What's the difference between Henry hoover and Numatic? Exploring the Differences: Henry Hoover and Numatic Vacuum Cleaners Explained
What's the difference between Henry hoover and Numatic? Quick Response – Numatic is the company that produces the Henry Hoover. They also offer commercial variants of Henry, which are branded as "Numatic." Although these models vary in several ways, they also have many common features and appear quite similar visually. All of them are manufactured by the same company in the same facility known as Numatic.
Before we dive into this article, it’s important to highlight the use of the term ‘hoover,’ which is prevalent in UK society. This terminology stems from the tremendous success of the Hoover vacuum cleaner brand in the past. In the UK, we have adopted ‘hoover’ as a generic term for all vacuum cleaners, largely due to Hoover's significant market share in previous generations. Additionally, the act of vacuuming is often referred to as ‘hoovering.’ To be technically accurate, any vacuum cleaner that isn’t a Hoover should be called a vacuum cleaner. However, for the sake of simplicity and relevance to the commonly referred Henry Hoover, we will continue to use the term ‘hoover’ throughout this article.
What is a Numatic Vacuum Cleaner?
Numatic International, located in Chard, Somerset, UK, is internationally recognised for its development and production of commercial and industrial cleaning equipment. Their offerings encompass vacuum cleaners of various sizes and applications, including both wet and dry models, specialised vacuum cleaners for hazardous dust, carpet cleaning machines, and a range of floor scrubbers. This includes walk-behind floor scrubber dryers as well as large ride-on versions. Take a look at our Buy Numatic Cleaning Equipment and Machines page for all Numatic product offerings.
While many outside the cleaning industry may not realise it, the iconic and beloved Henry Hoover vacuum cleaner is produced by Numatic. The "Henry" line specifically refers to domestic vacuum cleaners designed for home use, while Numatic is the manufacturer of Henry, offering a wide variety of products and models beyond just the "Henry" series.
Is Numatic a British Company?
Founded in 1969 in the quaint town of Crewkerne, Somerset, England, Numatic began its journey by creating its first commercial vacuum cleaner designed for cleaning coal, oil, and gas-fired boilers. Initially, the company employed just six people in a factory smaller than a garage, equipped with little more than a drill. The early vacuum cleaner designs were crafted from a mix of oil drums and everyday components, such as suitcase handles, furniture castors, and domestic washing-up bowls. These were assembled to create a simple, reliable workhorse for commercial and industrial use.
As demand surged, Numatic developed its first serious commercial vacuum cleaner, the NV-2, closely followed by the original and highly successful NV-250. Both machines were constructed entirely from steel, and many are still operational today, over 40 years later.
Who Makes Henry Hoover?
In 1981, after more than a decade of research and development, Numatic gained a reputation for producing durable and dependable commercial and industrial vacuum cleaners. This led to the birth of Henry (HVC), a product that incorporated all the lessons learned into a simple and reliable design suitable for home use. Henry became the first Numatic International model to feature a name on its lid, which resembled a bowler hat, replacing the previous "Numatic" brand logo.
As of 2025, sales of Henry vacuums have surpassed 15 million units, a number that only reflects the Henry model itself. Additionally, millions of other Numatic-branded models have been sold during the same period. It’s important to note that throughout Henry’s production run, Numatic has continued to manufacture commercial vacuum cleaners under various model numbers that closely resemble Henry. Ultimately, whether you choose a Henry or a Numatic vacuum cleaner often depends on your particular needs and location at that specific time. Henry vacuums are more commonly found in large retail stores, while both Henry and Numatic models are frequently available in specialised vacuum cleaner shops, cleaning equipment suppliers, and tool stores.
How many different types of Henry Hoovers are there?
Acknowledging the success and growing demand for their offerings, Numatic broadened its range by introducing additional machines aimed at the domestic market. Some of these new models were tailored for various applications, while others closely mirrored Henry, featuring different sizes, capacities, and a variety of tools and accessories.
Notable Additions:
- Charles - Launched in 1983, this model was designed to handle both wet and dry materials.
