Shark Lift-Around NP319

 

Avg. consumer rating = 90/100 

In the past few years Euro-Pro has produced a number of vacuum cleaners that have become consumer favorites.  Existing owner feedback suggests that the new Shark Lift-Around may be the next favorite on the list.  This is a portable, canister-like, bagless machine that is designed to make vacuuming of hard-to-clean areas easier.  Owners like its extreme light weight, portability, powerful suction and cleaning flexibility.  On the downside it really isn’t a vacuum designed for large floor area cleaning.

As mentioned, consumer ratings for the Shark Lift-Around are quite good.  Sources and scores can be seen in the table below.

The overall average score for this vacuum is about 90 out of 100.  This is a very high score but we have noticed many of the folks that have rated and reviewed the Lift-Around received the vacuum directly from Euro-Pro for evaluation purposes.  There may well be a tendency for people to provide a good score/review under the circumstances – just something to be aware of when looking at the ratings and pros and cons.  Having said that, Euro-Pro does make some good vacuums and we have included Euro-Pro machines in a number of our Best Vacuum Lists.

Common likes and dislikes are compiled in the list below.

PROS
- Very lightweight
- Compact and easy to store
- Large array of attachments and tools
- Powerful machine for its size
- Not too loud
- Large dust canister
- Effective on both bare floors and carpet
- Capable on pet hair
- Useful for cleaning vehicles

CONS
- Not easy to store power cord
- Floor attachment is narrow
- No wheels
- Does not include a bare-floors attachment

The Lift-Around uses cyclonic technology to generate suction.  Cyclonic technology involves spinning air very rapidly such that the dust and debris are “thrown out” of the airpath and into the dust canister.  This approach allows the unit to keep the same level of suction while vacuuming (no decrease in suction over time like a bagged vacuum).  Also, cyclonic technology is easier on filters.

Owners report that the vacuum is indeed very light and easy to move or carry.  The NP319 weighs a lightweight 6 lbs and has a carry handle on top.  In addition, a shoulder strap is included and attaches to the top of the vacuum. 

Many consumers mention that the vacuum has a long power cord.  A long cord limits the need to be near an outlet and it reduces the unplugging and plugging-in of the vacuum as you move from place to place.  The power cord on the Lift-Around is 25 feet in length.  Oddly, for a full size vacuum this is not really that long, but perhaps the compact size of the vacuum creates the perception of a long cord.
 
Like a number of bagless vacuums on the market today the Shark Lift-Around has lifetime washable filters.  There are actually three filters in this machine:

- Pre-Motor Foam Filter
- Pre-Motor Felt Filter
- Post-Motor HEPA Filter

The pre-motor filters need to be washed about every month while the HEPA filter only needs to be cleaned every 2 years or so.  The filters sometimes discolor over time but should continue to work effectively as long as they are cleaned properly.  Filters cannot be placed back into the machine until they are completely dry.  Generally they should be left to air-dry for about 24 hours before placing them back in the vacuum.  As a result some folks purchase a second set of filters to use while the other filters are drying.

Euro-Pro highlight that the NP319 has a sealed system (or Complete Seal Technology as they call it).  This means that the air that enters the vacuum does not leak out from the vacuum and bypass filtration.  When coupled with HEPA filtration, this can be an important feature for those with allergies or asthma.  We see this technology on a number of vacuums today and it is popular on Miele machines.  The short Euro-Pro video below explains the sealed system concept.

This vacuum comes with quite a few tools and attachments.  However we have seen different combinations of tools and attachments at different retailers so it is important to check which are included with the machine before buying.  Generally the following come with the Shark Lift-Around Pod Vacuum:

- Power Brush: Turbine tool which is good for removing pet hair, cleaning upholstery and also for doing automobile interiors.  The turbine tool has an air-driven brushbar.

- Upholstery Tool: Designed specifically for cleaning upholstery and very good at pulling up pet hair from upholstery.

- Crevice Tool: 6 inches long and useful for getting into hard to reach areas.

- Dusting Brush: Has soft bristles for cleaning shelves, lamp shades, blinds, etc.

In addition, a tool caddy is provided and it can be attached to the vacuum.  The caddy carries the crevice tool, dusting brush and upholstery brush.  There is also a telescopic tube that provides extra reach.  Tools can be attached to the end of the hose or the telescopic tube.  The flexible hose on the NP319 is 65 inches in length (5 feet 5 inches).

The dust canister is reportedly fairly easy to empty.  It is bottom empty and the bottom falls away at the touch of a button but the top area can also be opened and cleaned.  It has a capacity of 0.6 quarts to the fill line and Euro-Pro suggests emptying it after each use.

The vacuum only has a cleaning path width of about 4 inches so cleaning large areas is not this machines forte.  The unit also includes a thermal shut off switch that will shut down the machine should it overheat, thereby potentially saving the motor.  The NP319 carries a 3-year limited warranty.

Euro-Pro provides a great selection of “how to” videos on their site.  The videos include “how to use the crevice tool”, “how to empty the dust cup”, “how to assemble the vacuum”, etc.

In addition, the following short video tells you what you get in the box (although this can vary). Bear in mind that this is released by Euro-Pro (Shark).

WHAT'S IN THE BOX