Features
The Dyson DC34 Animal is a cordless vacuum cleaner designed with pet owners in mind. Its cordless design allows for freedom of movement, eliminating the hassle of cords and providing a more flexible cleaning experience. The vacuum boasts powerful suction, effectively picking up pet hair, dust, and dirt from various surfaces like carpets and hard floors.
The Animal Turbine Tool, specifically designed for removing embedded pet hair, tackles furniture and upholstery with ease. The combination tool further enhances its versatility, making it ideal for cleaning crevices, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas.
The DC34 Animal's lightweight and ergonomic design contribute to its user-friendliness, making it easy to maneuver and use for extended cleaning sessions. Its hygienic emptying system ensures a mess-free experience, allowing for easy disposal of collected debris.
The vacuum comes with a convenient wall-mountable charging station, providing a dedicated space for both storage and charging.
Performance
The Dyson DC34 Animal excels at removing pet hair. Its powerful suction and specialized brush head are designed to tackle embedded pet hair on carpets, upholstery, and hard floors. This makes it a strong choice for pet owners.
The DC34 Animal also performs well on carpets, effectively picking up dirt, dust, and debris. The powerful suction and specialized brush head contribute to a deep clean.
While the DC34 Animal can be used to clean hard floors, it requires the appropriate attachment. The powerful suction can pick up dust, crumbs, and other debris.
For dusting furniture and removing cobwebs, the DC34 Animal can be used with appropriate attachments. Its lightweight and maneuverable design allows for easy access to hard-to-reach areas.
The DC34 Animal can also be used for cleaning upholstery with the correct attachments. The powerful suction removes dirt, dust, and pet hair.
The DC34 Animal is lightweight and well-balanced, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces.
The DC34 Animal’s battery life is sufficient for most cleaning tasks, but may need to be recharged for larger spaces.
The DC34 Animal can be loud when operating, especially at higher suction levels.
What We Like
The Dyson DC34 Animal is praised for its exceptional suction power, which effortlessly picks up even the most stubborn pet hair and dust bunnies. This powerful performance is attributed to its strong motor and specialized brush head that effectively remove debris from various surfaces.
Users also appreciate the vacuum's lightweight design and easy maneuverability, making it a breeze to navigate around furniture and tight spaces. The long cord, despite its length, does not impede on the ease of use.
The Dyson DC34 Animal is specifically designed for pet owners, with specialized tools like the turbine head that effectively remove embedded pet hair. This feature is a godsend for owners of shedding pets who struggle with hair clumps.
Emptying the dirt bin is a hygienic and convenient process thanks to its easy-to-empty design that prevents dust from escaping. This eliminates the messy dust clouds often associated with vacuum cleaners.
The versatility of the Dyson DC34 Animal extends to its multiple attachments, allowing for cleaning various surfaces and hard-to-reach areas, including upholstery and stairs.
Dyson products are renowned for their durability and long lifespan. The Dyson DC34 Animal upholds this reputation, with users reporting years of reliable service.
Surprisingly, for such a powerful vacuum, the Dyson DC34 Animal operates quietly. This innovative design minimizes noise levels while maintaining strong suction power.
What We Don't Like
The Dyson DC34 Animal has a few drawbacks according to customer reviews. Many users complain about the battery life being too short, particularly for larger homes. The vacuum is also considered heavy and bulky compared to other cordless models, making it less convenient for maneuverability.
Another frequent complaint is the small dustbin capacity, which requires frequent emptying, especially for pet owners dealing with a lot of fur. The price of the DC34 Animal is also a barrier for some customers, as it's a premium product with a high price tag.
While not overly loud, the DC34 Animal is noisier than some other cordless vacuums. Some users find the motor noise particularly bothersome, especially when vacuuming delicate surfaces. The DC34 Animal also comes with a limited number of attachments, only including a crevice tool and combination brush, while other models offer a wider variety.
Finally, the DC34 Animal's power is sufficient for general cleaning, but might struggle with heavy dirt or thick carpets.
Cleaning Tasks
The Dyson DC34 Animal is a versatile vacuum cleaner suitable for a wide range of cleaning tasks, particularly those involving pet hair. Its specialized pet hair removal tool effectively lifts and removes embedded hair from upholstery, carpets, and furniture.
