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Kenmore Elite Canister Vacuum Review | Worth The Price?
There’s nothing quite like the frustration of watching your current vacuum push dirt around rather than actually picking it up. I experienced this aggravation for months before finally admitting my budget vacuum wasn’t cutting it anymore. My two long-haired cats and wall-to-wall carpeting demanded something more capable. That search led me to the Kenmore Elite Canister Vacuum, specifically the 81714 model, and I’ve been testing it extensively for the past four months.
The canister vacuum market is crowded with options ranging from £60 budget models to £1,200 premium German engineering. Somewhere in that vast middle ground sits the Kenmore Elite 81714, promising flagship performance without the flagship price tag. At around $600-$700, it positions itself as a serious contender for those wanting exceptional cleaning power without breaking the bank.
What initially caught my attention was the specification sheet. A 280 air watt motor delivering more suction than many premium competitors. Triple HEPA filtration for genuine air quality benefits. A motorised Pet PowerMate with LED lights illuminating hidden debris. The bagless design eliminating recurring costs. On paper, it sounded almost too good for the mid-range pricing.
But specifications only tell part of the story. Does that powerful motor translate to genuinely better cleaning? Do the LED lights actually help or are they gimmicky marketing? Is the bagless system as convenient as claimed or a dusty nightmare? Most importantly, does this vacuum justify its $600+ price tag when perfectly adequate models cost half that?
I’ve spent four months finding answers. I’ve vacuumed my entire 1,800 square foot home twice weekly. I’ve tested it on hardwood, tile, low-pile carpet, and thick area rugs. I’ve used every attachment in various situations. I’ve monitored my allergies to assess the HEPA filtration claims. I’ve tracked maintenance requirements and running costs.
This review shares everything I’ve learned about living with the Kenmore Elite 81714. You’ll discover which features deliver genuine value and which disappoint. I’ll explain who should absolutely buy this vacuum and who should look elsewhere. Most importantly, you’ll get an honest assessment of whether the performance justifies the investment.
If you’re comparing multiple canister vacuum options, check out our comprehensive guide to the best canister vacuums with HEPA filters where we test and rank models across all price points.
The Kenmore Elite 81714 promises a lot. Let’s see if it delivers.
First Impressions and Unboxing
The Kenmore Elite 81714 arrives in substantial packaging measuring approximately 60cm x 50cm x 45cm. The box weighs about 28 pounds fully packed. Kenmore’s characteristic blue and white branding dominates the exterior. The packaging protects adequately without excessive waste.
Opening reveals organised compartments with everything secured by cardboard inserts. The main canister sits centrally with accessories arranged around it. No frustrating plastic ties or excessive tape. The packaging design enables easy unpacking without damaging components.
My first reaction upon lifting the canister was surprise at the weight. At 23 pounds, this is a substantial machine. The heft feels reassuring rather than concerning. Quality materials and a powerful motor contribute to the mass. However, carrying it upstairs requires genuine effort.
The build quality impresses immediately. Solid plastic construction without creaky joints or flexible panels. The canister’s glossy finish looks premium. The wheels roll smoothly. The handle feels comfortable and substantial. This doesn’t feel like a budget product pretending to be premium.
The motorised PowerMate attachment is notably well-constructed. The brush roll spins freely. The LED lights are positioned sensibly. The height adjustment mechanism feels robust. This single attachment likely represents significant engineering effort.
Initial setup took approximately 20 minutes. Attaching the hose to the canister requires aligning grooves and twisting to lock. The telescoping wand extends and locks at various lengths. The PowerMate clicks onto the wand securely. Everything assembles intuitively without consulting instructions.
The bagless dustbin is transparent, enabling you to see fill levels clearly. Removal requires pressing a button and lifting. The HEPA filter installs in the exhaust port. Pre-motor and motor protection filters sit in separate compartments. The triple filtration system is more complex than budget alternatives but still manageable.
Overall first impressions are positive. The quality exceeds expectations for the price point. The weight is the only concern, manageable for single-level homes but challenging for multi-storey properties.
Design and Build Quality
The Kenmore Elite 81714 uses high-impact ABS plastic throughout. This material balances durability with manageable weight. The glossy silver and blue finish looks modern without being flashy. The construction feels solid with no flex in major components.
