fantomfan
Well-known member
Yes
It is my ad!
It is my ad!
Which vacuum stands the test of time?
- Thread starter lori_ann
- Start date
Help Support VacuumLand:
sptyks
Well-known member
Rainbow
Is a well built canister vacuum that has lots of power.
However, I am not a fan of the water filter system used in the rainbow. It requires you to frequently change the water before and during each use. Also, I have heard horror stories of mold growing inside the machine if you should forget to empty the water and let the filter completely to air dry. This is just what I have heard more than one time.
Is a well built canister vacuum that has lots of power.
However, I am not a fan of the water filter system used in the rainbow. It requires you to frequently change the water before and during each use. Also, I have heard horror stories of mold growing inside the machine if you should forget to empty the water and let the filter completely to air dry. This is just what I have heard more than one time.
Lori,
You may want to look into a HOOVER Anniversary Windtunnel (bagged), OR, even the Platinum (bagged) upright.
Of course, if you got your hands on a nice HOOVER Convertible and had it completely serviced, it will last a lifetime.
John
You may want to look into a HOOVER Anniversary Windtunnel (bagged), OR, even the Platinum (bagged) upright.
Of course, if you got your hands on a nice HOOVER Convertible and had it completely serviced, it will last a lifetime.
John
fantomfan
Well-known member
The rainbow is not for everybody
The water can be a hassle, but it traps all but very fine materials (powder). If you don't pick up stuff like that, it shouldn't be a problem. I think it is best to not leave the water container in the vacuum after use. I always store it out of the vacuum, and do not have any mold/moisture problems.
The water can be a hassle, but it traps all but very fine materials (powder). If you don't pick up stuff like that, it shouldn't be a problem. I think it is best to not leave the water container in the vacuum after use. I always store it out of the vacuum, and do not have any mold/moisture problems.
eurekaprince
Well-known member
The Eureka fan-first Dial-a-Nap upright with F&G bag has survived for over 40 years as one of the best designs for deep carpet cleaning. It is now sold under so many different commercial vac brand names - Sanitaire, Bissell, Oreck, Nilfisk Reliavac, Electrolux, Koblenz and Rubbermaid.
You can't beat a classic Eureka upright when it comes to carpet cleaning - a simple design with no fancy bells and whistles.....
You can't beat a classic Eureka upright when it comes to carpet cleaning - a simple design with no fancy bells and whistles.....
man114
Well-known member
I sell Rainbows part time, the D4 is holding up remarkably well if you don't mind a used vac. I prefer my single speed E Series, it is quieter, easier to use.
The powerhead on the newest ones is fantastic.
Like others have said, you either have time to use the water or not, but if you don't leave it sitting in the basin it lasts virtually forever.
Once you get used to the water, the amount of time it adds is minimal and worth the advantages.
The powerhead on the newest ones is fantastic.
Like others have said, you either have time to use the water or not, but if you don't leave it sitting in the basin it lasts virtually forever.
Once you get used to the water, the amount of time it adds is minimal and worth the advantages.
fantomfan
Well-known member
Update
The Royal just sold 2 hours ago.
The Royal just sold 2 hours ago.
dustin
Well-known member
I would also recommend a Sanitaire- commercial quality, absolutely unbeatable carpet cleaning, easy maintenance and cheap repairs. They don't have on board attachments though, so maybe buy a small/cheap canister vac for above floor cleaning.
jade_angel
Well-known member
Probably just that you can return it if it's broken or otherwise not as advertised; with Craigslist the motto is /caveat emptor/. Also, it's a Sentria, which is quite a bit newer. Personally, I'd prefer the Heritage II, but some would differ with me. I think the Heritage II, HII Legend and Legend II are some of the best Kirbys ever made. Not that there's anything wrong with the Generation series - they're great - but I think they're heavier and more cumbersome, and the TechDrive makes them easier to push but no less clunky.
dysonman1
Well-known member
The motor is the heart of an electric cleaner. If it fails, the machine is useless. To that end, a Riccar or Simplicity vacuum would be an excellent choice. The motor in a Simplicity Symmetry is designed to last a minimum of 800 hours (about 20 years worth of vacuuming). You definitely want on-board tools. There's no joy in having to go back to the closet, and get the Kirby attachments out, hook them up, use them, then unhook them to clean the rug again.
