Why not repair it yourself? or at least try... If you end up Breaking it, you would only be out a couple bucks...
I am a pretty big DIYer, i try to do everything myself.. From re-building the head on one of my cars, to fixing random appliances around the house.
I will share what i learned about vacuum's. There is a Vacuum shop that i go to, to get the bags for my vacuum. I asked the guy about the Dysons and other bagless machines. He said, that they do not clean as good as a quality bagged machine. He continued to say, he bought back 15,000$ worth of Dysons that he sold, due to poor quality of the machine.
Good luck on your search.. I understand the need for a good vacuum, i have 2 german shepherds, and have to vacuum 2X a week minimum, to keep the dog hair to a minium...
He is spot on on his assessment. Also keep in mind that this is from a sellers perspective. He is NOT trying to sell you what will net him the highest margins (which Dysons certainly are). Support his business!
I have also found Dysons are more marketing hype than anything else and the build quality is not good enough to pay that premium.
I currently have a Kenmore from sears that's 2 or 3 years old. It has been an excellent machine and I think it only cost around $120.
