Kirby vacuums have been a household name for decades, known for their durability and versatility. However, with the rise of more affordable and technologically advanced vacuum cleaners, many are left wondering if Kirby vacuums are still worth the investment. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of Kirby vacuums and help you determine if they are the right choice for your cleaning needs.
First, let’s take a closer look at Kirby vacuums and their features. These vacuums are known for their powerful suction and ability to deep clean carpets, upholstery, and floors. They also come with a range of attachments and accessories that allow for versatile cleaning, such as crevice tools, dusting brushes, and pet hair attachments. Additionally, Kirby vacuums have a long lifespan and are designed to be repaired rather than replaced, making them a more sustainable choice in the long run.
However, with all these features come a higher price tag. Kirby vacuums are some of the most expensive on the market, and their sales tactics have been criticized for being pushy and aggressive. Moreover, their design is bulky and heavy, which can make them difficult to maneuver and store. In the next sections, we will delve deeper into these factors and help you weigh the pros and cons of Kirby vacuums.
Key Takeaways
- Kirby vacuums are known for their powerful suction and versatility, but come with a higher price tag and pushy sales tactics.
- Their design is bulky and heavy, which can make them difficult to maneuver and store.
- When deciding if a Kirby vacuum is worth the investment, consider your cleaning needs, budget, and sustainability goals.
Kirby Vacuums: An Overview
What is a Kirby Vacuum?
Kirby is a well-known brand that has been around for over 100 years. Kirby vacuums are known for their durability and performance, and they come with a variety of features that make them stand out from other vacuum cleaners. Kirby vacuums are designed to be all-in-one cleaning systems that can clean carpets, upholstery, and hard floors.
Kirby Vacuum Features
Kirby vacuums come with a variety of features that make them stand out from other vacuum cleaners. Some of the features include:
- All-in-one cleaning system: Kirby vacuums are designed to be all-in-one cleaning systems that can clean carpets, upholstery, and hard floors.
- HEPA filtration: Kirby vacuums come with HEPA filtration, which is designed to capture 99.97% of dust, pollen, and other allergens.
- Multiple attachments: Kirby vacuums come with multiple attachments, including a crevice tool, upholstery tool, and dusting brush.
- Powerful motor: Kirby vacuums have a powerful motor that is designed to provide strong suction and deep cleaning.
Kirby Vacuum Price and Investment
Kirby vacuums are an investment, with prices ranging from $200 to $700. The most popular Kirby vacuum models are the Sentria and the Diamond Edition, which both have an MSRP of $699. Kirby also offers a less expensive model, the G6, with an MSRP of $399.
While Kirby vacuums may be more expensive than other vacuum cleaners, they are designed to last for many years. Kirby vacuums are also known for their resale value, with older models often selling for more than new vacuums from other brands.
Overall, Kirby vacuums are a good investment for those who want a high-quality vacuum cleaner that is built to last.
Kirby Vacuum Performance
When it comes to vacuum performance, Kirby vacuums are known for their powerful suction. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key performance features of Kirby vacuums.
Suction Power
Kirby vacuums are designed with a powerful motor that provides strong suction to pick up dirt and debris from carpets, hardwood floors, tile, and more. The suction power is adjustable, so you can customize the level of suction to match the surface you’re cleaning.
Handling and Suction Control
Kirby vacuums are designed to be easy to handle, with a comfortable grip and intuitive controls. The suction control feature allows you to adjust the suction power on the fly, making it easy to transition between different surfaces.
Attachments and Accessories
Kirby vacuums come with a range of attachments and accessories to help you clean every nook and cranny of your home. From crevice tools to upholstery brushes, these accessories make it easy to clean furniture, stairs, and other hard-to-reach areas.
Hard Floor Polishing
One unique feature of Kirby vacuums is their ability to polish hard floors. With the right attachment, you can use your Kirby vacuum to buff and shine hardwood floors, leaving them looking clean and polished.
Shampooing
Another unique feature of Kirby vacuums is their ability to shampoo carpets. With the right attachment, you can use your Kirby vacuum to deep clean carpets, removing dirt and stains and leaving them looking like new.
Overall, Kirby vacuums are a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful, versatile vacuum that can handle a wide range of cleaning tasks. With their strong suction, easy handling, and range of attachments and accessories, Kirby vacuums are a reliable choice for keeping your home clean and tidy.
Kirby Vacuum Design
When it comes to vacuum cleaners, design plays a crucial role in the overall performance and usability of the machine. Kirby vacuums are known for their sturdy and durable design, which can last for decades with proper maintenance. In this section, we will take a closer look at the design of Kirby vacuums and what makes them stand out from the competition.
