Tuesday, December 24, 2013

RV sucker

Dear Dr. R.V. Shrink:
I don't have central vac in my motorhome and use an older upright self propelled that I really love but every time I use it I have a ton of dust everywhere. In our enclosed 40' motor home, it doesn't take long to build up. I know that everyone claims to have the best vacuum out there so here's hoping that someone has experience with a smaller, efficient vacuum. I also boondock a lot so I'm wondering if there is one that runs on battery that works on carpet. Thanks y’all.
--Dusty in Denton

Dear Dusty:
I would start out cleaning the machine you have. The bag may be too full, broken, or not attached properly. You might also look into hypoallergenic bags that fit your machine to keep the dust down. Most handheld machines I have used are all bark and no bite and don't work well on carpets. A vacuum is one product you buy that you hope really sucks, and often it doesn’t. If you read the comment section of this column over the next couple of weeks you will likely hear from many readers who have tried machines and are willing to share their experience with you. Another method I find helpful is Amazon comments/reviews. Often Amazon customers have written reviews on products they have bought. These comments are ranked 1-5 stars. I read a few of the lowest and highest rankings to get a consensus. When I think I have narrowed my choice down to one product I read them all. My weapon of choice is a small shop vac. I just get down and dirty with the handheld wand. This would not be the answer for everyone, but it is powerful and allows me to reach into all the small nooks and crannies. Depending on your budget, you could explore the cost of having a central vacuum system added to your coach. It would sure be a lot more fun than buying a new kayak or mountain bike, and probably just as much exercise if you use it enough. Okay folks. Let’s here from you out there on the road. What should Dusty do?
--Keep Smilin’, Dr. R.V. Shrink

##RVT866

11 comments:

Edie said...

We also use a small shop vac. Works great for everything.

USRVLady said...

I have an Intervac that I built into the wall near the center of the motorhome. It has a very long hose so I can reach anywhere. I does use a bag which can be a bit of a nuisance but I did get a new one when the old one failed. If I want to use it in the car, I simply remove 4 screws and take it outside. Back when I had a stickbuilt house, I made a little wagon to move it around the house. In the RV that is not necessary.

JB said...

I just bought the Shark and it is perfect for home and our fifth wheel. It separates for vacuuming out the truck and is very light weight. I highly recommend this vacuum and it is very reasonably priced.

Anonymous said...

For the S&B, we bought a Riccar upright a couple of years back. it only weighs 8 pounds, uses HEPA-filter bags and works very well. It's US made, too.

With two Labradors, a vac that's good at picking up dog hair is essential. The Riccar does a good job.

Anonymous said...

Get a chargeable Dyson...the best and portable

Unknown said...

We use a Shark also. Light, rechargeable, easy to store and has a detachable handheld unit with reasonably good suction. We have a cannister vac in the basement for ocassional use or when need major suction and/or capacity.

Anonymous said...

The way to go, buy a dyson DC 44 animal plus rechargeable. Compact, great suction and easy to store, plus it's designed for picking up pet,s hair. I love it.

Jerry X Shea said...

We have had many small vacuum cleaners in our life time and for the last 5 years of our RV travels we have been using the Hoover LiNX Cordless. This gets a 10+ from us. Rechargeable battery, no "dirt bag" and picks up small stones. We love it.

Anonymous said...

I have a shark and I love it!! But I also have a bissel that is kind of a glorified dust buster, It has the dust buster part but that attaches onto a "body" with a rotating brush. This works great on hard floors and low pile carpet, It is re-chargable, I use this daily. (my furry "kids" gave this to me for Christmas a few years ago:)

Anonymous said...

Avoid the new Microsoft vacuum. It's the first product Microsoft makes that doesn't suck........

Anonymous said...

We use a 4 gallon Rigid Wet/Dry shop vacuum. We built it into a "central vacuum system".