- James - Introduced in 1985 for the commercial sector, this model lacked the rewinding mains cable feature found in the Henry, a distinction that remains today.
- George - Released in 1989, George was created as an all-in-one carpet cleaner. His carpet cleaning function continues to be immensely popular.
- Hetty - A playful abbreviation of Henrietta, Hetty was launched in 2007, sporting a pink design and charming eyelashes, specifically marketed towards women.
Over the years, several other names have graced the top hat of Numatic vacuum cleaners, including David, William, Edward, Basil, Wendy, Bertie, Jack, John, Lewis, and more.
In the past, if you were a dealer or a larger Numatic customer and committed to a production run of 250 vacuum cleaner units, you had the chance to feature an exclusive name printed on the top hat directly from the factory. Numerous contract cleaning companies and businesses seized this opportunity. Therefore, if you encounter an older Henry-type vacuum cleaner showcasing the iconic eyes along with a distinctive name on its top hat, it is probably a Numatic vacuum cleaner.
Henry began his journey with a capacity of 9 liters. He was equipped with a manually rewinding mains cable that could be retracted into the head, ensuring the cable stayed safe and out of the way. Additionally, Henry utilised an internal dust bag to collect debris during vacuuming.
Henry featured a primary filter located on top of the dust bag, beneath the main head. The suction hose attached to Henry's nose, while the three-piece wand suction tubes—often made of stainless steel—could be connected, with the floor nozzle fitted onto the end of these tubes.
Henry also included a crevice nozzle, upholstery nozzle, and dusting brush. In this regard, Henry has seen little change over the past 40 years, and this successful combination of design and tools continues to thrive today!
Which is the Best Henry Hoover from the Henry Hoover range?
Over the years, Henry has largely preserved its original design. While there have been a few updates and perhaps some name modifications—typically reflecting additional tools and accessories offered with specific Henry models, increased capacity beyond the standard, or upgraded filters—selecting the perfect model ultimately depends on your individual cleaning needs. With such a variety available within the Henry Hoover family, determining the best Henry vacuum is subjective and tailored to your requirements.
The standard Henry, Hetty and Numatic vacuums are reliable machines that can handle nearly any cleaning task with minimal hassle. However, numerous other options exist, which may be more suitable based on your specific needs.
For pet owners, the Henry Pet and Harry models are preferable to the original Henry, while George and Charles are better choices if you're seeking a wet and dry vacuum.
Additionally, several Henry models feature unique selling points, including the Henry Xtra—a slide upgrade with extra tools—Henry Allergy, Henry Wash, and Henry Micro. There’s even the Henry Cordless, the only cord-free vacuum in the Henry lineup.
With such a diverse selection, it can be challenging to choose an absolute favorite. Nonetheless, since all these hoovers come from Numatic, you can be confident that whichever model you choose, you'll be getting an excellent vacuum.
Here are a few examples and their features.
- Henry Xtra: Comes with an additional air-driven turbo brush or brushes alongside the standard floor tool nozzle.
- Henry XL: Offers a larger capacity of 15 litres.
- Henry Pet: Equipped with an odour-reducing charcoal-activated filter.
- Henry Allergy & Henry Clean Air: Feature advanced HEPA filtration systems.
- Henry Cordless: A battery-operated model without a plug-in mains cable.
Henry or Numatic?
Many people who have come across a Henry Hoover in a commercial environment may wonder why it looks like Henry yet is named Numatic. Is this a case of someone adopting the beloved Henry design? The answer is no. What you're actually seeing is a commercial version of Henry. More frequently, you might notice it in business settings like stores or offices, but since they are fundamentally the same, they are often used in home environments as well.
Why Do Commercial Cleaners Prefer Henry?
In short, commercial cleaners choose Henry because it is user-friendly, compact for storage, budget-friendly, and dependable. Additionally, it's widely recognized that Henry, or any Numatic vacuum, can withstand bumps and falls without issue. Many Numatic vacuums and Henry models have been reliably used day-in and day-out for over twenty, thirty, and even forty years.
