Efficient Cleaning and HEPA Filtration in the Kenmore BU4018
The Kenmore BU4018 Intuition Bagged Upright Vacuum aims to deliver robust suction and advanced filtration for American households with pets, carpets, and hard floors. With a sleek purple design, 2-motor power, and intuitive Lift-Up technology, it balances maneuverability with deep cleaning. This review evaluates if its features justify its mid-range price, earning it a 4.4-star user average (457 ratings) and a moderate popularity ranking in the upright vacuum category.
Quick Verdict: Reliable, Powerful, and Secure for Allergy Sufferers
The Kenmore BU4018 Intuition receives a solid 4.4-star rating from users who love its combination of strong suction and easy operation. Priced in the upper mid-range, its HEPA filter and bagged, no-touch dust system make it especially attractive for those sensitive to allergens. While occasional build quality issues arise, it generally outperforms most competitors in its class for thorough cleaning and ease of use.
At a Glance: What Makes the BU4018 Stand Out?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 1800 watts (10 Amps, 2-motor system) |
| Weight | 14 pounds |
| Filtration | HEPA Filter (99.97% particle capture), completely sealed system |
| Design | Lift-Up (upright + handheld), No-Touch Bag Technology |
| Accessories | 3-in-1 tool, upholstery tool, 4 HEPA dust bags |
| Recommended Surface Types | Hard floor, carpets, pet hair |
| Noise Level | 75 dB |
| Corded/Cordless | Corded |
| Warranty | 1 year (manufacturer) |
User Insights: What Owners Love and Dislike
Feedback highlights the vacuum’s exceptional suction and dirt removal power, especially for floors riddled with pet hair. About 83% rate it positively, particularly appreciating its lightweight maneuverability and ease of use. That said, 17% highlight mixed experiences—some cite brush roll malfunctions and plastic component issues over time. Still, most find its convenience and cleaning performance outshine minor complaints.
- “It cleans like a broom and picks up significant amounts of dust.”
- “Lightweight and easy to use, love the swivel action—makes cleaning a breeze.”
- “Had issues with the brush suddenly stopping, but overall it’s worth the price.”
Innovative Features: What Sets the Kenmore Intuition BU4018 Apart
The standout feature is the Lift-Up design—a practical button lets you convert from upright to handheld, perfect for stairs and above-the-floor dust. HEPA filtration, paired with self-sealing no-touch bags, ensures you don’t re-expose allergens into your home. The 3-in-1 combo tool adapts for tight corners, upholstery, and crevices, catering to the varied cleaning needs of pet owners and allergy-prone households.
Comparing Against Its Competition: How Does the BU4018 Stack Up?
| Model | Kenmore BU4018 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 | BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet 2252 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 14 lbs | 12.5 lbs | 15.4 lbs |
| Filtration | HEPA sealed, bagged | HEPA, bagless | Multi-level, bagless |
| Handheld/Lift-Away | Yes (Lift-Up handheld mode) | Yes (Lift-Away pod) | No (classic upright) |
| Suction | 2-motor, strong (est.) | Strong (single motor) | Strong (single motor) |
| No-Touch Bag disposal | Yes | No (bagless) | No (bagless) |
| Noise Level (est.) | 75 dB | 76 dB | 72 dB |
| Price bracket | Mid/Upper-mid | Mid | Budget/Mid |
Compared with popular upright models, the Kenmore’s bagged, HEPA-sealed system and direct no-touch dust solution reduce allergy exposure. Its two-motor system may offer superior deep-clean suction, especially late in the bag’s life, while remaining on par for maneuverability and versatility. However, competitors offer lighter designs or lower ongoing bag costs (Bissell and Shark both use reusable dust cups).
Deep Dive: Performance Across Carpet, Hard Floor, and Pet Hair
Most users report the BU4018 excels at lifting ground-in pet hair from both lush carpets and stiff rugs. The 2-motor suction maintains debris pickup even as the dust bag fills, thanks to the unique Powerflow chamber. On hard floors, it avoids snowplowing lighter debris and polishes up dust at baseboards. The 7ft hose and included tools make above-floor cleaning easy, though reach could be longer for high drapes or ceiling fans.
