Good for mixed flooring (Vax Mach 4 VZL-6014)

Member Name: VivPink

Product:	Vax Mach 4 VZL-6014
Date:	30/09/09 (46 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Good suction, good price

Disadvantages: heavy, frequent emptying required

I bought this machine to use in the family home. I chose it because it was a good price (the price is even better now); and was designed for both hard and soft flooring.
It took at little while to put the pieces together, the instructions could be clearer. There are lots of different attachments which all fit onto the cleaner - although I only use one of them - the extendable hose and nozzle for the stairs.
It is a heavy machine, heavier than I expected - might be something to do with all the gadgets! To change from hard to soft flooring and vice versa you have to stop the machine, put the handle upright, change the dial at the front, and restart.
The extendable hose is excellent, previously I have had to carry the vacuum cleaner up the stairs and clean a step at a time - not for the elderly or infirm. The hose easily stretches up all the stairs.
This is the first time I have had a bag-less vacuum cleaner. It was easy to detach and hold over the bin, but took a bit of shaking to empty it, you also need to use your fingers to clean the filter - rubber gloves / soap and water at the ready! The suction is good and the collecting area is small which means that I find myself emptying the bag and cleaning the filter frequently.
One small thing, the handle does not easily click back upright; you have to ensure it is in place before you let go.
Finally, although I bought it from John Lewis, it is very clear on the accompanying paperwork that you must use the Vax helpline for any problems - and you must register on-line or by post for the extended warranty, which is free.
I would buy this machine again for it's excellent suction on both hard and soft floors at a very good price. If I had a lot of stairs I might think twice, it is heavy to carry up and down.

Summary: worth buying if it meets your needs

Processing/Quality:
Reliability:
Ease of use:
Cleaning/Maintenance: