ASTM F1409-23

Standard Test Method for Straight Line Movement of Vacuum Cleaners While Cleaning Carpets

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method measures the horizontal component of the relative work required by the user during the cleaning operation for the movement of a vacuum cleaner in the home or other cleaning location on standardized laboratory carpeting. Work is determined from the forces measured in the horizontal direction only by the mobility equipment.  
4.2 This measurement is relative to the work performed by the user of vacuum cleaners and may be used for comparison between vacuum cleaners.  
4.3 The relation between actual vacuum cleaner usage and the method of operation is valid only if the vacuum cleaner user operates the vacuum cleaner properly and in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers a measurement of the relative work required to move an upright, canister, stick, or combination vacuum cleaner in a straight line with forward and backward stroking on a selection of typical carpeted surfaces.  
1.1.1 This test method measures only the horizontal component of work required to move the vacuum cleaner on carpet.  
1.2 This test method can be used in the testing of household and commercial vacuum cleaners.  
1.3 This test method measures the relative work needed to move the vacuum cleaner with its motor or motors in operation.  
1.4 This test method applies to the vacuum cleaning of carpets only.  
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1: The F11.21 subcommittee is actively pursuing new market relevant carpets with the assistance of the carpet industry. Section 12 has been revised to remove carpets that are no longer available (that is, plush, Frieze).  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Aug-2023
• ICS: 97.080 - Cleaning appliances
• Technical Committee: F11 - Vacuum Cleaners
• Drafting Committee: F11.20 - Performance (Test Methods)

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM F1409-16 - Standard Test Method for Straight Line Movement of Vacuum Cleaners While Cleaning Carpets
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• Refers: ASTM F608-24 - Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Carpet Embedded Dirt Removal Effectiveness of Household/Commercial Vacuum Cleaners
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM F1334-24 - Standard Test Method for Determining A-Weighted Sound Power Level of Vacuum Cleaners
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM F1334-18 - Standard Test Method for Determining A-Weighted Sound Power Level of Vacuum Cleaners
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018
• Referred By: ASTM F1284-22 - Standard Test Method for Evaluating Carpet Embedded Dirt Removal Effectiveness of Residential Central Vacuum Cleaning Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• Referred By: ASTM F2609-11(2021) - Standard Test Method for Litter-Cleaning Effectiveness of Vacuum Cleaners
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• Referred By: ASTM F608-22 - Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Carpet Embedded Dirt Removal Effectiveness of Household/Commercial Vacuum Cleaners
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• Referred By: ASTM F1411-11(2018) - Standard Practice for Presenting Selected Information on Vacuum Cleaners for Consumer Use
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• Referred By: ASTM F2608-15(2022) - Standard Test Method for Determining the Change in Room Air Particulate Counts as a Result of the Vacuum Cleaning Process
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023

Overview

ASTM F1409-23: Standard Test Method for Straight Line Movement of Vacuum Cleaners While Cleaning Carpets sets forth a measurable approach to determine the relative work required to move vacuum cleaners in straight lines on carpeted surfaces. Developed by ASTM International, this test method is crucial for evaluating and comparing the mobility performance of upright, canister, stick, or combination vacuum cleaners on standardized laboratory carpeting. The standard is widely recognized for its precision in assessing only the horizontal component of work exerted during vacuum cleaner operation, and can be applied to both household and commercial vacuum cleaner models.

Key Topics

• Measurement Focus: This test method quantifies the horizontal work, or effort, necessary to move a vacuum cleaner in forward and backward strokes on a variety of typical carpeted surfaces. Only the horizontal force required is measured.
• Vacuum Cleaner Types: Applicable to upright, canister, stick, and combination vacuum cleaners, whether used in household or commercial settings.
• Test Conditions: Procedures are standardized, with environmental controls for temperature and humidity, to ensure repeatability and comparability.
• Calibration and Equipment: Involves mobility equipment fitted with a strain gauge to precisely measure force, and requires periodic calibration to maintain integrity.
• Statistical Validity: Measurements are reported with confidence intervals and require multiple samples to determine the population mean relative work, with provisions for ensuring statistical repeatability and reproducibility.
• Manufacturer’s Instructions: Test results are representative only when the vacuum cleaner is operated in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines.