Materials and Construction
The canister body is thick-walled plastic reinforced at stress points. The wheels use hard rubber providing smooth rolling without marking floors. The hose is reinforced fabric preventing kinks whilst remaining flexible. The wand is lightweight aluminium with secure locking mechanisms.
The PowerMate brush head uses similar quality materials. The transparent top enables viewing the brush roll during operation. The wheels glide smoothly across surfaces. The height adjustment mechanism is metal rather than plastic, ensuring longevity.
After four months of regular use, wear and tear is minimal. Minor scuffs on the canister from furniture collisions are the only visible damage. The wheels show no degradation. The hose remains kink-free. This construction quality suggests years of reliable service.
Ergonomics and Handling
The telescoping wand adjusts from 90cm to 125cm approximately. This accommodates users from 160cm to 200cm comfortably. The wand is lightweight, preventing arm fatigue during extended cleaning.
The canister trails behind smoothly on most surfaces. The wheels occasionally catch on thick carpet edges requiring a slight tug. This is common with canister vacuums and not specific to this model. On hard floors, it glides effortlessly.
The handle includes basic controls for power adjustment. Six power settings range from delicate curtains to deep carpet cleaning. The controls are positioned conveniently for thumb operation without adjusting grip.
Aesthetic Appeal
The silver and blue colour scheme is inoffensive if uninspiring. It’s attractive enough to not require hiding but not decorative enough to display proudly. The transparent dustbin adds visual interest whilst serving practical purposes.
Compared to premium competitors, the design is less refined. German brands offer more cohesive styling. However, at this price point, function matters more than form. The Kenmore delivers where it counts.
For detailed comparisons, see how it ranks in our best canister vacuums with HEPA filters guide where we test models across all price points.
Key Features
280 Air Watts of Suction Power
The 10.5-amp motor delivers exceptional suction. At 280 air watts, this matches or exceeds many premium models costing double. In practice, the power is immediately noticeable. Embedded dirt in carpets lifts easily. Pet hair extracts from upholstery effectively.
The suction adjustment enables customisation. Low settings protect delicate fabrics whilst high settings tackle deep carpets. This versatility prevents damage whilst maximising effectiveness. The difference between settings is genuinely noticeable, not just placebo.
Triple HEPA Filtration System
Three separate HEPA filters capture allergens comprehensively. A pre-motor filter catches large particles. A motor protection filter prevents dust from damaging internal components. An exhaust HEPA filter cleans expelled air.
This redundancy ensures thorough air cleaning. My seasonal allergies improved noticeably after switching to this vacuum. Morning sneezing fits decreased. Dust accumulation on furniture reduced. The air quality benefits are measurable, not just claimed.
According to Kenmore’s official specifications, the triple filtration system captures 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns, meeting true HEPA standards.
LED-Lit Pet PowerMate
The motorised PowerMate includes bright LED headlights. These illuminate dark spaces under furniture revealing hidden debris. The feature sounds gimmicky but proves genuinely useful. Dust bunnies and pet hair hiding in shadows become visible.
The motorised brush roll pulls embedded pet hair from carpets effectively. My cats shed relentlessly. This attachment manages the volume without clogging or tangling. The brush roll includes an anti-tangle design preventing hair wrap.
Bagless Convenience
The 2-litre transparent dustbin eliminates ongoing bag costs. You see exactly what you’re capturing. Emptying is straightforward when the bin reaches capacity. Over five years, you’ll save $200+ versus bag-based systems.
The downside is dust exposure during emptying. Allergy sufferers should empty outdoors or wear a mask. The process releases more allergens than sealed bag systems. This is the bagless trade-off.
Extended Reach
The 28-foot cord combined with the hose and wand provides 38 feet total reach. Most rooms clean from a single outlet. Large homes benefit enormously from this convenience. Constantly searching for outlets wastes time and breaks cleaning rhythm.
The cord retracts automatically with one-button operation. This prevents tangling and simplifies storage. The retraction is smooth without whipping the plug dangerously.
Comprehensive Tool Kit
The included Pet PowerMate, bare floor tool, crevice tool, dusting brush, and combination tool cover all cleaning situations. The 2-in-1 combination tool reduces tool swapping. Everything stores on the vacuum body maintaining organisation.
The telescoping wand adjusts from 36 to 50 inches. This exceptional adjustability accommodates different users and situations comfortably. Short users aren’t straining whilst tall users aren’t hunching.
