Requires a lot of work to keep it functioning – I did the research and wanted a bagless, cyclonic vacuum with a hepa filter from a big-name brand at a reasonable price, so the ZUA3820 seemed the natural choice.

The machine looks very modern and stylish, the wand is a great length and the accessories are functional. Best of all there is enough suction to lift the carpet, but it's variable so can be set at an optimum level.

But when it comes to actually using this machine the experience leaves a lot to be desired. We had a new wool carpet which I know sheds a lot, so our experience may be a bit atypical. But a year on we are still finding the dust canister hopelessly small and poorly designed -- we have to empty it every time and it doesn't just empty into the rubbish with the push of a button, as advertised. You have to reach in and pull the fluff out yourself! We have an average-sized house but had to empty the canister three times to vacuum the house once, when the carpet was new.

Then there are the three filters -- great if you are an asthma sufferer because the machine blows out clean, warm air. But if you don't constantly shake, clean and wash the filters the machine will shut down.

Next time I'll go with a more traditional vacuum cleaner -- one with a big bag and one filter. Plenty of suction, looks stylish, good wand length The dust canister is way too small and does not empty easily. The door fell off it the first time we used it (Harvey Norman replaced this with one from their showroom model). Accessories are supposed to clip on the handle but they always fall off.