Switching between multiple vacuums, fighting weak suction, or lugging a heavy upright down the stairs can turn cleaning into a workout. The Kenmore 400 Series Canister Vacuum aims to solve all three frustrations at once. Designed to tackle carpets, hard floors, and above‑floor areas with equal confidence, this mid‑range canister has become a favorite among homeowners who want deep‑clean power without premium‑brand pricing.
What Makes the Kenmore 400 Series Canister Vacuum Different?
The Kenmore 400 Series Canister Vacuum is a bagged, mid‑weight cleaner that pairs strong suction with thoughtful versatility:
- Dual‑motor PowerMate brush‑roll digs into carpet fibers.
- True HEPA filtration captures 99.97 % of dust and dander.
- A telescoping wand plus onboard tools reach drapes, vents, and car interiors.
This vacuum isn’t packed with gimmicks—it’s built to clean deeply, day after day.
Key Features of the Kenmore 400 Series Canister Vacuum
Feature | Why It Matters |
Dual‑Motor System | One motor drives suction, the other powers the brush‑roll for stronger lift on plush carpet and stairs. |
HEPA Filtration | The sealed filter traps allergens, a real plus for asthma or dust sensitivities. |
Pet‑Hair Pickup | The PowerMate head loosens fur from upholstery and carpet, rivaling pricier pet models. |
Telescoping Wand | Extends reach for ceiling fans and tight corners without swapping tools. |
Smooth Maneuvering | Soft wheels, swivel hose, and automatic cord rewind make storage and steering simple. |
Performance by Surface
Self-Righting Design: Say Goodbye to Frustration
- Carpet & Rugs — The motorized brush digs deep, outperforming air‑driven heads on everything from hall runners to plush bedroom carpets.
- Hardwood & Tile — Switch to hard‑floor mode and snap on the soft brush: suction stays strong without scratching delicate planks. (If quiet, sealed‑bag cleaning is your priority, consider the Miele Classic C1 Pure Suction instead.)
- Upholstery & Stairs — Smaller tools and the telescoping wand lift crumbs and pet fur from couches, mattresses, and treads.
Ease of Maintenance & Operating Costs
Bags keep dirt sealed away, so dust clouds never billow out when you empty the bin. A pack of replacement bags and a fresh HEPA filter every six months will set most households back $30–$40 a year—worth it for allergy relief and cleaner motor components. Routine care adds maybe five minutes a month: swap a bag, wipe the wand, rinse the crevice tool.
Durability and Warranty Coverage
Kenmore builds this canister with rugged plastics and a metal telescoping wand. Many owners report five to eight years of reliable service. The standard one‑year warranty is shorter than Dyson’s five‑year coverage, but replacement parts—belts, bags, filters—are inexpensive and widely stocked at big‑box retailers.
Noise Level & Everyday Comfort
No one loves shouting over a vacuum. At roughly 74 dB, the Kenmore hums quieter than most uprights yet louder than Miele’s whisper‑soft C1. Conversations and TV need a volume bump, but you won’t feel the high‑pitched whine common to lightweight bagless units.
Value for Money
For the price of an entry‑level cordless stick, you get upright‑grade carpet cleaning, sealed HEPA filtration, and accessories that matter. Replacement consumables do add cost, yet the vacuum’s longevity and cleaning reach often save money in the long run. Few machines at this price punch so far above their weight on thick carpet.
Pros & Cons of Kenmore 400 Series Canister Vacuum
Pros
✔ Deep‑clean power on carpet and rugs
✔ Genuine HEPA filter for allergy control
✔ Excellent pet‑hair pickup with PowerMate tool
✔ Long reach thanks to telescoping wand
✔ Durable, serviceable construction
Cons
✖ Heavier than ultra‑compact canisters
✖ Ongoing bag expense
✖ Bulky for studio apartments or tiny closets
Who Enjoys the Kenmore 400 Series Canister Vacuum Most?
Choose this canister if you:
- Have a mix of flooring, but plenty of carpet that needs a powered brush.
- Need allergy‑friendly filtration without paying luxury‑brand prices.
- Battle pet hair daily and want a tool that pulls it out of fabric.
- Prefer a hygienic bagged design that seals debris before disposal.
If your home is mostly bare floors and minimal storage, a lighter bagless model like the Bissell Zing may suit you better.
Quick Comparison: Kenmore 400 vs Miele C1 vs Dyson Big Ball
Feature | Kenmore 400 | Miele C1 | Dyson Big Ball |
|---|---|---|---|
Motor | Dual | Single | Cyclone suction |
Pet Hair | Excellent | Moderate | Good |
HEPA Filter | Yes | Optional | Washable |
Bagged | Yes | Yes | No |
Weight | 22 lbs | 10 lbs | 17.6 lbs |
Carpet Rating | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will the Kenmore 400 Series Canister Vacuum clean thick carpet?
Yes—the powered head excels on plush and high‑pile rugs.
2. Is 22 pounds too heavy?
The canister glides on wheels, so you rarely lift the full weight except on stairs.
3. Can I wash the HEPA filter?
No. Replace it every 6–12 months to keep filtration at peak performance.
4. Does it include pet tools?
The PowerMate attachment removes fur on floors and upholstery with ease.
5. How often do bags need changing?
About every 1–2 months, depending on household size and shedding pets.
6. Is it loud?
Quieter than many uprights, but louder than whisper‑quiet Miele canisters.
7. Safe on hardwood?
Yes—the dedicated hard‑floor brush of the Kenmore 400 Series Canister Vacuum prevents scratches and preserves suction.
8. What’s the cord length of the Kenmore 400 Series Canister Vacuum?
24 feet with automatic rewind; the wand adds another 8 feet of reach.
9. Longevity?
Owners often report 5–8 years of reliable service with basic upkeep.
10. Good for large homes?
The long hose, wand, and cord make whole‑house cleaning feasible without constant outlet changes.
Final Verdict
Is the Kenmore 400 Series Worth It?
The Kenmore 400 Series Canister Vacuum blends upright‑style carpet bite with canister agility. Homes juggling thick carpets, pets, and allergy concerns will reap the biggest rewards.
Skip it only if you demand bagless convenience, crave featherweight gear, or live in a minimal‑carpet loft. Otherwise, the Kenmore 400 Series is a rare sweet spot—powerful, durable, allergy‑friendly, and genuinely practical.
Looking for alternatives? Check our guide to the Best Canister Vacuum Cleaners for more side‑by‑side insights.