Performance and Real-World Testing
Hard Floor Excellence
Performance on hardwood, tile, and laminate is exceptional. The bare floor attachment glides smoothly without scratching. The suction lifts embedded debris from grout lines and wood grain. My kitchen tiles look genuinely cleaner after vacuuming versus just appearing clean.
The LED lights reveal dust accumulation you’d otherwise miss. Corners and edges under cabinets harbour surprising debris. The illumination enables thorough cleaning rather than superficial passes.
Carpet Cleaning Power
The PowerMate excels on carpets. Low-pile carpet cleans thoroughly in single passes. Medium-pile requires occasionally two passes for heavily soiled areas. Deep shag carpet is manageable but requires patience and multiple passes.
The brush roll agitates carpet fibres effectively. Pet hair that other vacuums leave behind lifts easily. The combination of agitation and powerful suction extracts embedded dirt that’s been there for months.
Traffic lanes in my living room visibly improved after the first cleaning. The carpet colour lightened as embedded grime was finally removed. This deep cleaning capability justifies the investment alone.
Pet Hair Management
With two long-haired cats, pet hair is my biggest challenge. The Kenmore Elite 81714 handles it brilliantly. The PowerMate’s motorised brush prevents hair from wrapping excessively. The anti-tangle design genuinely works.
The strong suction pulls hair from upholstery effectively. My sofa transforms from furry to clean in minutes. Car interiors clean thoroughly with the upholstery tool and crevice attachment.
The bagless bin enables seeing exactly how much hair you’ve captured. It’s oddly satisfying seeing the volume removed. The transparent design turns cleaning into visible progress.
Consistency Over Time
Four months in, performance remains consistent. Suction hasn’t degraded. Filters maintain effectiveness with proper cleaning. The brush roll continues spinning freely without tangles.
The main maintenance is emptying the dustbin and rinsing filters monthly. This minimal upkeep maintains peak performance. More complex vacuums require frequent troubleshooting. The Kenmore just works reliably.
For detailed comparisons, see how it ranks in our best canister vacuums with HEPA filters guide where we test models across all price points.
Technical Specifications
Here are the key specifications explained simply:
Power and Performance
- Motor: 10.5 amps
- Suction: 280 air watts
- Power Settings: 6 variable levels
- Voltage: 120V
Dimensions and Weight
- Canister: 43cm x 28cm x 28cm (approximately)
- Total Weight: 23 pounds (10.4kg)
- Wand Length: Adjustable 90-125cm
Capacity and Reach
- Dustbin: 2 litres bagless
- Cord Length: 28 feet (8.5 metres)
- Total Cleaning Reach: 38 feet (11.6 metres)
Filtration
- System: Triple HEPA filtration
- Pre-motor filter: Washable
- Motor protection filter: Washable
- Exhaust filter: HEPA standard
Noise Level
- Operating Volume: 74dB
Colour Options
- Silver/Blue only
Understanding the Specifications
The 280 air watts represents genuine cleaning power. Many vacuums quote motor amps rather than air watts. Air watts measure actual suction performance, not just motor power. This specification indicates exceptional cleaning capability.
The 23-pound weight is substantial. This isn’t a lightweight vacuum. However, the weight comes from quality construction and a powerful motor. Budget models sacrifice weight through cheaper materials and smaller motors.
The 2-litre dustbin is adequate but not generous. You’ll empty it every 2-3 cleaning sessions typically. Larger homes might empty mid-clean occasionally. This is the bagless trade-off for zero recurring costs.
The 74dB noise level is noticeably louder than premium models operating at 68-72dB. It’s not ear-splitting but is more intrusive. The powerful motor generates this volume. Quieter operation requires sacrificing some power.
Accessories and Tools Included
The comprehensive toolkit includes everything needed for whole-home cleaning.
What’s in the Box
The Pet PowerMate motorised brush is the star attachment. LED lights illuminate dark spaces. The motorised brush roll handles carpets and upholstery. Height adjustment accommodates different surfaces. This single tool justifies significant cost.
The bare floor tool protects hardwood whilst cleaning effectively. Soft wheels prevent scratching. The wide cleaning path covers ground quickly. Natural bristles gather debris without scattering.
The crevice tool reaches tight spaces between furniture and along baseboards. The extended reach accesses deep crevices. The narrow profile fits where broader attachments cannot.
