LEVOIT Vortex LVAC-01 Cordless Stick Vacuum: features, specs and who it suits

The LEVOIT Vortex (LVAC-01) is a cordless stick vacuum for carpets, hard floors and the small jobs around a home. It uses a brushless motor, an auto mode that adjusts suction for you and a HEPA filtration stack, and it can be reconfigured for cars, sofas and blinds. Here is what the main specs mean in day-to-day use.

Brushless motor and suction

LEVOIT says the brushless motor delivers 130AW of suction in Max mode. AW, or air watts, is a measure that combines airflow and suction, and it is only meaningful when compared to other air-watt figures from the same kind of test. The listing also gives a 400W power figure. In general, brushless motors run more efficiently and often more quietly than brushed ones, and they tend to wear less because there are no carbon brushes to rub away. LEVOIT says the vacuum can pick up debris, dust, crumbs and pet hair.

Auto mode

Auto mode adjusts the suction according to the size of the mess, LEVOIT says. The idea is that the vacuum draws more power for bigger debris and eases off on clean floor, which typically stretches battery life without you changing settings. Manual modes remain available.

Runtime and charging

The listing gives up to 40 minutes of runtime. Like all cordless vacuums, that figure is for the lowest or an economy setting, and Max mode will drain the battery sooner. Check the manual for how runtime varies by mode. The vacuum charges while hanging on its dock, so storage and charging are combined and no extra floor space is needed.

Filtration

LEVOIT describes a four-stage system with dual HEPA filters, and says it filters 99.99% of particles of 0.3 microns. HEPA filters are defined by their ability to catch very fine particles, so they help keep dust from being blown straight back into the room. The brand says the pre-filters should be washed once a month and replaced every six months, and the main filter washed every six months and replaced after about a year. Follow the manual's instructions and let washed filters dry fully before refitting.

Three configurations

The vacuum can be assembled in three combinations. Typically that means a full stick for floors, a shorter hand-held form with tools for sofas, stairs and cars, and a mode with a crevice or brush tool for blinds and tight spots. LED headlights light up the floor, which makes dust easier to see under furniture or in dim corners.

Size and weight

The listing gives about 10.0 x 9.0 x 46.0 inches (25 x 23 x 117 cm) and 7.0 lb (about 3.2 kg), a weight that matters when you are carrying it up stairs or holding it overhead.

Who it suits

It suits apartments, small homes, pet owners with hair on mixed flooring and anyone wanting a quick-grab vacuum alongside a bigger machine. Very large homes or deep-pile carpets may call for more runtime.

What to check before you buy

• Floor types: check the head's suitability for your carpet pile and hard floors.
• Battery life: compare the stated runtime with the area you clean in one go.
• Wall space: you need a spot for the charging dock.
• Bin size: a stick vacuum bin is small, so expect to empty it often.
• Filter upkeep: note the wash and replacement schedule above.
• Weight: make sure you are comfortable holding 7 lb for extended jobs.

The short version

• Cordless stick vacuum with a brushless motor rated at 130AW in Max mode.
• Auto mode adjusts suction to the mess.
• Up to 40 minutes of runtime, with a hang-up charging dock.
• Four-stage filtration with dual washable HEPA filters.
• Converts into three configurations, with LED headlights.

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