Asking the right questions

The first question to ask people is what kind of home they have. In larger spaces, vacuums with wider cleaning paths will save time - uprights like Dyson DC25 or DC27 for example. For smaller homes, more compact machines such as DC24 and DC22 are available. They are 1/3 smaller with concentrated technology for full-size performance.

Bagged vs. bagless

Most vacuums rely on bags or filters but these clog with dust, causing suction to fade. Over five years, some manufacturers also recommend people need up to 40 replacement bags and five filters, which can cost up to £175. Dyson vacuums are different. They have patented Root Cyclone^TM technology, so they don't lose suction power - and no replacement bags or filters means no extra running costs.

Floor type

Dyson vacuums are engineered to clean every floor surface thoroughly - carpet, tile, lino, wood. With uprights, the brush bar dislodges dirt and pet hair from the pile, and can also be switched off to protect hard floors. Dyson cylinders come with floor tools specifically designed to clean different floor types.

Allergy sufferers

Dyson engineers have also developed machines for allergy sufferers. Their HEPA filters capture microscopic pollen and other allergens and expel only clean air. In fact, released air contains up to 150 times less mould and bacteria than the air you breathe.

Pet hair removal

Dyson Animal machines are ideal for homes with pets. They come with the Mini turbine head which removes pet hair from sofas and cars using nylon bristles spinning 90 times a second. It attaches either to the wand or hose for hard to reach places.

Size and weight

Ask people where they intend to store their new vacuum cleaner and how much they'll be carrying it around. Dyson DC24 weighs just 5.45kg and is 1/3 smaller than a full-size Dyson upright, but has the same performance. Some Dyson cylinders have wands and hoses that compress and wrap for compact storage.

Customer service and guarantee

Some vacuum cleaner helplines close at weekends and, if something serious goes wrong, customers have to post their machines back to the manufacturer. Dyson's award-winning UK-based helpline is open 7am to 10pm every day - and it's free to call (0800 298 0298). Every Dyson upright and cylinder also comes with a free 5 year parts and labour guarantee.

Energy efficiency

This year, Dyson's DC24 won the Eco/Energy Saving Award, Small Domestic Appliances, at the Independent Business Awards. With its 650W motor it uses half the electricity of some other vacuums. All Dyson vacuums are engineered for efficient airflow, so they don't need big, energyhungry motors to work properly. A good example of why you don't need high motor watts to achieve high dirt removal.

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