A Simplicity or Riccar (Symmetry or Vibrance) has on-board tools, is made in the USA, and will give an average life of 20 or more years. Repair costs are minimal as everything is replaceable without having to buy an 'assembly'.
You can pick up an American Made Simplicity with on-board tools, for about $200. The bags are clean to replace and inexpensive. You cannot go wrong with a Simplicity (the Riccar is the same machine in a different color).
A Simplicity or Riccar (Symmetry or Vibrance) has on-board tools, is made in the USA, and will give an average life of 20 or more years. Repair costs are minimal as everything is replaceable without having to buy an 'assembly'.
You can pick up an American Made Simplicity with on-board tools, for about $200. The bags are clean to replace and inexpensive. You cannot go wrong with a Simplicity (the Riccar is the same machine in a different color).
Simplicity for $200?
Just spoke with a rep and he said the lowest for a new machine they can go is $300 by the manufacturers ruling.
Here's what they told me they have...
a deluxe model with onboard tools and 4 yr warranty for $389.99
a freedom for $309 and this has no attachments, but they recommend the Sonitaire 7lb which they sell fo $129...
those models are new (I'm sure they have more higher end things, didn't ask).
they do have a nice canister SL36 model that someone traded up ... quoted me $300., so I told them to call me when they get it ready (needs hose, and cleaning).
of the three, anyone have recommendations?
thank you all!
Lori
Just spoke with a rep and he said the lowest for a new machine they can go is $300 by the manufacturers ruling.
Here's what they told me they have...
a deluxe model with onboard tools and 4 yr warranty for $389.99
a freedom for $309 and this has no attachments, but they recommend the Sonitaire 7lb which they sell fo $129...
those models are new (I'm sure they have more higher end things, didn't ask).
they do have a nice canister SL36 model that someone traded up ... quoted me $300., so I told them to call me when they get it ready (needs hose, and cleaning).
of the three, anyone have recommendations?
thank you all!
Lori
sptyks
Well-known member
Lori, Here's why...
the Kirby Sentria on ebay is really a much better deal than the Heritage II on Craig's list:
The Heritage II was made approx. 30 years ago whereas the Sentria was made 3 -7 years ago.
In photo #8 of the craig's list ad you can see how tarnished the machine is, which probably means it was stored outside on a porch or in a damp basement or garage for years. Also, it looks as if the electrical cord has been taped up. Who knows what condition the brushroll or motor brushes are in? Normally, I would have no problem buying a 30 year old Kirby if it showed signs that it was well cared for, but this machine shows signs that it has suffered years of neglect.
As you can see from the photo on ebay, the Sentria shines like brand new. This Sentria on ebay is a "Certified" machine which means it is in Brand New mint condition or you can return it and get your money back. <span style="font-size: medium;">Keep in mind the Sentria sells for well over $1,000 when purchased new from the Dealer.</span>
<span style="font-size: medium;">The policy on Craig's list is "Buyer Beware" and everything is sold "as is".</span>
<span style="font-size: 14px;">
</span>
The Sentria is self propelled and is almost effortless to push and pull. The Heritage is not self propelled and will be much harder to move on carpet.
The Sentria has the new style brushroll with stiffer bristles which is much better at removing pet hair and grooming the nap of your carpet.
The Sentria has the new style carpet shampoo system which works wonders on stains and ground in dirt and is much better than the old Heritage style "Rug Renovator" which suffered poor performance due to design flaws.
Lori, I hope this helps you to understand the vast differences between these two Kirby home care systems.
-Stan
the Kirby Sentria on ebay is really a much better deal than the Heritage II on Craig's list:
The Heritage II was made approx. 30 years ago whereas the Sentria was made 3 -7 years ago.
In photo #8 of the craig's list ad you can see how tarnished the machine is, which probably means it was stored outside on a porch or in a damp basement or garage for years. Also, it looks as if the electrical cord has been taped up. Who knows what condition the brushroll or motor brushes are in? Normally, I would have no problem buying a 30 year old Kirby if it showed signs that it was well cared for, but this machine shows signs that it has suffered years of neglect.
