Hand vacuum cleaners: description and tips for choosing
Popular home appliances are gradually becoming truly portable. Instead of bulky units for collecting garbage, cleaning floor coverings, a handheld vacuum cleaner is used today. But before choosing a portable wireless model on a battery for your home, you should study the characteristics and ratings of these devices, as well as familiarize yourself with their main functions. The modern market is saturated with offers from various brands - from budget to luxury ones. But what attracts consumers with compact hybrids of a classic mop and a modern dust suction unit?
Peculiarities
The classic handheld vacuum cleaner is a simple and convenient solution for home use. Compact models most often resemble a miniature garden leaf collector and are suitable for cleaning various surfaces. For cleaning on the floor, versions with a long handle are used, so that you do not strain your back and arms. The variety of the model range is so wide that it allows you to divide devices into categories not only by price or location of the handle. There are other criteria that should also be taken into account.
The main feature of all hand-held vacuum cleaners is a portable device that allows them to move freely in space. In addition, a compact body usually has a very small dust collector, designed for 1-2 cleaning cycles. Fully autonomous rechargeable devices are convenient to use, do not require connection to an outlet - they can be transported in a car, taken with you to the country. Small, as simple and safe as possible, hand-held vacuum cleaners are perfect for use by the elderly or children who are actively involved in cleaning using a modern device. The control panel on the body is positioned high enough to avoid strong tilting.
In the simplest models, switching on and off is done with one touch.
Principle of operation
The principle of operation of the handheld vacuum cleaner is based on the absence of a long flexible hose, usually connecting the rod to the body. Here this element is excluded from the design, the brush is responsible for absorbing debris. The compact body of the device contains both an electric motor and a dust collector, and the suction force is formed in a cyclonic way and allows you to lift and hold dirt in a special compartment.
Cyclonic filtration allows you to collect garbage even in hard-to-reach places, without the need to use other components and consumables, except for replaceable filters (usually there are two of them - HEPA for fine cleaning and the usual one for primary screening of contaminants). In the washing models, in addition to suction of dust, special vacuum nozzles are also used, through which liquid and detergent are supplied to the surface. Disposal of the collected waste is carried out using the same tool.
Advantages and disadvantages
The originality of the idea of a portable vacuum cleaner gives such a device a lot of advantages.
- Minimum weight. The unit is suitable even for people who, for various reasons, cannot lift weights or bend over.Lightweight and compact models are developed by manufacturers taking into account all the requirements of modern ergonomics, aimed at ease of use.
- Capacious tank. In most cases, its capacity is from 400 to 700 ml, quite enough to provide convenience when cleaning one large room or several small rooms.
- Ease of controls. The device is turned on and controlled with a single button located at a convenient height. Even a child can easily cope with the control of such a device.
- Ease of cleaning. When using bags, the scope of delivery includes hygienic and easy-to-use disposable models. If there is a waste bin in the form of a container made of polymeric material, it will also be easy and simple to empty it.
- Lack of significant noise during cleaning. The acoustic effect produced by a portable device is not comparable to that produced by a conventional unit. Accordingly, even a device turned on late in the evening will not interfere with neighbors or households.
- Independence from network connection. The built-in battery removes all restrictions on freedom of movement. You can easily pick up debris from the steps of the stairs or clean the mezzanine.
- Ease of storage. A mini vacuum cleaner takes up no more space than an ordinary mop. Moreover, such a portable assistant will definitely not spoil the appearance of the room, it can be left in plain sight.
- Choice of 2-in-1 model with base, for work as a vertical dust collector of increased capacity and a detachable brush.
The disadvantages of compact vacuum cleaner models are obvious. The portability of the device assumes the use of the most compact rechargeable battery. The energy reserve is sufficient, on average, for 10 minutes of use. But it takes much longer to replenish the charge level - at least 6 hours. Taking into account the purpose of such a device, we can say that with an economical expenditure of charge, this drawback is unlikely to play a decisive role in the choice of technology. Limited functionality is another obvious disadvantage of portable vacuum cleaners. The delivery set rarely includes additional components. The focus only on the collection of dry waste can also be attributed to the category of minuses. Only manufacturers selling premium products are ready to include a nozzle for collecting liquid waste.
