We received thousands of emails and comments (yes, we do read your comments) asking us about the Shark upright vacuums. These inquiries range from the naming conventions to specs clarification and everything in-between.
So for this FAQ, we consolidated all of them into FIVE burning questions that our readers have about the Shark upright series.
We'll demystify them using the popular Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 as the main reference point for those not too familiar with Shark.
So we figure this FAQ can double as mini Shark NV360. (SWEET BONUS!)
Ready to be a Shark know-it-all? Let's dive in.
Question 1: Should I choose Lift-Away or Powered Lift-Away?
A: The Lift-Away function, found in Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV360, allows you to turn your upright vacuum cleaner into a handheld device.
While both functions increase the machine's portability, the Powered Lift-Away ensures the full delivery of the motor's suction power to the cleaning head.
You’ll pay considerably more for Powered Lift-Away-enabled vacuums. So, for light-duty home cleaning, we recommend the budget-friendly Shark Navigator Lift Away upright vacuum.
Question 2: Which series should I get?
A: Shark currently offers three upright vacuum cleaner series. In descending order, according to price, they are Vertex, APEX, Rotator, and Navigator.
As we've mentioned above, the Navigator like NV360 is for the budget-conscious.
If you're looking for an upgrade from a Navigator, check out a Rotator. Some Rotator models integrate premium functions like Power Lift-Away, Self-Cleaning Brushroll (ZU632), and DuoClean PowerFins (LA502).
Expect those premium features, plus the latest Active Glide, all packed inside a Vertex (AZ2000W) and an APEX (AZ1002). These high-end machines are the powerhouses of vacuuming.
And we guarantee the rose-gold Vertex will turn housekeeping into a luxury experience.
Question 3: Is getting a Professional worth it?
A: Only if you have a big house to clean.
Its dust cup is 40-50% bigger than the non-Professional's, and its power cord is 5-ft longer than the one of shark navigator lift away deluxe NV360. So you'll cover more ground and empty the dust cup less often using a Professional.
However, we wouldn't recommend the Professional version for hotels, exhibition centers, or warehouses. If you have that big of a 'house,' look for a commercial-grade vacuum.
Note that some upright models are specifically designed for market niche. We refer to those models as versions.
Question 4: Are DuoClean and Self-Cleaning Brushroll the same?
No.
Self-cleaning Brushroll, or Zero-M, is an anti-tangle technology that uses a row of wide tooth comb to brush out the hair stuck in the bristle brushroll, eliminating the need for manual removal.
Shark has a Pet Pro version (ZU62) designed specifically for pet owners to rid themselves of any pet hair problem.
DuoClean refers to the deep cleaning two-brushroll design of the floor head: a traditional bristle brushroll at the back and an additional soft brushroll in the front.
In the latest DuoClean PowerFins update, long flexible silicon bands replace the bristles on the back brushroll, eliminating hair tangles and dust gaps.
DuoClean PowerFins is perfect for anyone who has to switch between carpet and floor cleaning.
Question 5: I have a terrible dust allergy. Which one should I get?
Any.
All Shark upright vacuums have the signature air-filtering Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology. A HEPA filter is added post-motor to trap all dust and fine particles inside the vacuum, keeping your air fresh and safe.
Some maintenance is required, but it's so worth it that we'd always recommend getting a Shark vacuum, whether you're allergic or not.
Find More Information: Shark Navigator NV360 reviews
Final Words
Did we answer your question? Please comment down below if you have any further questions. Feel free to let us know what you think about this FAQ!