Beyond pet hair removal, the DC34 Animal excels at general dusting and debris removal. Its lightweight and maneuverable design makes it ideal for cleaning surfaces like shelves, furniture, and windowsills. The powerful suction easily picks up dust, crumbs, and other small particles.
The DC34 Animal is also well-suited for carpet cleaning. Its specialized carpet tool effectively removes dirt, dust, and embedded pet hair from carpets. The same tool can also be used to clean upholstery and curtains.
The DC34 Animal's crevice tool and combination brush tool make it effective for cleaning hard floors, removing dirt, dust, and debris. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and reach hard-to-reach areas, ideal for cleaning under furniture or behind appliances.
The DC34 Animal's included crevice tool and dusting brush are perfect for cleaning car interiors, removing crumbs, dust, and pet hair from seats, carpets, and crevices.
The DC34 Animal comes with an extension wand, allowing you to reach high places and clean cobwebs and dust from ceilings, corners, and hard-to-reach areas.
The DC34 Animal's upholstery tool effectively removes dust, dirt, and pet hair from couches, chairs, and other upholstered furniture. Its lightweight design and maneuverability make it easy to use on stairs, cleaning both the steps and the carpet.
Comparison to Other Brands
| Feature | Dyson DC34 Animal | Shark IZ163H | Miele Triflex HX1 | Bissell ICONPet Vacuum | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $399 | $349 | $649 | $399 | Shark IZ163H |
| Weight (lbs) | 5.7 | 5.4 | 5.5 | 5.7 | Shark IZ163H |
| Runtime (min) | 20 | 30 | 60 | 40 | Miele Triflex HX1 |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion | |
| Power (Watts) | 260 | 250 | 250 | 250 | |
| Suction Power | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Shark IZ163H |
| Attachments | Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool | Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, pet hair tool | Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, mini-turbo brush | Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, pet hair tool | Miele Triflex HX1 |
| Special Features | Three interchangeable modes (stick, handheld, and upright) | Miele Triflex HX1 | |||
| Noise Level (dB) | 78 | 75 | 72 | 77 | Miele Triflex HX1 |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years | |
| Pet Hair Removal | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Shark IZ163H |
| Overall | Decent, good suction, lightweight | Best value for money, excellent suction and pet hair removal | Best performance with longest runtime and three modes | Good value for money, decent suction and pet hair removal | Miele Triflex HX1 |
When comparing cordless stick vacuums, the Dyson DC34 Animal faces stiff competition from the Shark IZ163H, the Miele Triflex HX1, and the Bissell ICONPet Vacuum. In terms of price, the Shark IZ163H emerges as the most budget-friendly option at $349, followed by the Dyson DC34 Animal and Bissell ICONPet Vacuum at $399 each. The Miele Triflex HX1 commands a premium price at $649.
Weight is another important factor, and the Shark IZ163H again takes the lead with a weight of 5.4 lbs, followed closely by the Miele Triflex HX1 at 5.5 lbs. The Dyson DC34 Animal and Bissell ICONPet Vacuum weigh in at 5.7 lbs.
Runtime is crucial for cordless vacuums, and the Miele Triflex HX1 reigns supreme with a runtime of 60 minutes. The Bissell ICONPet Vacuum offers 40 minutes of runtime, while the Shark IZ163H delivers 30 minutes and the Dyson DC34 Animal provides 20 minutes.
All vacuums feature Lithium-ion batteries and similar power output of around 250 watts. The Shark IZ163H shines in terms of suction power, followed closely by the Miele Triflex HX1. The Dyson DC34 Animal and Bissell ICONPet Vacuum offer good suction power.
In terms of attachments, the Miele Triflex HX1 boasts the most comprehensive selection with a crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, and mini-turbo brush. The other vacuums provide a crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool, with the Shark IZ163H and Bissell ICONPet Vacuum also including a pet hair tool. The Miele Triflex HX1 differentiates itself with its three interchangeable modes: stick, handheld, and upright.
The Miele Triflex HX1 also excels in noise level, operating at 72 dB, compared to 75 dB for the Shark IZ163H, 78 dB for the Dyson DC34 Animal, and 77 dB for the Bissell ICONPet Vacuum. All vacuums come with a 2-year warranty.
When it comes to pet hair removal, the Shark IZ163H proves to be the most effective, followed by the Miele Triflex HX1. The Dyson DC34 Animal and Bissell ICONPet Vacuum offer good performance for pet hair removal.
