Features
The Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo boasts a powerful 17.5-Amp motor, providing the necessary oomph to tackle even the most stubborn messes. Its multi-cyclonic technology ensures consistent strong suction, minimizing clogging and maintaining cleaning power over extended periods.
The standout feature is the Helix TurboBrush, a powerful rotating brush head that effectively picks up pet hair, dirt, and debris from carpets and upholstery. The lightweight design makes it effortless to maneuver, allowing you to clean for longer durations without feeling strained.
With an 18-foot power cord, you can cover large areas without the hassle of frequent unplugging. Onboard accessories, including a crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool, add versatility to your cleaning routine.
The easy-empty dirt cup prevents dust and debris from scattering during emptying. Finally, the HEPA filtration system traps allergens and fine particles, making it an ideal choice for homes with allergy sufferers.
Performance
The Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo excels at carpet cleaning, effortlessly removing dirt, dust, and even pet hair. It also performs well on rugs, providing a thorough clean. While not specifically designed for hardwood floors, it still delivers a decent clean on these surfaces.
The vacuum's lightweight design and excellent maneuverability make it easy to navigate around furniture and tight spaces. It's also incredibly user-friendly, with simple controls and convenient features.
The Powerforce Helix Turbo operates at a moderate noise level, which is acceptable for most users. It comes with a good cord length, allowing you to cover a decent area without having to constantly unplug and replug. Finally, the vacuum's storage features are well-designed, making it easy to store away after use.
What We Like
The Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo is a popular choice among customers thanks to its impressive suction power. Users rave about its ability to tackle even the toughest dirt and pet hair, leaving carpets feeling clean and fresh.
Adding to its appeal is its lightweight and maneuverable design, making it easy to navigate around the house, especially on stairs or in tight spaces. The simple assembly and intuitive controls ensure a user-friendly experience for all levels of cleaning expertise.
The Helix Turbo is a favorite among pet owners, effectively removing stubborn pet hair from carpets and upholstery. Many customers appreciate the value for the price, finding it a great combination of features and performance.
Cleaning up is a breeze with the easy-to-empty dustbin, preventing messy spills. The included attachments, like crevice tools and upholstery tools, add to its versatility, allowing for effective cleaning of various surfaces. The compact design makes storage a breeze, taking up minimal space when not in use.
What We Don't Like
One common complaint about the Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo is its short cord length. This makes cleaning larger areas a hassle as users have to constantly unplug and replug the vacuum.
Another frequently mentioned drawback is the small dustbin capacity. This necessitates frequent emptying, especially for bigger cleaning tasks.
Some users also find the vacuum quite noisy, which can be a nuisance, particularly in quieter environments.
The vacuum comes with a limited set of attachments, which might not be sufficient for all cleaning needs.
Furthermore, the filters require regular cleaning and replacement, adding to the overall maintenance cost.
Some customers have reported issues with the brushroll getting tangled with hair and debris, requiring frequent cleaning.
While not excessively heavy, the vacuum can be a bit cumbersome to maneuver, especially when using attachments.
A few users have expressed concerns about the vacuum's durability, reporting issues with it breaking down after a relatively short period of time.
Although not overly expensive, some customers find the price point a bit high for the features and performance offered.
Cleaning Tasks
The Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo is well-suited for general floor cleaning, including carpets and hard floors. Its powerful suction and rotating brushroll effectively pick up dust, crumbs, pet hair, and other common messes. It excels at pet hair removal, thanks to the rotating brushroll specifically designed for lifting and removing embedded pet hair. This vacuum is also capable of handling high traffic areas, like entryways and living rooms, due to its powerful suction and durable construction.
While the Powerforce Helix Turbo is a versatile vacuum cleaner, it is not designed for deep cleaning tasks. It lacks specialized features like a beater bar or upholstery tools. For upholstery cleaning, the Powerforce Helix Turbo comes with a crevice tool, which can be used for basic cleaning but may not be powerful enough for deep cleaning or removing embedded stains.
The Powerforce Helix Turbo is a strong contender for everyday carpet cleaning, efficiently removing dirt, dust, and pet hair. Its rotating brushroll and powerful suction also make it effective for cleaning hard floors, removing dirt and debris with ease. The HEPA filtration system captures dust mites and other allergens, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers.
The Powerforce Helix Turbo is suitable for cleaning rugs of various types, thanks to its powerful suction and rotating brushroll. Its lightweight design and maneuverability make it easy to use for cleaning stairs.
Comparison to Other Brands
| Feature | Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe | Hoover WindTunnel 2 Whole House | Dyson Ball Animal 2 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.99 | $199.99 | $149.99 | $449 | Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo & Hoover WindTunnel 2 |
| Weight | 14 lbs | 15 lbs | 17.5 lbs | 16.8 lbs | Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo |
| Suction Power | 12 Amps | 11 Amps | 12 Amps | 350 Air Watts | Dyson Ball Animal 2 |
| Dustbin Capacity | 0.8 gallons | 1.0 gallons | 0.75 gallons | 0.4 gallons | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe |
| Features | * Hepa filtration | ||||
| Pros | Affordable, powerful, lightweight, easy to maneuver | Versatile, good suction, large dustbin capacity | Powerful, lightweight, good edge cleaning | Excellent suction, anti-tangle brush bar, hygienic dirt ejector | Dyson Ball Animal 2 |
| Cons | * Short cord length |
The Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo, Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe, Hoover WindTunnel 2 Whole House, and Dyson Ball Animal 2 are all popular vacuum cleaners with their own strengths and weaknesses.
In terms of price, the Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo and Hoover WindTunnel 2 are the most affordable options at $149.99, while the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is slightly more expensive at $199.99. The Dyson Ball Animal 2 is the priciest, coming in at $449.
