" carpet pile the way the Lux PN-5 does, so the stock brush roll is very satisfactory to me on the TriStar.


Post# 170997 , Reply# 65   2/26/2012 at 10:49 (4,413 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
Khoi:

Here is a site with very complete info and photos on all Electrolux/Aerus PN's through the present. Even the early version of the PN-1 is discussed. Note that there is not a PN-3, and that the PN-2 and PN-4 are easily confused by newbies, though they're easily distinguishable once you are familiar with them:



CLICK HERE TO GO TO danemodsandy's LINK


Post# 171118 , Reply# 66   2/27/2012 at 14:35 (4,412 days old) by luxman107 (USA )        

I would so buy one of those Lux Intelligence machines..Is than an actual braided hose on that machine..Looks like it is in the picture


Post# 171128 , Reply# 67   2/27/2012 at 16:44 (4,412 days old) by venson ()        
@luxman107

Yep, indeed. The hose has a braided outer cover though I don't know what the material beneath is. We probably won't ever be seeing these in the States. Several yeas ago, the only 110 volt models they supplied were for Jamaica I think.

But you never know. My granddad always said, "There's more than one way to skin a cat." Trusting his wisdom, I have been trying to learn if the Intelligence is sold in Mexico. The electrical voltage is about the same there as ours I'm told. I also know the standard Spanish word for vacuum cleaner is aspiradora but there may be a slight difference in Mexico. Anyway . . .

The search continues but I refuse to drive any farther than Costa Rica.


Post# 171134 , Reply# 68   2/27/2012 at 17:21 (4,412 days old) by sanifan ()        
PN5 Floaties...

Hmmm... the fellow from the PN website seems to fancy that floating feature on the PN5. Thanks for posting that link, Sandy.

I have the PN5 on my Ultralux and a PN2 on my gold colored 1205. I'm lukewarm on how the PN5 performs I'll have to give the PN2 test run. Which one do you prefer?


Post# 171139 , Reply# 69   2/27/2012 at 17:35 (4,412 days old) by danemodsandy ()        
Khoi:

For me, it's a tossup between the PN-2 and the PN-4, which are both aluminum-bodied PNs. The weight of the housing gives them a bit more "bite" on the carpet, without that silly floating business.

I don't think you'd go wrong with either one. P.S.: Both the PN-2 and the PN-4 can use the later wand and sheath system seen on PN-5s and PN-6s. Makes for a very sturdy power nozzle.


Post# 229915 , Reply# 70   4/25/2013 at 00:49 (3,990 days old) by floor-a-matic (somewhere)        
SideKick 2 & SideKick 3 vs. MiniStar

Why did TriStar end up using Aerus Guardian Ultra wands, hose & SideKick 3 instead of Aerus Legacy (Electrolux Epic 6500SR) wands, hose & SideKick 2? It'd be nice if the Electrolux Epic 6500SR tools & TriStar EXL tools were interchangeable.

At least I really am happy with both my Electrolux Epic 6500 & TriStar EXL.


Post# 229921 , Reply# 71   4/25/2013 at 02:35 (3,990 days old) by tolivac (Greenville,NC)        

I have a Patriot vacuum-the body is plastic-its a special glass reinforced plastic similar to the housings on a lot of newer power tools.I can say that metal is really a more enviornment freindly material-its is more easily recycled than plastics.If new Kirbys are plastic--WILL NOT buy.That would be a BAD move on Kirbys part.Part of their fame is that the machine is mostly metal.
For 'Lux "Stores" There is one in Greenville-from what I understand-if you want to buy a vacuum thru them-they have to go to your home and demo the cleaner.In the Wash DC area-it was different-same with Kirby-the machine was demoed and purchased at the store-some areas there they did not go DTD.



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