Maintenance
To keep your Dyson DC34 Animal in tip-top shape, regular maintenance is key. Start by emptying the dustbin after each use. Simply press the release button, pull it out, empty the contents, and replace the dustbin securely.
Next, clean the dustbin and filters. Remove the dustbin and detach the filter. Rinse the filter under running water until the water runs clear. Allow it to air dry completely for at least 24 hours before reattaching. Wipe the dustbin with a damp cloth.
Clean the cyclone head by using the crevice tool to remove any debris or hair. If needed, gently brush the cyclone head with a soft-bristled brush.
Don't forget the brush bar. Turn off and unplug the machine. Remove the brush bar by pressing the release button on the base of the brush head. Trim any hair or debris tangled around it with a pair of scissors. Replace the brush bar, ensuring it clicks into place.
Always inspect the power cord for any damage or fraying. If you find any, stop using the vacuum cleaner and contact Dyson for repair or replacement.
Finally, store the vacuum cleaner in a cool, dry place. Always disconnect the power cord before storing.
Remember to regularly check the vacuum cleaner for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any problems, contact Dyson customer support for assistance.
Troubleshooting
No Power
If your Dyson DC34 Animal is not turning on, there are several things you can check. First, make sure the power button is turned on. Next, check the battery to ensure it is properly inserted and charged. If the battery is not charged, try plugging in the charger and let it charge fully. Finally, verify that the charger is plugged in and working properly. If the fuse is blown, replace it.
Weak Suction
If your Dyson DC34 Animal has weak suction, there are several things you can check. First, empty the dust bin to ensure it is not full. Next, check the brush bar to make sure it is clean and not clogged. Also, inspect the hose and attachments for any blockages or kinks. Finally, clean or replace the filter.
Brush Bar Not Rotating
If the brush bar on your Dyson DC34 Animal is not rotating, there are a few things to check. First, ensure the brush bar is not clogged or jammed. Next, check the belt to make sure it is intact and not stretched or broken. If the belt is damaged, it will need to be replaced. Finally, if the brush bar motor is faulty, you will need to contact Dyson for repair.
Battery Not Charging
If your Dyson DC34 Animal battery is not charging, there are a few things you can check. First, ensure the charger is plugged in and working properly. Next, check the charging port on the vacuum to make sure it is clean and free from debris. If the battery is faulty, you will need to contact Dyson for repair.
Vacuum Making Unusual Noise
If your Dyson DC34 Animal is making an unusual noise, there are a few things you can check. First, ensure the brush bar is not clogged or jammed. Next, inspect the hose and attachments for any blockages or kinks. Finally, clean or replace the filter. If the motor is faulty, you will need to contact Dyson for repair.
Vacuum Not Picking Up Debris
If your Dyson DC34 Animal is not picking up debris, there are a few things you can check. First, empty the dust bin to ensure it is not full. Next, check the brush bar to make sure it is clean and not clogged. Also, inspect the hose and attachments for any blockages or kinks. Finally, clean or replace the filter. Also, ensure the vacuum is on the highest suction power setting.
Vacuum Leaking Air
If your Dyson DC34 Animal is leaking air, there are a couple of things you can check. First, ensure all the seals around the dust bin, hose, and attachments are intact. Next, clean or replace the filter.
Conclusion
The Dyson DC34 Animal is a powerful cordless vacuum cleaner specifically designed for pet owners who struggle with pet hair and dust bunnies. Its impressive suction power, specialized pet hair removal tools, and lightweight design make it a great choice for tackling messes on carpets, upholstery, and hard floors.
While the DC34 Animal excels in removing pet hair and provides a comfortable cleaning experience, it does have some drawbacks. Notably, its battery life is relatively short compared to competitors, and the dustbin capacity may require frequent emptying. The vacuum is also considered heavy and bulky by some users.
Overall, the Dyson DC34 Animal is a solid choice for pet owners who need a powerful and convenient cordless vacuum for everyday cleaning. However, potential buyers should carefully consider the limitations, especially the battery life and dustbin capacity, before making a purchase.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option with excellent suction and pet hair removal capabilities, the Shark IZ163H is a great alternative. For those seeking the longest runtime and the most versatile features, the Miele Triflex HX1 might be a better fit. Ultimately, the best cordless stick vacuum for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
