The Hoover WindTunnel Bagless Upright series needs no introduction. But if you're considering purchasing one, take a second to see what others have to say when it comes to the Hoover U8361900 Bagless Upright.
The Dirt Finder sensor is once again used, as it has proven a valuable aid in the fight against dust and dirt. The green light will let you know when an area is finally clean, and you can move on.
By cleverly ducting away dirt particles from the spinning agitators to ensure they’re captured in the bagless dirt cup, the vacuum pick up more dirt than other vacuums, and this technology is called Wind Tunnel by Hoover.
The 12 amp motor provides plenty of power, and the HEPA filter ensures that all allergens and dust particles are collected from your carpets.
It has a 31 feet power cord which is more than enough for rooms of all sizes, and the large cleaning path means you have to vacuum less, to clean a large sized room, than you would with another vacuum.
The Hoover WindTunnel Bagless Upright is not recommended at all by users, as it seems that none of the flaws of the previous model have been corrected.
Suction power
The 12 amp motor is more than enough for most users, as the suction power provided is much more than users were expecting from it. Users warn others that for this suction power to remain the same, the filter must be cleaned after every use, or the dust will gather and seriously reduce its effectiveness.
Noise level and build quality
Users report that the noise level is quite high, and they don't think they'll ever get used to it. Although build quality is reported to be good by most users, with solid plastic being used in all major parts of the vacuum, users are still skeptical. However, users have a problem with the auto-cleaning HEPA filter which is prone to breaking, and the messy cleaning process still remains a problem.
Features
The cord length is more than enough for all users, and even large rooms are easily cleaned without moving the vacuum to a different plug. Users find the Dirt Finder sensor to be excellent, and report that it really functions and knows precisely when a carpet is finally clean.
Conclusion
The Hoover WindTunnel Bagless Upright still has a lot of bugs and flaws to get over, and users are not prepared to use it until then. Having the same lifetime warranty on the belt as the previous model, users feel safe that at least that part won't break, unlike the filters which appear to be flimsy and prone to breaking.
Our Editor's Quick Thumb Guide
What We Love...
Incredible suction power
Lifetime warranty on belt
Dirt Finder
What Needs Improvement...
Filter easily clogged
HEPA filter problems
Messy cleaning process
Understanding all the Hoover WindTunnel Bagless Upright Models:
Windtunnel 2 upright vacuums are the most powerful uprights for carpets
Self-cleaning HEPA filter
Real-Time tool system with Tag-Along grip
Pet hair cleaning tool
Lifetime belt; 1-year warranty
DO NOT BUY
Review Date: March 18, 2010
Reviewer: Jimmy Buffett, BFE, TN
If I could give it zero stars, I would. This vacuum was such a waste of money. As every other review, the filters DO NOT self clean. They clog. It's messy emptying. Sucks good, but is it worth the time cleaning up twice? Not to mention how unbelievably heavy it is...simply DO NOT waste your money. I replaced with a Shark nv22l. Just like a dyson but cheaper. Hoover, ya lost some customers on this one.
The Worse Vacuum I've Ever Owned
Review Date: November 28, 2009
Reviewer: R. Stephey, APO, A P United States
I am a big fan of Amazon reviews. This is where I go to research a product, even when I am not BUYING from Amazon. Sadly, this was one time I didn't even think about researching. I just assumed the Windtunnel series was always excellent. I've owned a Hoover Windtunnel since they first came out and have always been very satisfied. When I purchased this model, I fully expected it to be at least the same level of convenience as the past models. Not only is this vacuum LOUD, but it is clunky, the extension hose is a nuisance to get on and off and there is no place onboard the vacuum for the hard floor attachment, which means that I'm either having to stop and grab it, or I'm holding it in my hand if I need to clean a spot that is carpeted. As with every other review, the dirt container is infuriatingly difficult to empty and there IS a lot of fine, dusty sort of dirt collected behind the hepa filter. I don't have another vacuum, so cleaning up after this one is time consuming and just makes me frustrated. Another bad thing about the design of this vacuum is the handle and hose. I could not return this product to the store because while putting it together I accidentally snapped off the small piece of plastic that holds the hose to the machine. Because I don't have this part, the hose is ALWAYS getting in the way of my vacuuming. I've had to extend the handle to it's tallest level just so I'm not walking on the hose! It's also a very difficult vacuum to move around. Have I said that I hate this thing? Hoover has completely lost my business. My husband says I'm stuck with this one until it dies. Thankfully, if the other reviews are accurate, I'll have to shop for another vacuum in about 6 months when the engine quits. Shame on Hoover!
