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Black and Decker Pivoting Nose Cordless Vacuum Cleaners
12v, 14.4v and 18v (USA only)
I have been testing the dustbusters over the
last 7 years and seen continual improvements in battery power
and most importantly filter design.
Many cheaper vacuum cleaners quickly lose
performance as dust clogs the filter. The new Pivot nose Dustbusters have
cyclonic filters with 2 cones that can be shaken without opening
the machine, therefore loosening the dust and unclogging the
filter. Also these filters can now be reused and washed under a
tap.
Replacement filters are about $10 and it is
worth having a clean spare handy if you use it a lot as washed
filters need to be dried before use.
I tested the 14.4v version in the UK but USA consumers get a more powerful 18v version
which has the same design and filters and is highly rated by
reviewers on Amazon and popular mechanics
Dyson DC16 Handheld
This is the "big daddy" of the cordless vacuum cleaners as it has
the most power at 21volts and a Lithium ion battery that recharges
in 3 hours.
Whilst I have no doubt that it has the best and most consistent
suction it is large, and the battery duration is very short at
less than 5 minutes. This is because a big motor (and hence a big
battery) is needed to power the dual cyclone that is unique to
Dyson.
A breakthrough in technology with looks to match. This hand vac is
ideal for small clean-ups and use in caravans, boats etc but is not
designed as a substitute for your main vacuum cleaner.
Dyson DC16 handheld (21v)
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In the UK the 14.4 volt Black & Decker Dustbuster is the
latest and most powerful model of this long running range of cordless vacuums.
I have tested the 12v and 14.4v version over the last year and been
very impressed with the power and capacity.
Whilst I would say that this is the best cordless vacuum I have ever
tested it is not perfect and does have a few minor annoying features
that may prevent it from winning a coveted Golden Shed Award.
The extending nose can be hard to push back or just goes back when
you don't want it too. I would advise B&D to improve the mouldings.
Likewise the lid to the dustbox sometimes has not locked in and the
dust fallen out.
The storage for the little brush is pants and now I have lost it.
Apart from these foibles it is a superb machine and indispensable in
my home and workshop.
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New Power take off Vacuum cleaners for saws and
sanders
If you use a power tool that creates dust
like this laminate cutting saw or a sander then a vacuum cleaner
that includes a power
take off socket will make the job much easier. It does this
by saving you time not having to switch both of them on and off.
When you switch on the saw or sander the vac switches on too!
When you switch off your saw or sander the vac
runs for a few more seconds to collect all the dust and then
automatically turns off too!
As the vac has its own extra power socket you can use it like an extension lead as well,
even if you don't need the vac facility. This type of vacuum is
usually an expensive product for professional users but this
British made vacuum costs around £80 and will also suck up liquids
too!
On top of this is can also be used as a blower and I even used it
outside to suck up small leaves and debris from my lawn and decking. |
The British made Earlex Combi Powervac is the perfect workshop
vacuum as it has a power take off socket and does wet and dry!
see details on power take off vacuum cleaner
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