Because regular vacuuming can literally extend your carpet’s life, the type of vacuum cleaner you use is important. A vacuum’s performance will vary based on the carpet’s fiber type and construction. A good vacuum typically has features that allow you to adjust the height, beater bar rotation and fan speed. Vacuums with large wheels, self-propelled vacuums and/or specialty tools can also help ensure easy and effective carpet maintenance.

Features

Adjustable height is the most important feature because this enables the machine to be used on a wide variety of carpet constructions. If you vacuum is set too high above the carpet surface, the vacuum can’t attract the gritty soil below. If the setting is too low, the vacuum’s beater bar or brushes can “fuzz” the carpet’s surface, causing it to look worn and frayed.

that will allow you to easily maintain your carpet:
Adjustable Height Use the highest setting where appropriate
Efficient Airflow Avoid vaccums with very concentrated or sealed suction
Large Wheels Vacuum should glide easily across the carpet
When vacuuming high pile, wool, wool-blend, and premium soft carpets, look for the following features

completely disengage the beater bar and vacuum with suction only. When vacuuming thick loop, casual frieze or long pile carpet such as “shag,” you may need to bar. Change the bags often and check the beater bars for burs and gouges to prevent damage to the surface of the carpet.

If you’re unsure about the proper height setting, use an inconspicuous place like a closet to test your vacuum. Its beater bar or brush should just lightly touch your carpet surface. Make sure it doesn’t dig into or gouge the carpet pile.

You can also set your vacuum to the proper height and vacuum multiple times against the nap, always keeping the vacuum in the same area each time. After about 100 back-and-forth passes, get down at eye level with the carpet and look first at the vacuumed area, then at the adjoining area that wasn’t vacuumed. After comparing, if you see any fraying or damage to the vacuumed area, you should change the setting or use a different vacuum on your carpet.

Nearly every vacuum manufacturer offers multiple models that can be used on a wide range of carpet constructions. The following examples have been recommended by the respective manufacturers and have been verified by Mohawk:

For all other carpet constructions not mentioned above, use a vacuum with a rotating brush or beater