Applications

ASTM F1409-23 delivers practical value in several areas:

• Product Comparison: Manufacturers, testing laboratories, and certifying organizations use this standard to benchmark vacuum cleaners’ ease of movement, providing objective criteria for consumer comparison.
• Quality Assurance: The standard serves as a basis for quality control of vacuum cleaner models, ensuring consistent mobility performance across production batches.
• Product Development: Insights from this test method can drive design improvements aimed at reducing user effort, enhancing ergonomic performance, and boosting customer satisfaction.
• Procurement and Specification: Organizations and commercial cleaning services can refer to this standard when specifying models for purchase based on mobility performance on carpets.
• Regulatory and Compliance Testing: Demonstrates adherence to internationally recognized principles and ensures fair market practices.

Related Standards

ASTM F1409-23 is part of a suite of ASTM standards relevant to vacuum cleaner performance testing:

• ASTM F608: Test Method for Evaluation of Carpet Embedded Dirt Removal Effectiveness of Household/Commercial Vacuum Cleaners
• ASTM F884: Test Method for Motor Life Evaluation of Built-In (Central Vacuum) Cleaners
• ASTM F922: Test Method for Motor Life Evaluation of Electric Motorized Nozzles
• ASTM F1038: Test Method for Motor Life Evaluation of Various Types of Vacuum Cleaners without Driven Agitator
• ASTM F1334: Test Method for Determining A-Weighted Sound Power Level of Vacuum Cleaners

