I have to say that I am quite fond of James vacuum cleaners, and Numatic has done a great job manufacturing them. It’s not just because they are made in the UK, but also because it’s an incredibly robust vacuum cleaner.Â
Having had them in the past, I knew that when I picked up the James hoover it was sure to leave me feeling suitably impressed.
It really does live up the high expectations that Numatic have set out, and on top of that, it is also one of the most affordable models that they have to offer.Â
Even though it has a controversial low wattage in order to comply with EU regulations, it still works as one of the best out there. You’ll find out more about how the new wattage makes no difference when you read further.
So, kick back, relax, and take some time to read this detailed James hoover review.Â
James Hoover Review Summary
Rating:
Product Name:
James Hoover JVP180A1
Product Type:
Cylinder vacuum cleaners
Price:
R.R.P £100
Summary
If you are in search of a great all-rounder, our James hoover review should be at the top of your list.
It works well on all floor types and is sure to get each of the cleaning tasks you have around the home done with no issue. It’s a great and robust vacuum cleaner to have on hand.
Presenting the James Hoover Review
The James hoover is a brilliant vacuum cleaner for general use, and as a result, it makes the perfect all-rounder for a variety of tasks that need to be completed.
It promises great results whether you are cleaning the floor or areas above it (like the ceiling and on top of mirrors) thanks to the versatile tool selection and the fantastic reach.
However, if you live in a home with pets, this might not be the best vacuum cleaner for you. It doesn’t quite have the strength, or the extra tools, to deal with pet hair and debris.
Instead, the Henry Xtra might be a better choice. It’s a model we have mentioned quite often, and one that we have reviewed extensively.Â
Pros
- Long cord and hose
- Easy bag replacement
- Great for all floor types
- Lightweight design
- Suction power
- Affordable
- Quiet running
Cons
- Cumbersome and bulky for stair cleaning
- Not suitable for homes with pets
- Extensions tubes can stick together
Features
- Energy efficient – A rated
- Wand Docking – Convenient onboard wand docking system.
- HepaFlo Filtration – High performance, efficiency, capacity and greater cleanliness.
- Plugged Mains Cable – Quick, easy changing of the cable.
- Cable Storage – Convenient onboard cable storage system.
- HepaFlo – Easy to change high-efficiency HepaFlo bags.
- Professional Accessories – A comprehensive accessory kit (AH0) and aluminium tube set.
Specification
Energy Efficiency: Class A
Carpet / Hard Floor: D / C
Dust Re-emission: C
Sound Power Level: 72dB
Annual Energy Consumption: 27.9 kWh/annum
Capacity: 8 L
Suction: 2300 mm H2O
Cleaning Range: 26.4 m
Weight (Machine + Kit): 6 kg
Dimensions: 340x365x360mm
Motor Power: 620 W
Power: 230V AC 50/60Hz
Features and Benefits
Power & Design
The James Hoover JVP180A1 features the new standard 620w motor to keep it in compliance with the new EU laws. There was a lot of scepticism about them making this move, but it actually has an incredible power level and unbeatable suction power – just like the other low wattage Numatic cleaners.
Additionally, it is much kinder to the environment and will leave less of a carbon footprint, which is something we should all be thinking about. However, something that many of the new Numatic models have that this James vacuum does not is a twin speed motor.
The James Hoover JVP180A1 uses a single speed motor instead, so you cannot switch between low and high modes. However, don’t be dissuaded by the lack of settings, the single power function is still fantastic and will deliver the perfect amount of suction power for all your floors – which we look at a little further down.
Expert Tip
James Hoover is lighter than Henry, and so if you are in need of something that isn’t too much hassle to carry around between rooms or levels, this could be a good choice to make.
It also uses the new floor head that Numatic introduced with their low wattage machines, and I have to say that it works better than the former ones in terms of suction and handling.
The baseplate has also changed in that it is now plastic as opposed to mental, but this does not affect the performance. It also features side cleaners so that you can get right up to the edge of your home.
The floor head has a foot operated switch on it, so you can change between hard floor and carpet cleaning modes with ease.
There is also a new parking slot on the back of the machine so that you can slide the main head in when you have to take a quick cleaning break, or just to make storage easier.
There is also space for an attachment to be stored, so the one you use the most can go with you around the house.
One of the main differences with this James vacuum cleaner is that the handle and extension tubes are now made from aluminium – which makes them much lighter.
It still comes with two extension tubes, and the handle is still bent and just as comfortable to hold. The handle also features the usual suction valve so that you can control the suction power level (and the noise) at will.Â
Another thing that you will note is different about the James hoover is the fact that the power cord is stored externally.Â
It is still the usual ten metres in length, but it is wrapped around the top with a guard over it to ensure it stays in place. The clip lid is really easy to remove and replace, and it can actually make the whole process an easier one.
The hose is also the usual 2.4 metres, and it has the new conical end to help improve suction and increase airflow, with an excellent cleaning radius overall.
Safety Tip
The hose that comes with the James hoover JVP180A1 is not long enough to reach the top of their stairs. It is not safe to balance the vacuum cleaner at the top, and so we recommend purchasing a longer hose online so that you can keep your safety as a priority.