The dusting brush handles furniture, blinds, and shelving. Soft bristles prevent surface damage. The brush lifts dust rather than scattering it. This attachment sees frequent use.
The 2-in-1 combination tool converts between dusting brush and upholstery tool. This versatility reduces tool swapping. The conversion is simple and secure. It’s genuinely useful rather than gimmicky.
The telescoping wand provides exceptional adjustability. Extension from 36 to 50 inches accommodates varied situations. Ceiling fans, car interiors, and floor cleaning all benefit from this range.
Quality Assessment
All attachments feel solidly constructed. No flimsy plastic that’ll crack after minimal use. The connections are secure without wobbling. The tools store neatly on the vacuum body maintaining organisation.
The Pet PowerMate particularly impresses. The transparent top enables monitoring brush roll condition. The LED lights are bright and positioned effectively. The wheels glide smoothly. This attachment rivals separate handheld vacuum tools.
Additional Accessories Needed
No additional accessories are necessary for typical use. The included toolkit covers all common cleaning situations comprehensively. This completeness adds genuine value.
Replacement filters are the only ongoing purchase. HEPA filters cost approximately $20 for a set. With proper cleaning, filters last 6-12 months. Annual filter costs run $20-$40 typically.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Exceptional Suction Power
The 280 air watts delivers genuinely impressive cleaning. Deep carpets, embedded dirt, and stubborn pet hair all lift effectively. This power rivals vacuums costing twice as much.
Triple HEPA Filtration
The three-stage filtration meaningfully improves air quality. My seasonal allergies decreased noticeably. Dust accumulation throughout my home reduced. The respiratory benefits are real, not just claimed.
LED-Lit PowerMate
The LED headlights genuinely help. Hidden debris under furniture becomes visible. Dark corners reveal accumulated dust. This feature transforms from gimmick to genuinely useful tool.
Bagless Cost Savings
Zero recurring bag costs saves $200+ over five years. The transparent bin enables seeing exactly what you’ve captured. Long-term economics favour bagless significantly.
Comprehensive Tool Kit
Everything needed for whole-home cleaning is included. No purchasing additional attachments separately. The variety and quality of tools add genuine value.
Extended Cleaning Reach
The 38-foot total reach cleans most rooms from a single outlet. Large homes benefit enormously from minimal outlet searching. Time savings compound over regular use.
Excellent Pet Hair Performance
The PowerMate and strong suction manage heavy pet shedding brilliantly. My two long-haired cats generate relentless fur. This vacuum handles the volume without complaint.
Cons
Substantial Weight
At 23 pounds, this is a heavy vacuum. Carrying upstairs requires effort. Multi-level homes need storage on each floor or acceptance of stair carrying.
Louder Operation
The 74dB noise level is noticeably louder than premium competitors. It’s not unbearable but is more disruptive. Noise-sensitive situations might find this problematic.
Dustbin Emptying Exposure
Emptying the bagless bin exposes you to dust despite HEPA filtration. Allergy sufferers should empty outdoors or wear masks. Sealed bag systems are more hygienic.
Limited Colour Options
Only silver/blue is available. Those wanting specific colour coordination are out of luck. The styling is functional rather than beautiful.
Occasional Carpet Edge Catching
The canister occasionally catches on thick carpet edges. A slight tug frees it. This is common with canister vacuums but worth noting.
For detailed comparisons, see how it ranks in our best canister vacuums with HEPA filters guide where we test models across all price points.
Who This Product Is Best For
Large Homes with Extensive Carpeting
Homes between 1,500-3,000 square feet benefit most. The power and capacity handle extensive cleaning without struggle. The 38-foot reach minimises outlet changes in spacious rooms.
The carpet cleaning power justifies purchase for carpet-heavy homes. If you have substantial wall-to-wall carpeting, this vacuum’s deep cleaning capability is invaluable. Traffic lanes and embedded dirt lift effectively.
Pet Owners with Multiple Animals
The Pet PowerMate and powerful suction manage heavy shedding brilliantly. Multiple pets generating relentless fur are handled without overwhelming the vacuum. The anti-tangle brush roll prevents constant maintenance.
Pet owners particularly appreciate the LED lights revealing hidden hair. Dark spaces under furniture harbour surprising amounts of fur. The illumination enables thorough cleaning.
Allergy and Asthma Sufferers
The triple HEPA filtration delivers genuine respiratory benefits. Reduced airborne allergens mean fewer symptoms. Many users report decreased medication needs after switching to proper HEPA filtration.
