How To Understand Vacuum Cleaner Motor Suction Ratings
One of the most important aspects of vacuum cleaner is its motors suction rating. Over the years there have been many different terms used. Do you understand any of these terms? I am sure most people feel that a 1600 watt motor simply uses 1600 watts when vacuum cleaning a room. Not quite. Here is a rundown of the terms used over the years.
Amperage or Amps: the maximum amount of electrical current that can flow through the vacuum cleaner’s electrical system. Amp ratings are not power ratings; they are however a part of the formula for computing the input power of the motor.
Peak Horse Power: the peak horse power rating has pretty much disappeared in recent years. It was an inflated rating found by taking the suction motor without any fans and adding as much load as possible without burning it out. This was the peak horse power.
Air Watts: air watts measures the output power of the vacuum cleaner rather than the input power. This rating is mostly used for rating central vacuum system.
Sealed Suction: sealed suction is a measure of water lift of a vacuum cleaner and is a good indication of how well it will perform.
Air Flow: air flow is a measure in cubic feet per minute. While the air flow rating is not a direct rating of the power of the suction motor, it is affected by its suction. Air flow does not take into consideration any obstacles that may impede air flow.
Wattage or Watts: wattage ratings are simply a mathematical formula found by multiplying the amperage (amps) by the voltage (volts). Wattage is a measure of the input power of the motor.
A vacuum cleaners suction rating is an important aspect to consider when comparing vacuums prior to purchasing. However, don’t assume that a higher rating means better cleaning. Cleaning can be affected by the surface being cleaned, the vacuum cleaners maintenance condition and the condition of the various components such as filters and dust bags.
Before buying a vacuum cleaner talk to those who can best advise you. They will take into account all the conditions under which the vacuum cleaner is to be used and make recommendations. GoVacuum.com are vacuum cleaner specialist and will be only too happy to answer any questions and point you in the direction of the right vacuum cleaner for your needs.
