Best Upright Vacuum cleaner with Tools 2025-2026
This is one of the most asked questions about upright vacuum cleaners year in and year out. The results almost always are different depending on your source. My take is based on fifty plus years of owning and running vacuum repair and sales centers for most brands. I rate the vacuum that clean the best on carpet, non carpet and above floor cleaning while keeping the dust and allergins in the vacuum. I also value ease of tool use and low maintenence.
The maintence factor is the most over looked, not talked about, major issue on vacuum cleaners, do you want to take your vacuum cleaner apart and wash it and its filters monthly? I also list where the machine is made along with warranty and location of service centers. How long a product works, how well it works, cost and time you may need to take in order to get a warranty repair done along with shipping cost are very important to most consumers. No other vacuum cleaner review deals with these important issues.
Lets take a real look at what makes the best upright vacuum cleaner.
- Carpet height adjustment: Riccar’s Tandem Air uprights offer robust height adjustment features. Models like the
R40 and –R30 typically have a six-level carpet height adjustment, which allows you to fine-tune the brushroll height for different pile carpets and hard floors. This feature is highly valued for maximizing cleaning effectiveness on various surfaces. These units also offer the auto setting you find on the Miele upright.
- Deep carpet cleaning: Many users and reviewers agree that Tandem Air models provide exceptional deep carpet cleaning. The exclusive dual-motor system combines powerful agitation from the brushroll and high direct air movement from the direct air twin motor with high suction from the separate bypass motor. This design is often praised for its ability to pull dirt from deep within carpets, with some reviewers noting that it visibly fluffs up the carpet. (2 cleaning motors)
- Suction and hose clogs: Riccar Tandem Air uprights have fewer suction loss issues than some bagless Dyson models is consistent with user feedback. The sealed bag system is often cited as a reason for this, as it prevents the messy and performance-impacting buildup that can occur in some bagless vacuums (Dyson,Shark,Hoover ext). Lack of cleaning of or replacement of filters on dirt cup models along with dust build up in cyclone ports that in most cases can only be service by vacuum cleaner repair shops.
Miele uprights with hose connection
Discontinued.
- Secure hose use: The expanding hose on Miele uprights (like the Dynamic U1 series) being more secure and less likely to tip over is accurate. Miele uprights are designed with an anti-tipping device and a low hose connection point that contribute to greater stability during above-floor cleaning. This is a key design advantage over some uprights from other brands. However the s7 has been discontinued.
- Riccar Tandum Air models feature the same low how expandable hose connection anti tipping feature.
- Dyson uprights: Riccar Tandem Air models exceed Dyson uprights in deep carpet cleaning and have fewer hose blockage issues is reflected in some user testimonials. Dyson’s bagless design can lead to suction loss as the bin fills, which is not an issue with Riccar’s bagged system.
- Sebo uprights: Sebo uprights, while excellent in their own right, have different hose and design considerations. A Reddit user noted that while a Sebo upright may not fall over, the hose can feel less secure than the Miele expanding design.
Sealed HEPA filtration
- Riccar: Riccar vacuums feature a 100% sealed filtration system and self-sealing HEPA media bags, ensuring that dust and allergens are contained and not released back into the air. Some models also include a granulated charcoal filter to combat pet odors.
- Miele: Miele’s AirClean filtration system is also completely sealed, with self-sealing bags and a HEPA filter that meet stringent filtration standards. This is a core feature of Miele’s quality promise.
- Sebo: Sebo also incorporates highly effective filtration systems, often meeting HEPA standards. Their three-layer bags and sealed casing help to ensure that allergens and dust stay contained.
- Kenmore: Certain Kenmore bagged uprights, like the Intuition, also offer a completely sealed filtration system with HEPA bags, allowing them to compete with more premium brands on this specific feature.
- Allergy ASMA suffers will want the to choose the full HEPA Sealed systems like the Riccar Tandum Air and the S7 Miele upright.
The Riccar advantage: A dual-motor system
- The Tandem Air technology with its separate bypass and direct air motors provides powerful agitation for deep carpet cleaning (Metal Brush Roller) while maintaining strong suction for attachments.
- While this combination of features is a distinct advantage, whether it makes Riccar the “number one” choice is subjective. Miele and Sebo also deliver excellent performance, especially in above-floor cleaning and filtration.
