Kenmore 81714 Bundle Ultra Plush Lightweight Bagged Canister Vacuum with Pet PowerMate, HEPA, Extended Telescoping Wand, Retractable Cord, and 3 Cleaning Tools, 700 Series, Gold
- Tackle dust and stubborn pet hair with the Kenmore 81714 bagged canister vacuum featuring Ultra Plush nozzle, motorized Pet PowerMate and HEPA filter for deep, allergen-free cleaning.
- Enjoy effortless maneuvering with Swivel+ steering, retractable cord and extended telescoping wand, plus a performance indicator that signals bag fullness and clogs.
- Excellent suction and HEPA filtration handle pet hair and fine dust effectively.
- Durability concerns: plastic components and accessories prone to breaking.
- Bulky, heavy design limits reach under furniture and portability.
- Mixed maneuverability feedback: long retractable cord praised; canister tow and wheel design criticized.
- No credible safety rumors; most complaints focus on build quality and user ergonomics.
- High-powered motor coupled with a three-stage HEPA filter.
- Includes Ultra Plush nozzle, Pet PowerMate and three onboard tools.
Product Overview
The Kenmore 81714 Ultra Plush Canister Vacuum is part of Kenmore’s 700 Series and arrives in a sleek gold finish that fits modern interiors. This mid-range, bagged canister vacuum is powered by a robust motor optimized for carpets, rugs, and hard floors alike. With a variable power setting on the handle, users can easily dial down suction for delicate surfaces and ramp it up for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
Inside the package you’ll find the Pet PowerMate attachment for deep pet hair removal, an Ultra Plush nozzle designed to work airflow deep into pile carpets, and three additional tools—crevice, dusting brush, and upholstery nozzle—all of which store neatly on board. A telescoping wand extends reach to high corners, while the retractable cord stretches up to 26 feet and retracts at the push of a button, eliminating manual winding.
Filtration is handled by a three-stage HEPA media filter system that captures 99.97% of dust and allergens down to 0.3 microns, making it a solid choice for allergy sufferers. A performance indicator light alerts you when the dust bag is full or airflow is restricted, prompting timely maintenance. The double-wall design and exclusive Stair Grip feature ensure consistent suction and allow the canister to rest securely on stair treads for hands‐free stair cleaning.
Weighing in around 15 pounds fully assembled, the vacuum strikes a balance between sturdiness and maneuverability. Large rear wheels and a swivel steering system ease movement, though some users may find it challenging under furniture due to its height. Overall, the Kenmore 81714 packs ample features for deep cleaning while requiring minimal setup out of the box.
- Customers overwhelmingly praise suction power and cleaning performance.
- Some report ergonomic challenges due to weight and design.
Kenmore 81714 Ultra Plush Canister Vacuum Review: Honest Findings
Our deep dive into dozens of user reviews uncovers a pattern: this model delivers powerful cleaning results, particularly on pet hair and thick carpet, yet faces criticism for its ergonomics. Many reviewers remark that the suction rivals premium brands like Dyson and Miele at a fraction of the price, crediting the 700 Series motor and airflow design for its strong pickup.
On the flip side, consistent remarks about bulkiness and weight surface among those who vacuum frequently or have mobility concerns. The canister’s size can make tight spaces feel restrictive, and carrying it up or down stairs demands effort. Complaints about the front swivel wheel getting caught on cords or carpet edges suggest a design oversight that affects day‐to‐day use.
Ergonomic controls earn high marks: suction adjustment on the handle allows on-the-fly power changes without bending, and the telescoping wand accommodates users of various heights. The retractable cord and on-board tool storage further contribute to ease of use, reducing interruptions to locate accessories.
Noise levels are comparable to other canister models—loud enough to be noticeable but not disruptive to the point of requiring hearing protection. Overall, the honest findings point toward a vacuum that excels at performance metrics while leaving room for improvement in portability and ruggedness.
- Pet PowerMate excels at stubborn pet hair pickup.
- Handy suction control and onboard storage add user convenience.
Positive Feedback & Highlights
Pet owners consistently highlight the Pet PowerMate attachment as a game changer for removing embedded pet hair from carpets, stairs, and upholstery. Reviewers with multiple cats or dogs report that this tool “attacks” fur with relentless efficiency, often leaving surfaces looking brand-new.
Another frequently mentioned perk is the telescoping wand with suction control lever on the handle. Users suffering from back pain or mobility issues appreciate not having to stoop repeatedly. The convenience of adjusting power levels for delicate curtains versus heavy rugs is often described as a “luxury” feature at this price point.
