Check out features vs. the weight to choose the right model for you. Vacuums can lose suction when the filters or bags get clogged and blow dirt back into the air. You want to make sure to get a vacuum designed for your mixture of carpeting and hard flooring.

Look into the lightweight options to find vacuum cleaners that'll be easier to push, carry, and store. Keep in mind vacuums will have a wide range of options and features to choose from; some have features like nozzles, extended cords and bright colors that add to the price. It may be more difficult to find as many of the bells and whistles you'd like on the lightweight models.

Some canister vacuum cleaners do offer HEPA filtration. Try assembling and taking apart the attachments before you buy. Check the height of fully assembled attachments to make sure that you won't be bending over or holding your arm up to use them.

Higher priced upright vacuum cleaners may range from $200 to $500, depending on the features. The highest priced upright models may carry every available feature; they may be true HEPA vacuums. Do you really need a deluxe model?

You can find vacuum cleaners listed in the yellow pages under the vacuum cleaner repair stores, classified ads in your local newspaper, on Craigslist online, eBay and other online auction sites and the manufacturer and dealer websites on the Internet. It'll cost more buying a unit with a bag because you'll be buying bags ongoing. A self-propelled vacuum cleaner may sound great, but they're actually very heavy to lift.

A low-end upright model will usually have only a suction hose with a crevice tool, stair brush, and extended wand piece. A vacuum with a bag will keep the air you breathe free of dust, allergens, pollen, smoke particles, and other chemicals and pollutants found in household air, IF it doesn't get clogged. Make sure attachments are easy to put together and take apart and that they stay together and are airtight.

Canister vacuums range in price anywhere from $150 to $1500. In the lower-end of uprights you will find a few models that have an additional feature, like bagless models or models with bags and a full bag indicator light. You'll need to decide whether you want a bag or a bagless vacuum.

HEPA is an acronym for "high efficiency particulate air". To receive the true or absolute HEPA designation, filters must perform to a certain standard. Some vacuums will have a HEPA filter; this is always a good idea to keep your air free of the tiny particles that are stirred up when you vacuum. You might consider one of the lightweight models if you have physical issues.

Reducing or eliminating particles will make cleaner air for everyone in your home. It's best to get a vacuum with a good filtration system and protect your lungs and overall health. A bagless vacuum that uses filters may leak dust, dust mites, mold spores, fungus, bacteria, smoke particles, chemicals and allergen particles into the air, so small you may not be able to see all of them.

Make sure you read the vacuum cleaner ratings and reviews that you find online and offline. Buying a vacuum cleaner online or offline doesn't have to be intimidating when you've done your homework. A vacuum should last for many years with proper care.