When it comes to weight, the Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo is the lightest at 14 lbs, making it easier to maneuver around the house.
Suction power is where the Dyson Ball Animal 2 excels, boasting 350 Air Watts, significantly higher than the other contenders. The Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo, Hoover WindTunnel 2, and Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe all have comparable suction power, with 12 Amps, 12 Amps, and 11 Amps respectively.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe offers the largest dustbin capacity at 1.0 gallons, followed by the Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo at 0.8 gallons and the Hoover WindTunnel 2 at 0.75 gallons. The Dyson Ball Animal 2 has the smallest dustbin at 0.4 gallons.
Each vacuum cleaner comes with its own unique set of features. The Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo features HEPA filtration, while the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe boasts versatility and a large dustbin capacity. The Hoover WindTunnel 2 is praised for its powerful suction and lightweight design, and the Dyson Ball Animal 2 excels in suction power, anti-tangle brush bar, and hygienic dirt ejector.
Maintenance
To keep your Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo vacuum running smoothly, follow these simple maintenance tips.
Start by emptying the dirt tank regularly. Unplug the vacuum, press the release button on the dirt tank, remove it, and empty the contents into a trash can. Replace the dirt tank after emptying.
Next, clean the filter. Unplug the vacuum, remove the dirt tank and filter, and rinse the filter with cold water until clean. Allow the filter to air dry completely before replacing it. Avoid using soap or detergent.
For cleaning the brushroll, unplug the vacuum and remove the brushroll cover. Remove any hair or debris that's wrapped around the brushroll. Replace the brushroll cover when finished.
To replace the belt, unplug the vacuum, remove the brushroll cover, and remove the old belt. Install the new belt, making sure it is properly seated in the grooves, then replace the brushroll cover.
Clean the vacuum head by unplugging it and wiping it down with a damp cloth. Allow the vacuum head to air dry completely before using the vacuum.
When storing your vacuum, empty the dirt tank, clean the filter and vacuum head, and store it in a dry, cool place.
Remember to use the vacuum regularly to prevent dust and debris from accumulating and clogging the vacuum. Avoid using the vacuum on wet surfaces and picking up sharp objects.
Troubleshooting
If your Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo vacuum is not working, there are a few things you can check to troubleshoot the problem.
If your vacuum has no power, first check the power cord to ensure it is securely plugged into a working outlet. If the cord is plugged in, check the fuse. If the fuse is blown, replace it. Next, check the circuit breaker to see if it has tripped. If the circuit breaker has tripped, reset it. If these steps do not resolve the issue, contact Bissell customer service.
If your vacuum is not picking up dirt, the first step is to check the brushroll. Make sure it is spinning freely and not clogged with debris. If the brushroll is clogged, clean it. You should also check the dirt bin to ensure it is not full. If the dirt bin is full, empty it. Check the filter to ensure it is clean and not clogged. If the filter is clogged, clean or replace it. Next, check the nozzle to ensure it is properly attached and not clogged. If the nozzle is clogged, clean it. Finally, check the suction power. Make sure it is set to the correct level for the surface you are cleaning.
If your vacuum is overheating, check the filters to ensure they are clean and properly installed. If the filters are dirty or not installed correctly, clean or replace them. You should also check the air intake to ensure it is not blocked. If the air intake is blocked, clear it. If the vacuum has been running continuously for a long time, let it cool down before using it again. If the vacuum continues to overheat, contact Bissell customer service.
If your vacuum is making strange noises, you should check the brushroll to ensure it is spinning freely and not hitting anything. You should also check the dirt bin to ensure it is not full and not making any unusual noises. Next, check the filter to ensure it is clean and not making any unusual noises. Check the nozzle to ensure it is properly attached and not making any unusual noises. If you cannot identify the source of the noise, contact Bissell customer service.
If your vacuum is leaking, check the hose to ensure it is properly attached and not leaking. You should also check the nozzle to ensure it is properly attached and not leaking. Next, check the dirt bin to ensure it is properly sealed and not leaking. Check the filter to ensure it is properly installed and not leaking. If you cannot identify the source of the leak, contact Bissell customer service.
If your vacuum won't turn on, first check the power cord to ensure it is securely plugged into a working outlet. If the cord is plugged in, check the on/off switch to ensure it is in the "on" position. If the switch is in the "on" position, check the fuse. If the fuse is blown, replace it. If none of these steps solve the issue, contact Bissell customer service.
If your vacuum is losing suction, check the brushroll to ensure it is spinning freely and not clogged. You should also check the dirt bin to ensure it is not full. Next, check the filter to ensure it is clean and not clogged. Check the hose to ensure it is not kinked or blocked. Check the nozzle to ensure it is properly attached and not clogged. If none of these steps resolve the issue, contact Bissell customer service.
If your vacuum won't release the dirt bin, check the dirt bin release button to ensure it is pressed. You should also check the dirt bin latch to ensure it is not stuck. If you cannot release the dirt bin, contact Bissell customer service.
Conclusion
The Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo is a solid choice for everyday cleaning, offering a balance of powerful suction, maneuverability, and ease of use at a reasonable price point. Its strong performance on carpets and rugs, particularly in removing pet hair, makes it a good option for pet owners.
However, its shortcomings, such as the short cord length, small dustbin capacity, and relatively high noise level, may be dealbreakers for some users. Ultimately, the Bissell Powerforce Helix Turbo is a decent vacuum cleaner for general cleaning tasks, but it may not be the best option for those seeking a top-of-the-line, feature-rich vacuum or those with specific cleaning needs.
Before making your decision, carefully consider your individual requirements and compare the Powerforce Helix Turbo to other options in the market. This comprehensive review provides you with all the information you need to make an informed purchase that meets your cleaning needs and budget.
