There is no secret that cleaning is a time-consuming process that no one is excited to do. Getting every bit of hair and speck of dirt off the floors and other surfaces is not a walk in the park. But in this age of smart technology, new appliances that can clean every nook and cranny are being launched every day.
Shark, one of the leading brands known for producing solid upright vacuums with a perfect blend of cost and innovative technologies, recently released a new model called the Shark Apex Upright DuoClean Corded Lift-Away AZ1002, Espresso. The new vacuum is equipped with top-of-the-range attachments that make cleaning less tiring and daunting. We tested the Apex Upright a few days ago to determine if it was as powerful as it sounded.
Today, we will be focusing our attention on the Shark Apex DuoClean review.
Table of Contents
About The Shark APEX DuoClean AZ1002
The Shark Apex DuoClean Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum AZ1002 is a full-sized upright vacuum cleaner featuring Shark’s signature cleaning technologies. It features such tech elements as the DuoClean, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal, Powered Lift-Away, Zero-M Anti-Hair Wrap and so much more. The Shark APEX AZ1002 is pretty much identical to the Shark Apex AZ1000W in physical appearance.
Even though the AZ1000W is an efficient cleaning machine, it cannot match the AZ1002 in terms of great suction power, great airflow and overall efficiency. This large, powerful and versatile upright vacuum is loaded with several accessories for cleaning above-ground surfaces like stairs and upholstery. Better yet, it has the backing of the Shark Ninja brand, so buyers get supreme quality, unrivaled attention to detail and after-sales service that cannot be beat by the competition.
For Whom Is the Shark APEX DuoClean Designed?
The Shark Apex DuoClean is an outstanding option for allergic people looking for an ultra-quiet device for cleaning hair and dander left behind by pets. It combines the advanced HEPA filtration system with the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology to capture and trap even the tiniest allergens and particles. This pet-friendly model can clean pet hairs and dander effectively without getting tangled, because the Zero-M Anti-Hair Wrap technology is designed to prevent against hair wrap.
Equipped with the Noise Reduction technology, the vacuum significantly reduces noise and softens pitch. The noise produced by this appliance is below average, so it is suitable for babies and pets that are scared of noisy vacuum cleaners. Thanks to the flexible cleaning hose, DuoClean floor nozzle and extra tools, you can use it as the main vacuum in large homes and apartments.
The unit is ideal for cleaning carpeted stairs, bare floors, and even elevated surfaces. The DuoClean technology enables the dual brush roll system to directly engage floors and deep clean carpets to realize a polished look. And with the Powered Lift-Away function, you can easily detach the canister to extend the head reach for vacuuming under or behind furniture.
Shark APEX DuoClean Review – Features & Specs
Design, Size & Dimensions
The Shark Apex DuoClean is an advanced cleaner showcasing modern and attractive looks. It is a dark-colored unit with a red brush roll that appears as a little pop of blush. The vacuum features an ergonomically designed handle that feels comfortable to use for extended cleaning sessions.
The cleaning head is so cleverly designed that it makes the vacuum easy to maneuver around corners and other obstacles. Standing at 24.8 pounds, the Apex is big and somehow heavy to some users, but it includes Active Glide Technology for better mobility, and easily transforms into a canister vacuum for better handling. The translucent dust cup has up to 1.5 quarts dry dust cup capacity, and it opens from the bottom for mess-free emptying.
The Shark Apex DuoClean is equipped with a 30-ft power cable as well as a 5.5-ft hose. This, combined with the vacuum’s ability to turn 45° angle, gives you unlimited cleaning reach under furniture without actually bending down or straining. Still, it might not be the right option for people who prefer cordless vacuums.
As far as dimensions go, the Apex measures 11.2 x 12.2 x 46 inches in total. These dimensions make it big and cumbersome, but the vacuum completely disassembles in a snap. You can break it down to remain with the main pod and hose for vacuuming stairs, curtains, or furniture. You can equally detach the floor nozzle and retain the pod and wand, or attach the brush to the end of the wand.
Zero-M Anti-Hair Wrap Technology
If you have pets that shed a lot, or if you simply want to clean long human hair, the Shark Apex DuoClean will work favorably for you. It comes with the Zero-M Anti-Hair Wrap technology which uses tiny protrusions on the nozzle to deep clean itself automatically. These protrusions are designed to deliver non-stop hair removal around the brush roll.
But how does the Anti-Hair Wrap brush roll work? Well, it uses a built-in comb-like mechanism which goes over the brush roll to remove the hair and debris as you clean. Also available are four metal wires which run across the brush roll to prevent long hairs from getting tangled in the brush, keeping the machine working at its best.
The Zero-M can actively unwrap most of the tangled hair, lint and fibers so that you can clean faster and more effectively without having to stop or pause to untangle hair wrapped in the unit. The self-cleaning capability is not only convenient but also hygienic and saves both time and effort. Even while the Zero-M technology can automatically remove a lot of hair, you will still need to periodically remove some stubborn curls from the brush roll manually using scissors.
