Shark Power Detect - TESTED! (Product review by a professional house cleaner)

Shark Power Detect - TESTED!

(by a professional house cleaner)

A few weeks ago I purchased the Shark Power Detect. I put it to the test against what I have been using which is the Hoover Commercial PortaPower Lightweight Canister Vacuum Cleaner.

What initially attracted me to the Shark Power Detect was a couple key factors that I thought would be a game changer.

• Cleans thick carpet & hard flooring 

• New suction technology

• HEPA filtration 

• Additional accessories 

• Lightweight 

• Cordless

• Bagless

I put it to the test in several homes that I clean, as well as my own home, and here's what I learned:

Most notibly, I was disappointed to learn that it does not do 'exactly' as advertised when it comes to the smart detect (particularly on hard flooring along the edge of the baseboards/walls, nor in the corners)! In fact, it will even push some of the debris into the edge or corner, which is just frustrating to me. It does detect carpet VS. hard flooring as advertised and picks up speed for carpet. However, the low speed for hard flooring could be the cause for not doing the best job on hard flooring. In comparison to the Hoover, the Hoover wins with every piece of debris picked up along the edge or corners, every time. The Hoover has different attachments for different surfaces that have to be manually applied. However, due to the Hoover's design with strong suction and the brush style attachments; the bristles from the brush help to loosen any debris that may be stuck on the floor. The Sharks design with the roller doesn't loosen anything and by passes those areas that are often needed most.

Another disappointment is that the battery does not last nearly as long as advertised! Not even close! I am lucky to complete a small 3 bedroom house before the battery dies. As a professional cleaner, this is not acceptable when you have multiple homes to clean in one day. While the Eco mode does help in extending the battery, however, it may compromise the level of 'clean' that is accomplished. The Boost mode will drain the battery in minutes, right before your eyes and seems to be a waste of effort. The detect mode is clearly the preferred way to go by optimizing battery life and maintaining the best performance for cleanliness all around. In comparison to the Hoover which has a 35 foot industrial cord, great consistent suction, and can clean endless homes in one day... especially for professional use, the Hoover wins again!

As for the Shark's flexibility to go under some furniture (depending on the clearance space) due to its ability to bend, it does do as advertised. However, it still has its limitations when maneuvering around or behind furniture, back into corners, behind the toilet and other tight locations; therefore, it's not much different than the typical upright vacuum because it has its limitations. The Hoover however can maneuver under furniture as far back as needed to ensure all debris has been lifted because of the stick design and thin attachment that fits under most furniture. Additionally, because of the stick design and swivel attachment, it has the ability to reach far back 'behind' furniture that is in the corner of a room that is always hard to reach or tight spaces like behind a toilet, under tables, chairs, beds, etc. Again, the Hoover wins for mobility, tight spaces, and farthest reach.

The Shark is advertised as a light weight vacuum. And while the majority of the bottom half is 'very' light weight, the top half has quite a bit of weight to it. This is cumbersome to handle particularly for cleaners who are spending a lot of time operating the machine in one day VS. the average person who may only use it for one or two rooms at a time. Additionally, it is top heavy, so storing is awkward because it bends in half or can be layed straight out.  Unless the self cleaning system is purchased, then you will have that benefit for storing purposes. Comparing to the Hoover, it is carried by shoulder strap as you clean, although not very heavy. (There are accessories for a waist strap for hands free operation) And for storing, the long cord that needs wrapped up and tied with the leather strap. It can be stored with or without the stick attached to the machine. It can also be awkward storing to some degree because of the stick. Both vacuums have their own style, and inconveniences that come with its use.

The Shark's self cleaning feature is handy (if purchased, various purchase options are available). But in my opinion it's more handy for storage purposes than it is for 'cleaning' purposes. And that's because eventually "you still have to 'clean'... the cleaner". I have also noticed that the dust canister "clip" that closes and locks it back into place seems kinda weak and cheaply made. My concern is that the clasp will eventually wear itself out. Once it no longer closes it's no good. The Hoover uses a small fabric bag that can be emptied, and reused. It can also be tossed into the washing machine. (Personal experience: I do recommend air drying, the high heat in the dryer will disfigure the rubber seal.) However, extras can be purchased. 

The Shark has the edge with the HEPA filtration, as the Hoover does not have a HEPA filter. While it doesn't necessarily mean that it's a deal breaker; it's a feature that is often helpful regarding tiny air borne particles such as catching dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and pet dander to make indoor air safer to breathe. Many homes regularly use an air purifier which is build with a HEPA filter that would take care of any concerns with air borne particles.

The Shark comes with limited accessories, however there are many accessories that perform various tasks that are available for a separate purchase. With the price of the Shark already double the cost of the Hoover, adding all accessories separately can be costly. The Hoover comes with all necessary accessories to perform all tasks in the initial purchase which makes it much more cost effective. There are all accessories sold separately for the need in any extra bags, filters, replacement parts, or for handy features like a carrying case, waist strap, etc.

For the every day consumer:

Depending on your budget, style of home and particular needs, level of cleanliness, personal preference and style of cleaning; both are good vacuums.

For the professional's use for work:

The Hoover accommodates much more for completing the job 'thoroughly' and more 'efficiently'. Additionally, it is more durable to withstand heavy use that professionals need to rely on.

#HooverCommercialPortaPower #SharkPowerDetect #productreview  #professionalopinion #ProfessionalCleaning