Don't press that button! (Dyson DC04)

Member Name: tclark

Product:	Dyson DC04
Date:	26/08/02 (211 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Efficient, Well-designed, Extra attachments included

Disadvantages: Expensive, Heavy, Can be confusing to use

OK, let's start with the main selling point of the Dyson - it's bagless. Not only does this mean you won't need to go out and buy bags, it also reduces clogging and allows for more space for the dirt. And you can actually *see* what's been hoovered up, which might not appeal to everyone! Emptying the unit was quite easy and most importantly, didn't get dirt everywhere.

Another good thing about the DC04 is the number of extra attachments and features that are added in. You can use the extendable hoovering bit to get to tight corners, and vacuum stairs and sofas with the extra heads included (one has soft black bristles, the other has a wide head, probably to make cleaning faster. These extra bits slot onto the main body and so it's very convenient as you don't have to go looking for a misplaced brush.

Another very nice feature is the design. Dyson took a long time to perfect it, and it shows - it's very user-friendly. As well as the more popular grey and yellow version, style monkeys can also buy it in grey/green or red/purple/yellow according to the photo above - a rather strange combination I must admit!

It's a little heavier and larger than other vacuums, and this can cause a few problems when you're trying to lift it upstairs, but I think the extra weight is a small price to pay for the extras you get.

The only other problem with the DC04 is its complex nature - it took me a few minutes just to find the on/off button! I also managed to *break* the machine by pushing in a button that wasn't meant to be pushed, which released part of the main handle. This was fixed in the end, thank goodness! Also: the machine will make a loud juddering noise if you try to vacuum up anything that's too big (this is intentional, but could freak some people out!) Motto: read the user manual thoroughly :)

All in all, I must recommend. It's the only vacuum you'll ever need, even if it i
s a bit daunting to use. If you can afford it then go for it - you'll save money in not having to buy bags and time in its improved ease of use. Just RTFM first! ;D

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