Weight and Handling
One of the key design features of Kirby vacuums is their weight and handling. These vacuums are heavier than most other models on the market, which can make them more difficult to maneuver for some users. However, the added weight also contributes to the overall durability and suction power of the machine. Additionally, Kirby vacuums come with a variety of handle and grip options to make it easier to handle the machine during use.
HEPA Filtration
Another important design feature of Kirby vacuums is their HEPA filtration system. HEPA filters are designed to capture microscopic particles that other filters might miss, making them ideal for people with allergies or asthma. Kirby vacuums use a HEPA filtration system that is effective at capturing dust, pollen, and other allergens, which can help improve indoor air quality.
Filter Bags
Kirby vacuums also use a unique filter bag system that is designed to trap dirt and debris more effectively than other vacuum cleaners. These bags are made from high-quality materials that are designed to last for a long time, and they can be easily replaced when they become full. Additionally, Kirby vacuums come with a variety of different filter bag options to suit different cleaning needs.
Power Cord and Handle
The power cord and handle of a vacuum cleaner can make a big difference in how easy it is to use and store. Kirby vacuums come with a long power cord that can reach across large rooms without needing to be unplugged and moved. Additionally, the handle of the machine is designed to be comfortable and easy to grip, which can make it easier to maneuver during use.
Versatility
Finally, Kirby vacuums are known for their versatility. These machines come with a variety of different attachments and tools that can be used for a wide range of cleaning tasks. Whether you need to clean carpets, upholstery, or hard floors, a Kirby vacuum can handle the job with ease. Additionally, Kirby vacuums can be used for deep cleaning tasks like shampooing carpets and upholstery, which can help extend the life of these surfaces.
In summary, Kirby vacuums are designed with durability, functionality, and versatility in mind. From their HEPA filtration system to their unique filter bag design, these machines are built to last and provide excellent cleaning performance. While they may be heavier than other models on the market, the added weight contributes to their overall performance and durability.
Kirby Vacuum Maintenance and Warranty
Lifetime Rebuild Program
Kirby vacuums are built to last, and the company offers a Lifetime Factory Rebuild program to keep them running like new. As the registered owner of a Kirby system, you can elect to use this program to have your vacuum rebuilt by the company’s specially trained Rebuild Department. This program can be a great option if your vacuum is in need of significant repairs or if you simply want to keep it in top condition.
The Lifetime Rebuild Program includes a complete overhaul of your Kirby system, including a new fan and motor, new bearings and bushings, and a new cord. Additionally, your vacuum will be cleaned and polished, and any worn or damaged parts will be replaced. The result is a vacuum that looks and performs like new, at a fraction of the cost of buying a new one.
Warranty
The Kirby Home Company offers a three-year warranty on its vacuums when used for residential consumer purposes. The warranty covers defects in material and workmanship, but does not cover expendable items such as disposable filter bags, belts, and light bulbs.
To make a warranty claim, you should contact the Kirby Home Company or an authorized service center. You will need to provide proof of purchase and a description of the problem. The company will then either repair or replace the vacuum, at their discretion.
It’s important to note that the warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, abuse, or neglect. To keep your Kirby vacuum in good condition and avoid voiding the warranty, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and maintenance. This includes regular cleaning and replacement of filters and belts, as well as avoiding overloading the vacuum or using it on inappropriate surfaces.
Overall, the Lifetime Rebuild Program and warranty offered by Kirby can provide peace of mind and help you keep your vacuum running smoothly for years to come.
Kirby Vacuum vs. Other Brands
When it comes to vacuum cleaners, there are many brands available in the market. However, Kirby vacuums are known for their durability and versatility. In this section, we will compare Kirby vacuums with some of the other popular brands in the market.
Dyson vs. Kirby
Dyson is a well-known brand that offers a range of vacuum cleaners. However, when it comes to overall performance, Kirby vacuums are a better choice. Kirby vacuums have a more powerful motor, which makes them more effective at cleaning carpets and removing pet hair. Additionally, Kirby vacuums are self-propelled, making them easier to use.
Shark vs. Kirby
Shark is another popular brand that offers a range of vacuum cleaners. While Shark vacuums are known for their affordability, they do not match the performance of Kirby vacuums. Kirby vacuums are more effective at removing dirt and pet hair from carpets and rugs. Additionally, Kirby vacuums have a wider cleaning path, which means you can clean more area in less time.
Riccar vs. Kirby
Riccar is a lesser-known brand that offers a range of vacuum cleaners. While Riccar vacuums are known for their durability, they do not match the versatility and performance of Kirby vacuums. Kirby vacuums have a range of attachments that allow you to clean upholstery, stairs, and other hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, Kirby vacuums have a stronger motor, which means they can clean deeper into carpets and rugs.
