A Review of Filter Queen Vacuum Cleaners
The first models became available in 1928. Invented by Mr. E.H. Yonkers in Illinois, they were originally sold as “Health-Mor Uprights”. A few years later the name was changed to Filter Queen. These machines offered a new technology and were available exclusively through home distributors. This patented technology has been copied by wind tunnel designs that are so prevalent today. However, the Filter Queen vacuum is designed to outlast and out clean any cleaning unit on the market.
One of the key feature of a Filter Queen is the filtration system. The canister uses a cone shaped filter. As air is sucked into the canister, dirt and and other airborne particles are forced toward the outer walls. Then the air passes through the filter which traps the smaller particles. Airflow is maintained even as the canister is filling with dirt and dust. This system maximizes the cleaning ability of the vacuum at all times.
One of the more popular Filter Queen models, the Majestic 360, comes complete with power nozzle for cleaning floors and a variety of other attachments. The vacuum motor is two-speed and the power nozzle has a motor-driven deep- cleaning revolving brush. There a several attachments that make dusting and furniture cleaning a breeze. You can also use an extension to clean curtains and cobweb in ceilings. As you are cleaning surfaces, the unit is also cleaning the air. In fact you can run this machine on low or high speed without using attachments. It then becomes a portable air cleaner.
The entire vacuum is constructed with high quality materials. The filtration design includes two secondary filters in the top of the unit. These filters can be changed once or twice a year. This combination is better than any HEPA system for capturing dust and allergens. To empty the main canister, simply unclamp the top unit and lift the canister from the base. The cone filter inside the cannister can be replaced every 2 or 3 months depending in usage.
Another popular feature of the Filter Queen vacuum, is the ability to reverse the air flow. By removing the cap at the top of the unit, you can then twist-snap the hose into the top. You now have two-speed air blowing capability. The hose can be used to blow dust of off objects. It can even be used to unplug sink or bathtub drains. Simply press the hose tight over the drain opening and turn on the air. The resulting force of air is usually enough to push the clog through the pipes. I have used this method to unclog many drains over the years. It is quick, easy, and leaves no mess like using a snake might cause.
A few of the optional attachments include a window blind brush, mini power nozzle, a hard-surface floor brush, air deodorizer, message brush and vibrator. Also available is a special medi-pure cone filter designed to be more effective in capturing allergens and common bacteria. There are at least another dozen specialty cleaning and air purifying attachments that can be purchased separately.
This is a vacuum that will last a long time if maintained well. As far as the motor goes, I have replaced the contact brushes about every 8-10 years. The newer Filter Queen models have more powerful motors as well as other design improvements. The model “360” costs about $1,600 new with standard attachments. Other new models run over $1,800 to $2,000. However, slightly used or reconditioned older models can be found for $300-700. Most of these come with a 5 year warranty on the motor. I found a variety of price ranges on the Internet. Based on reviews I found, many people have paid less for a new vacuum. If you buy it new, be sure to ask about trading in your old vacuum.
A Filter Queen vacuum is likely to last 30 to 40 years or longer. How many other machines might you end up buying over that time? The price for a new model is admittedly steep. And you also have to consider replacing a few parts along the way. But if you spread the cost over the period of ownership, it is not that expensive. These are top-of-the-line vacuum cleaners. They are still sold door to door by salespersons. I would not hesitate to purchase a used or refurbished unit since they tend to last so long. Like I said before, I purchased mine new in 1980 and would not think twice about buying another Filter Queen.