Of course, a compact hand-held vacuum cleaner cannot completely replace a classic unit. But its power is quite enough to carry out express cleaning of the territory from dust and dirt, scattered cereals or cat litter, sand or animal hair. This option is especially highly appreciated by the owners of pets with a rich woolen cover, for whom cleaning carpets or sofas becomes a daily duty.
Views
All existing versions of handheld vacuum cleaners are a modern variation on the expansion of the functionality of the classic unit. The long-handled brush with direct cyclonic suction is convenient for cleaning carpets and various flooring, suitable for multifunctional use - in the care of textiles and upholstery.
There is a classification of such devices, which makes it faster and easier to make a choice.
By type of cleaning
Dry cleaning units. The most common options are equipped with nozzles with a brush - for cleaning furniture or carpets, as well as a classic polymer nozzle for sucking up debris from hard surfaces. They provide ease of use, quickly and efficiently collect small crumbs, sand and many other small particles that are difficult to collect with other devices or sweep by hand.
Models for wet cleaning. Features of small washing vacuum cleaners for furniture, floors, windows make the cleaning process as high-tech and simple as possible.The liquid is supplied using a special diffuser, eliminating the formation of drops or puddles of water on the floor.
Such models are especially popular with people suffering from allergic reactions, as they allow you to rid the air of excessive dryness and dust particles. Washing devices are especially relevant in the care of floors made of natural stone, porcelain stoneware, tiles.
By appointment
Portable hand-held vacuum cleaners are also quite diverse for their intended purpose.
- Car mini vacuum cleaners. They differ in average size, usually have several attachments for processing surfaces with different textures, washing models allow wet cleaning.
- For furniture and curtains. Models are available with a bagless cyclone dust collector and classic versions in which disposable type drives are installed. The complete set additionally includes a nozzle in the form of a brush, a turbo brush with retractable bristles for upholstered furniture, an optional polisher function may be present.
The type of filtration also matters - HEPA is considered optimal, removing 99% of dust and dirt.
- For PC and technology. The ultra-compact segment is available in narrow nozzle models that allow cleaning of the case and keyboard. The handheld vacuum cleaner can be backlit, be charged or powered from the USB port. Small size, quietness and speed make it the ideal cleaning companion
- For cleaning the floor. Classic versions of manual units can support operation in polisher mode, provide wet cleaning or collect dry debris, or replace a mechanical floor polisher.
- For cleaning swimming pools. They are distinguished by an underwater type of application, they can provide water supply under pressure and suction of contaminants with their subsequent removal from the environment of an artificial hydraulic structure. The system works with a connection to the water supply, is equipped with a bar to control the position of the device.
By type of food
It is generally accepted to consider handheld vacuum cleaners to be an exclusively wireless version of technology, but manufacturers also produce a fairly wide range of portable versions with power from the mains (with a wire). The low mobility of the device is compensated by the longer work. But a wired connection turns a handy device into another classic electrical appliance.
Cordless versions of hand-held vacuum cleaners are not very powerful, but they do an excellent job with local cleaning. They are suitable for cleaning in places where it is impossible or inconvenient to use conventional techniques. A variety of sizes and designs also add functionality to the wireless device. On a battery, the duration of work is usually limited to a limit of 10-15 minutes.
Rating of the best models
The rating of handheld vacuum cleaners includes a number of current models from brands represented in various market segments - from economy to premium class. Let's consider the 5 most prominent representatives in their classes in more detail.
Hakuto
The Hakuto hm121755 car handheld vacuum cleaner model is a compact solution for the modern vehicle owner. The suction power is 75 W, there is a connection to the power supply from the cigarette lighter, which allows you not to experience problems with the duration of the device. A 2.5 m long wire will even allow you to get to the trunk; the manufacturer includes a nozzle for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
Vitesse VS-765
A review of the Vitesse VS-765 handheld vacuum cleaner with a wired connection can start with a stylish design and an ergonomic vertical handle. The package includes a transparent trash compartment with a volume of 0.6 liters, a lot of attachments. The model is positioned as a transformer, suitable for use in a car. The power consumption of 800 W is low.
There is a rotating bottom brush for collecting wool and lint.
