Choosing Between Two Kenmore Upright Vacuums
When looking for a new upright vacuum, it’s easy to feel stuck between options. Both Kenmore BU4018 and Kenmore BU4022 look quite similar at first glance. The details and features make the choice more complex than it seems. Buyers want clarity on which fits their home and lifestyle better. This article will help you see key differences clearly. It aims to guide your decision calmly and practically.
Why Comparing These Two Kenmore Models Is Tricky
Marketing messages often highlight similar features like HEPA filters and powerful suction. This can blur real differences and make both vacuums look equally good. It’s hard to tell what truly matters for your cleaning needs.
Specs on paper can confuse more than help. Weight, dimensions, and tools sound technical but don’t always reflect daily use comfort or efficiency. Picking by specs alone can mislead buyers.
Many buyers focus on price or color, missing out on usability aspects. Prioritizing the wrong factors can lead to regret. Understanding your actual cleaning habits is key to a better choice.
Who Benefits Most From Each Vacuum
If you clean a mix of carpets and hardwood floors regularly, the Kenmore BU4018 suits you well. Its lightweight design and versatile Lift-Up feature help reach stairs and upholstery easily.
For buyers with mostly hard floors and pet hair, the Kenmore BU4022 with its LED headlights and HandiMate tool is a practical pick. It helps spot dirt and clean tricky spots better.
If you want minimal fuss with bag changes, both vacuums offer No Touch Bag Technology. But the BU4018’s self-sealing bags might appeal more if you dislike dust exposure.
Those who prefer a vacuum with slightly lower price and occasional discounts might lean toward the BU4022. It often has promotions that make it attractive.
People who value a vacuum that feels easy to steer and light to carry will find both models suitable, but the BU4018’s slightly smaller footprint can make it feel less bulky.
Where Kenmore Bu4018 Fits Naturally
I found the BU4018 easy to move around daily. It feels light but sturdy, making quick cleanups less tiring. The Lift-Up feature lets me clean stairs and shelves without hassle.
Over time, the HEPA filter and sealed system kept the air clean in my home. It gave me peace of mind, especially with pets around. The bagging system is neat and avoids dust clouds.
One limitation is the bag size. If you have a large home, you may need to change bags more often than with some other vacuums.
What works well over time
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver with swivel steering
- Effective HEPA filtration keeps air clean
- No Touch Bag Technology reduces dust exposure
- Lift-Up feature adds handheld versatility
- Strong suction maintained as bag fills
Things that may bother some users
- Smaller bag may need frequent changing in large homes
- Limited LED lighting compared to some models
- Dimensions might be slightly less compact for tight storage
Where Kenmore Bu4022 Makes More Sense
I appreciated the BU4022’s LED headlights when cleaning low-light areas. It helped me see dust and pet hair more clearly. The HandiMate tool felt handy for floor edges and upholstery.
This model feels just as lightweight and easy to steer, with a slightly larger size that may help cover bigger areas faster. The HEPA filtration system is reliable and effective.
One drawback is the slightly more complex setup due to added features. It may take a little time to get comfortable with all the adjustments.
What works well over time
- LED headlights improve visibility during cleaning
- HandiMate tool enhances cleaning of edges and upholstery
- Lightweight and maneuverable with swivel steering
- Strong suction maintained as bag fills
- Effective sealed HEPA filtration system
Things that may bother some users
- Setup and adjustments may feel complicated initially
- Slightly larger dimensions could be less ideal for small storage spaces
- Some users may find the price a bit higher without clear additional benefit
Early Signals That Help Buyers Choose
First, the color and design can catch your eye, but this should not be the main factor. Both vacuums come in appealing colors, purple or green, but focus on features instead.
The Lift-Up handheld feature stands out early. If you often clean stairs or furniture, this ability quickly becomes important in your choice.
Bag handling technology is another early signal. The No Touch Bag system is present in both, but the self-sealing bags in BU4018 might feel cleaner to some users.
LED lighting on the BU4022 is noticeable and can influence those who clean in darker spaces or want extra visibility.
Price and available discounts can sway early decisions. BU4022 sometimes offers better savings, which might appeal initially.
