The 6 Best Ash Vacuum cleaner models of 2023 Comparison
Best ash vacuum cleaner: Suppose you have tried cleaning a fireplace or barbecue remains using a broom and a shovel. In that case, you will have noticed how uncomfortable it is, because the ashes fly everywhere and it seems almost impossible to do this properly.
That’s why, in this article, we will present you with the best ash vacuum cleaner (also called industrial vacuum cleaner) and our recommendations for choosing the best model for you.
See our different comparisons on the best robot vacuums.
Comparison of the best ash vacuum cleaner
- DeWALT DXV10P 10-gallon Quiet Poly Wet Dry Vacuum Yellow
- CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17596 20 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vac
- Bissell, Red, MultiClean Wet/Dry Garage and Auto Vacuum Cleaner, 2035M
- Pellethead Ash Vacuum Pro for Fireplaces
- Stanley SL18116 Wet/Dry Vacuum
- WORKPRO 5 Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum
1- DeWALT DXV10P 10-gallon Quiet Poly Wet Dry Vacuum Yellow
DeWALT 10 Gallon Dual: A high-powered, high-capacity ash vacuum cleaner
DeWALT 10 Gallon Dual industrial vacuum cleaner is distinguished by its high-quality construction and resistance to corrosion and humidity, ensuring a long service life and maximum efficiency.
In addition, its capacity of 30 liters and its power of 1800 watts is the highest of our selection. Thanks to all these virtues, it can vacuum dry and wet surfaces with excellent suction power.
In addition, although this vacuum cleaner is the most voluminous of the selection, it has a base with rubber wheels that allow effortless and comfortable handling. Indeed, the connection cable is 8 meters long, and the suction hose is 1.5 meters, which gives you a radius of action of 9.5 meters.
Finally, you will be happy to know that a carpet brush, a bristle brush, a telescopic tube, and a floor tool are included in the delivery of this product to facilitate faster and more efficient cleaning on different surfaces.
Pros
- Stainless steel construction
- 30-liter capacity
- 1800W motor
- Wet and dry suction
- rolling base
- Suitable for various surfaces
- Accessories included
Cons
- It takes up a lot of space
- quite noisy
2- CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17596 20 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vac,
Craftsman CMXEVBE17596: Ash vacuum cleaner with automatic filter cleaning system
This Craftsman model is a high-quality best ash vacuum that stands out for the inclusion of automatic filter cleaning.
This system automatically unclogs the filter and works by simply pressing a button. So you can quickly and easily ensure that the vacuum cleaner always uses maximum power.
On the other hand, I was struck by the fact that it only has 600 watts of power, as it can effectively vacuum ash and broken glass or debris left behind on a job site. The container is about 17 liters, which, although it is the smallest of those analyzed, is enough capacity to avoid emptying it every time you vacuum.
I also liked that it had wheels to make it easier to move the vacuum around the house.
The tank and tube are metal and flame retardant for added peace of mind. Despite everything, I recommend not collecting the ashes when embers remain. It is better to wait until they are entirely cooled because it risks damaging the filter.
On the downside, the price is the highest in the comparison.
Pros
- Automatic filter cleaning
- Filter with metal protection
- High suction power
- Energy efficiency class A+
- Includes wheels for easy movement
Cons
- Few accessories included.
- High price.
3- Bissell, Red, MultiClean Wet/Dry Garage and Auto Vacuum Cleaner, 2035M
Bissell Multiclean 23L: Ash vacuum cleaner for wet and dry cleaning, high power, and seven accessories
- Power: 1500W.
- Capacity: 23 liters.
- Weight: 7.3 kg.
The Bissell model is an ash vacuum and a versatile model. With it, you can vacuum both solids and liquids, and it also includes a blower function. It is, therefore, a very versatile vacuum cleaner because it can clean the interior and exterior of your home.
I particularly liked this model because it includes seven accessories to clean many different surfaces. For me, the ones that stand out the most are the unique accessory for car cleaning, the supplement for upholstery, the multi-surface brush, the nozzle for sucking up liquids, and the nozzle to use as a blower.
