What Is a Good Suction Power for a Vacuum Cleaner?

Good suction power is one of the most critical features to look for in a vacuum cleaner. It is important for removing stubborn dirt, dust, and debris, especially carpeted areas. This is particularly essential given that carpet accounts for 48% of the total flooring market in America. Powerful suction allows vacuums to penetrate deep into carpet fibers and extract grime that regular sweeping simply can't handle. Even on hard flooring, it can quickly pick up larger debris and make the cleaning process much more efficient.

What is Suction Power in a Vacuum Cleaner?

Suction power is the strength a vacuum uses to pull in dust, dirt, and debris. It comes from the motor and shows how hard the vacuum can suck in air. Suction isn’t the same as airflow, which is about how much air moves. Strong suction often considered to help pick up tough messes better. 

But don’t get hung up on suction alone. Cleaning isn’t just about pulling power. Once the roller brush agitates particles from the floor, airflow then “moves” them into the dustbin, and filters seal the deal. High suction helps with those living with pets, large families, or in polluted areas, digging into carpets and crevices for grit and allergens, keeping the air fresh for allergy sufferers. It also boosts cleaning efficiency with fewer passes, reducing the strain on the motor and thus extending the vacuum’s lifespan.

What is the difference between suction power and airflow?

Airflow is the amount of air that moves through the vacuum’s hose and filters while suction power is the force that pulls the air in. This strong pull is what lifts dirt and debris from your floors. Both matter, but suction power is key for picking up dirt and debris. Once the roller brush stirs up dust, the airflow transports the debris into the dustbin; the smoother the air flows, the more efficient the cleaning will be. 

How is vacuum suction measured?

Suction power is measured in air watts (AW), pascals (Pa), or inches of water lift (inH2O). Air watts show overall suction and airflow, while pascals and water lift measure suction force. Brands and vacuum types don’t all use the same unit, here’s a quick guide to which unit is typically used for each vacuum cleaner type:

• Upright vacuums: Often use AW or inH₂O for suction strength.
• Canister vacuums: Typically list AW or Pa, focusing on power.
• Robot vacuums: Commonly use Pa, including ECOVACS DEEBOT models.
• Cordless stick vacuums: Favor AW or Pa for lightweight pull.

While DEEBOT robot vacuums measure suction in pascals (Pa), they redefine effective cleaning by considering the entire process: airflow, suction, roller brushes, air ducts and filtration systems, not just high pascals. Their innovative technology maximizes airflow with large fans, wide vents, and straight ducts, allowing dust to be swept from floors and carpets by the brush, carried away by robust air volume, and trapped by high-efficiency filters. Sufficient suction, maintained rather than inflated, works in tandem with upgraded aerodynamics and powerful motors driven by high-current batteries.

What is a Good Suction Power for a Vacuum Cleaner?

A good suction power ranges from 180 to 200 air watts (AW) for traditional vacuums, 100 to 150 air watts (AW) for cordless vacuums, and 2,500 to 6,000 pascals (Pa) for robot vacuums. This level of suction is enough to clean hard floors such as hardwood and tiles. For deep cleaning carpets, consider higher suction power.

To be more precise, here is the ideal level of suction power for different types of vacuums:

• Upright Vacuums: 180 to 200 AW or 1,400 to 1,600 Pa.
• Canister Vacuums: 220 to 250 AW or 1,700 to 2,000 Pa.
• Stick Vacuums: 100 to 150 AW or 800 to 1,200 Pa.
• Handheld Vacuums: 20 to 50 AW or 160 to 400 Pa; higher for pet hair and larger debris.
• Central Vacuums: 500 to 600 AW or 4,000 to 5,000 Pa.
• Robot Vacuums: 2,500 to 6,000 Pa; higher for pet dander and carpets.

Which robot vacuum has the best suction power?

For a robot vacuum with best suction power, ECOVACS’s DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI leads with an impressive 18,000Pa suction power¹, driven by an ultra-high-speed fan for thorough clean across various floor types. Besides, it is enhanced with ZeroTangle 2.0 Anti-Tangle Technology to make sure no dust and hair is left behind. The anti-tangle technology incorporates a 45° V-shaped bristle design and cyclone-directed roller brush, which gathers hair without tangles. The V-shaped comb teeth untangle hair before it gets into the dustbin.

As a robot vacuum and mop combo, it features OZMO ROLLER Instant Self-Washing Mopping Technology, which continually refreshes the mop during use. Plus, AIVI 3D 3.0 Omni-Approach Technology intelligently identifies unlimited objects and delivers optimized coverage as it navigates tightly around them.

How to Maintain Good Suction Power?

If your vacuum cleaner’s suction power feels weaker after years of use, it’s time to check the filter, as a clogged and dirty filter might block airflow and reduce suction. Clean the filter regularly according to the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines.

A worn or damaged belt can also prevent the suction power from reaching its full capacity. The belt powers the brush roll from the motor; if it’s cracked, the brush will spin poorly. Replace the belt as needed to restore full strength.

Another issue could be a clogged hose or nozzle filled with hair, pet fur or debris. Check and clear any blockages from time to time by gently removing the buildup. If you don’t have specific tools for this, use a straightened coat hanger to dislodge any stubborn particles.

A full dustbin or canister restricts airflow and weakens suction power as well. Get into the habit of emptying it after every use to keep your vacuum running at its best.

What to Consider When Choosing the Suction Power?

When choosing a vacuum cleaner for your home, consider your cleaning needs, including the size of your space, floor materials, and whether you have pets. For example, large houses with multiple floors require a vacuum with extended battery life and the ability to climb high thresholds for deep cleaning. On the other hand, if you live in a small apartment, a slim design and advanced obstacle avoidance technology may be your priorities.

To use a vacuum cleaner on carpets, make sure it provide enough power to dig into the thick fibers and lift embedded dirt. For low-pile carpets or hard floors, opt for adjustable suction to avoid damaging delicate surfaces.

While air watts (AW) or pascals (Pa) are good indicators of suction strength, cleaning power isn’t just about high numbers. Instead, true cleaning performance should take into account airflow, suction, roller brushes, air ducts and filtration systems.

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