Before buying I checked reviews here and epinions. They were right, this is a very good vacuum. It works well on bare floors and carpet. One thing it does VERY well is the hose detaches easily to do stairs and drapes etc. I have had other uprights that you basically had to take the thing apart to do anything other than the floor. The hose comes out easily and has an attached extension that makes using it simple.I didn't think it mattered when other reviewers said it was heavy. It does... and it is. It's not for someone with no upper body strength but you don't need to be Arnold either. It's just alot heavier than my last one. Overall I'm happy with this item it does a good job for a good price.