Conclusion

ASTM F1409-23 is a foundational standard for measuring the relative work required to move vacuum cleaners on carpeted surfaces, enabling reliable and reproducible product comparisons. By using this method, manufacturers and consumers alike benefit from standardized assessment, fostering confidence in vacuum cleaner mobility, ergonomic design, and performance claims. For robust vacuum cleaner testing procedures, this standard remains an essential reference in both product evaluation and research contexts.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: F1409 − 23
Standard Test Method for
Straight Line Movement of Vacuum Cleaners While Cleaning
Carpets
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1409; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This test method covers a measurement of the relative
F608 Test Method for Evaluation of Carpet Embedded Dirt
work required to move an upright, canister, stick, or combina-
Removal Effectiveness of Household/Commercial
tion vacuum cleaner in a straight line with forward and
Vacuum Cleaners
backward stroking on a selection of typical carpeted surfaces.
F655 Specification for Test Carpets and Pads for Vacuum
1.1.1 This test method measures only the horizontal com-
Cleaner Testing (Withdrawn 2022)
ponent of work required to move the vacuum cleaner on carpet.
F884 Test Method for Motor Life Evaluation of a Built-In
1.2 This test method can be used in the testing of household
(Central Vacuum) Vacuum Cleaner
and commercial vacuum cleaners.
F922 Test Method for Motor Life Evaluation of an Electric
1.3 This test method measures the relative work needed to
Motorized Nozzle
move the vacuum cleaner with its motor or motors in opera- F1038 Test Method for Motor Life Evaluation of a Canister,
tion.
Hand-held, Stick, and Utility Type Vacuum Cleaner With-
out a Driven Agitator
1.4 This test method applies to the vacuum cleaning of
F1334 Test Method for Determining A-Weighted Sound
carpets only.
Power Level of Vacuum Cleaners
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
3. Summary of Test Method
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
3.1 Mobility equipment is to be constructed and used to
and are not considered standard.
push the vacuum cleaner back and forth on the test carpet in a
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
prescribed manner during the test. The mobility equipment is
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
to employ a handle clamp assembly with a strain gauge, to be
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
attached to the vacuum cleaner handle. This strain gauge
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
measures the horizontal forces involved in moving only the
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
vacuum on the test carpet.
NOTE 1—The F11.21 subcommittee is actively pursuing new market 3.2 Simultaneously, the incremental distance that the
relevant carpets with the assistance of the carpet industry. Section 12 has
vacuum cleaner moves is also monitored and collected. The
been revised to remove carpets that are no longer available (that is, plush,
force and distance measurements are then used for calculating
Frieze).
the work required to push and pull the vacuum on the test
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
carpet.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
3.3 The design of the mobility equipment used in this
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
method is left to the user to develop and construct as there are
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
numerous design approaches that may be employed for this
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
evaluation. The mobility equipment may be designed to move
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
the vacuum automatically or manually. Photographs of one
1 2
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F11 on Vacuum For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Cleaners and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F11.20 on Performance contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
(Test Methods). Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2023. Published December 2023. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 1992. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as F1409 – 16. DOI: The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
10.1520/F1409-23. www.astm.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1409 − 23
design used in the industry to move the vacuum without the 5.3 Test Carpets, as specified in Specification F655. Test
assistance of a technician is provided in Figs. 1-3. It is highly carpets shall be stored in a vertical position with no weight on
recommended that data acquisition and computerization, with a the test surface.
data sampling rate of at least ten samples per second, be
NOTE 2—The test carpets for relative work testing should be limited to
utilized to improve the speed and accuracy of data measure-
that use and not used for other tests such as cleanability.
ments.
5.4 Padding, beneath test carpet, as specified in Specifica-
tion F655.
4. Significance and Use
5.5 Temperature and Humidity Indicators, to provide tem-
4.1 This test method measures the horizontal component of
perature measurements accurate to 61 °F (60.5 °C) and 62 %
the relative work required by the user during the cleaning
relative humidity.
operation for the movement of a vacuum cleaner in the home
or other cleaning location on standardized laboratory carpeting.
