Significance and Use
4.1 This test method provides an indication of the capability of the vacuum cleaner to remove embedded dirt from carpeting. This test method is based upon results of home cleaning tests so that, in most cases, a reasonable correlation exists between home and laboratory results. The amount of dirt picked up in the laboratory test may not be the same as in the home; however, it will show that, in most cases, a vacuum cleaner that performs well in the laboratory will perform well in a home. Laboratory results may differ due to variations in the homes, carpets, dirt, and other factors (see Section 6).
4.2 In order to provide a uniform basis for measuring the performance described in 1.1, standardized test carpets and a standardized test dirt are employed in this procedure.
Scope
1.1 This test method covers only a laboratory test for determining the relative carpet dirt removal effectiveness of household/commercial vacuum cleaners when tested under specified conditions.
1.2 This test method is applicable to household/commercial types of upright, canister, and combination cleaners.
1.3 The test method applies to embedded dirt removal from carpets, not the removal of surface litter and debris.
Note 1: The F11.21 subcommittee is actively pursuing new market relevant carpets with the assistance of the carpet industry. Although plush and Frieze carpet panels are no longer available for purchase, some laboratories may still have samples for testing. In such cases, the table values remain valid.
Note 2: Due to the influence of environmental conditions, variations in time, origin of test materials, and proficiency of the operator, most of the described test methods will give more reliable results when applied for comparative testing of a number of appliances at the same time, in the same laboratory, and by the same operator until a new interlaboratory study has been completed to provide repeatability and reproducibility values.
1.4 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.
1.5 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.
1.6 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.
