Kenmore Elite 81714 Pet Friendly Ultra Plush Bagged Canister Vacuum Review
The Kenmore Elite 81714: A Versatile Solution for Pet Owners and Mixed Flooring Environments
In households where pet hair and allergens are persistent challenges, selecting a vacuum cleaner that efficiently tackles both loose debris and embedded particles is essential. The Kenmore Elite 81714 Pet Friendly Ultra Plush Bagged Canister Vacuum addresses these concerns with its specialized design, combining HEPA filtration, motorized pet hair removal, and compatibility with multiple floor types. This vacuum is engineered for homes with hardwood, laminate, and pile carpeting, offering a balance between power and maneuverability. For families with pets or those managing allergy-inducing dust, the unit’s ability to trap 99.97% of debris through its HEPA system is a significant advantage. Its 2-motor system enhances suction strength, making it suitable for deep cleaning without the need for frequent bag replacements. The inclusion of a Pet PowerMate attachment further simplifies the process of removing stubborn hair from carpets and baseboards. While the bagged design may require more frequent maintenance than cordless alternatives, the unit’s lightweight construction and retractable cord make it a practical choice for daily use. Understanding the vacuum’s capabilities across different flooring types and its performance in allergen containment is critical for determining its suitability for specific household needs.
Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Vacuum Type | Bagged Canister Vacuum |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Filtration System | HEPA Filter (99.97% debris capture) |
| Brush Design | Ultra Plush Nozzle with Manual Pile Height Adjustment |
| Weight | 25.1 Pounds |
| Form Factor | Canister Design with Swivel Steering |
| Floor Compatibility | All Floors (Hardwood, Laminate, Carpet) |
| Intended Use | Pet Hair Removal, Allergen Containment, Mixed Flooring |
| Warranty | 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty |
The Kenmore Elite 81714’s combination of HEPA filtration and motorized attachments makes it well-suited for households with pets or allergy sufferers. Its lightweight design and swivel steering enhance maneuverability, while the 2-motor system ensures consistent suction strength across different surfaces. The bagged design, though requiring more frequent emptying than bagless models, offers reliable performance for regular cleaning tasks.
Floor Type Compatibility and Surface-Specific Performance
Handling of Hardwood, Laminate, and Tile Floors
The Kenmore Elite 81714’s canister design and swivel steering make it highly maneuverable, allowing for easy navigation around furniture and tight corners. Its ultra-plush nozzle and adjustable height settings are optimized for deep cleaning on pile carpets, but the same unit can be configured for hard surfaces using the included crevice tool and dusting brush. The vacuum’s 120-watt motor provides sufficient power to lift debris from hardwood and laminate floors without damaging their surfaces. However, the unit’s reliance on a bag for suction means that frequent emptying is necessary to maintain optimal performance on low-pile surfaces. For tile floors, the vacuum’s ability to trap fine dust particles through its HEPA filter is particularly beneficial, though its 10-foot hose may limit reach in particularly narrow spaces.
Performance on Pile Carpets and Mixed Flooring
The vacuum’s 2-motor system is specifically designed to enhance suction strength on thick pile carpets, ensuring that embedded dirt and pet hair are effectively removed. The manual pile height adjustment allows users to tailor the nozzle’s depth for different carpet densities, though this requires manual effort compared to automated systems in some competitors. On mixed flooring, the unit’s versatility shines, as the included attachments enable seamless transitions between hard and soft surfaces. However, the lack of a dedicated upholstery brush for high-pile areas may require additional tools for thorough cleaning. The vacuum’s weight of 25.1 pounds also means that users may need to adjust their stance for stability when navigating uneven or textured surfaces.
Suction Strength and Cleaning Efficiency
The Role of the 2-Motor System in Suction Performance
The Kenmore Elite 81714’s 2-motor system is a key differentiator, delivering 20% more air power than conventional upright vacuums. This dual-motor design ensures consistent suction strength across all floor types, allowing the unit to lift embedded dirt, pet hair, and fine dust particles effectively. The increased airflow is particularly beneficial for deep cleaning thick pile carpets, where a single motor might struggle to maintain suction over extended periods. However, the 2-motor system also contributes to the vacuum’s overall weight, which may affect maneuverability for users with limited physical strength. The vacuum’s ability to maintain suction power without overheating is another advantage, as the HEPA filter system helps regulate internal temperature by reducing dust accumulation.
How the Ultra Plush Nozzle Enhances Deep Cleaning
The ultra-plush nozzle is engineered to penetrate deep into pile carpets, using airflow rather than mechanical brushing to dislodge debris. This design minimizes the risk of damaging delicate carpet fibers, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. The manual pile height adjustment allows users to optimize the nozzle’s depth for different carpet densities, though this requires manual effort compared to automated systems in some competitors. While the ultra-plush design is effective for loose dirt and pet hair, it may not be as efficient for removing embedded particles in extremely thick or high-pile carpets. The vacuum’s 10-foot telescoping wand extends the reach of the nozzle, making it easier to clean under furniture and in hard-to-reach corners without requiring users to bend down.