5.6 Voltmeter, to measure input voltage to the vacuum
Work is determined from the forces measured in the horizontal
cleaner, capable of providing measurements accurate within
direction only by the mobility equipment.
61 %.
4.2 This measurement is relative to the work performed by
5.7 Voltage Regulator System, to control input voltage to the
the user of vacuum cleaners and may be used for comparison
vacuum cleaner. The regulator system shall be capable of
between vacuum cleaners.
maintaining the vacuum cleaner’s rated voltage <1 % and rated
4.3 The relation between actual vacuum cleaner usage and
frequency <1 Hz having a wave form that is essentially
the method of operation is valid only if the vacuum cleaner
sinusoidal with 3 % maximum harmonic distortion for the
user operates the vacuum cleaner properly and in accordance
duration of the test.
with the manufacturer’s instructions.
5.8 Rotating Agitator Reference Cleaner, for calibrating test
carpets (see 7.1.3).
5. Apparatus
5.9 Straight Air Canister Reference Cleaner, for calibrating
5.1 Mobility Equipment, to move the vacuum cleaner for
test carpets (see 7.1.3).
measuring and determining relative work. This equipment is to
be designed and developed by the user.
6. Sampling
5.2 Calibration Weights—Precision weights for calibrating
6.1 A minimum of three units of the same model vacuum
the force measuring instrumentation. At least three calibration
cleaner, selected at random in accordance with good statistical
weights shall be employed to check and ensure linear calibra-
practice, shall constitute the population sample.
tion of the instrumentation. The precision weights are based on
the maximum rating of the load cell/strain gauge that is used, 6.1.1 To determine the best estimate of the total relative
and shall include a 5 lb weight, a half-scale weight, and a work for the population of the vacuum cleaner model being
full-scale weight. tested, the arithmetic mean of the relative work of the sample
FIG. 1 ASTM Mobility Equipment
F1409 − 23
FIG. 2 Strain Gauge and Handle Clamp
FIG. 3 Motion Drive and Data Collection Computer
from the population shall be established by testing it to a 90 % 7. Preparation of Apparatus and Test Cleaner
confidence level within 5 % of the mean.
7.1 Preconditioning for New Test Carpet Samples:
6.1.2 Annex A1 provides a procedural example for deter-
7.1.1 Cut a sample of each test carpet to a size of 27 in. by
mining the 90 % confidence level and when the sample size
72 in. (690 mm by 1830 mm) minimum. If the warp direction
shall be increased (see Note 3).
or “lay” of the carpet can be determined, it shall be in the 72
NOTE 3—See Annex A1 for method of determining 90 % confidence
in. direction. Carpets shall be bound on all sides.
level.
F1409 − 23
7.1.2 Precondition the entire carpet by cleaning with a 7.6.1 Vacuum the entire test carpet thoroughly for 2 min
rotating agitator-type cleaner. Continue the operation until less with a rotating agitator-type cleaner just prior to the relative
than 2 g of carpet fibers are picked up in 5 min. work test to remove any residual dirt that may have accumu-
lated.
7.1.3 After the preconditioning is completed, run calibration
7.6.2 Place the test carpet and pad on the carpet test
tests on each of the carpets to establish a reference rating for
platform of the mobility equipment with the lay of the carpet in
one reference rotating agitator cleaner and one reference
the forward direction.
straight air canister cleaner to determine when the test carpets
7.6.3 The cleaner to be tested should be thoroughly cleaned
need to be replaced. The reference rating, or relative work for
to remove any residual test dirt or dust that could be drawn into
each cleaner, is established using the procedure described in
the cleaner’s filtration system.
9.1 – 9.3. The relative work thus determined for the rotating
7.6.4 For vacuum cleaners using disposable filters as the
agitator cleaner and the straight air canister are the reference
primary filters, use a new disposable primary filter from the
ratings for the carpets in new condition.
manufacturer for each test.
7.1.4 Repeat the calibration tests after every 50 tests on the
7.6.5 For vacuum cleaners using non-disposable dirt
carpets, using the same reference cleaners. The performance of
receptacles, empty in accordance with the manufacturer’s
these reference cleaners should be maintained through the
instructions before each test.
carpet calibration period. When the total for either reference
7.6.6 For vacuum cleaners using water as the primary filter,
cleaner varies by more than 5 ft·lbf from the original reference
empty the receptacle and refill as recommended by the manu-
rating, replace the test carpet.
facturer before each test.
7.6.7 If the cleaner has a pivoting handle or wand, raise or
7.2 Prior to each of the basic testing segments, lay the
padding (see 5.4) on the platform and place the appropriate lower the carriage handle clamp assembly of the mobility
equipment so that the handle clamp pivot point is 31.5 in. (0.8
carpet on top of the padding, without stretching either one.
Position the carpet in such a way that the forward test strokes m) from the top of the carpet pile. If the handle or wand does
not pivot, adjust for a handle height that will provide maximum
of the cleaner to be tested are with the lay of the carpet.
suction at the nozzle and a parallel contact between the carpet
NOTE 4—The extremes of the stroke can be marked by a tape applied
pile and the bottom surface of the nozzle as determined in
to the test carpet for operator convenience.