To perform all these tasks efficiently, it has a high power of 1500 watts (second only to the Klarstein IVC-30 model with 1800 watts), and the 23-liter tank allows you to clean it for a long time without stopping to empty it.
It is, of course, more prominent than an essential ash vacuum and heavier (7.3 kg, compared to 4 kilograms of ash vacuums), so you must have enough space to store it. What’s nice is that it has wheels that make it easy to move it from place to place for cleaning.
Its high power also makes it a little louder than other conventional or ash vacuums (85dB), but that doesn’t matter too much either, as we all know that no vacuum cleaner is silent.
The filter system consists of a sizeable bag-like filter that contains another filter inside, enclosed in a plastic structure, and the good thing is that both are washable for easy maintenance.
Recommendation:
As a recommendation, I would say that if you are going to be vacuuming up liquids, empty the solids tank because it all collects in the same tank, and if you mix them, you will get a paste that is a bit unpleasant to clean up, at least for me.
Its downside is that it’s very bulky, so I can only store it in one place. Also, the price is a bit high but not as high as the Kärcher model.
Pros
- High power (1500W)
- Ideal for car cleaning
- Wet or dry suction
- Has wheels
- Blow function
- Includes seven accessories
Cons
- Big and heavy
- High price
4- Pellethead Ash Vacuum Pro for Fireplaces,
Pellethead: A cheap and efficient ash vacuum cleaner
The Pellethead ash vacuum cleaner is a very economical model, which has a power of 1200 W (usual in this type of vacuum cleaner), with which you can vacuum the ashes from your fireplace or barbecue without any problem, as long as they are not hot.
If you suck up large chunks of charcoal, they will likely get stuck in the tube, but you can easily pull them out. It has a 20L stainless steel tank which is medium in size (the same as the Cecotec, Stayer, and Powerplus models), more than enough to be able to vacuum several times before having to empty it.
I have noticed that this model does not lose suction power as quickly as I have seen with other ash vacuums, such as the Einhell model or the Stayer. This may be because it comes with a cover for the cartridge filter. Thanks to this cover, much less dirt reaches the filter, and it does not lose as much suction capacity.
On the other hand, it does not include any narrower attachments or mouthpieces, only the tube mouthpiece, which is 35mm, so it is challenging to vacuum in cracks or corners since it is pretty broad.
Another positive is that it includes a blower function, which can be very useful, especially outdoors or on terraces, to blow leaves, for example. However, it is less potent than the blower function. Aspiration.
Pros
- Filter with a protective cover.
- Cartridge filter.
- Blower function.
- Stainless steel construction.
- Cheap.
Cons
- No wheels.
- No accessories.
5- Stanley SL18116 Wet/Dry Vacuum,
STANLEY SL18116: Ash vacuum cleaner that stands out for including a wheeled base for easy transport
The Stanley ash cleaner has a base with wheels, which makes it much more comfortable to move than other models.
Another point that distinguishes it from previous models is that it includes several brushes (for use on more surfaces), so you can use it not only as an ash vacuum cleaner but also as a traditional vacuum cleaner, which makes it very versatile.
What I also liked about this ash vacuum is that it includes a Hepa filter, but it is a bag type, i.e., the dirt does not get embedded as much, and it is more difficult for her to get stuck. In addition, it can be washed, which makes maintenance much less restrictive and faster.
However, I also mention the points that I found the most negative about this model. Although it includes accessories allowing it to be used as a conventional vacuum cleaner, it does not have sufficient suction power for this task. It is tight, especially on surfaces like carpets.
Pros
- Base with wheels.
- Includes two brushes.
- Washable filter.
- Blower function.
- Vacuum various surfaces.
- Good value for money.
Cons
- It heats up a bit
6- WORKPRO 5 Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum,
WorkPro: Ash vacuum cleaner that stands out for its compact design and excellent suction capacity
The WorkPro is a model with a power of 1200 W, and it has a reasonably large suction capacity since it offers 19 KPa.
Its tank has a capacity of 20 L, but you have to clean the filter almost every time you vacuum so that it does not lose its suction power.
