Gone with the wind

First off, we weren't sure what to expect when Dyson offered us the chance to try out its new DC23 Turbinehead, billed as the latest in "Level 3 Root Cyclone" technology. But once we got going, we quickly realized that's exactly what this 19.5 lb. unit is: a cyclone.

The DC23 Turbinehead seemed a bit bulky when we removed it from the box, but once we put it together---in all of, oh, 30 seconds---it became apparent that this powerful puppy was on a mission to remove all of the dust, debris, pet hair and yucky stuff we didn't even know was ground into the family room carpet. Our black lab's stubborn hair was no match for the 220 air watts of relentless suction. Even though we were tempted to see if our 6-year-old's Star Wars Legos stood a chance, the kid's howls of anguish stopped us before we could suck 'em up.

In addition to the sheer power that the DC23 packs, we could appreciate the additional tools for vacuuming stairs, crevices (don't go there) and the brush tool.

Not easily swayed, this mom---who absolutely hates cleaning---put the Turbinehead to the ultimate test: cleaning the family Sequoia. The verdict? No more trips to the self-serve car wash where the vacuum cleaners never really get the job done. The Turbinehead performed wonders, handling everything from sticky candy bar wrappers and fast-food leftovers to taking out those fine, black rubber granules that come from playing football on a turf field. The tools were especially good at removing gunk sandwiched between seats and beneath the seat-belt receptacles.

The receptacle that holds all the dirt has us promising to do better---there's nothing like having all of that dirt and disgusting stuff trapped in a see-through canister.

If you're already a Dyson fan or consider yourself a household gadget geek, then this is just preaching to the choir. But for naysayers who wonder whether the $399 is worth it, here's the deal: Yes, it's a lot of money, but in an economy where most of us are trying to make the most of every dollar, the Dyson comes with a 5-year warranty, their technical support is terrific and you can't beat the cleaning job that a Dyson does. Hands down, Dyson makes the best. Period. Washing the filter (there are no bags) takes only a few minutes a month and for those of us whose kids often end up wheezing and carrying on as we dust and clean, the unit is certified asthma & allergy friendly™.

---Gail H. Towns