The new Bissell PowerClean FurFinder Cordless Stick Vacuum, priced at $179, aims to tackle pet hair effectively. Designed specifically for pet owners, it promises to eliminate fur from various surfaces, including upholstery and floors. This review delves into its performance and features to determine if it lives up to its claims.
Specifications and Features
The Bissell PowerClean FurFinder boasts a variety of specifications tailored for pet owners. With a maximum runtime of up to 40 minutes and a 0.5-liter bin volume, it is equipped with a detachable lithium-ion battery that charges in approximately three hours. The vacuum measures 7 x 10 x 45 inches and weighs 7.3 pounds, making it lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Bissell markets this model as a 3-in-1 vacuum, capable of functioning as a stick vacuum for floors, a handheld vacuum, and an extended-reach device. It includes three heads: a floor brush roll, a FurFinder tool, and a crevice tool, catering to different cleaning needs. Notably, the floor brush features a tangle-free design and bright LED lights, enhancing visibility while cleaning.
Performance Analysis
During initial testing, the vacuum was put to the test in high-traffic areas, including a living room rug, hardwood floors, and a chair that belongs to the dog. While the floor attachment did gather a significant amount of fur, its performance did not notably surpass that of other stick vacuums in the same category.
The FurFinder attachment, designed specifically for upholstery, was less effective than expected. Users reported that the brush tended to bog down and sometimes stop entirely, failing to provide a significant advantage over the standard floor attachment. The corner tool, however, proved valuable for reaching tight spaces, effectively collecting fur from crevices.
Although the vacuum’s lights were highly praised, illuminating dirt and debris effectively, the overall performance of the FurFinder attachment fell short. Even after recharging the battery and emptying the bin, the results remained unimpressive.
In comparison to the regular Bissell PowerClean vacuum, the FurFinder did seem to deliver slightly better suction, although Bissell does not disclose specific suction specifications. The FurFinder registered at 80 decibels on its highest setting, which is relatively loud for a vacuum of this type.
Comparative Insights
The Bissell PowerClean FurFinder competes in a crowded market of lightweight stick vacuums. While it shares many features with its predecessor, the FurFinder is designed with pet owners in mind. It performs adequately on carpets, but users may find that it sometimes struggles with deep cleaning, particularly in high-pile carpets.
In contrast, the LG CordZero Stick Vacuum has been noted for its superior suction power and longer run time, making it a strong competitor in this category.
Conclusion
The Bissell PowerClean FurFinder Cordless Stick Vacuum offers a range of features that could appeal to pet owners, but it does not fully deliver on its promises. The FurFinder attachment, a key selling point, lacks the necessary power to consistently pick up embedded pet hair. While the vacuum excels with its floor attachment and bright LED lights, the overall functionality could be improved.
In summary, the PowerClean FurFinder serves as a decent upgrade from the standard model, yet its specialized pet hair features may not meet the expectations of all users. As such, prospective buyers may want to consider their specific cleaning needs before making a purchase.