The sealed system prevents unfiltered air from escaping. Combined with genuine HEPA filters, air quality improvement is measurable. This investment in respiratory health justifies the cost.
Budget-Conscious Premium Seekers
Those wanting flagship performance without flagship pricing find excellent value. You’re getting 280 air watts and triple HEPA filtration for $600-$700. Comparable performance from premium brands costs $1,000+.
The bagless design eliminates recurring costs. Over five years, you’ll save $200+ versus bag-based systems. Long-term economics favour this vacuum significantly.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Small flats under 1,000 square feet don’t need this capacity or power. Budget models costing half as much are adequate for compact spaces. The weight and size are disadvantages in tight quarters.
Those prioritising quiet operation should consider premium alternatives. The 74dB volume is noticeably louder than high-end competitors. Noise-sensitive situations warrant spending more for quieter models.
Severe allergy sufferers might prefer bag-based systems. The dustbin emptying exposes you to allergens despite HEPA filtration. Sealed bag disposal is more hygienic for extremely sensitive individuals.
Alternative Uses and Versatility
Car Interior Detailing
The comprehensive attachments enable thorough car cleaning. The crevice tool reaches between seats. The upholstery tool cleans fabric seats effectively. The PowerMate handles car carpets and floor mats.
The extended wand enables reaching rear seats comfortably from outside the vehicle. The powerful suction extracts embedded dirt from car carpets. Professional detailing results are achievable at home.
Workshop and Garage Cleaning
The powerful motor handles sawdust and workshop debris. The bagless design enables easy emptying of heavy debris. The durable construction withstands rougher treatment than delicate residential vacuums.
However, this isn’t specifically designed for workshops. True shop vacuums offer better filtration for fine dust. Use this vacuum for general workshop tidying rather than active woodworking cleanup.
Upholstery and Furniture Maintenance
The upholstery tool and strong suction revitalise furniture. Sofas, armchairs, and dining chairs all benefit. Pet hair lifts easily. Embedded dust extracts thoroughly. Furniture looks and smells fresher after treatment.
The crevice tool reaches deep into sofa crevices. Surprising debris accumulates in these spaces. Regular furniture vacuuming extends upholstery lifespan and improves home cleanliness.
Seasonal Deep Cleaning
Spring cleaning benefits from the powerful suction and comprehensive tools. Curtains, blinds, ceiling fans, and air vents all clean effectively. The extended wand reaches high spaces comfortably.
The LED lights reveal neglected areas during deep cleans. Annual thorough cleaning becomes more effective with proper illumination and tools.
Value for Money and Comparison
At approximately $600-$700, the Kenmore Elite 81714 occupies interesting middle ground. It’s not budget-friendly but dramatically undercuts premium alternatives.
What You’re Paying For
The 280 air watts of genuine cleaning power justifies significant cost. Comparable suction from premium brands costs $1,000-$1,200. You’re getting flagship performance at mid-range pricing.
The triple HEPA filtration adds genuine value. True sealed systems with proper HEPA filters aren’t cheap. The respiratory benefits justify investment for allergy sufferers.
The comprehensive tool kit includes everything necessary. Separately purchasing equivalent attachments costs $100-$150 easily. The included accessories represent genuine value.
The bagless design eliminates ongoing costs. Over five years, you’ll save $200+ versus bag-based systems. This improves long-term value significantly.
Comparison to Alternatives
Budget canister vacuums costing $200-$300 offer basic HEPA filtration. However, they lack the power, sealed systems, and comprehensive tools. The performance gap is substantial. You genuinely get what you pay for.
Mid-range competitors from Shark or Eureka cost $400-$500. They offer decent performance but lack the Kenmore’s power and comprehensive filtration. The $200 premium buys genuinely better cleaning.
Premium models from Miele cost $1,000-$1,300. They offer quieter operation, more refined design, and longer warranties. However, cleaning performance is comparable. The $400-$600 savings are significant.
For detailed comparisons, see how it ranks in our best canister vacuums with HEPA filters guide where we test models across all price points.
Long-Term Value Assessment
Over five years of ownership, expect:
- Initial purchase: $650
- Replacement filters: $100-$150
- No bag costs: $0
- Total: $750-$800
That’s $150-$160 annually for exceptional cleaning. Compare this to premium models costing $1,200+ initially plus $200 in bags. The value advantage is substantial.
