Living in an apartment or a smaller home often means compromising on appliances. You want clean carpets, but you simply don’t have the closet space for a massive, commercial-grade machine like the SmartWash+. For years, the compromise was using a tiny spot cleaner for your whole floor—backbreaking work.

The Hoover PowerDash Pet Advanced (FH55050PC) aims to solve this dilemma. It packs the power of a full-sized upright into a frame that weighs just 13 pounds. Unlike the original PowerDash, this “Advanced” model includes a hose and tools for above-floor cleaning, making it a versatile powerhouse.

But does “compact” mean weak? We analyzed its cleaning path, tank capacity, and the effectiveness of its PowerSpin Brush Roll to see if it can handle real-world pet messes without needing a refill every two minutes.

1. What is the PowerDash Pet Advanced?

The Hoover PowerDash Pet Advanced is a lightweight, upright carpet cleaner designed for high-traffic areas and small spaces. It sits right in the “Goldilocks” zone: much more powerful than a portable spot cleaner like the CleanSlate Plus, but half the weight (and size) of a traditional carpet shampooer.

It features an Antimicrobial PowerSpin Brush Roll that digs deep into carpet fibers to lift dirt, while the nozzle cover is removable for easy cleaning—a must-have feature for pet owners dealing with fur.

2. Key Features Breakdown

Above Floor Cleaning (The Big Upgrade)

The standout feature of the “Advanced” model is the inclusion of a hose and spot cleaning tool. The original PowerDash could only clean floors. This model lets you attach a hose to clean sofa cushions, stairs, and even car interiors, making it a true all-in-one solution for small homes.

PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll

The brush roll is treated with antimicrobial protection to help prevent odor-causing bacteria from growing on the bristles. The spiral design is aggressive enough to pull up embedded pet hair but gentle enough for area rugs.

HeatForce™ Power

Like its big brother, the SmartWash, the PowerDash utilizes HeatForce technology. It directs warm air from the motor exhaust onto the carpet to speed up drying. While not instant, it significantly reduces the “wet sock” feeling after cleaning.

3. Performance: Pet Stains & Drying

High Traffic Hero

This machine excels at “paths”—hallways, entryways, and the spaces between furniture. Because it is lightweight (13 lbs), you can grab it for a quick 10-minute refresh of a walkway without the exhaustion of lugging a heavy machine. The suction is surprisingly strong for its size, pulling up dark, murky water that proves it’s working.

The Tank Trade-Off

The compromise for its compact size is tank capacity. The clean water tank holds 0.5 gallons. For a small bedroom or area rug, this is perfect. However, if you try to clean a large living room, be prepared to refill the tank 2-3 times. It is a trade-off of convenience vs. capacity.

4. Advanced vs. Original PowerDash

Is it worth paying extra for the “Advanced” model?

• Original PowerDash: Floor cleaning ONLY. No hose. Good for rugs.
• PowerDash Advanced: Includes hose + upholstery tool. Cleans stairs and furniture.

Verdict: Yes. The ability to clean stairs and upholstery makes the Advanced model infinitely more useful for pet owners.

5. Technical Specifications

6. Pros & Cons

7. Buyer’s Guide: Who Needs This?

The Hoover PowerDash Pet Advanced is the perfect choice for:

• Apartment Renters: Fits easily in a small closet but cleans better than a rental.
• Older Adults: The lightweight design (13 lbs) is much easier to push than 20lb behemoths.
• Pet Owners: Great for frequent, quick cleanups of “accident” spots without the hassle of a full-size setup.

If you have a large home with wall-to-wall carpet, upgrade to the Bissell ProHeat 2X. For everyone else, this is the smart buy.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Does it work on area rugs?

Yes, it is excellent for area rugs. Just be sure to test a small corner first for colorfastness, and don’t soak the rug so much that water damages the floor underneath.

How do I clean the brush roll?

The nozzle cover pops off, allowing you to pull out hair and debris. The brush roll itself is removable on this model for deep cleaning.

Does it heat the water?

No, it uses HeatForce (hot air) to dry the carpet, but it does not have an internal water heater. Always fill the tank with hot tap water.

Is the solution tank separate?

No, on this compact model, you pre-mix the water and solution in the single Clean Water Tank. There is a fill line to help you measure.