Look. It doesn't matter how good a vacuum you buy. If the person who is going to use it isn't thrilled with it, then you have a problem. I have such a problem. I hope by reading this epinion, you'll get a good idea of why the Oreck is a good vacuum, but also figure out how to avoid the dire situation that I have placed myself in.

I used to be a bachelor. That being said, I used to vacuum as much as most bachelors -- no more than twice annually. So having a great vacuum was never my first priority. When I got engaged and moved into the house my future wife and I would soon share, I decided to suprise her by getting a top of the line vacuum cleaner. The idea was to show her that I had changed my ways -- was ready to pitch in and help start a life together. The best ideas....sometimes go awry.

I checked with friends about what they used. Some people had the new Hoover Whirlwind, so I gave that a try at the local Bed Bath and Beyond...I wasn't thrilled with it, but I thought it looked pretty cool.

Then I asked a co-worked what she thought of her Oreck. She was known to be fairly meticulous, so I thought that she'd be a good test of the product. She loved her Oreck -- she even gave it to me for a weekend to try it out. I liked it to! So I went to their website -- I buy almost everything online -- and got the Oreck XL (Extended Life) 2200. The purchase price was about 350.00 and I got a free small companion vacuum along with it.

I couldn't wait to see her reaction.

It was not what I was expecting.

After using the vacuum a few times & comparing it with her mom's equipment back home (they have central vacuuming), she was less than impressed. The cleaning was adequate, but the 8lb guarantee was not a fact (I think that the Oreck only weighs 8lbs when the bag is completely empty).

I still like the Oreck, however.

Weight
It's really not heavy. I can use it on the stairs and on heavy rugs without killing myself.

Cord Size
It's long enough to vacuum an entire large room without having to change outlets. A nice plus that definitely lessens cleaning time.

Power
The Oreck is powerful. I've never tried to suck quarters or bolts with it, but dust and paper don't stand a chance. I almost never have to go over a section of the floor twice.

Convenience
Changing the bag is pretty easy. You simply disengage the velcro fastener and pull the bag upward. It slides right out. I'd estimate the bag needs to be changed about 4X a year.

Cost
The Oreck is expensive. I think that you can get other vacuums with the same functionality for about 50 -100 less. You're paying for the name, but my hope is that you're also paying for durability.

Appearance
This is a pretty cool looking machine, as vacuums go. Not as cool as the Hoover Whirlwind, though.

So if you're looking for a good vacuum, the Oreck is an option. Just remember to pick out this particular purchase with your significant other!



Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 350