Ok , this vacuum be a monster -- its about 30 lb and have a wide cleaning path . it be very powerful , and have lot of flexibility for clean carpet and floor , in addition to use the hose and wand attachment . the hose do not stretch as far as I would like because it be very flexible and the power of the suction keep pull it back into the vacuum base -- show how powerful the motor be . once you figure out the control and get past the stiffness of the upright release button , you be on you way . if you know that you will be carry a vacuum up and down stair quite a bit and you question you arm\/shoulder strength , then beware of this unit 's weight . otherwise , this be a very solid , well make unit that seem like it will last as long as you want it -- time will tell . my only real complaint -- and it be a small one -- be that the route of the cord for coil it up tend to interfere with the hose .