These products are undeniably designed for durability. In the business world, time equates to money, and having a faulty tool can lead to costly downtime. Numatic Henry has demonstrated its reliability in commercial settings for many years, which is why cleaners trust it for long-lasting performance.
Check out or full Cylinder Vacuum Cleaner range. Including Numatic and other well known brands, ideal for commercial cleaning.
Should I Buy A Henry or Numatic hoover?
So, what are the differences between Numatic-branded Henry Hoovers and those simply labeled as Henry? Are they genuinely the same?
We understand that Henry Hoover and Numatic vacuum cleaners are produced in the same factory in the UK.
Both Henry and Numatic vacuum cleaners utilize the same dust bags, identified by product code NVM-1CH Hepa-Flo, along with the same filter—unless the model specifically includes HEPA filters, such as the Henry Allergy or Numatic PPR 170-H.
For models with a capacity of 15 litres or less, Henry and Numatic vacuum cleaners feature a 32mm diameter hose fitting, compatible with the nose, as well as 32mm wand tubes and tools.
Both Henry and Numatic vacuum cleaners are equipped with two large fixed wheels at the rear of the unit and two multi-directional castors at the front for easy manoeuvrability.
As of the time this article was written, both Henry and most smaller Numatic vacuum cleaners of a similar size utilise the same high-performance 620-watt electric suction motor. This means that if you purchase a Henry or a Numatic-branded vacuum, you can expect pretty much identical power and suction performance. In the past, older Henry and Numatic vacuum cleaners were equipped with a 1000-watt suction motor. However, due to EU legislation, you will not find a current Henry or Numatic vacuum of similar size featuring a motor greater than 900 watts for dry home use.
It is important to note that larger Numatic models classified as industrial or semi-industrial, whether for wet or dry use, can still have 1000-watt suction motors. In fact, some Numatic models even come with two or three suction motors. However, we believe that in a domestic setting, the size and power of these larger models would be unnecessary for typical home use.
Comparing Henry and Numatic Vacuum Cleaners. What sets Henry and Numatic vacuum cleaners apart?
This is where things get intriguing, and we hope to provide some guidance to help readers make an informed decision. That said, whether you opt for a Henry or a Numatic, they will fundamentally function in a nearly identical manner. Both are designed to pick up dirt from the floor and utilise the same dust bags, tools, and accessories.
Currently, in 2025, the standard Henry vacuum cleaner, unless specified as an XL version, boasts a capacity of 6 liters. In contrast, the best-selling commercial Numatic model, the NRV-240, which is also red, offers a larger capacity of 9 liters. This additional capacity allows for extended periods between dust bag changes.
The standard Henry comes with a mains cable length of 10 meters, while most Numatic vacuum models, including the NRV-240, feature a longer mains cable of 12.5 metres. This extra 2.5 metres is beneficial for enhancing reach during vacuuming, reducing the need to search for power outlets when you run out of range.
Numatic Branded Vacuum Cleaners: The Nucable Advantage
Except for the NRV-240 model, Numatic vacuum cleaners feature a highly convenient option known as Nucable. This innovative design allows users to replace the mains cable if it becomes damaged, all without the need for tools or specialized skills.
Key Features:
- Ease of Replacement: The Nucable mains cable includes a moulded socket that easily plugs into the vacuum cleaner.
- Safety First: Always ensure the mains cable is unplugged from the power outlet before starting this procedure.
- Minimised Downtime: Designed for commercial cleaning, the Nucable feature enables quick changes to the mains cable, significantly reducing equipment downtime.
In contrast, the standard Henry vacuum lacks this Nucable quick-change feature. Replacing a damaged mains cable on a Henry involves dismantling the top hat and rewiring a new cable, which requires electrical expertise and may incur additional costs. This is an important point to consider, as it can be quite easy to damage a mains cable, for example, by trapping it under a door. Consequently, the Henry would remain out of service until you can find someone qualified to complete the wired replacement.
Another bonus, Numatic vacuum models equipped with the rewinding mains cable function, like Henry, include a reinforced bumper moulded into the body, providing extra protection for both the vacuum cleaner and any obstacles it may encounter.