DuoClean Technology
The Shark Apex AZ1002 features what is known as the DuoClean technology. Basically, this means the main cleaner nozzle includes two different brush rolls that work together to improve cleaning. The first brush roll contains soft bristles designed to deep clean sensitive hard floors through a soft buffing action, without scaring the floor.
This soft brush roll can lift up fine dust, fur, and large particles on hard flooring to provide a more polished look. Then the second brush roll contains bristles designed to penetrate deep into carpet fibers and pick up embedded dirt, pet, and long human hair. It can pick up and trap in all sorts of dirt leaving the carpet and rag surfaces clean and spotless.
Both brush rolls come fitted in the head, and so there is no need to keep changing the brush rolls every often. The soft brush roll is detachable and takes a few seconds to change it. Even more, the Shark Apex DuoClean allows for convenient switching between different surfaces, such as from hard flooring to high pile carpeting or seats fabric.
Adjusting the brush roll speed and the suction enables you to switch between various surfaces and achieve the true “APEX” performance. The DuoClean technology makes this unit the best for all carpet types and any hard floor. It will clean floors and carpets with maximum efficiency.
Powered Lift-Away Technology
The Shark Apex DuoClean is pretty easy to use courtesy of the integrated Powered Lift-Away technology. This is a welcome technology, especially considering that this unit is heavier than most other models. The clip-on canister detaches to prolong the cleaner head reach for vacuuming stairs as well as under or behind furniture.
The Powered Lift-Away technology enables you to detach the Lift-Away Pod from the floor nozzle and wand so that you can carry it around in your hand. Similarly, you can easily alter the canister caddy and transform the whole machine from the upright mode with the cleaning hose into the canister mode. And the brush roll remains powered even on the Lift-Away mode.
By separating the canister from the main unit, it becomes easier to manipulate the rest of the vacuum with just a button-press. The vacuum is light and simple to handle on the Lift-Away mode, giving you unrivaled convenience and comfort when it comes to cleaning hard-to-reach areas like ceilings, curtains and stairs. You can also use the Lift-Away Pod with the main floor nozzle and available tools – either with or without the wand.
The lightweight canister vacuum cleaner is easy to carry with one hand, and provides the versatility needed for detailed cleaning at home, in the car, or even garage. For the record, most upright vacuums exhibit dismal performance when cleaning remote locations like corners and under furniture. But with the Lift-Away technology provided by the Shark Apex DuoClean, you have the ability to maneuver across every section of your home.
Motorized Deep Cleaning
Cleaning fabric seats and cushions is probably a daunting task for many. However, the shark apex az1002 cleans like a pro with pet power deep cleaning brush. It easily blasts off all the fur from pets as well as set-in dirt on upholstery, tables, and stairs. There is a powerful motor that makes this Deep-cleaning Motorized Pet Tool highly effective.
Another tool that accompanies the pet power brush is a bristle brush. This bristle brush is designed to be firm in order to eliminate stuck-on fragments from multiple surfaces. Should the need arise, you can separate the bristles and remain with the upholstery tool for cleaning any persistent pet hair.
And when it comes to suction, the Shark Apex DuoClean uses a 1350-watts motor with great suction power up to 101 inches of water lift. This bagless model does not clog and can easily pick up even the most stubborn dirt from a variety of surfaces, including hard flooring. However, the machine is not ideal for cleaning bathroom and throw rugs, because it sucks in the particles, forcing you to manually remove them from the cleaner head
DuoClean Controls
The Shark Apex DuoClean AZ1002 comes with easy-to-use controls that are conveniently located on the handle. You will find it easy to control the unit with one hand. In addition to Power On/Off Button, the following Floor Type Controls are also available:
- Thick Carpets/Area Rugs – This setting optimizes the suction power for vacuuming high-pile carpets and area rugs
- Low Pile Carpets – This setting optimizes the suction and brush roll speed for vacuuming low-pile carpets
- Hard Floor – This setting is dedicated to vacuuming bare floors and subtle area rugs
The Shark Apex DuoClean has many other controls which help you configure the unit as needed, without a problem. There are specific controls for power optimization, allowing you to make one gliding pass on hardwood and two passes on carpeting to achieve a spotless, showroom ready look. Unlike old vacuums that require you to make 3-4 passes over the same floor section, this one needs the least number of passes before it can boldly display deeply satisfying streaks of clean.
Maneuverability
At 24.8 pounds, the Shark Apex DuoClean is slightly heavier than most other uprights on the market, and might appear difficult to maneuver from the onset. However, the unit is so lightweight on the Lift-Away mode, making it easy to maneuver around stairs as a handheld vacuum. And for completely effortless maneuverability, it comes with Shark’s unique Swivel Steering and Active Glide system.
The Active Glide system aids in movement of the vacuum by facilitating a smooth mobility over any surface regardless of the suction power chosen. Also, the vacuum’s center of gravity (COG) is low to the ground, and on the back of the floor nozzle are two wheels which help it glide and turn with ease.