The build quality suggests 7-10 years of reliable service with proper maintenance. Spreading the cost over a decade makes the per-year expense remarkably reasonable.
Is It Worth the Price?
For the right user, absolutely. Large homes with carpets and pets benefit enormously. The power and filtration justify the investment through superior cleaning and air quality benefits.
Small homes or budget-constrained buyers should consider cheaper alternatives. The performance advantage matters less in compact spaces with minimal carpeting. Adequate models cost half as much.
Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership
Regular Maintenance Requirements
Empty the dustbin when it reaches 75% capacity. Overfilling reduces suction and strains the motor. Emptying takes 30 seconds outdoors over a bin.
Rinse the pre-motor and motor protection filters monthly. Remove them, rinse under water until clear, and dry completely before reinstalling. This maintains optimal airflow and performance.
The HEPA exhaust filter needs replacing every 6-12 months depending on usage. Reduced suction despite clear pre-filters indicates HEPA replacement time. Replacement filters cost approximately $20 for a set.
Check the PowerMate brush roll monthly for tangled hair. Despite anti-tangle design, some hair accumulates. Remove the brush roll, cut away tangles, and reinstall. This takes maybe five minutes.
Replacement Parts Availability
Kenmore parts are widely available through Amazon, Sears, and authoritative retailers. Replacement filters, belts, and accessories ship quickly. Availability rivals major brands. Obscure parts aren’t an issue.
Filter costs are reasonable. HEPA filters run $20 for a set lasting 6-12 months. Pre-filters are washable and reusable indefinitely. Annual filter costs stay under $40.
PowerMate belts occasionally need replacing. They cost approximately $10 for two. Lifespan is 2-3 years typically with normal use. Replacement is straightforward following manual instructions.
Common Issues to Watch
The automatic cord rewind occasionally jams if the cord twists. Prevent this by ensuring the cord retracts straight. If jamming occurs, manually unwind and retract carefully.
The dustbin latch can become stiff over time. Occasional cleaning of the latch mechanism with compressed air maintains smooth operation. This prevents frustrating stuck bins.
The hose might develop small cracks after 3-4 years of heavy use. Inspect annually for damage. Replacement hoses cost approximately $30-$40. Proactive replacement prevents suction loss.
Expected Lifespan
With proper maintenance, expect 7-10 years of reliable service. The motor is robust. The construction is solid. Regular filter cleaning and bin emptying maintain performance throughout.
Budget models typically last 3-5 years before developing issues. The Kenmore’s superior construction justifies the premium through extended lifespan. Per-year cost becomes remarkably reasonable.
Warranty Coverage
Kenmore offers a one-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. This is standard for mid-range vacuums. Premium brands offer 2-7 year warranties. The coverage is adequate but not exceptional.
Extended warranties are available for purchase. The cost is approximately $50-$100 for an additional 2-3 years. Given the build quality, extended warranties are optional rather than essential.
For detailed comparisons, see how it ranks in our best canister vacuums with HEPA filters guide where we test models across all price points.
Reasons to Buy This Product
Exceptional Carpet Cleaning Power
The 280 air watts deliver genuinely impressive deep cleaning. Embedded dirt, traffic lanes, and stubborn debris all lift effectively. Carpet-heavy homes benefit enormously from this capability.
Genuine Air Quality Improvement
The triple HEPA filtration meaningfully reduces airborne allergens. Allergy and asthma sufferers report measurable symptom reduction. The respiratory health benefits justify the investment.
Comprehensive Pet Hair Management
The PowerMate and strong suction handle heavy shedding brilliantly. Multiple pets don’t overwhelm it. The anti-tangle design minimises maintenance frustration.
Long-Term Cost Savings
The bagless design eliminates $200+ in bag costs over five years. Combined with reasonable filter costs, long-term ownership economics are attractive.
LED Lighting Genuinely Helps
The illuminated PowerMate reveals hidden debris effectively. This feature transforms from potential gimmick to genuinely useful tool improving cleaning thoroughness.
Extensive Cleaning Reach
The 38-foot total reach minimises outlet changes. Large homes and spacious rooms clean efficiently. Time savings compound over regular use.
Excellent Value for Performance
Getting 280 air watts and triple HEPA filtration for $600-$700 represents genuine value. Comparable performance costs $1,000+ elsewhere.
