Rating the Dyson DC07 All Floors Vacuum

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Avg. consumer rating = 84/100 

In this vacuum cleaner review we investigate the Dyson DC07, a vacuum that rates reasonably well according to what consumers report.  There are two Dyson DC07 models - the "All Floors" model and the "Animal" model.  These are referred to as the Origin range.  The Animal includes a Carpet Care Kit, a Low Reach Floor Tool (an attachment for easier cleaning under low furniture), and a Mini Turbine Head (special vacuum cleaner head that aids in removing pet hairs from upholstery, stairs, and cars).  The All Floors model does not have these features but comes standard with a reversible wand, a quick draw hose (instant 17ft extension), automatic adjustment to different carpet heights, and a brush angled to reach between the baseboard and the floor, flicking dust directly into the airflow...

Technology
The All Floors model uses Dyson Cyclone Technology.  According to Dyson this technology ensures that the vacuum cleaner doesn't lose suction.  Cyclonic suction involves spinning air at very high speed to throw dirt and dust out of the airflow and into the collection bin.  This technology does not require bags or filters.  With a traditional bagged vacuum cleaner the bag slowly fills with dust/dirt and this begins to restrict airflow thereby reducing suction.  The same principle, Dyson states, applies to so called bagless vacuums as their filter surface becomes coated with dust. So unlike other vacuum cleaners, a Dyson doesn't clog and lose suction.  The "All Floors" model does use a filter however - a HEPA filter - which is designed to trap high levels of microscopic particulates and allergens. Does this cause any clogging or suction reduction?  The sources used in the writing of this article have not made this clear, however consumers in general report that the vacuum has impressive suction.

Allergen Reduction
What exactly is a HEPA filter?  A HEPA filter (high efficiency particulate air) is a high-efficiency air filter that is capable of removing at least 99.97 percent of airborne particles 0.3 micrometers or larger.  These filters are used for many applications in the nuclear and biomedical industries but have more recently found a home in the newer vacuum cleaner models.  They are especially helpful to those suffering from asthma and allergies.  It is key that all the air expelled by the vacuum cleaner go through the filter in order for it to be effective.

The Dyson DC07 All Floors model vacuum cleaner is endorsed by the asthma society of Canada (asthma.ca).  According to Dyson this certification is rigorous and requires the vacuum to significantly reduce allergens in the floors and carpets while ensuring that allergens do not easily escape via leakage, filtration or bin emptying.

Dyson have indicated that the HEPA filter is designed to last the lifetime of the vacuum, however some consumers report that vacuuming up powders such as carpet cleaner or plaster will clog the filter and eventually damage or destroy the machine. 

What are Consumers Reporting?

Pros
 - Very strong suction
 - 5 year warranty
 - Endorsed by the Asthma Society of Canada

Cons
 - High noise level
 - Fairly heavy (19.2lbs or 8.7kg)
 - Like all Dysons it is reasonably expensive (350 to 500USD in the US)
 - User manual not particularly good
 - Cheap-feeling plastic construction
 - Can be rough on hand-woven rugs
 - Expensive to fix (if warranty expires)

Warranty
Other consumers have reported that repairs are a hassle due to the lack of available dealerships and after the warranty expires the repairs can be very expensive.  Having said that, the Dyson has an impressive 5 year warranty.

Dyson DC07 All Floors Specifications:
Dimensions (inches):  46.1 x 14.0 x 13.4 (HeightxWidthxDepth)
Weight (lbs):   19.2
Cord Length (feet):  37
Bin Capacity (gallons):  0.9
Suction Power (airwatts): 270
Motor wattage (watts):  1400