These wheels automatically retract the moment you angle the vacuum and start cleaning, with dual brush rolls beginning to spin as well. They easily and freely roll with little resistance, never moving too fast or getting bogged down. And when the vacuum is not in use, the same wheels allow the vacuum to stand up securely without tipping over.
Advanced HEPA Filter & Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
The Shark Apex DuoClean keeps the gunk from being released back into the filtered air using the Anti-Allergen seal. The Apex is more suitable for allergy-vulnerable persons, because it has two filters – an inner filter and an outer one. This allergy-friendly model can capture and retain more than 99.9% of dust, dirt and allergens down to 0.3 microns or larger.
It uses the multi-layered air filtration system consisting of the foam and felt pre-motor air filters and HEPA post-motor exhaust air filter. This model tops in air filtration system, with the Anti-Allergen complete seal design providing the cleanest indoor air for breathing. Comparatively, this filtration system outperforms other uprights with HEPA air filtration system by a long shot.
The Apex’s air filtration system has the capacity to remove ten times more particulate matter from the air. Not only is it ideal for allergy sufferers but also pet owners. It is extremely effective at removing odors left behind by pets. To keep the suction functioning at its best, the manufacturer recommends rinsing the foam and felt air filters at least every 3 months, and HEPA air filter at least every year.
Noise
The noise output of the Shark Apex DuoClean is fairly typical of any other full-sized upright vacuum. It tends to vary depending on the cleaning mode. Our electronic decibel reader recorded 77dB on high-pile carpet mode, 76dB on low-pile carpet mode, and 73dB on hardwood mode. Better still, the Apex features Noise Reduction technology which makes it the quietest of all large-sized upright vacuums.
The Noise Reduction technology is designed to expertly reduce noise and soften pitch. This technology provides a low-frequency hum, which is ideal for people who have babies and pets. Your cat would love this, and can snooze pleasantly while the Apex whispers around the house sucking up fine hair that it leaves behind.
LED Lights
Vacuuming in the dark is not an issue with the Shark Apex DuoClean. This upright vacuum features On-Floor and Nozzle LED lights for effortless steering and cleaning in the dark. LED lights are strategically positioned on the front of the floor nozzle to provide the best possible illumination, allowing you to spot any hidden pet hair, dirt and dust on poorly lit areas.
You can use the Apex in any lighting condition without a hassle. It makes it possible to see tiny dog hairs and crumbs that you typically wouldn’t see when vacuuming with a different unit. Powerful LED lights on the cleaning head provide the best visibility, so no stone is left unturned.
An Assorted Attachment Set
The Shark Apex DuoClean AZ1002 comes with more tools and brushes than the AZ1000W. The package includes a wide array of attachments for thorough cleaning of various fabrics and surfaces from floor to ceiling. You can expect to find a crevice tool, pet power brush, dusting brush and upholstery tool.
The deep-cleaning motorized pet power brush connects to the wand to get rid of hair on cracks and crevices, where other uprights can’t reach. The 12-inch crevice tool gets even further beneath or behind heavy pieces of furniture to remove the debris in there. You can attach the upholstery tool or dusting brush to the wand and use it to clean soft furniture surfaces like a couch or chair.
What We Liked:
- Powerful & easy to maneuver with fingertip controls
- Zero-M Anti-Hair Wrap technology for untangling long hair
- Efficient cleaning on multiple surfaces
- Advanced HEPA filtration & complete sealing for dirt and allergens
- Rubberized long-lasting wheels for effortless mobility
- Easy transitioning from upright mode to lift-away mode
- 30-feet long power cord for extended cleaning radius
- LED lights for great visibility in dark areas
- Fairly easy to assemble
- 7-year limited warranty covering faults in material and craftsmanship
Flaws but Not Deal Breakers
- Heavier than most upright vacuums – Older folks and those with joint challenges may struggle using this weighty machine
- The hose is relatively short at 5.5 feet only – Shorter hoses restrict your cleaning reach, but with a 30-feet power cord, you get a total of 35-feet reach.
- Very expensive compared to other high-end upright vacuums
Our Take
There is a lot to vouch for with the Shark Apex AZ1002. This innovative vacuum has several impressive features that make vacuuming a breeze. How it handles cleaning quietly, easily and zealously is mind-boggling. This model is a wise option for people looking for a powerful, quiet and versatile vacuum cleaner for tackling pet hair and related messes.
Of course, it could be lighter, but it certainly won’t cause any back strain and the vacuum can be transformed into a lift-away canister for quick above-floor cleaning. As per our Shark APEX DuoClean Review & Test, the vacuum scored a whopping 99.7% rating on carpeting and hard flooring. With a wide variety of tools and brushes onboard, the vacuum makes it possible to customize your cleaning to better suit your needs.
This Shark vacuum is built to last and feels much better than Shark’s lower-priced Rotator and Navigator uprights. Indeed it is more expensive than most uprights in the same category, but with handy accessories and great build quality, it is worth paying for. What’s more, the Shark Apex DuoClean is backed by a 7-year warranty along with Shark’s lifetime impeccable customer service.