7.5.1. Ensure that the strain gauge of the mobility equipment is
7.3 Preconditioning a Test Cleaner: adjusted to measure only the horizontal motion forces. A digital
level is recommended to ensure accuracy of the strain gauge
7.3.1 Run-in the test cleaner at a rated voltage 61 % and
placement.
rated frequency 61 Hz with filters in place, to ensure that the
7.6.8 Mount the vacuum cleaner handle to the handle
motor brushes are properly seated and to precondition the
clamping assembly in a manner that securely clamps the handle
agitator brushes.
gripping area so that the center of the clamping assembly is
7.3.1.1 Preconditioning a Rotating Agitator-Type
positioned at the center of the handle gripping area.
Cleaner—In a stationary position, operate the cleaner for 1 h
7.6.9 Operate the mobility equipment to move the vacuum
with the agitator bristles not engaged on any surface.
forward and backward several times and readjust the carriage
7.3.1.2 Preconditioning a Straight Air Canister Cleaner—
handle clamp as necessary to ensure that the vacuum follows a
Operate for 1 h with wide open inlet (without hose).
straight path on the test carpet.
7.6.10 Set the test cleaner settings in accordance with 7.5.1.
7.4 Calibration Check of the Strain Gauge:
7.4.1 Set the handle clamp of the mobility equipment at 32.5
8. Conditioning
in. above the carpet test platform (carpet and pad not in place).
8.1 Test Room—Maintain the test room in which all condi-
7.4.2 Using the calibration weights per 5.2, check calibra-
tioning and cleaner testing is done at 70 °F 6 5 °F (21 °C 6
tion and linearity of the mobility equipment’s strain gauge.
3 °C) and 45 % to 55 % relative humidity.
7.5 Test Cleaner Settings:
8.2 All components involved in the test must remain and be
7.5.1 If various settings are provided, set the motor speed
exposed in the controlled environment for at least 16 h prior to
setting, suction regulator, or nozzle height, or combination
the start of the test.
thereof, using the manufacturer’s specifications as provided in
the instruction manual for each type of test carpet. Contact the 9. Procedure
manufacturer if no instructions are given, or if the instructions
9.1 Perform this procedure on all test carpets specified in 5.3
are unclear or inadequate.
with the cleaner motor or motors operating at the cleaners
7.5.1.1 The settings used for this test method (nozzle, motor
nameplate rated voltage 61 % and frequency 61 Hz. For
speed, suction regulator, and so forth) for each specific carpet
vacuum cleaners with dual nameplate voltage ratings, conduct
shall be applied for all embedded dirt cleaning effectiveness
testing at the highest voltage.
(Test Method F608), sound power (Test Method F1334), and
9.2 Operate the mobility equipment to push the vacuum
motor life evaluation (Specification F655, Test Methods F884,
cleaner forward in a straight line for 48 in. (1.22 m) at a rate of
F922, and F1038) tests.
1.8 ft/s (0.55 m/s), and to pull the cleaner backward in a
7.6 Mobility Equipment Set-up for Cleaner Testing: straight line for the same distance at the same rate.
F1409 − 23
9.3 Repeat the operations described in 9.2 for ten uninter- 11.1.2 The temperature and humidity conditions existing
rupted cycles recording both the force and distance on the during the test.
mobility equipment’s data collection system.
11.1.3 Record the height of the carriage handle clamp
assembly for future reference and testing of that cleaner.
9.4 9.1 – 9.3 are considered to be one test run. Repeat 9.1 –
9.3 two additional times, for a total of three test runs. The test
12. Precision and Bias
results of each test run shall be recorded separately.
12.1 Precision statements are based on interlaboratory tests
10. Calculation
involving five laboratories and four units.
10.1 From the data collected by the mobility equipment’s
12.2 Repeatability (Single-Operator Laboratory):
data collection system, calculate the average work in ft-lb for
12.2.1 Plush Carpet, Upright Cleaner—The standard devia-
the ten forward strokes of a single test run by multiplying the
tion within a laboratory divided by the average (coefficient of
average force measured for the ten forward strokes by the
variation) with the same analyst has been found to be 1.6 % or
travel distance of 48 in. This equates to determining the
less. Two values should be considered suspect (at the 95 %
average area under the stroke curves (above the zero line) for
confidence level) if they differ by more than 4.5 %.
ten forward strokes (see Fig. 4), and represents the work in ft-lb
12.2.2 Shag Carpet, Upright Cleaner—The standard devia-
required to push the vacuum in the forward direction on the
tion within a laboratory divided by the average (coefficient of
specified carpet. Repeat this calculation to determine the
variation) with the same analyst has been found to be 8.4 % or
average work for the ten reverse strokes for each test run.
less. Two values should be considered suspect (at the 95 %
Record the forward and reverse stroke values separately for
confidence level) if they differ by more than 23.7 %.
each test run.
12.2.3 Single-Level Loop Carpet, Upright Cleaner—The
10.2 Make the necessary calculations to determine if the
standard deviation within a laboratory divided by the average
90 % confidence level has been met along with the repeatabil-
(coefficient of variation) with the same analyst has been found
ity and reproducibility requirements for precision and bias. See
to be 4.2 % or less. Two values should be considered su
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: F1409 − 16 F1409 − 23