Filtration Quality and Allergen Containment
HEPA Filter System and Its Impact on Indoor Air Quality
The Kenmore Elite 81714’s HEPA filter system is designed to trap 99.97% of airborne debris, including dust, pollen, and allergens, reducing the number of pollutants in the home environment. This is particularly beneficial for households with pets or individuals suffering from allergies, as it minimizes the redistribution of fine particles during cleaning. The HEPA filter’s efficiency is enhanced by the vacuum’s 2-motor system, which ensures consistent airflow through the filtration unit without overworking the motor. However, the filter’s effectiveness is contingent on regular maintenance, as a clogged filter can reduce suction power and compromise the unit’s ability to trap allergens. The vacuum’s LED indicators help users monitor when the filter may need cleaning, though this requires manual intervention rather than automated alerts.
Managing Dust and Allergen Containment in Different Environments
The vacuum’s ability to contain allergens is most effective in enclosed spaces where the HEPA filter can operate without external interference. In open areas or during frequent use, some fine particles may escape through the vacuum’s exhaust, though this is minimized by the HEPA filter’s high efficiency. The vacuum’s bagged design also plays a role in allergen containment, as the sealed bag prevents dust from escaping during the cleaning process. However, the need to replace the bag regularly means that users must ensure timely maintenance to maintain optimal filtration performance. For allergy sufferers, the combination of HEPA filtration and bagged design provides a dual layer of protection, though the vacuum’s noise level may be a drawback for those sensitive to sound in their home environment.
Maneuverability and Ease of Use
Swivel Steering and Lightweight Design for Accessibility
The Kenmore Elite 81714’s swivel steering mechanism allows for smooth navigation around furniture and tight corners, making it easier to clean in cluttered spaces. The unit’s lightweight design, at 25.1 pounds, reduces the physical strain of maneuvering, though the weight is still considerable compared to some cordless models. The retractable cord provides flexibility in movement, though the 26-foot length may be limiting for users who require a longer reach. The telescoping wand extends the cleaning radius, enabling users to clean under furniture and in hard-to-reach corners without needing to bend down, which is particularly useful for individuals with mobility constraints.
Ease of Accessing Attachments and Storage Solutions
The vacuum’s onboard storage compartment houses all three included attachments, making them easily accessible for quick use. The dusting brush, crevice tool, and upholstery brush are stored within the unit, eliminating the need to search for tools during cleaning sessions. However, the compartment’s size may be restrictive for users who prefer to store additional attachments separately. The vacuum’s design also includes a handle for easy transport, though the unit’s weight may still make it challenging to move across long distances. The LED indicators on the vacuum provide visual feedback on suction performance and bag capacity, though these may be less intuitive for users unfamiliar with the system’s operation.
Noise Expectations and Operational Considerations
Noise Levels and Their Impact on Household Use
The Kenmore Elite 81714 operates at a noise level that is typical for a bagged canister vacuum, though the exact decibel measurement is not specified in the product documentation. The vacuum’s 2-motor system may contribute to a higher noise level compared to some cordless models, which could be a consideration for households with young children or pets that are easily startled. The unit’s HEPA filter system helps reduce the redistribution of fine particles, but the noise level may still be a drawback for users who prefer quieter cleaning solutions. The vacuum’s noise is most noticeable during extended use on thick pile carpets, where the motor works harder to maintain suction power.
Maintenance Requirements and Longevity
The Kenmore Elite 81714’s bagged design requires regular emptying to maintain optimal suction performance, with the vacuum’s LED indicators signaling when the bag is nearing capacity. The HEPA filter should also be cleaned or replaced periodically to ensure continued efficiency, though the product documentation does not specify maintenance intervals. The vacuum’s 1-year warranty provides some assurance of reliability, though users should be aware that the bagged system may require more frequent maintenance than bagless alternatives. The unit’s 120-watt motor is designed for durability, though the need to replace the bag regularly may affect long-term cost efficiency compared to models with permanent filtration systems.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- HEPA Filtration System: The vacuum’s HEPA filter captures 99.97% of airborne debris, reducing allergens in the home environment.
- Motorized Pet PowerMate Attachment: This specialized tool effectively removes pet hair and dander from carpets and baseboards without tangling.
- 2-Motor Suction System: The dual-motor design enhances suction strength, making it suitable for deep cleaning thick pile carpets.
- Versatile Floor Compatibility: The unit is designed for use on hardwood, laminate, and pile carpets, with adjustable attachments for different surfaces.