Comparing Initial Decision Factors
Here is a quick look at how the two vacuums stack up on early decision points.
| Decision signal (before buying) | Kenmore BU4018 | Kenmore BU4022 |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Lift-Up handheld use | Simple button press to lift; very user-friendly | Similar Lift-Up feature; slightly heavier feel |
| Bag changing convenience | Self-sealing bags reduce dust exposure | No Touch Bag system; good but less sealed |
| Visibility during cleaning | Standard lighting; no LEDs | LED headlights for better floor visibility |
| Price and promotions | Steady price around $169 | Often discounted below $164 |
| Size and weight | Compact dimensions, 14 pounds | Similar weight, slightly larger size |
| Setup complexity | Quick setup, straightforward | More features require longer setup |
What Living With These Vacuums Is Really Like
Both vacuums require regular bag changes, but the process is cleaner than typical models. You will want to keep spare bags handy for either one.
They maintain strong suction over time thanks to the PowerFlow bag chamber design. This means consistent cleaning without losing power as bags fill.
Minor annoyances include the occasional need to adjust height settings, especially with the BU4022. Some users find this a bit inconvenient.
Trust builds as you see the HEPA filtration effectively trap dust and allergens. This is valuable for allergy sufferers or pet owners.
Overall, maintenance is simple, but paying attention to filters and bags ensures long-term satisfaction.
Long-term Ownership Comparison
Here’s how the two vacuums compare when used regularly over weeks or months.
| Ownership reality (after weeks/months) | Kenmore BU4018 | Kenmore BU4022 |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability | Consistent performance, few issues reported | Similar reliability, occasional setup tweaks |
| Fit into daily habits | Easy to grab and use quickly | Good fit, but some complexity slows use |
| Mental load of maintenance | Low; simple bag changing | Moderate; LED and settings add steps |
| User satisfaction | High for pet owners and mixed floors | High for hard floor focus and visibility needs |
| Storage and space | Compact storage footprint | Larger size may require more space |
Common Mistakes Buyers Make
Focusing only on price can overlook important usability differences. Consider your cleaning habits and space before deciding.
Ignoring the importance of bag technology leads to dust exposure and mess. Both models help here, but BU4018 offers better sealing.
Choosing based on color without checking features can cause regret. The green or purple finish is nice but secondary.
Overvaluing LED lights might mislead if you rarely clean in dim areas. The BU4022’s lights are helpful but not essential for all.
Underestimating storage size can be a problem. Measure your storage space to avoid fitting issues with the slightly larger BU4022.
Making The Right Choice For Your Situation
If you want a lightweight, easy-to-use vacuum with excellent bag sealing and versatility for stairs and furniture, Kenmore BU4018 is a solid pick. It fits well in homes with mixed floor types and pet hair.
Choose Kenmore BU4022 if you clean mostly hard floors, need better lighting for dark areas, and value the HandiMate cleaning tool. It’s also better if you find a good discount and don’t mind a bit more setup.
Remember, the best vacuum depends more on how it fits your home and habits than on specs alone. Take time to consider what matters most to you for a satisfying purchase.
Faqs About Kenmore Bu4018 Vs Kenmore Bu4022
Which vacuum is lighter to carry?
Both vacuums weigh about 14 pounds, making them fairly lightweight. The BU4018 feels slightly more compact, which may make carrying easier for some users.
Do both models use the same bag type?
Both use self-sealing bags with No Touch Bag Technology. The BU4018’s bags are designed to reduce dust exposure a bit more effectively.
Is the Lift-Up handheld feature easy to use on both?
Yes, both have the Lift-Up feature activated by a button, allowing handheld vacuuming for stairs and furniture. The BU4018 is known for very smooth handheld use.
Does the BU4022 have LED lights?
Yes, the BU4022 includes LED headlights to help spot dirt in dark or low-light areas. The BU4018 does not have this feature.
Which vacuum is better for pet hair?
Both models handle pet hair well with strong suction and specialized tools. The BU4018’s upholstery tool and sealed system may provide a slight edge.
Are there price differences between these models?
The BU4022 often has discounts bringing its price below the BU4018. However, pricing can vary, so check current offers before deciding.
How easy is maintenance for these vacuums?
Maintenance is straightforward for both, mainly involving bag changes and filter cleaning. The BU4018’s bag system may feel cleaner to some users.
Can these vacuums handle hardwood floors effectively?
Yes, both are designed to clean hardwood floors well. The BU4022’s HandiMate tool and LED lights can help with detailed cleaning on hard surfaces.