- Duel cleaning motors compared to single cleaning bypass motor with second brush roll motor. The tandum motor design incorporates a direct air motor located a few inches away from the cleaning surface that create high air flow for cleaning carpet (Kirby,Sanitiare, Metal Royal) as well as a canister style clean Air or bypass motor that excells with suction or tools. ( Electrolux,Miele, Dyson,shark)
Best Upright Vacuum cleaner
| Feature |
Sebo Upright
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hose stability | Very good, with balanced weight and longer reach. | Excellent due to stable base and expanding hose. | Very good, but some prefer the Miele design. | Good, includes a lift-away feature. |
| Sealed HEPA filtration | Yes, with HEPA media bags and sealed system. | Yes, with AirClean filter bags and sealed casing. | Yes, with multi-layer bags and sealed housing. | Yes, with HEPA bags and allergen-sealed design. |
| Deep carpet cleaning | Exceptional due to dual-motor Tandem Air technology. | Excellent, with powerful brushroll and strong suction. | Very good, with powerful motor and brushroll. | Good, with powerful suction and onboard tools. |
| Above-floor tools | Strong suction from the bypass motor. | Excellent suction and tools, a hallmark of Miele’s design. | Good, with versatile tools and design. | Good, includes lift-away capability. |
| Overall ranking | Very high, especially for deep carpet cleaning. | High, often praised for durability and filtration. | High, for a combination of durability and performance. | Good, as a more budget-friendly bagged option. |
Lower cost higher maintenance model’s
- Shark PowerDetect: with DuoClean PowerFins that dig into carpets for agitation. Handles pet hair and fine debris without tangles.
- Shark Stratos with DuoClean: DuoClean PowerFins HairPro brushroll for lifting pet hair and deep dirt. Odor neutralizer adds fresh scent.
- Dyson Ball Animal 3: strong suction and anti-tangle brushroll remove embedded pet hair and dirt effectively.
- Note dirt cup units or bagless models must be disassembled and washed including filters and cyclone units either by the homeowner or by a vacuum service/repair shop to maintain high performance and to fight odor issues. Most end users fail to do this effecting performance and durability.
- (loses suction as bag or dirt cup fills)
These units are sold at big box stores and Amazon. While lower cost initially, shorter machine life, makes cost of ownership more over the years. Dirt cup vacuums tend to blow more dust back into the indoor air, particularly on vacuums that are poorly sealed or lack excellent fit and finish.
2. Hard Surface Cleaning Performance
Hard surface cleaning evaluates pickup on hardwood, tile, or laminate, focusing on fine dust, large debris, and hair without scratching.
- Shark PowerDetect: Above-average, DuoClean roller designed for and must be used on hard floors (picks up fine/large debris, pet hair without tangles), no head switching needed.
- Shark Stratos with DuoClean: above average, DuoClean PowerFins HairPro handles hard floors seamlessly (good for fine dust, pet hair), soft roller prevents scratches.
- Dyson Ball Animal 3: Good, strong suction picks up debris/pet hair, but lacks soft roller (can push debris, less effective on fine dust vs. DuoClean).
Shark models lack brush roll shutoff feature for non carpeted surface and Shark,Dyson models do not have addtional deep carpet of thick pad adjustments found on Riccar Tandum Air models.
Basic Maintenance (Washing Filters on Dirt Cup Models)
Maintenance involves cleaning filters, emptying dirt cups (bagless), or replacing bags (bagged). Note vacuums with 1 bypass motor lose suction as bag fills, change bag or empty dirt cup just past half full to maintain performance.
- Shark PowerDetect (Bagless): Washable filters (rinse every 3 months, replace annually), dirt cup easy to empty but dusty; high maintenance for optimal suction.
- Shark Stratos with DuoClean (Bagless): Washable HEPA/filter (monthly rinse, replace yearly), dirt cup self-cleaning option on some models; messy emptying.
- Dyson Ball Animal 3 (Bagless): Washable filter (monthly, dry 24 hrs), dirt cup hygienic emptying; frequent washing needed to maintain suction.
- Sebo Upright (Bagged): Replace bags (every 6-12 months), clean filters occasionally (reusable, last 1-2 years); low maintenance, no washing.
- Riccar Tandem Air (Bagged): Replace bags (every 3-6 months), clean filters rarely (reusable); minimal dusty contact.
Overall Ranking for Ease of Maintenance:
Sebo/Riccar (bagged) > Dyson (hygienic cup) > Shark models (washable but dusty).
5. Pros and Cons of Bag Units vs. Non-Bag Vacuums
- Bagged Vacuums (Sebo, Riccar):
- Pros: Better filtration (less dust escape), hygienic disposal (no contact with dirt), larger capacity (less frequent changes), quieter, longer filter life.
- Cons: Ongoing bag cost ($10-20/pack), harder to see when full, less eco-friendly (disposable bags). Better for your health.
