!8: Shop For Bissell Sweepers: December 2011

!±8± Information About Hoover Model C1703-900 Vacuum Cleaner

Hoover vacuum cleaners have always been a pioneer in vacuums. Since 1908 when Boss Hoover sold his first version of the Hoover vacuum cleaner the "suction sweeper", Hoover has lead the way in residential vacuum cleaners. Hoovers residential and commercial lines have changed dramatically since these new versions making their units lighter and more powerful. Hoovers commercial line boasts durability and reliability at a great price with a great warranty. One of the leaders in Hoover's commercial line is the Model C1703-900.

The Hoover C1703 has the standard look of the Hoover WindTunnel line but includes many extras to move into Hoovers' commercial line. The vacuum cleaner has a black body with a bright orange 35 foot cord. The cord color is nice making it easy to see and maneuver around while vacuuming. The black plastic casing is made from a durable plastic that looks heavy duty compared its counterparts in the Hoover residential lineup. Overall the vacuum cleaner is shorter in size than most commercial vacuum cleaners with a more squat base but longer handle. The vacuum handles the vacuum tools well concealing most of them in the rear of the vacuum cleaner out of the way.

The handle and debris collection area of the vacuum cleaner is smaller than most commercial vacuum cleaners but seems proportionate with the bag size. The front of the unit consists of an easy to grasp carry handle that is great for moving the vacuum up and down stairs with weight distribution than makes it easy to carry. The front of the unit quickly snaps away from the vacuum exposing the vacuum bag and main vacuum filter. The Hoover 1703 comes with the option of a cloth shakeout bag or paper filter bags. The bag is easily pulled away from the vacuum with a round friction fit seal that wraps around an intake fitting. The only problem with the bag system is that the intake for the bag is located one quarter way down the bag so you should change the bag when it reaches half full to avoid spilling debris out of the bag when changing it. The cloth shakeout bag is well manufactured with a commercial metal clasp that easily slips off to empty the debris from the bottom of the bag. The filter on the unit is easily removed by pulling it from its casing and can be rinsed under water to remove dust and debris buildup letting the motor breath thus increasing suction.

The rear of the unit is packed full of handy tools and attachments. The tools are neatly arranged and are bracketed to the vacuum securely insuring that they will not fall off while using the unit. The tools consist of a four inch upholstery tool, rectangle brush tool and six inch crevice tool. The cord wraps away neatly and quickly although Hoover could have found better placement for the brush tool which needs to be removed to wrap the electric cord around the lower hook. The detachable hose is one of the best quality hoses I have seen on a vacuum. Made of a vinyl highly pliable material this hose conforms back to its original shape quickly when plugging it back into the vacuum cleaner. The most impressive feature on the Hoover C1703 vacuum cleaner is the length of the hose and wand when fully assembled. The wand extends at least 10 feet from the vacuum making it possible to clean cobwebs from ceilings, overhead fans and drapery. It takes less than 30 seconds to assemble the wand fully and replacement of the tools onto the vacuum cleaner is very simple.

The base of the unit is solid with a bright headlamp and easy to adjust height control located on the upper portion of the base. The rear wheels are made from standard resin plastic and are ample size for great cornering. The underside of the vacuum cleaner does lack metal plating and will scuff easy if dragged over an uneven hard surface, but will glide easier over carpeted area. The brush strip is extremely impressive, consisting of stiff nylon which will wear longer than a softer bristle brush.

Overall the Hoover C1703 vacuum cleaner is a great buy for the price. Selling in the four hundred dollar price this unit packs a punch with its great long reaching accessory package and great suction. The option of using both paper filter bags and cloth shakeout bag, make this vacuum a multi purpose unit for both residential and commercial use. The C1703 overall is a contender in any application due its versatility and power.