Standard Test Method for
Straight Line Movement of Vacuum Cleaners While Cleaning
Carpets
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1409; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers a measurement of the relative work required to move an upright, canister, stick, or combination
vacuum cleaner in a straight line with forward and backward stroking on a selection of typical carpeted surfaces.
1.1.1 This test method measures only the horizontal component of work required to move the vacuum cleaner on carpet.
1.2 This test method can be used in the testing of household and commercial vacuum cleaners.
1.3 This test method measures the relative work needed to move the vacuum cleaner with its motor or motors in operation.
1.4 This test method applies to the vacuum cleaning of carpets only.
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and healthsafety, health, and environmental practices and determine
the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
NOTE 1—The F11.21 subcommittee is actively pursuing new market relevant carpets with the assistance of the carpet industry. Section 12 has been revised
to remove carpets that are no longer available (that is, plush, Frieze).
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
F608 Test Method for Evaluation of Carpet Embedded Dirt Removal Effectiveness of Household/Commercial Vacuum Cleaners
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F11 on Vacuum Cleaners and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F11.20 on Performance (Test
Methods).
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2016Sept. 1, 2023. Published December 2016December 2023. Originally approved in 1992. Last previous edition approved in 20102016
as F1409 – 00 (2010).F1409 – 16. DOI: 10.1520/F1409-16.10.1520/F1409-23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1409 − 23
F655 Specification for Test Carpets and Pads for Vacuum Cleaner Testing (Withdrawn 2022)
F884 Test Method for Motor Life Evaluation of a Built-In (Central Vacuum) Vacuum Cleaner
F922 Test Method for Motor Life Evaluation of an Electric Motorized Nozzle
F1038 Test Method for Motor Life Evaluation of a Canister, Hand-held, Stick, and Utility Type Vacuum Cleaner Without a
Driven Agitator
F1334 Test Method for Determining A-Weighted Sound Power Level of Vacuum Cleaners
3. Summary of Test Method
3.1 Mobility equipment is to be constructed and used to push the vacuum cleaner back and forth on the test carpet in a prescribed
manner during the test. The mobility equipment is to employ a handle clamp assembly with a strain gage,gauge, to be attached
to the vacuum cleaner handle. This strain gagegauge measures the horizontal forces involved in moving only the vacuum on the
test carpet.
3.2 Simultaneously, the incremental distance that the vacuum cleaner moves is also monitored and collected. The force and
distance measurements are then used for calculating the work required to push and pull the vacuum on the test carpet.
3.3 The design of the mobility equipment used in this method is left to the user to develop and construct as there are numerous
design approaches that may be employed for this evaluation. The mobility equipment may be designed to move the vacuum
automatically or manually. Photographs of one design used in the industry to move the vacuum without the assistance of a
technician is provided in Figs. 1-3. It is highly recommended that data acquisition and computerization, with a data sampling rate
of at least ten samples per second, be utilized to improve the speed and accuracy of data measurements.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This test method measures the horizontal component of the relative work required by the user during the cleaning operation
for the movement of a vacuum cleaner in the home or other cleaning location on standardized laboratory carpeting. Work is
determined from the forces measured in the horizontal direction only by the mobility equipment.
4.2 This measurement is relative to the work performed by the user of vacuum cleaners and may be used for comparison between
vacuum cleaners.
FIG. 1 ASTM Mobility Equipment
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
F1409 − 23
FIG. 2 Strain GageGauge and Handle Clamp
FIG. 3 Motion Drive and Data Collection Computer
4.3 The relation between actual vacuum cleaner usage and the method of operation is valid only if the vacuum cleaner user
operates the vacuum cleaner properly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Apparatus
5.1 Mobility Equipment, to move the vacuum cleaner for measuring and determining relative work. This equipment is to be
designed and developed by the user.
F1409 − 23
5.2 Calibration Weights—Precision weights for calibrating the force measuring instrumentation. At least three calibration weights
shall be employed to check and ensure linear calibration of the instrumentation. The precision weights are based on the maximum
rating of the load cell/strain gagegauge that is used, and shall include a 5 lb weight, a half scale half-scale weight, and a full scale
full-scale weight.
5.3 Test Carpets, as specified in Specification F655. Test carpets shall be stored in a vertical position with no weight on the test
surface.
NOTE 2—The test carpets for relative work testing should be limited to that use and not used for other tests such as cleanability.
5.4 Padding, beneath test carpet, as specified in Specification F655.
5.5 Temperature and Humidity Indicators, to provide temperature measurements accurate to 61°F (60.5°C)61 °F (60.5 °C) and
