This is only my second vacuum cleaner, my previous one was also a Hoover.
I found the WindTunnel U5453-900 very easy to assemble. The instructions were very clear, and I don't consider myself mechanically-inclined.
The first thing I noticed was the unit was much louder than my previous Hoover. I hoped this was due to a stronger engine and better suction power. I was not disappointed. I immediately noticed it picked up scraps much easier than my previous vacuum. I wish it was quieter, but as long as it does the job, what more can you ask?
I also enjoyed the attached hose. My previous vacuum required all the hoses be attached "as-needed" whereas this vacuum the hose is attached at all times and ready for use. To use the dusting brush, furniture nozzle, wands or crevice tool, you simply attach them to the hose.
Another noticeable difference from my previous vacuum is what seems to be a self-propelling feature. As soon as the unit is taken out of the upright position, it wants to go! This was awkward for me at first, but I soon enjoyed it. Pulling the unit back in reverse is no problem.
At this point, I'm not sure what to think about it's embedded Dirt Finder feature. The unit has red and green lights to alert the user to areas of carpet that need more cleaning. During my first use, I found the lights stayed red, indicating my carpet was dirty! This very well have been the case. So I spent five minutes or so going over the same two foot area, expecting eventually the light to turn green. It didn't, so the jury is still out on this feature.
My biggest disappointment is the cord. My previous Hoover had a cord with a soft rubber coating which protruded out of the top of the vacuum. For whatever reason, this really helped in keeping the cord out of the way. This unit has a much longer cord, but it is constructed of hard plastic, and therefore not nearly as flexible. In addition, the cord protrudes at the bottom of the vacuum. They provide cord notches and clips to route the cord to the top of the vacuum, but accidentally step on the cord once and it will quickly pop it out of these notches and clips quickly! The cord on this unit seems to always be in the way.
I've had some problems with the wands falling off the storage on the back of the unit, this usually happens if you jar the vacuum somehow. I've had no problems so far with the front storage compartment.
I chose this unit over a lower-priced Eureka, due to the fact the Eureka had one of the HEPA filters, which are considerably more expensive, and since I don't suffer from allergies, I didn't feel the need to have one.
I have yet to change the filter or the bag so I cannot offer an opinion there. The directions look easy.

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 168.00