On-board accessory storage saves time and prevents tools from getting lost. The vacuum’s self-storing crevice, dusting brush, and upholstery nozzle remain within easy reach, eliminating trips to tangled accessory trays. Combined with a 26-foot cord that retracts at the push of a button, many find cleaning sessions to be smoother and faster.
Several reviewers also praise the HEPA filter’s efficacy in removing pollen, dust mites, and fine particles, noting measurable improvements in indoor air quality. A handful of first‐time Kenmore users mention being “converted” from uprights after experiencing how maneuverable and versatile a canister design can be.
- Plastic latches, wheels and attachments break under normal use.
- Power head detachment and bag compartment failures are common.
Negative Reviews & Rumor Analysis
While there are no credible reports of safety hazards or serious rumors beyond standard consumer gripes, durability concerns dominate many negative reviews. A recurring theme is the breakage of small plastic parts—hose connections, gasket clips, accessory latches—that render the vacuum inoperable until parts are sourced or replaced.
Multiple users recount horror stories of the powered carpet head detaching mid‐vacuum, sometimes after just a few uses. One reviewer noted they had to file down the plastic lever on the floor tool just to keep it attached, while others needed to replace the entire telescoping wand assembly within two years, at a cost nearing $150.
The front swivel wheel also comes under fire for being too small and made of brittle plastic. Reports of the wheel cracking, seizing, or “locking” on cords and carpet seams are common, leading to complaints about the canister dragging rather than rolling. These issues overshadow the vacuum’s strong motor for some users.
Heavy weight is another sticking point. At roughly 15 pounds, the canister plus wand and hose can feel like a workout to maneuver, especially on stairs. Several reviewers advise prospective buyers to consider their physical strength before committing.
Rumors that Kenmore intentionally makes models “disposable” don’t hold water, but frequent repair costs—often exceeding $100—give the impression that the appliance has a planned obsolescence. Kenmore’s policy of requiring destruction of a returned unit rather than repair can feel short‐sighted and fuels buyer frustration.
In summary, the negative feedback centers on the tension between excellent cleaning performance and questionable build quality. No widespread safety or health rumors have emerged, but the investment in upkeep and replacement parts may discourage long‐term ownership.
- Ideal for pet owners with thick carpets seeking powerful suction.
- Less suitable for those needing lightweight portability or low-profile cleaning.
Who Should Consider Kenmore 81714 Ultra Plush Canister Vacuum?
If your home is overrun with pet hair or you have ultra-plush carpeting, this vacuum delivers the deep-clean performance you need. Intensive pet households, allergy sufferers seeking HEPA filtration, and users who prefer a wand-style hose over an upright will find this model appealing.
Large multi-room homes benefit from the extra-long cord and onboard tool storage, reducing interruptions. The variable power dial on the handle and telescoping wand extend usability for rare rug types and delicate fabrics. Those who vacuum frequently and demand spotless results will value the strong motor and specialized attachments.
Conversely, if you require a vacuum to slip under low-clearance furniture, or if you need a featherlight machine to tote up and down stairs, a more compact or cordless alternative might be wiser. Users on a tight budget who cannot absorb future repair costs should weigh the potential maintenance expenses before purchasing.
- Delivers strong cleaning performance at a mid-range price.
- Recurring build and ergonomic issues warrant careful evaluation.
Conclusion: Final Verdict
The Kenmore 81714 Ultra Plush Canister Vacuum offers exceptional suction power and comprehensive HEPA filtration at a price point that undercuts many high-end rivals. Its specialized pet tools and handle-mounted controls make it a standout for pet owners and allergy sufferers.
However, persistent reports of plastic component failures, heavy weight, and maneuverability quirks suggest this model is best for users willing to balance performance against potential upkeep. For households with robust cleaning needs and the strength to handle a heavier canister, the Kenmore 81714 remains a strong contender. Those seeking ultra-light portability or low-maintenance operation may want to explore other brands or Kenmore’s lighter models.
Kenmore 81714 Bundle Ultra Plush Lightweight Bagged Canister Vacuum with Pet PowerMate, HEPA, Extended Telescoping Wand, Retractable Cord, and 3 Cleaning Tools, 700 Series, Gold
- Tackle dust and stubborn pet hair with the Kenmore 81714 bagged canister vacuum featuring Ultra Plush nozzle, motorized Pet PowerMate and HEPA filter for deep, allergen-free cleaning.
- Enjoy effortless maneuvering with Swivel+ steering, retractable cord and extended telescoping wand, plus a performance indicator that signals bag fullness and clogs.
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