Looking to buy a new vacuum cleaner for my home. We recently bought a Shark canister vacuum and are not very happy with it. It doesn't have "guts" so to speak. Not bad for bare floors, but HORRIBLE on rugs. There are no rotating brushes to aid in pick up, so basically just a flat bottom with a hole. I'm also considering to go with the "bag" version since the "canister" is sort of a pain. You have to empty it every time and clean the filter, the dust goes EVERYWHERE and we've got allergies in my family. I'm also looking to stay under the $150 range.....
Dysons are Great but a bit more $$$. Kenmore progressive at Sears have been rated very high on consumer reports for several years and have a a low to high price range range depending on what feature you are looking for.
Dyson. You may have to go a little above your price range, but I would consider it if you can swing it. Look on e-bay or Craig's list.
I have a hoover windtunnel its a canister but it also has a hepa filter. I like it and I don't think they are too expensive. I've had mine for 4 years with no real problems.
I have the Eureka Altima (bagless) I love it, i got it at target for around $80. it has a hepa filter on it. My mom has a dirt devil bagless vac and she really like that. I think she paid around $80 or so for that one. it was at Walmart. I like mine cause it get down deep and i can see that it is working with all the stuff in the bagless part, i empty outside in the garbage so that the dust does go into the air in my house.
We have major allergies in my house, too. (My hubby is actually getting ready to go get his allergy shot right this second.)
I know you said you want to stay within the $150 range, but I would STRONGLY suggest that you consider your vacuum a long term investment and go for a quality vacuum right out of the gate. (As opposed to shelling out $150 per year every year for substandard ones that you hate!) We have an Oreck Deluxe - which runs around $400. It is fantastic. (Maybe you could get a better deal on Craigs List, etc.?)