- Bagless Vacuums (Shark PowerDetect, Shark Stratos, Dyson Ball Animal 3):
- Pros: No bag cost, visible dirt level (easy to know when full), often lighter, eco-friendly (reusable cup).
- Cons: Messy emptying (dust exposure, potential allergies), frequent filter washing (monthly, dry 24 hrs), higher maintenance, clogs more easily.
- Creates high dust and allergy issues compared to HEPA bags.
Warranty Service issues.
The Shark PowerDetect vacuum series (including models like the AZ4002 upright and HZ4002 stick) are manufactured in China.
It comes with a 5-year limited warranty that covers defects in material and workmanship when used under normal household conditions. This does not include normal wear and tear (e.g., belts, brushes, filters), damage from misuse, accidents, unauthorized repairs, commercial use, or operation outside North America. Batteries, if applicable to cordless models, may have a separate 2-year warranty.
To make a warranty claim, first register your product online at sharkclean.com (or the equivalent SharkNinja site). Then, contact Shark customer support at 1-877-581-7375 or via sharkclean.com/support for troubleshooting and to initiate the process. If repair or replacement is approved, you’ll need to send the unit (or defective parts) to SharkNinja—they’ll provide instructions and a prepaid shipping label to cover the cost of sending it to them. You will be charged a fee of $19.95 for return shipping of the repaired or replacement unit back to you. Shark does not have public local service centers for drop-offs; warranty work is handled via mail-in to their authorized facilities.
Dyson Ball Animal 3 upright vacuum is made in Malaysia.
It comes with a 5-year limited warranty that covers original defects in materials and workmanship when used for normal domestic purposes in accordance with the user manual. This includes all necessary labor and parts for repairs. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear (e.g., brush bar, power cord, filters, clear bin), accidental damage, misuse, neglect, blockages, commercial/rental use, use of non-Dyson parts, faulty installation (unless by Dyson), or operation on inappropriate surfaces like wet areas, rubble, ash, or plaster. The warranty starts from the date of purchase or delivery (whichever is later) with proof; otherwise, it begins 90 days after the manufacture date per Dyson’s records.
To make a warranty claim, contact Dyson customer support via their website (dyson.com/support/contact-us) or by phone at 1-866-693-9766, providing the model/serial number, purchase details, and proof of purchase. They’ll troubleshoot and guide you through the process.
For warranty work, you can either:
- Take it to a Dyson Service Center for walk-in service (no appointment needed; most repairs are done while you wait; find locations via dyson.com/support).
- Or ship it to Dyson (they’ll provide a prepaid shipping label after you contact support).
Dyson covers the shipping cost to them if under warranty (free collection). If in warranty, Dyson also covers the return shipping cost back to you after repair or replacement; if out of warranty, you pay the return shipping. If they determine it’s not covered or if parts are needed, they’ll inform you of any charges before proceeding.
TampaVisit the Tampa, FL Dyson Service Center for expert help, in person …
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King of PrussiaVisit the King of Prussia, PA Dyson Service Center for expert help …
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NorcrossVisit the Norcross, GA Dyson Service Center for expert help …
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PlainviewVisit the Plainview, NY Dyson Service Center for expert help …
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Deep Dive
The turnaround time for Shark vacuum warranty repairs is not officially stated by SharkNinja on their support site or warranty documentation, as it can vary based on the specific issue, parts availability, inventory for replacements, and workload at their service centers. Based on user reports from forums like Reddit, it typically takes 2-4 weeks from the time they receive your shipped unit until they ship the repaired or replacement product back to you (not including initial shipping time to them, which is usually 3-7 days depending on your location and carrier). In some cases, it can extend to 6-8 weeks or even up to 3 months if there are delays due to backorders or more complex diagnostics. They often opt for full unit replacement rather than repair if parts are unavailable, which can speed things up or cause additional delays.
To get a more precise estimate for your case, contact Shark support directly at 1-877-581-7375 after initiating your claim—they can provide an update once they assess the vacuum
on upright vacuum ratings from major consumer sponsored rating pages that link the machines to Amazon or Wallmart Sales.
Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly 31150
21-pound upright from Kenmore is bag-equipped and has suction control, micro-filtration, a brush on/off switch and a 35-foot manual-wind cord. Predicted Reliability 60
Owner Satisfaction 40, Carpet 4 , Bare floors 5 , Hose suction 5 , Clean emissions 5 , Handling 3 . Over all score 77
Excels at capturing all the dust it picks up, important if you have allergies or other respiratory issues.
Strong tool airflow, (loses suction as bag fills)which matters if you will be using the vacuum’s accessories for cleaning.