Smile HVC 831
The Smile HVC 831 model for dry cleaning belongs to the category of budget options for handheld vacuum cleaners, it has a cyclone filter for collecting dust with a volume of 0.5 liters. The kit includes an additional hose, two brush nozzles of different sizes, a shoulder strap. The cord length of 4.8 m is sufficient for free movement during operation. The power consumption is low - about 700 watts.
Thomas quick stick tempo
Not the most powerful, but very popular cordless handheld Thomas Quick Stick Tempo vacuum cleaner is capable of autonomous operation for 20 minutes. The model belongs to middle-class devices, has a practical 650 ml cyclone dust collector, equipped with a full set of necessary attachments. The suction power is 150 W, the washable container is easy to clean, the built-in HEPA system traps the smallest dust particles.
Proffi PH8813
Powerful and reliable handheld vertical vacuum cleaner Proffi P8813 is positioned as a 2-in-1 transformer model. The detachable handheld unit easily converts it into a vehicle cleaner or upholstered furniture cleaner. The package includes 9 nozzles, there is a large 1.2 liter dust container.
How to choose?
The rules for choosing handheld vacuum cleaners for the home imply taking into account all its characteristics. Even the presence of an additional brush or a function that performs wet cleaning can influence the final purchase decision. What should be a compact home device? Do I need to purchase the sofa or curtain attachment separately? All these issues require careful consideration. But there are basic selection criteria that are always important.
Suction power
Contrary to popular misconception, the suction power is a separate indicator, it does not correlate in any way with the similar characteristic of the built-in electric motor. The standard value for wired units is 200-500 W. In stand-alone models, this figure does not exceed 100 watts. They are able to cope only with minor dirt, cleaning even and hard surfaces. For full care of carpets and upholstered furniture, you will need equipment with a suction power of at least 450 watts.
Filtration type
The basic solution is a classic removable paper bag, which is simply thrown away after cleaning. Such a mechanical filter serves as an accumulator for the suctioned debris. There are also models with cloth bags that allow you to reuse the same "container" to collect dust and dirt. Container systems are considered optimal, where a special rigid compartment is built in to collect sucked in waste and contaminants.
In premium models, aquafilters are widely used, where water is used as an additional purification component. Upon contact with it, dust particles lose their volatility, practically have no chance of re-entering the atmosphere.
Total power consumption
Energy consumption is an important part of making a good choice. When choosing portable devices, it is better not to take the most powerful models, which will spend energy as quickly as possible. An indicator of 1300 W is enough for using an aquafilter, and for most types of daily work.
Wet cleaning function
In compact hand-held vacuum cleaners, it is found only in the premium segment. But it definitely makes sense if there are small children or pets in the house that constantly leave exactly wet pollution (traces, residues and splashes of food). In addition, wet cleaning is convenient when processing carpet and allows you to keep it in a rather attractive condition for a long time.
Specialized nozzles
When choosing a portable handheld vacuum cleaner, the main focus is usually on compact dimensions or autonomy. But for a really effective use of the device, it is worth checking the availability of a complete set of the necessary brushes. The list is quite long.In addition to the main wide and flat brush with retractable bristles, it is worth highlighting a turbo brush for collecting lint, a nozzle for cleaning curtains, upholstered furniture.
The presence of angle and slot nozzles will be very useful.
Usage Tips
So that the operation of the handheld vacuum cleaner brings only positive emotions, it is worth listening to a number of simple tips.
- When cleaning, you should pay attention to the filling of the filter. The higher it is, the worse the absorption.
- An electrical appliance with mains supply should be connected to a grounded socket.
- In-line and removable filters should be replaced regularly to effectively clean and prevent dust from being released into the environment.
- Before using the equipment, you should make sure that the battery model has a sufficient level of charge.
- If the house or apartment has a large area, you should purchase an additional pair of replacement batteries.
Reviews
According to user reviews, handheld vacuum cleaners look quite an attractive purchase for a household. They are characterized by ease of storage and operation, ease of maintenance. Rechargeable models allow you not to depend on wires, make cleaning possible even in places with difficult access.
But not without flaws. These include the poor build quality in most Chinese models - it is quite difficult to find the optimal solution that can work for a really long time.
In the next video, you will find a detailed review and test of the Xiaomi Roidmi F8 2 in 1 handheld vacuum cleaner.
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