My vacuum JUST went out - completely lost suction and nothing is clogged in the tubes. I needed a new one but now it is just before Christmas and I worry I will get stuck with something on a VERY tight budget rather than what I would like. I didn't keep up with info on sales of vacuums, anything out there right now? I will probably need to pick it up in a retail store than to look for deals online, just no time to wait for the delivery before Christmas.

Also - how do you like Dyson? I have severe allergies and need HEPA filter but the bagless technology in Dyson worries me...

Thanks for any input!