62 % relative humidity.
5.6 Voltmeter, to measure input voltage to the vacuum cleaner, capable of providing measurements accurate within 61 %.
5.7 Voltage Regulator System, to control input voltage to the vacuum cleaner. The regulator system shall be capable of maintaining
the vacuum cleaner’s rated voltage <1 % and rated frequency <1 Hz having a wave form that is essentially sinusoidal with 3 %
maximum harmonic distortion for the duration of the test.
5.8 Rotating Agitator Reference Cleaner, for calibrating test carpets (see 7.1.3).
5.9 Straight Air Canister Reference Cleaner, for calibrating test carpets (see 7.1.3).
6. Sampling
6.1 A minimum of three units of the same model vacuum cleaner, selected at random in accordance with good statistical practice,
shall constitute the population sample.
6.1.1 To determine the best estimate of the total relative work for the population of the vacuum cleaner model being tested, the
arithmetic mean of the relative work of the sample from the population shall be established by testing it to a 90 % confidence level
within 5 % of the mean.
6.1.2 Annex A1 provides a procedural example for determining the 90 % confidence level and when the sample size shall be
increased (see Note 23).
NOTE 3—See Annex A1 for method of determining 90 % confidence level.
7. Preparation of Apparatus and Test Cleaner
7.1 Preconditioning for New Test Carpet Samples:
7.1.1 Cut a sample of each test carpet to a size of 2727 in. by 72 in. (690(690 mm by 1830 mm) minimum. If the warp direction
or “lay” of the carpet can be determined, it shall be in the 72 in. direction. Carpets shall be bound on all sides.
7.1.2 Precondition the entire carpet by cleaning with a rotating agitator-type cleaner. Continue the operation until less than 2 g of
carpet fibers are picked up in 5 min.
7.1.3 After the preconditioning is completed, run calibration tests on each of the carpets to establish a reference rating for one
reference rotating agitator cleaner and one reference straight air canister cleaner to determine when the test carpets need to be
replaced. The reference rating, or relative work for each cleaner, is established using the procedure described in 9.1 – 9.3. The
relative work thus determined for the rotating agitator cleaner and the straight air canister are the reference ratings for the carpets
in new condition.
F1409 − 23
7.1.4 Repeat the calibration tests after every 50 tests on the carpets, using the same reference cleaners. The performance of these
reference cleaners should be maintained through the carpet calibration period. When the total for either reference cleaner varies
by more than 5 ft·lbf from the original reference rating, replace the test carpet.
7.2 Prior to each of the basic testing segments, lay the padding (see 5.4) on the platform and place the appropriate carpet on top
of the padding, without stretching either one. Position the carpet in such a way that the forward test strokes of the cleaner to be
tested are with the lay of the carpet.
NOTE 4—The extremes of the stroke can be marked by a tape applied to the test carpet for operator convenience.
7.3 Preconditioning a Test Cleaner:
7.3.1 Run-in the test cleaner at a rated voltage 61 % and rated frequency 61 Hz with filters in place, to ensure that the motor
brushes are properly seated and to precondition the agitator brushes.
7.3.1.1 Preconditioning a Rotating Agitator-Type Cleaner—In a stationary position, operate the cleaner for 1 h with the agitator
bristles not engaged on any surface.
7.3.1.2 Preconditioning a Straight Air Canister Cleaner—Operate for 1 h with wide open inlet (without hose).
7.4 Calibration Check of the Strain Gage:Gauge:
7.4.1 Set the handle clamp of the mobility equipment at 32.5 in. above the carpet test platform (carpet and pad not in place).
7.4.2 Using the calibration weights per 5.2, check calibration and linearity of the mobility equipment’s strain gage.gauge.
7.5 Test Cleaner Settings:
7.5.1 If various settings are provided, set the motor speed setting, suction regulator, or nozzle height, or combination thereof, using
the manufacturer’s specifications as provided in the instruction manual for each type of test carpet. Contact the manufacturer if
no instructions are given, or if the instructions are unclear or inadequate.
7.5.1.1 The settings used for this test method (nozzle, motor speed, suction regulator, and so forth) for each specific carpet shall
be applied for all embedded dirt cleaning effectiveness (Test Method F608), sound power (Test Method F1334), and motor life
evaluation (Specification F655, Test Methods F884, F922, and F1038) tests.
7.6 Mobility Equipment Set-UpSet-up for Cleaner Testing:
7.6.1 Vacuum the entire test carpet thoroughly for 2 minutesmin with a rotating agitator-type cleaner just prior to the relative work
test to remove any residual dirt that may have accumulated.
7.6.2 Place the test carpet and pad on the carpet test platform of the mobility equipment with the lay of the carpet in the forward
direction.
7.6.3 The cleaner to be tested should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any residual test dirt or dust that could be drawn into the
cleaner’s filtration system.
7.6.4 For vacuum cleaners using disposable filters as the primary filters, use a new disposable primary filter from the manufacturer
for each test.
7.6.5 For vacuum cleaners using non-disposable dirt receptacles, empty in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions before
each test.
7.6.6 For vacuum cleaners using water as the primary filter, empty the receptacle and refill as recommended by the manufacturer
