We have a larger than average family and two dogs so there were times when I would rent the Rug Doctor on a monthly basis. What an inconvenience. The Hoover SteamVac is a terrific product. (The assembly was easy, too.) I use boiling water rather than the hot tap water and I think the results are outstanding. If I have a small spill in the living room, for example, I can do a quick area in no time. I am so happy with my purchase. I keep it in my kitchen closet and have had occasion to use it almost weekly. That may sound like a lot but it is so much easier to use than the large commercial machines you rent, that it seems effortless.This product is perfect as far as I am concerned.