As you can see from the photo on ebay, the Sentria shines like brand new. This Sentria on ebay is a "Certified" machine which means it is in Brand New mint condition or you can return it and get your money back. <span style="font-size: medium;">Keep in mind the Sentria sells for well over $1,000 when purchased new from the Dealer.</span>
<span style="font-size: medium;">The policy on Craig's list is "Buyer Beware" and everything is sold "as is".</span>
<span style="font-size: 14px;">
</span>
The Sentria is self propelled and is almost effortless to push and pull. The Heritage is not self propelled and will be much harder to move on carpet.
The Sentria has the new style brushroll with stiffer bristles which is much better at removing pet hair and grooming the nap of your carpet.
The Sentria has the new style carpet shampoo system which works wonders on stains and ground in dirt and is much better than the old Heritage style "Rug Renovator" which suffered poor performance due to design flaws.
Lori, I hope this helps you to understand the vast differences between these two Kirby home care systems.
-Stan
sptyks
Well-known member
Simpicity is a good machine, but consider that it is made primarily of plastic vs. the Kirby which is primarily made of Aircraft grade Aluminum.
The Kirby will last way more than 20 years.
The Kirby is also made in the USA.
The Kirby will last way more than 20 years.
The Kirby is also made in the USA.
dysonman1
Well-known member
Lori Ann
You can definitely get a Simplicity Symmetry with on-board tools for $200. Unlike a vacuum such as a Kirby, the belt is not exposed to dirt, dirt does NOT have to pass through the fan blades, and the replacement parts for inexpensive if you should ever need them. I sell the $200 model all day long. It's our best selling model due to the price point. Perhaps prices in New York are higher because from what I've heard (never been to New York) everything there costs more than it does in Missouri.
You can definitely get a Simplicity Symmetry with on-board tools for $200. Unlike a vacuum such as a Kirby, the belt is not exposed to dirt, dirt does NOT have to pass through the fan blades, and the replacement parts for inexpensive if you should ever need them. I sell the $200 model all day long. It's our best selling model due to the price point. Perhaps prices in New York are higher because from what I've heard (never been to New York) everything there costs more than it does in Missouri.
dysonman1
Well-known member
$199 Simplicity Symmetry
This is the ad for the $199 Simplicity, which we sell tons of.
This is the ad for the $199 Simplicity, which we sell tons of.
jaker15
Well-known member
lori-ann...
I agree with Stan (sptyks). A nice, high-quality metal vacuum will last and last and last. Some of Kirby's earlier models are notably long-lived. For example, I have a 1954 Kirby model 514. Despite being 60 years old, it's still an absolutely incredible machine. It's lightweight, powerful, and not too terribly loud. Sure, it leaks a little dust, most older cleaners do, but if allergies aren't a concern, it's not a big deal. The best thing, however, is just how well it deep-cleans carpets. You will never, and I mean never, see a new, plastic, Wal-Mart vacuum lift the carpet off of the floor. That's just how much airflow the 514 has. As it lifts the carpet into the nozzle, it gently agitates the fibers and the HUGE fan whisks the deep-down grit away. This process is what Kirby called "Triple-Cushion Vibration". (see picture) Oh, and emptying the bag can be a bit of a chore if you dislike having some dust billow out of the emptor when you open it. LOL
Another great machine, if you have a lot of carpeting, is any canister that has a lot of airflow and a good power nozzle. One of the best canisters I've used is a Compact model C-4 that belongs to my grandma. Now, keep in mind that this machine does NOT have a power nozzle. The later Compacts, as well as my grandma's C-4, did have the option of using one, but hers didn't have the correct hose to accept a PN. What I used instead was a Vacu-Flo T-21 turbo nozzle that used the vacuum's suction power to spin a beater bar. Despite what some may say about turbine nozzles, this particular power head cleaned incredibly well. It was quieter than most electric power nozzles, and the Compact's suction was more than enough to spin it quick enough for deep-cleaning. The combination of the T-21's beater bar/bristle setup and the Compact's awesome airflow made it a very formidable carpet-cleaning machine.
Here is a picture describing how Kirby's Triple-Cushion Vibration works. They were very ahead of their time.