Effectiveness on Cleaning Stairs
The James hoover JVP180A1 is a good model for stair cleaning. The excellent suction and power when coupled with tools like the all-purpose nozzle (which we talk about later), means that you will end up with wonderfully clean stairs in no time at all.Â
The only issue we have with this model, and most Numatic vacuums, is that the hose does not reach the top of a standard flight of stairs.
This can make it unsafe to use if you decide to balance it at the top of the stairs, and so we strongly recommend that you purchase a longer hose.
This will allow you to reach the top of the stairs from the base without any risk to you. Numatic has manufactured several, and there are a number of online retailers that sell them at affordable prices.
Weight and Handling
The James hoover JVP180A1 is actually much lighter than a standard Henry vacuum cleaner, and this makes it easier to carry between rooms or up the stairs. While it does still have the slightly bulky design of a classic Numatic vacuum, the comfortable handle combined with the lighter weight makes everything much easier and more tolerable.
It’s also a very compact vacuum cleaner, which makes it easy to store away when it is no longer in use, and it ensures that everything is together in one place – thanks to the aforementioned parking slot.
It features the usual four wheels so that it can be pulled along behind you, and the wide cleaning radius, when matched with the wheels, means that the handling is quite easy and won’t cause much hassle.Â
Dust Capacity
You can expect the usual Numatic treatment with this vacuum cleaner as there are three spare dust bags in the box and a fourth one that has been attached to the inside of the machine ready for you to use.
These bags should last you a few months at least, and they have an eight-litre dust capacity. This is slightly smaller than some of the other Numatic vacuums, but still very large. They are the new HepaFlow bags, which means they are much stronger and more reliable than the old paper bags that Numatic used to manufacture.
They also feature and new, and much more secure, seal on the opening – so those with asthma and allergies don’t need to worry about escaping dust and debris when they go to throw the bag out. I have an asthma sufferer in my home, and they were fine when removing and throwing out the bag.Â
Did You Know
It is true that the extension tubes can get stuck when you put them together or add an attachment. However, Numatic actually manufactures telescopic tubes that you can pick up separately – which many find to be way more convenient.
When it comes to the filter, there is nothing different when compared to the standard one that Numatic have for their vacuum cleaners.
Regardless, it still does an excellent job of capturing dust and other allergens, and it won’t push them back into the air while you clean.
Additionally, the location of the filter means that it is easy to access and check to see if it needs a clean.
Cleaning Different Floor Types
When used on different floor types, it does a great job and will leave you satisfied with the finished job. Plus, the new floor head that we mentioned earlier means that it makes a superb model for edge cleaning, so you can right up alongside the skirting boards to remove all of the sneaky debris.Â
James hoover performs incredibly on carpets, with powerful suction that will leave you with perfection in a fast time period. Despite its speed, the job is also a thorough one, and it left me feeling pleased that I did not have to go over the same spot four or five times while cleaning.
It has just the right amount of power for you to remove all of the large and small debris from the area.
The hard floor setting also works very well. However, if you have vinyl flooring, you might find that this model is a little less effective than others in the Numatic range.
While it does do a great job, and is perfect for removing smaller debris, you must remember to lift the head with the larger stuff to avoid a snowplough effect.
This is where the head of the James vacuum cleaner pushes the mess forwards. If you make sure the head is slightly raised, however, you will have no issues with pick-up at all.
Attachments
The James hoover JVP180A1 comes with the standard tools you would expect from a Numatic vacuum cleaner, but each of them does a great job for floor or above floor cleaning.
If you want to reach areas like the ceiling, or places that are generally a little higher, make sure you remember to use the extension tubes for some extra reach. The crevice tool is the perfect attachment for reaching tight corners and places that are generally hard to get to.
Similarly, you also have the dusting brush. This has been designed to handle more delicate surfaces like coffee tables and bannisters, preventing scratches or damage while ensuring dust and debris are removed.Â
The all-purpose tool comes with a detachable brush. This makes it useful for both stairs and furniture as it can be used effectively on both surfaces to remove grime.Â
In order to attach the tools directly to the hose instead of the tube, there is also an adaptor for easy attachment. This makes using the tools a much simpler experience.
How Does It Compare?
Here are some other, similar, models of vacuum cleaners for you to consider, just in case you want to look at other options before you commit to the James hoover JVP180A1.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this James hoover review guide has given you a little more information on how it works, and the ways in which it might help make your life easier.
It’s a really reliable and robust model of vacuum cleaner and one that also features quiet running to help reduce the amount of vacuuming noise you experience.
While it is a great all-rounder, it’s not ideal for homes with pets because it lacks the additional power and tools to really work their fur and fluff out of your carpets.
You also have the issue with the extension hoses sticking together at times, but despite this, it still makes for an incredibly affordable and reliable piece of cleaning kit for your home. It’s definitely one of my top Numatic vacuum models.
What did you think of our James hoover review? Do you agree with our thoughts on the models listed, or are there others that you think are better suited to the task? We love hearing from you, so make sure you leave us a message in the comments below.Â
Last Updated on January 27, 2022 by Gemma Tyler