- Retractable Cord and Telescoping Wand: The 26-foot retractable cord and 10-foot wand provide flexibility for cleaning in tight spaces without bending down.
- Onboard Storage for Attachments: The vacuum includes a compartment for the dusting brush, crevice tool, and upholstery brush, ensuring all tools are within reach.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable Design: The 25.1-pound weight and swivel steering make it easier to navigate around furniture and corners.
- LED Indicators for Performance Feedback: The vacuum’s LED lights provide visual cues for suction strength and bag capacity, aiding in maintenance.
Cons
- Bagged Design Requires Frequent Emptying: The need to replace the bag regularly may be inconvenient compared to bagless models.
- Manual Pile Height Adjustment: The ultra-plush nozzle’s manual adjustment for different carpet densities may require more effort than automated systems.
- Higher Noise Level: The vacuum’s 2-motor system may produce a louder operating noise compared to some cordless alternatives.
- Weight Consideration: While the unit is relatively lightweight, its 25.1-pound mass may still be challenging for users with limited physical strength.
- Limited Reach for Extended Cleaning: The 10-foot wand may not be sufficient for cleaning in particularly narrow or deep spaces.
- No Built-In Filter Cleaning Alerts: The vacuum lacks automated indicators for HEPA filter maintenance, requiring manual checks by the user.
Final Verdict: Who This Vacuum Is Best For (and Who Should Skip It)
The Kenmore Elite 81714 Pet Friendly Ultra Plush Bagged Canister Vacuum is best suited for households with pets, individuals managing allergens, and those who require a versatile vacuum for mixed flooring. Its HEPA filtration system and motorized Pet PowerMate attachment make it an effective solution for removing pet hair and allergens from carpets and hard surfaces. The vacuum’s 2-motor system ensures consistent suction strength, while the onboard storage and telescoping wand enhance convenience for daily cleaning tasks. However, the bagged design may be less appealing to users who prefer the convenience of bagless models, and the higher noise level may be a drawback for those seeking a quieter cleaning experience. The vacuum’s weight and manual pile height adjustment also mean that it may not be ideal for users with mobility constraints or those prioritizing lightweight portability. For families with multiple pets, allergy sufferers, or those with mixed flooring, the Kenmore Elite 81714 offers a reliable and effective cleaning solution. Conversely, users who prefer cordless vacuums, those with limited physical strength, or those prioritizing lightweight designs may find this model less suitable. Overall, the vacuum’s combination of filtration efficiency and versatility makes it a strong contender for specific household needs in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the Kenmore Elite 81714 have effective HEPA filtration for allergen containment?
The Kenmore Elite 81714 features a HEPA filter system that captures 99.97% of airborne debris, including dust, pollen, and allergens. This makes it suitable for households with pets or individuals managing allergies, though regular filter maintenance is required to ensure optimal performance.
How does the Pet PowerMate attachment help with pet hair removal?
The Pet PowerMate attachment is a motorized tool designed to lift stubborn pet hair, dander, and dirt from carpets, baseboards, and furniture. Its unique design prevents hair from tangling around the brush, making it effective for cleaning pet-related debris without manual effort.
Is the Kenmore Elite 81714 suitable for cleaning mixed flooring types?
Yes, the Kenmore Elite 81714 is designed for use on all floors, including hardwood, laminate, and pile carpets. Its adjustable nozzle and included attachments allow for seamless transitions between different surfaces, making it versatile for homes with mixed flooring.
How easy is it to maneuver the Kenmore Elite 81714 around furniture?
The vacuum’s swivel steering mechanism allows for smooth navigation around furniture and tight corners. Its lightweight design and retractable cord further enhance maneuverability, though the 25.1-pound weight may require some effort for extended use in cluttered spaces.
What are the maintenance requirements for the Kenmore Elite 81714?
The Kenmore Elite 81714 requires regular emptying of the bag and periodic cleaning of the HEPA filter to maintain suction efficiency. The LED indicators signal when the bag is nearing capacity, but manual checks are necessary for filter maintenance, which may be less convenient compared to automated systems.
Is the Kenmore Elite 81714 suitable for users with mobility constraints?
The vacuum’s swivel steering and telescoping wand make it easier to clean under furniture and in tight spaces without bending down. However, its 25.1-pound weight may still be challenging for users with limited physical strength, though the onboard storage for attachments enhances accessibility.
How does the Kenmore Elite 81714 compare to bagless canister vacuums in terms of performance?
The Kenmore Elite 81714’s bagged design requires more frequent emptying than bagless models, but it offers reliable suction power and HEPA filtration for allergen containment. The 2-motor system ensures consistent performance, though the bagged system may be less convenient for users who prefer the ease of bagless alternatives.