I agree with Stan (sptyks). A nice, high-quality metal vacuum will last and last and last. Some of Kirby's earlier models are notably long-lived. For example, I have a 1954 Kirby model 514. Despite being 60 years old, it's still an absolutely incredible machine. It's lightweight, powerful, and not too terribly loud. Sure, it leaks a little dust, most older cleaners do, but if allergies aren't a concern, it's not a big deal. The best thing, however, is just how well it deep-cleans carpets. You will never, and I mean never, see a new, plastic, Wal-Mart vacuum lift the carpet off of the floor. That's just how much airflow the 514 has. As it lifts the carpet into the nozzle, it gently agitates the fibers and the HUGE fan whisks the deep-down grit away. This process is what Kirby called "Triple-Cushion Vibration". (see picture) Oh, and emptying the bag can be a bit of a chore if you dislike having some dust billow out of the emptor when you open it. LOL
Another great machine, if you have a lot of carpeting, is any canister that has a lot of airflow and a good power nozzle. One of the best canisters I've used is a Compact model C-4 that belongs to my grandma. Now, keep in mind that this machine does NOT have a power nozzle. The later Compacts, as well as my grandma's C-4, did have the option of using one, but hers didn't have the correct hose to accept a PN. What I used instead was a Vacu-Flo T-21 turbo nozzle that used the vacuum's suction power to spin a beater bar. Despite what some may say about turbine nozzles, this particular power head cleaned incredibly well. It was quieter than most electric power nozzles, and the Compact's suction was more than enough to spin it quick enough for deep-cleaning. The combination of the T-21's beater bar/bristle setup and the Compact's awesome airflow made it a very formidable carpet-cleaning machine.
Here is a picture describing how Kirby's Triple-Cushion Vibration works. They were very ahead of their time.
Lori Ann
Always remember to replace your brush roll or brush strips and make sure your belt is replaced often if your machine uses a flat belt. I find so many people complain about their vacs not picking up like they used to which makes sense, brushes wear out over time. If you say your eureka boss was reconditioned was the brush roll replaced?
Always remember to replace your brush roll or brush strips and make sure your belt is replaced often if your machine uses a flat belt. I find so many people complain about their vacs not picking up like they used to which makes sense, brushes wear out over time. If you say your eureka boss was reconditioned was the brush roll replaced?
What to do, what to do!???
OK, so thinking about this.. the Kirby.. Pros... it has the shampooer! It stands the test of time! Cons.. heavy, cumbersome attachments... the emptying of the bag for dust particles.. (yes, I've got allergies)...
The Simplicity, if I opt for this, the nearest dealer has these options:
the Deluxe.. for 389.99 4 yr warranty.
the Freedom (not sure which one) for $309 (site says this has 3 yr warranty)... But this one has no attachments. The guy told me he carries the sonitaire for 129.
Canisters they have new, but ....they have a trade in, He said it's an SL36 (though can't find one online to review... I do see Simplicity has an S36_... he can sell this to me for $300 (they sell new for a grand he says)....
(
OK, so thinking about this.. the Kirby.. Pros... it has the shampooer! It stands the test of time! Cons.. heavy, cumbersome attachments... the emptying of the bag for dust particles.. (yes, I've got allergies)...
The Simplicity, if I opt for this, the nearest dealer has these options:
the Deluxe.. for 389.99 4 yr warranty.
the Freedom (not sure which one) for $309 (site says this has 3 yr warranty)... But this one has no attachments. The guy told me he carries the sonitaire for 129.
Canisters they have new, but ....they have a trade in, He said it's an SL36 (though can't find one online to review... I do see Simplicity has an S36_... he can sell this to me for $300 (they sell new for a grand he says)....
(
I hope
the canister they have for trade in is the Simplicity S36! (though I like the convenience of the buttons on the handle of the S38)...
After reading more about canisters, I'm thinking my next vacuum just may end being one! According to this list," Canisters generally have more suction and greater airflow than uprights," I've been wondering about this!
http://www.simplicityvac.com/choosing-a-vacuum/?id=13
the canister they have for trade in is the Simplicity S36! (though I like the convenience of the buttons on the handle of the S38)...
After reading more about canisters, I'm thinking my next vacuum just may end being one! According to this list," Canisters generally have more suction and greater airflow than uprights," I've been wondering about this!
http://www.simplicityvac.com/choosing-a-vacuum/?id=13