Filtration and Allergen Control: Cleaner Air, Less Mess
Kenmore’s HEPA filtration and fully sealed system target U.S. families with allergies: it captures 99.97% of particles and contains them securely in a self-sealing bag. Unlike bagless vacuums, emptying is a zero-dust operation, further protecting those allergic to dust mites or pet dander. This is a significant upgrade for chronic allergy sufferers in the price bracket.
Handling, Weight, and Noise: Everyday Usability
Weighing under 14 pounds, the BU4018 is light and easy to maneuver—with a swivel action universally praised by users. The lift-up handheld option makes stairs manageable. At 75 dB, noise levels are typical for this class, so it’s not the quietest but not disruptive. Assembly is required, but most find the process simple with clear instructions.
Accessory Set: Versatility for Every Task
Out of the box, Kenmore includes a 3-in-1 tool for corners/crevices/upholstery, a dedicated upholstery head, and four HEPA dust bags. This covers most daily cleaning needs, though specialized tools (like a turbo brush for thick pet hair) are not included. The included hose is sturdy, but 7 feet can feel short in large U.S. homes with tall windows or shelves.
Durability and Value: Cost of Ownership Considerations
While many praise its build quality and durability, some users report brush or hose issues after extended use. Kenmore covers the BU4018 with a one-year manufacturing warranty. Replacement HEPA bags add ongoing costs, but they boost cleaning efficiency and keep dust contained compared to dirt-cup competitors.
Who Should Consider (or Avoid) the Kenmore BU4018?
- Households with allergy or asthma sufferers who value HEPA-sealed bag technology
- Owners of pets needing a vacuum with powerful suction for hair on both carpet and hard floors
- Anyone who wants bag disposal without dust clouds and minimal maintenance headaches
- Those who appreciate convertible upright/handheld design for stairs and upholstery
- Avoid if you strongly prefer bagless vacuums or seek ultra-light models under 10 lbs
- Avoid if you want the lowest ongoing cost with reusable dust cups only
Price, Deals, and Long-Term Value Assessment
The Kenmore BU4018 typically sits in the upper mid-range MSRP, with discounts available during holiday sale periods (historical Keepa data shows fluctuations, buy under $200 is ideal). For its price, the mix of premium filtration, suction, and no-touch controls gives good value, so long as you budget for replacement bags each year. It undercuts some premium bagged models, making it a fair long-term investment for allergy-conscious families.
Common Questions about the Kenmore BU4018 Intuition
-
Does the BU4018 really trap allergens better than a bagless vacuum?
Yes—the HEPA-sealed system and self-sealing bag mean nearly all allergens are captured and never re-enter your air during disposal, unlike emptying a bagless dust cup. -
Can the Lift-Up mode tackle stairs and upholstery easily?
Yes, the unit easily detaches from the base for handheld cleaning above floors, on stairs, and upholstery, though the included hose length may limit reach on very tall fixtures. -
What maintenance is required with this vacuum?
You’ll need to periodically replace the HEPA bag and check for obstructions in the brush or hose. There are no complex filters to wash, simplifying upkeep. -
Is the Kenmore BU4018 suitable for deep pile carpets?
It performs well on most carpets, including deep pile, due to its strong suction, but extremely thick shag may require multiple passes or a dedicated power brush. -
Is it compatible with non-Kenmore HEPA bags?
For best performance and fit, stick with Kenmore-certified HEPA bags, though a few third-party options are available—always check compatibility before purchase.
Final Thoughts: Is the Kenmore BU4018 the Right Choice for Your Home?
The Kenmore BU4018 Intuition Bagged Upright Vacuum is a standout pick for pet owners and allergy sufferers prioritizing deep-cleaning power with minimal dust exposure. Its Lift-Up convertible design handles stairs and tight spaces with ease, and the sealed HEPA system delivers genuine peace of mind for cleaner air. While not the cheapest or lightest on the market, it justifies its cost with robust performance and low-maintenance usability. For those seeking a hassle-free cleaning solution with top-tier filtration in a manageable package, the BU4018 is an excellent investment.