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Electrolux Versatility Upright Vacuum
As a introductory priced HEPA vacuum cleaner, the Electrolux Versatility offers you versatile cleaning and convenient features in one upright
package. With true value added features and little cost to maintain, the Electrolux Versatility is a solid vacuum cleaner for those with
carpet homes and pets. Taking our sample model, I used the EL8052 for a weekend, and this is what I found.
What I like about the Electrolux Versatility
Upon assembling the unit, the size of it is likely the first thing you notice. After thumbing through the user manual and plugging it in, I tested
the Versatility on the high pile carpeting in our bedroom. The suction is excellent, and combined with the motorized brushroll, it had little difficulty
pulling up dog hair and dirt even from this dense carpet. Transitioning to the carpeted hallway then again to the computer room was simple, and I did
like NOT having to adjust the height with a dial (a common feature on other big box brand upright vacuums). And though I know bagged vacuums
are better for allergy and asthma sufferers (since the allergens stay sealed even while changing the bag), there is something gratifying about seeing
all of the dust and dirt in the bin before I empty it.
The Microseal system in the newer Electrolux vacuums is a welcomed feature. It helps to maintain good airflow through the vacuum while preventing dirty
air from mixing with the air that has already passed through the standard HEPA filter. The HEPA filter is a true filter that captures 99.97% of particles
0.3 microns or larger. So this will help in reducing things like pet dander and pollen whereas other vacuum cleaners end up dispersing this stuff
back in to the air as you clean.
On smooth flooring the Electrolux EL8502 does a respectable job. For large areas of smooth flooring you'll always be best suited going with a canister
vacuum cleaner, but if your home is mostly carpet, the Versatility will be able to tackle the smooth flooring. I recommend for HEPA vacuum cleaners like
this that after you've vacuumed an area of smooth flooring, before turning the vacuum off, roll it over to an area of carpet and turn the brushroll back on.
If you have a pet, things like pet hair can collect a bit on the brushroll bristles, so turning the brushroll on over a carpeted area after cleaning a smooth
floor will help clean those bristles instead of tracking them back through your house.
Maintenance is pretty simple with this machine. Indicator lights let you know if there is a problem with the filter and it's not difficult to tell
when you need to empty the bin. You'll likely end up replacing the HEPA filter annually, and the foam filter and large plastic filter are both
washable. From experience with similar filter setups, I recommend you check the plastic filter after each use, particularly if you have long haired pets or newer carpet.
New carpet tends to have give off a lot of fuzz and fibers, pets... are pretty self explanatory. The foam filter and plastic filter can be cleaned by hand
then rinsed in water. Once dry, you can reassemble, and you're all set.
The @hand Turbobrush is a great addition to this vacuum. Handheld turbobrushes are perfect for cleaning the loveseat, couch or steps, areas where picking up
a heavy upright vacuum is not the best idea. The dust brush on this model is actually attached to the wand and retracts while not in use. The crevice tool
fits into the back of the unit. Overall, the accessories are all very useful and go well with this particular vacuum.
What I do not like about the Electrolux Versatility
One of the first things you'll notice about this vacuum is the weight. Operationally, you're looking at a 20+ lb. upright vacuum cleaner. While
this may not be an issue for some, it will make you less likely to want to vacuum up a quick spill or move the unit from floor to floor in the home.
Like most traditional uprights, it feature bi-directional wheels. And though this vacuum does mimic some of the innovation found
in Dyson's (quick-release wand, bagless vac with dual cyclone suction), it does lack the
maneuverability of a Dyson Ball or Miele S7 upright
vacuum cleaner. These types of vacuums are certainly pricier, and vacuums with traditional wheels have worked while for a few decades, so you
might be able to do without!
For the price, the Electrolux EL8052 is a great choice for pet owners or those who want an affordable upright vacuum cleaner with HEPA
filtration. The accessories are perfect for most homes and lend to the overall versatility of this vacuum. If you don't mind the weight,
the EL8052 is a powerful cleaning machine suitable for carpeted home relatively inexpensive to maintain.
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