First, let’s list some of the main feature of the Aptitude vacuum cleaner. It comes with a 12 amp motor, which is compatible with other brands of uprights. However, it’s quieter than most other brands. It comes with a 15” wide brush – about 2” wider than most uprights, which does allow for ‘wide area’ cleaning. There’s a washable HEPA H12 filter. The variable brush roll speed is nice as it allows you choose a higher speed for high-traffic areas and a lower, quieter speed for more delicate surfaces.
The Electrolux Aptitude vacuum cleaner isn’t light; it weighs in at 19 lbs, which is still pretty good for an upright with a 12 amp motor and large cleaning brush.
One of the ergonomic features claimed by Electrolux for the Aptitude is a rather innovative, gliding tilt design that allows you to push the vacuum along at a height that suits you or you can roll the vacuum flat to get at those harder to reach places. Another feature designed to make vacuuming less tiring is the loop design of the handle.
However, there are some serious shortcomings of the Electrolux Aptitude vacuum cleaner. On nearly all other Electrolux vacuum cleaner there’s an indicator that tells you when the bag is full; this is missing on the Aptitude. The only way you know if the bag is full or not is by opening up the vacuum and sticking your finger in the bag. Why Electrolux didn’t install a simple indicator is anyone’s guess, but even very cheap vacuum cleaner come with a ‘bag full’ indicator.
Another thing that could have been improved on is the length is the cord; it’s a little too short.
Talking about the cord; the cord storage system is just plain difficult to use. To release the cord you first have to unwrap a little bit of it from the hooks before you can swivel the top hook to release the rest of the cord.
The Electrolux Aptitude vacuum cleaner is okay; it’s certainly not the best upright vacuum cleaner on the market but it isn’t the worst. For the same amount of money you could get yourself an upright that has a better design and is easier to use.
Follow the links for more vacuum cleaner ratings on top brands like Electrolux vacuum cleaners and Eureka vacuum cleaners amongst others.