A vacuum cleaner’s suction power varies depending on the application. Generally, suction power is measured in air watts (AW); a higher number means more powerful suction. A vacuum cleaner with 100 to 200 air watts of suction power is considered adequate for most household needs. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what suction power you might need:
- For Light Cleaning: If you need a vacuum cleaner for light and everyday cleaning tasks like picking up dust or crumbs on hard surfaces, a suction power of around 100 air watts should be sufficient.
- For Carpets and Rugs: For carpets and rugs, you would typically need more suction power to pull dirt from deep within the fibers. Look for a vacuum cleaner with a suction power of at least 200 air watts.
- For Pet Hair: If you have pets and need to clean pet hair, you’ll need a vacuum cleaner with strong suction—ideally more than 200 air watts.
- For Heavy-Duty Cleaning: For more demanding tasks, such as cleaning thick carpets or dealing with a lot of dirt, a vacuum cleaner with 300 air watts or more would be more appropriate.
- Corded vs. Cordless: Remember that corded vacuum cleaners typically offer more suction power than cordless ones, which might be more convenient but have limited battery life and suction power.
- Check Reviews: Before purchasing, it’s a good idea to read reviews or check ratings for the model you are considering. Some vacuum cleaners may have an efficient design that allows them to clean well without needing as much suction power.
- Consider the filter: A sound filtration system is also essential, ensuring that dirt and dust don’t escape into the air. HEPA filters are perfect for this purpose.
Remember that a vacuum cleaner with highly powerful suction power is only sometimes the best choice, as it can be harder to move on some surfaces and may consume more electricity. It’s about finding the right balance for your particular cleaning needs.