I've had this vacuum for a few years now and it works great! It does get weak,  but what I love most about canister vacuums is that if you wash all the components squeaky clean and give them a couple days to dry out,  the vacuum is practically new again and the suction is back to new.  Please make sure you allow plenty of time to dry. If you use it before it's completely dry it will smell horrible.  No bags or refill parts to buy.  Love this vacuum!