Reasons to Skip This Product
You Have a Small Home
Flats under 1,000 square feet don’t need this power or capacity. Budget models costing $300-$400 are adequate. The weight and size are disadvantages in compact spaces.
Noise Sensitivity is Important
The 74dB operation is noticeably louder than premium alternatives. Early morning cleaning, apartments with thin walls, or homes with sleeping children might find this disruptive.
You Prioritise Extreme Hygiene
The bagless dustbin exposes you to allergens during emptying. Severe allergy sufferers might prefer sealed bag systems. The hygiene advantage justifies recurring bag costs for some users.
Multi-Level Homes Without Storage
The 23-pound weight makes stair carrying tedious. Without storage on each floor, frequent carrying frustrates. Lighter models or multiple vacuums might suit better.
You Want the Quietest Operation
Premium models operate at 68-72dB versus this vacuum’s 74dB. The difference is noticeable. Those prioritising minimal noise should spend more for quieter alternatives.
Conclusion
Overall Assessment
After four months of extensive testing, the Kenmore Elite Canister Vacuum (model 81714) delivers exceptional performance that justifies its mid-range pricing. It’s not perfect, but its strengths significantly outweigh its limitations for the right user.
The 280 air watts of suction power is the star feature. This vacuum genuinely cleans better than models costing half as much. Carpets look noticeably cleaner. Embedded dirt lifts easily. Pet hair extracts thoroughly. The cleaning performance rivals vacuums costing $1,000+ from premium brands.
The triple HEPA filtration delivers measurable air quality benefits. My seasonal allergies improved noticeably after switching to this vacuum. The sealed system combined with genuine HEPA filters reduces airborne allergens effectively. For respiratory health, this investment makes complete sense.
Who Should Buy
Large homes between 1,500-3,000 square feet with substantial carpeting benefit most. The power handles deep cleaning demands. The capacity and reach suit extensive spaces. The investment justifies itself through superior cleaning performance.
Pet owners with multiple animals find this vacuum transformative. The PowerMate and strong suction manage heavy shedding without complaint. The LED lights reveal hidden fur. The anti-tangle design minimises maintenance frustration.
Allergy and asthma sufferers gain genuine respiratory benefits. The triple HEPA filtration meaningfully reduces airborne allergens. Improved breathing and decreased symptoms justify the cost through health improvements.
Budget-conscious buyers wanting premium performance find excellent value. You’re getting flagship cleaning capability at mid-range pricing. The $400-$600 savings versus premium brands are significant.
For detailed comparisons, see how it ranks in our best canister vacuums with HEPA filters guide where we test models across all price points.
Who Should Skip
Small flats under 1,000 square feet don’t need this capacity. Budget models costing $300-$400 are adequate for compact spaces. The weight and size become disadvantages in tight quarters.
Noise-sensitive situations warrant considering quieter alternatives. The 74dB operation is noticeably louder than premium competitors. Early morning cleaning or apartments with thin walls might find this disruptive.
Severe allergy sufferers might prefer bag-based systems. The dustbin emptying exposes you to allergens despite HEPA filtration. The hygiene advantage of sealed bags justifies recurring costs for some users.
Is The Kenmore Elite Canister Vacuum Worth Buying?
The Kenmore Elite Canister Vacuum represents a sweet spot in the market. It delivers genuinely impressive performance without the premium pricing of flagship models. The compromises are minimal and manageable.
Is it the absolute best canister vacuum available? No. Miele offers quieter operation, more refined design, and longer warranties. However, those improvements cost $400-$600 more. For most users, the Kenmore’s performance is sufficient at dramatically lower cost.
The main question is whether you need this level of performance. Small homes and minimal cleaning needs don’t justify $600-$700. However, large homes with carpets and pets benefit enormously from the power and comprehensive filtration.
For detailed comparisons and alternative options, visit our complete guide of the best canister vacuums with HEPA filters, where we rank vacuums across all price points and use cases.
My personal recommendation? If you have 1,500+ square feet, substantial carpeting, and pets or allergies, buy this vacuum confidently. The performance justifies the investment through superior cleaning and air quality benefits. You’ll notice the difference immediately and appreciate it for years.
The Kenmore Elite Canister Vacuum proves you don’t need to spend $1,000+ for excellent cleaning performance. Sometimes the sweet spot between budget and premium delivers exactly what you need at a price that makes sense.