Manual carpet-height adjustment, which is better than automatic systems at matching the brush to the surface.
Suction control, which helps protect drapes when using tools.
Brush on/off switch, which safeguards bare floors and prevents the scattering of dust and debris.
Small MICRO direct drive motor provides brush roll power with ability to turn roller off on hard surface
This is made in China by Cleva North America, warranty 1 yr.
Customer generally pays for shipping the vacuum.
Sealed Body with HEPA Filtration.
Product expected life expectence 2-4 years.
Kenmore Intuition BU4050
Top rated by leading consumer magazine score over all 74 cost from 169.00 Brand Reliability 60 owner satisfaction 46
Rating cleaning carpet 4 hard wood floor 5 – This is made in China by Cleva North America. Features 1 Bypass motor(loses suction as bag fills) canister style motor that works best on hard wood but suffers with hose attachments on carpet. Small MICRO direct drive motor provides brush roll power with ability to turn roller off on hard surface. HEPA filter is a plus on this model. 1 year warranty on product consumer must ship product for service. Product expected life expectence 2-4 years
The Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly 31150 and other upright vacuum comes with a 1-year limited warranty from the date of purchase, covering defects in material and workmanship when the product is assembled, operated, and maintained according to the instructions. With proof of purchase, a defective unit will be replaced free of charge (no repairs mentioned—replacements are the standard resolution). The warranty excludes damage from misuse, abuse, improper maintenance, or normal wear and tear (e.g., belts, brushes, filters).
To initiate a warranty claim, contact the Kenmore Vacuum Cleaner Help Line at 1-877-531-7321 (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST, Monday-Friday) and provide the model/serial numbers (found on the base of the unit) along with proof of purchase. They will troubleshoot and guide the process, which may involve replacement rather than repair. You can also contact Sears Appliance Repair at 1-888-820-3350 for service arrangements.
There is no single central warranty center location; service is handled through authorized repair centers or Sears Home Services (which may offer in-home service in some areas, though vacuums are typically portable and not eligible for in-home). To find a local authorized service center, call the help line above—they can direct you based on your ZIP code. Examples of authorized locations include Ace Vacuums (Fairfax and Leesburg, VA; serving VA/DC/MD), Denver Vacuum Store (Littleton, CO), and Vacuums R Us (various locations)—but availability varies by region. If no local center is available, the process may involve mailing the unit to a designated repair facility.
The average turnaround time for warranty repair or replacement is not officially stated by Kenmore. For drop-off at local authorized centers, it can be 1-7 days based on shop reports. For mail-in claims or replacements, user experiences from forums and reviews indicate 2-6 weeks total (from shipping the defective unit to receiving the repaired/replacement product back), though it can extend to 8 weeks or more if parts are backordered or diagnostics take longer. Delays are common with Sears-related services, with some users reporting no-shows or multiple follow-ups needed. Contact support for a case-specific estimate after submitting your claim.
Shipping details are not explicitly detailed in the warranty, but based on the process for portable appliances like vacuums: If mail-in is required, you typically pay the shipping cost to send the defective unit to the repair center (standard ground shipping via USPS/UPS/FedEx, estimated $20-50 depending on location, weight ~20 lbs, and carrier). Kenmore covers the cost of shipping the repaired or replacement unit back to you under warranty (no charge to you). If the claim is denied (e.g., not a defect), you may also pay return shipping. For local drop-off/pick-up at authorized centers, no shipping is involved
In conclusion, Riccar Tandem Air upright vacuums 1#
that masterfully combine a low hose connection. Less likley to tip over when using tools connection with a sealed HEPA filtration system, leading to excellent performance on all surfaces. Twin cleaning motor on Riccar Tandum Air models are exclusive to this manufacturer. We rate this unit over all score 81,Brand Reliablity 70, owner satisfaction 70. 5-year household warranty, lifetime on the belt drive. Life expectence 10- 20 years.
Based on a comprehensive review of upright vacuums with all the features prioritized—a low hose connection for stability, sealed HEPA filtration, strong performance on both carpets and hard floors, and effective above-floor tools—no single upright vacuum excels in every single one of these specific areas better than the
.
Riccar Tandem Air R30 Features
The Riccar Tandem Air R30 (specifically the R30D or similar variants in the Tandem Air series) is a premium upright vacuum known for its dual-motor system and filtration. Key features include:
- Tandem Air System: Dual motors for powerful suction and brushroll agitation, ensuring deep cleaning on carpets and hard floors.
- Multi-Stage Filtration: HEPA media filter, charcoal filter, and self-sealing HEPA bag for odor and allergen control.
