Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet Friendly Bagged Upright vs Sanitaire SC679K Tradition Upright Commercial

Introduction to the Kenmore Elite and Sanitaire SC679K

The Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet Friendly Bagged Upright Vacuum and the Sanitaire SC679K Tradition Upright Commercial Bagged Vacuum each target different cleaning needs. The Kenmore model is designed for pet owners and households, while the Sanitaire vacuum is aimed at commercial use. Understanding their unique features will help you make an informed choice.

Price Comparison

The Kenmore Elite is priced at $289.99, whereas the Sanitaire SC679K comes in at a more economical $149.99. This makes the Sanitaire about 48% cheaper than the Kenmore, which is a significant consideration for budget-conscious buyers. However, the Kenmore offers advanced features specifically designed for pet owners, which may justify its higher price for some customers.

Design and Build Quality

Both vacuums are built with durability in mind, but they cater to different environments. The Kenmore features a bagged upright design with a sleek aesthetic, while the Sanitaire boasts a robust commercial-grade structure, including a polycarbonate hood designed for tough environments. The Kenmore weighs more due to its additional features, but the Sanitaire is lightweight at only 12.2 lbs, making it easier to transport across larger commercial spaces.

Cleaning Performance

When it comes to cleaning performance, the Kenmore Elite stands out with its 3D Inducer Motor, which delivers 20% more air power than conventional vacuums. This motor, combined with a Triple HEPA filter system, ensures that 99.97% of debris is trapped, making it an excellent choice for households with allergies or pets. The Sanitaire, while less powerful, still provides over 500 hours of commercial-grade cleaning performance, making it suitable for large-scale cleaning tasks, especially on carpets.

Specialized Features

The Kenmore Elite offers several specialized features, including a Pet Handi-Mate that easily removes pet hair and dander from various surfaces, making it ideal for pet owners. It also has a telescoping wand and three attachments for versatile cleaning. Conversely, the Sanitaire is equipped with a large-capacity shake-out bag that holds up to 18 quarts of dirt, reducing interruptions during cleaning. While both vacuums have unique features, the Kenmore's are more tailored for specific household challenges.

Maintenance and Usability

In terms of maintenance, the Sanitaire provides unique features like tool-free brush roll and belt replacement, making it user-friendly for commercial environments. This vacuum requires less downtime for maintenance due to its efficient design. On the other hand, the Kenmore's bagged design requires regular bag changes, but its HEPA filter system reduces the need for frequent cleaning of the vacuum itself, appealing to allergy sufferers.

Weight and Portability

The Sanitaire SC679K is designed with portability in mind, weighing only 12.2 lbs, which makes it easy to maneuver in commercial settings. This lightweight design is a significant advantage for those who need to move the vacuum frequently. The Kenmore, while heavier, offers a considerable reach with its telescoping wand, but its weight may be less convenient for users needing to carry it up and down stairs or around large spaces.

Customer Reception

The Sanitaire SC679K has a bestseller rank of 4,649, indicating a solid reputation among users, particularly in commercial cleaning settings. The Kenmore Elite, with a sales rank of 51,404, may appeal more to individual consumers or pet owners rather than the commercial market. This disparity highlights the Sanitaire's successful adoption in work environments, while the Kenmore is still establishing its presence in the competitive vacuum cleaner market.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Kenmore Elite and the Sanitaire SC679K depends on your specific needs. If you are a pet owner looking for a powerful vacuum that excels in household cleaning, the Kenmore Elite is worth the investment despite its higher price. Conversely, if you need a reliable, economical vacuum for commercial use, the Sanitaire SC679K offers exceptional value and performance for its cost. Consider your primary cleaning environment and requirements to make the best decision.