before each test.
F1409 − 23
7.6.7 If the cleaner has a pivoting handle or wand, raise or lower the carriage handle clamp assembly of the mobility equipment
so that the handle clamp pivot point is 31.5 in. (0.8 m) from the top of the carpet pile. If the handle or wand does not pivot, adjust
for a handle height that will provide maximum suction at the nozzle and a parallel contact between the carpet pile and the bottom
surface of the nozzle as determined in 7.5.1. Ensure that the strain gagegauge of the mobility equipment is adjusted to measure
only the horizontal motion forces. A digital level is recommended to ensure accuracy of the strain gagegauge placement.
7.6.8 Mount the vacuum cleaner handle to the handle clamping assembly in a manner that securely clamps the handle gripping
area so that the center of the clamping assembly is positioned at the center of the handle gripping area.
7.6.9 Operate the mobility equipment to move the vacuum forward and backward several times and readjust the carriage handle
clamp as necessary to ensure that the vacuum follows a straight path on the test carpet.
7.6.10 Set the test cleaner settings in accordance with 7.5.1.
8. Conditioning
8.1 Test Room—Maintain the test room in which all conditioning and cleaner testing is done at 70 6 5°F (21 6 3°C) and 4570 °F
6 5 °F (21 °C 6 3 °C) and 45 % to 55 % relative humidity.
8.2 All components involved in the test must remain and be exposed in the controlled environment for at least 16 h prior to the
start of the test.
9. Procedure
9.1 Perform this procedure on all test carpets specified in 5.3 with the cleaner motor or motors operating at the cleaners nameplate
rated voltage 61 % and frequency 61 Hz. For vacuum cleaners with dual nameplate voltage ratings, conduct testing at the highest
voltage.
9.2 Operate the mobility equipment to push the vacuum cleaner forward in a straight line for 48 in. (1.22 m) at a rate of 1.8 ft/s
(0.55 m/s), and to pull the cleaner backward in a straight line for the same distance at the same rate.
9.3 Repeat the operations described in 9.2 for ten uninterrupted cycles recording both the force and distance on the mobility
equipment’s data collection system.
9.4 9.1 – 9.3 are considered to be one test run. Repeat 9.1 – 9.3 two additional times, for a total of three test runs. The test results
of each test run shall be recorded separately.
10. Calculation
10.1 From the data collected by the mobility equipment’s data collection system, calculate the average work in ft-lb for the ten
forward strokes of a single test run by multiplying the average force measured for the ten forward strokes by the travel distance
of 48 in. This equates to determining the average area under the stroke curves (above the zero line) for ten forward strokes (see
Fig. 4), and represents the work in ft-lb required to push the vacuum in the forward direction on the specified carpet. Repeat this
calculation to determine the average work for the ten reverse strokes for each test run. Record the forward and reverse stroke values
separately for each test run.
10.2 Make the necessary calculations to determine if the 90 % confidence level has been met along with the repeatability and
reproducibility requirements for precision and bias. See Annex A1.
11. Report
11.1 Report the following information:
11.1.1 The average of the three readings measured in Section 10.1 in foot-pounds force (newton metres or joules) for the forward
stroke and the reverse stroke, and the absolute sum of these two readings as the total relative work for each carpet. The total relative
work figures should be used in establishing the confidence level.
F1409 − 23
FIG. 4 Typical Graph of Forward and Reverse Stroke Curve
11.1.2 The temperature and humidity conditions existing during the test.
11.1.3 Record the height of the carriage handle clamp assembly for future reference and testing of that cleaner.
12. Precision and Bias
12.1 Precision statements are based on interlaboratory tests involving five laboratories and four units.
12.2 Repeatability (Single-Operator Laboratory):
12.2.1 Plush Carpet, Upright Cleaner—The standard deviation within a laboratory divided by the average (coefficient of variation)
with the same analyst has been found to be 1.6 % or less. Two values should be considered suspect (at the 95 % confidence level)
if they differ by more than 4.5 %.
12.2.2 Multilevel Carpet, Upright Cleaner—The standard deviation within a laboratory divided by the average (coefficient of
variation) with the same analyst has been found to be 6.7 % or less. Two values should be considered suspect (at the 95 %
confidence level) if they differ by more than 19.1 %.
12.2.2 Shag Carpet, Upright Cleaner—The standard deviation within a laboratory divided by the average (coefficient of variation)
with the same analyst has been found to be 8.4 % or less. Two values should be considered suspect (at the 95 % confidence level)
if they differ by more than 23.7 %.
12.2.3 Single-Level Loop Carpet, Upright Cleaner—The standard deviation within a laboratory divided by the average (coefficient
of variation) with the same analyst has been found to be 4.2 % or less. Two values should be considered suspect (at the 95 %
confidence level) if they differ by more than 11.8 %.
12.2.4 Plush Carpet, Straight Air Canister Cleaner—The standard deviation within a laboratory divided by the average
(coefficient of variation) with the same analyst has been found to be 3.5 % or less. Two values should be considered suspect (at
the 95 % confidence level) if they differ by more than 9.9 %.
...