Can I give minus five stars? ... EPIC FAIL!
Review Date: October 24, 2009
Reviewer: Steffan Piper, Palm Desert, CA
After six months, the machine is honestly on its last legs or wheels ... or whatever.
I have to say that when I first bought this vacuum, I thought it was the cat's meow, but as all Kirby salesmen might say, "store bought vacuums just don't last." This is the first time I've ever had a vacuum that fell apart so quickly.
First the evacuation lid that is clipped to the bottom is connected to the canister by a clear plastic hinge that is supposed to hold up after a few years worth of use, but even after a few months, I noticed a few cracks which leading to dust leaks on the bottom and dust build-up in several very visible areas.
The lid isn't something that can be fixed or repaired either. Emptying the vac by using using the button release method is the only way and material quickly builds up in the chamber leading it to be emptied almost after every room if you want to save on the longevity of your machine. Also the canister breaks down into five parts, all which need to be cleaned in the sink every few weeks. Sadly, this is a case where a bag would've been much more convenient.
Also the rubber seal around where the lid closes on the canister is also deteriorating after a few months of use. I have a 1998 Izusu Amigo out back with 200,000 miles on it that has serpentine belt on it that probably five years older or more and looks brand new. This thing looks like it came from a landfill of the previous century.
Lastly the connected hose has a tendency of releasing from the upright connection all on its own due to a flimsy method of connecting.
This is probably the biggest waste of cash I spent this year. Maybe the government should let this company fail if they ever ask for a bailout.
...
Hoover Sucks - I Wish
Review Date: March 5, 2009
Reviewer: David J. Simons,
This vacuum is junk. In the trash can after only a year and a couple of months. Broken belts, clogged filters, noisy and now, the motor is gone. Save your money.
Do not buy this vacuum
Review Date: February 23, 2009
Reviewer: shoupslp, Lafayette, IN United States
Do not buy this vacuum. It is a complete dog. I have spent more time unclogging the rotating filter and then cleaning up the resulting mess than I have in using the sweeper. There is no way to keep dirt and debris from getting into the rotating filter, thus clogging it and preventing it from moving. The separate head that can be used for stairs, etc. also clogs easily and the dirt, pet hair, etc. has to be manually removed from that as well. I have owned several Hoover products in the past and have been pleased with all of them. I wrote Hoover an email about this product and explained that the design is obviously faulty, and they simply referred me to my local service representative. I got the distinct feeling that they did not even read the explanation of my problem and my disapppointment in this product. I wish we would have read the online reviews before we made this purchase, as they are quite accurate. We bought a Bissell Healthy Home sweeper a few months ago and have been very pleased with it. None of the same problems that we have encountered with the Hoover. I would give this product ZERO stars.
No video reviews found for this product.
The Hoover Windtunnel 2 Surface Command Bagless Upright Vacuum cleans carpet better than any other leading brand. Has patented Windtunnel 2 technology which is located in the floor nozzle. Forces the rotating brushes and airflow to work in harmony. It lift and traps the dirt, so it won't scatter back into your carpet. Dirt ends up in your cleaner, not on your floor. The Surface Command Electronic Carpet height adjustment and brush shutoff for hard surfaces allows you to move from surface to surface without stopping. Simply turn the dial for the desired setting.The adjustable handle height makes it easy for people of all heights to use comfortably. The Pet Hair Tool has powerful suction and rotating brushes that easily cleanstairs and upholstry. The self-cleaning Hepa filter cleans itself every 6 seconds to maintain cleaning power. You never have to touch or replace the filter. It traps 100% of dust mites, ragweed and common grass pollen.The automatic brush shut-off automatically stops the brush when in the upright position - all the power is focused in the hose. The Real-Time Tool System with Tag -Along Grip makes tool use easy with handle that instantly converts to telescopic wand and Tag-Along grip to guide the cleaner. The Telescoping Quick-Release wand and super stretch hose combine for 12" of cleaning reach. No bending or stretching. The wand reaches all the way to the floor. There are no bags to replace with the Bottom-Release Dirt cup. Simply remove the cup and empty contents into the trash. The brilliant headlight helps illuminate the entire cleaning surface. Has a lifetime belt and a 1 year warranty.