- Carpet Height Adjustment: 6-position settings for various floor types.
- Surface Selector: Switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor mode.
- Metal Brushroll: Durable with replaceable brush strips for long-term performance.
- Lifetime Belt Protection: Hall sensor stops brushroll during jams to prevent breakage.
- LED Headlight: Illuminates dark areas for thorough cleaning.
- Cord Length: 40 feet for extended reach.
- Cleaning Reach: 15 feet with hose and tools for above-floor tasks.
- Dirt Sensor: Indicates when the area is clean (in some variants).
- Carpet & Rug Institute Approval: Gold Seal for soil removal and carpet protection.
- Sealed Body with HEPA Filtration.
- Made in USA
Weight
The Riccar R30 weighs approximately 19-20 lbs, making it lightweight and easy to maneuver for an upright vacuum.
Sealed Body with HEPA Filtration?
The Riccar R30 has a sealed body design with HEPA media filtration. It meets HEPA standards by trapping 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns, using a multi-stage system including a HEPA media filter, charcoal filter, and self-sealing HEPA bag. This sealed construction prevents dust escape, making it ideal for allergy sufferers.
Warranty
The Riccar R30 comes with a 5-year limited warranty on parts and labor, covering defects in material or workmanship. It also includes the Red Carpet Service Plan at participating retailers, which offers scheduled maintenance. Expendable parts like bags, belts, and filters are not covered under warranty.
Local Service or Ship Off?
Riccar vacuums are serviced through authorized local dealers, so you typically do not need to ship the vacuum off. Warranty repairs are handled in-store or at the dealer’s service center, with many offering free estimates and loaner vacuums. For out-of-warranty issues, local repair is recommended.
Comparison of Service Centers: Riccar vs. Kenmore
Riccar Service Centers in the USA
- Number: Riccar has over 1,000 authorized dealers across the USA, many of which double as service centers. These are independent vacuum stores and sewing centers, providing widespread coverage.
- Locations: Dealers are searchable via Riccar.com’s dealer locator. Major areas include:
- Northeast: Dense in NY, PA, MA (e.g., Vacuum Center Triad in PA).
- Midwest: Strong in OH, IL, MI (e.g., Louisville, OH headquarters).
- South: Coverage in FL, TX, SC (e.g., Carolina Forest Vac & Sew in Myrtle Beach, SC).
- West: CA, WA, CO (e.g., A1 Vacuum in CA).
- Advantages: Local, specialized service with quick turnaround; many offer in/out of warranty repairs and Red Carpet maintenance plans.
Kenmore Service Centers in the USA
- Number: Kenmore (now under Transformco) has approximately 500 authorized service locations through partnerships with Sears Home Services and independent repair centers.
- Locations: Searchable via SearsHomeServices.com or by calling 1-888-820-3350. Major areas include:
- Nationwide coverage, but sparser post-Sears closures.
- Northeast: NY, PA.
- Midwest: IL, OH.
- South: FL, TX.
- West: CA, WA.
- Advantages: Centralized support with phone scheduling; some in-home service available.
Overall Comparison
- Number of Centers: Riccar has more locations (~1,000 vs. Kenmore’s ~500), providing better accessibility, especially in rural areas through independent shops.
- Locations: Both have nationwide coverage, but Riccar’s dealer network is more specialized in vacuum repair, while Kenmore relies on Sears partnerships, which have declined.
- Service Type: Riccar favors local, in-store repairs (no shipping needed); Kenmore often requires shipping or in-home visits, with potential costs for out-of-warranty work.
- Rating: Riccar rates higher for local accessibility and specialized service; Kenmore is more centralized but may involve shipping. For Carolina Forest Vac & Sew, as a Riccar dealer, local service is available without shipping.
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Carolina Forest Vac & Sew does sale some of the products we review as well as perform service and or warranty work on all major brands listed by us and other websites/reviewing companies, we do not recieve any commsions from 2nd or 3rd party sites.
Author AI and Ron Mancil with over 50 years experience with owning and running warranty centers for Eureka, Electrolux, DYSON, Hoover, Lindhuas, Sanitaire, Powerflite, Pullman Holt,Riccar, Shark,Sanyo,Panasonic,Tornado. Experience working on all major brands including Kenmore,Filterqueen,Kirby,Rainbow,Shark,LG.I robot,Silver King and Compact along with a few I forgot. All vacuum cleaner ratings are the result of first hand knowledge along with testing done by Consumer guide, Vacuum Cleaner Wars and others however we do not limit our research to models sold exclusively from giant big box store chains or eCommerce stores.