Upright vacuums, like cars, vary in quality, features and performance. Like automobiles, some uprights are reliable, others may be problematic, and some become a problem as a result of neglect or improper use. So, how do education institutions make an informed choice and, having done so, ensure that an upright vacuum goes the distance? In this article, the author provides the "under-the-hood" facts and long-term issues that custodial departments at education institutions have to consider when evaluating their upright vacuum.