In conclusion, while there are many vacuum cleaner brands available in the market, Kirby vacuums are the best choice for those who want a durable, versatile, and effective vacuum cleaner. Kirby vacuums are more powerful, easier to use, and more effective at removing dirt and pet hair from carpets and rugs than other popular brands like Dyson, Shark, and Riccar.
Kirby Vacuum Sales Tactics
Kirby vacuums are known for their high quality and impressive cleaning capabilities. However, the sales tactics used by Kirby distributors and salespeople have been a topic of controversy for many years. In this section, we will take a closer look at some of the sales tactics used by Kirby salespeople, including in-home demonstrations, haggling and sales tactics, and unethical sales practices.
In-Home Demonstrations
One of the most common sales tactics used by Kirby salespeople is the in-home demonstration. Salespeople will often offer a free cleaning demonstration to potential customers, which involves bringing a Kirby vacuum into the customer’s home and demonstrating its cleaning capabilities. While this can be a useful way for customers to see the vacuum in action, some salespeople use this as an opportunity to pressure customers into making a purchase.
Haggling and Sales Tactics
Kirby salespeople are known for their aggressive sales tactics and haggling techniques. They may try to pressure customers into making a purchase by offering discounts or special deals, or by using high-pressure sales tactics. While some customers may appreciate the opportunity to negotiate a better price, others may find this approach off-putting.
Unethical Sales Practices
In some cases, Kirby salespeople have been accused of using unethical sales practices to pressure customers into making a purchase. This can include making false claims about the vacuum’s capabilities, using high-pressure sales tactics, or failing to disclose important information about the product. In some cases, salespeople have even been accused of using deceptive or fraudulent practices to make a sale.
Overall, while Kirby vacuums are known for their quality and cleaning capabilities, it is important for consumers to be aware of the sales tactics used by Kirby salespeople. By understanding these tactics and being prepared to negotiate or walk away from a sale, consumers can make an informed decision about whether or not a Kirby vacuum is right for them.
Kirby Vacuum Reviews
When it comes to vacuum cleaners, Kirby is a well-known brand that has been around for decades. But are Kirby vacuums worth the cost? Let’s take a closer look at what both consumers and experts have to say.
Consumer Reviews
Consumer reviews of Kirby vacuums are mixed. Some users rave about the powerful suction and versatility of the machine, while others complain about the weight and noise level. One common complaint is that Kirby vacuums are expensive, with some models costing over $700.
However, many users report that the investment is worth it in the long run due to the durability and effectiveness of the machine. Kirby vacuums are often praised for their ability to clean carpets, upholstery, and hardwood floors, as well as their ability to remove dust mites and allergens from the home.
Expert Reviews
Expert reviews of Kirby vacuums are generally positive. The Avalir 2 model, for example, received high marks from Consumer Reports for its strong suction, ability to clean carpets and bare floors, and ease of use. However, the experts did note that the machine is heavy and loud.
Other experts have praised Kirby vacuums for their versatility and effectiveness in removing dirt and debris from carpets and upholstery. Some models even come with additional attachments for cleaning furniture and other hard-to-reach areas.
Overall, while Kirby vacuums may be expensive, they are generally considered to be a high-quality home cleaning system that can effectively remove dirt, dust, and allergens from the home. However, potential buyers should consider their specific needs and budget before making a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How good are Kirby vacuums?
Kirby vacuums are known for their powerful suction and ability to deep clean carpets. They also come with a variety of attachments for cleaning upholstery, stairs, and other surfaces. However, some users have reported that the vacuums are heavy and difficult to maneuver.
Why do Kirby vacuums cost so much?
Kirby vacuums are priced higher than many other brands due to their high-quality construction and durability. The company also uses a direct sales model, which can add to the cost of the vacuum.
What is the lifespan of a Kirby vacuum?
With proper maintenance and care, a Kirby vacuum can last for many years. Some users have reported using their Kirby vacuums for over 20 years.
Are Kirby vacuum cleaners worth anything?
Yes, Kirby vacuum cleaners have a good resale value due to their durability and reputation for quality. However, the resale value may vary depending on the age and condition of the vacuum.
What are the benefits of using Kirby vacuum bags?
Kirby vacuum bags are designed to trap dust, dirt, and allergens, making them a good choice for those with allergies or respiratory issues. They also help to keep the vacuum clean and functioning properly.
Where can I find Kirby vacuum reviews?
Kirby vacuum reviews can be found on a variety of websites, including ConsumerReports.org and HomeVacuumZone.com. It is important to read reviews from multiple sources to get a well-rounded understanding of the product.
