The Hoover Savvy Bagless Upright U8174900 is a powerful vacuum cleaner that uses a combination of patented WindTunnel technology and 2 air paths that work simultaneously to create suction that deep cleans carpeting. There is an impressive twin chamber bagless dirt cup that is easy to empty and this model comes with a lifetime belt that supposedly never needs to be replaced. The HEPA filter is terrific for allergy sufferers because it removes almost 100% of dust mites and the pollens responsible for hay fever. One of the more unusual inclusions in this model is the Embedded DirtFinder which is an indicator light that turns green when the carpet is clean. There is a Custom Control Switch that makes it possible to go from cleaning carpeting to bare floor vacuuming with just a touch of the switch.

The Hoover Savvy Bagless Upright U8174900 is modestly priced at around $150-$200 dollars. Some of the benefits of this model include the low profile hood design that allows the operator to clean under furniture, the on board tool kit, and the 15" cleaning path. The cord length is a generous 31 feet, much longer than most of the cords found on residential vacuum cleaners. The Savvy includes an accessory kit and powered hand tool which is nice for upholstery and carpeted stairs. A benefit of the bagless system is that there are no bags to replace and the belt on this vacuum cleaner is supposed to last for the lifetime of the vacuum cleaner.

While there are some nice touches to this machine, some of the claims that Hoover makes about this model seem like they are a bit far-fetched. One of the claims is about a "lifetime" vacuum cleaner belt and may be a serious issue because it simply isn’t true. The belt is certainly capable of breaking and is such a huge hassle to replace that efforts to change it may lead to a service call. The warranty should cover such a breakage if it occurs, as the belt is billed as a lifetime part, but there is some anecdotal evidence that such claims have been denied by Hoover in the past, so make sure to keep good records (purchase receipt, UPC code, etc.). The term "lifetime" can be deceptive with regard to vacuum cleaners sold for under $200, as the actual lifetime may be quite short. Vacuum cleaners in this price range are often considered disposable because the costs that can accrue to repair them can amount to more than the cleaner is actually worth.

Other drawbacks with this machine include the fact that it is heavy and can feel cumbersome after a longer period of cleaning. The hose attachment is a bit on the short side and using the tools seems a bit complicated, but overall, the pet hand tool is pretty useful for removing debris trapped on upholstery fibers. There is a concern about some of the quality of the plastic knobs and dials on this Hoover model. Although this is a good looking machine, the plastic feels cheaper when compared with some vacuum cleaners in this price range.

Overall, the Hoover Savvy Bagless Upright U8174900 appears to have a lot to offer for under $200 dollars, but there are other models that are more dependable and have better features for the money. The biggest concern is the "lifetime" belt, which is a death sentence for the machine when it breaks after the 1-year warranty expires.