In recent years, Numatic has introduced models in black, featuring their innovative Re-flo technology. This technology utilizes recycled plastic in the molding process during manufacturing. By incorporating ReFlo recycled plastic, Numatic minimises the use of virgin plastic while ensuring the same level of quality and durability in their products. ReFlo Technology employs high-quality recycled materials, including post-industrial and post-consumer plastics, throughout the Numatic range. The models differ in their recycled plastic content, with a minimum of 25% and reaching up to 45%. This is a fantastic enhancement for Numatic vacuum cleaners, catering to those seeking a more sustainable option.
Pricing Comparison of Henry Hoovers and Numatic Vacuum Cleaners
Now, let's delve into what many consider the most crucial aspect: the pricing of Henry hoovers and Numatic vacuum cleaners. Generally, unless a major retailer is running a promotion, Numatic-branded vacuum cleaners are often available at a lower price compared to Henry models.
If a Henry and a Numatic vacuum cleaner were identical in every respect, the choice wouldn't be particularly significant. However, since Numatic-branded versions typically offer larger capacities, longer mains cables, and often include the same tools and attachments (unless specified for certain Henry models like Henry Xtra or Henry Pet), opting for a Numatic model over a standard Henry definitely makes economic sense!
Current Numatic Branded Vacuum Cleaner Models to Consider
(This list will be updated as new models are released)
- Numatic NRV-240: 9-litre, Red with eyes
- Numatic PPR-170: 7.2-litre, Black with no eyes, constructed from recycled plastic
- Numatic PPR-170-H: 7.2-litre with advanced HEPA filtration, Black with no eyes, constructed from recycled plastic – Our best seller!
- Numatic PPR-180: 8-litre, Black with no eyes, without the cable rewinding function found on Henry, constructed from recycled plastic – Often the most affordable Numatic option.
Eco-Friendly and Energy-Conserving Numatic Vacuum Cleaner Options
For environmentally conscious consumers, there are two Numatic models equipped with a lower power 420-Watt vacuum suction motor and Re-Flo recycled plastic construction, ensuring energy-saving benefits:
- Numatic ERP-170: 7.2-litre, Black with no eyes, constructed from recycled plastic
- Numatic ERP-180: 8-litre, Black with no eyes, without the cable rewinding function found on Henry, constructed from recycled plastic
Trade and Renovation Enthusiasts Numatic Vacuum Cleaner Options
It’s definitely worth considering the new Numatic TRM-240 model. The TRM-240 is certified and compliant with M-Class standards, featuring advanced filtration while retaining almost all of Henry’s functionalities.
Where to Buy a Henry Hoover or Numatic Vacuum Cleaner?
At MK Floortec, we take great pride in our partnership with Numatic, which has lasted for over 40 years. While we may not have an exact count, we can confidently say that tens of thousands of Henry and Numatic branded vacuum cleaners have passed through our doors. When you purchase a Henry or Numatic vacuum cleaner from MK Floortec, you can rest assured that you are buying from official dealers with decades of expertise in all things related to Henry and Numatic. We are committed to providing you with the best advice, pricing, and support. Whether you're a business seeking reliable commercial cleaning equipment or a homeowner looking for a trusty vacuum, MK Floortec is your go-to source for Numatic products. Our extensive knowledge and experience enable us to guide you to the perfect solution tailored to your specific cleaning needs.
We're proud to offer not only a wide selection of Numatic vacuum cleaners, including the iconic Henry range, but also an array of floor cleaning machines and accessories. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that you receive exceptional customer service and support. From helping you choose the right model to providing after-sales care, we are here to assist every step of the way.
By choosing MK Floortec, you gain access to genuine Numatic products, competitive pricing, and a wealth of knowledge from a trusted partner in the cleaning industry. Explore our offerings today, and discover why so many customers continue to rely on us for their cleaning equipment needs.
Take a look at our range of Numatic Vacuum Cleaners below, with free UK delivery when you spend over £99.