The suction nozzle is wide (38 mm), allowing you to suck up more dirt and large debris in less time. The downside is that you can’t get into corners and tight areas because it doesn’t include a smaller nozzle.
The filter clogs too quickly, but I think for the price (about 40€), you can’t ask for much more from this ash vacuum.
Pros
- Compact design
- Easy to carry
- More comprehensive suction tube (38 mm)
- High suction power (19 KPa)
- Cheap
Cons
- No accessories.
- Avoid reaching narrow areas.
Buying guide: Which ash vacuum cleaner to buy?
Removing debris in the house has been made much simpler with the availability of power tools that do the job more efficiently and in less time. This is the case with ash vacuum cleaners, which help properly clean any combustion residue in barbecues, pellet stoves, or fireplaces.
Having a vacuum cleaner at home is always good, especially if it can pick up liquid and solid remains. So you can clean faster without getting your hands dirty and leaving residue.
Most important aspects when buying an industrial/ash vacuum cleaner
Construction materials
Hot ash vacuums must be made up of high-quality and resistant parts and accessories in order to perform their function correctly. In this sense, stainless steel or an aluminum alloy is used as the raw material for the tank and the suction tube.
The rest of the accessories, such as the wheels or the handle, are made of resistant plastic to reduce the product’s weight. In the case of ash vacuums, they must be designed to withstand heat. Although the vacuuming process should be done when the ashes are cold, there is always a risk of vacuuming up charcoal that is still hot. If this happens, the filter will almost certainly be damaged, as it is not designed to withstand heat.
Filter cleaning
Ash vacuum cleaners incorporate one or two filters responsible for retaining fine particles inside the container, thus preventing them from being returned to the air. When the filter is saturated with ash and dust, the vacuum cleaner begins to lose power, and it is necessary to stop suction to shake the filter.
However, some ash vacuums have an automatic filter cleaning system during the process, eliminating the need to stop the void from shaking. The filter is released from the dust overload by pressing a button, returning the product to total suction capacity.
As usual, vacuum cleaners requiring manual filter cleaning are cheaper than those with the automatic system. Choosing one or the other may depend on your budget and how often you use the equipment.
Some models also have filters that are not washable, which you will need to replace after some time (according to the manufacturer’s instructions). Keep this in mind before buying one, in case you want to avoid incurring this expense occasionally.
Suction power
The vacuum cleaners are equipped with an electric motor that generates a powerful flow of air from the outside to the inside. The airflow is used to suck up or blow out the contaminating particles. Vacuum cleaners have a power of around 1200W, providing excellent suction power. If it is a so-called “industrial” model (those that can also vacuum liquids), the emphasis is generally higher because they need more energy to clean the remaining dirt and not just the ash.
However, it is good to know that the vacuum cleaner can be little power to do its job. Indeed, a minimum of 600W (the case of the Kärcher model, for example) is sufficient to suck up dust, ashes, and various overflows. In addition, at medium power, the vacuum system does not have to withstand high pressure, which extends its life.
Diversity of uses
We are talking about an ash vacuum cleaner. But the truth is that there are models capable of vacuuming many other elements, such as dust or broken glass. Likewise, depending on your chosen model, you can clean wet spills like paint.
On the other hand, ash vacuums include a blowing function, ideal for removing dust from doors and windows or scattering leaves from the garage or garden. As you’d expect, it’s a great advantage that the vacuum cleaner you choose can be used for various purposes, saving you the hassle of buying other devices.
Tank capacity
Ash vacuums use a bucket-like container that is completely sealed, so ashes don’t escape during the vacuuming process. This container is usually made of aluminum or stainless steel to make it heat resistant.
Its capacity varies from 15 to 30 liters, depending on the model and size of the vacuum cleaner. We recommend choosing an ash vacuum cleaner with a minimum capacity of 20 liters. So you won’t have to stop the machine in the middle of cleaning to empty the tank.
Ease of transport
When the tank is empty, ash vacuums are pretty light and easy to move around. Some models weigh less than 5 kg. However, when the container is full of ashes, dust, and other contaminants, it can be challenging to transport it to where it needs to be emptied.
That’s why some models of ash vacuums include a base with swivel wheels and a sturdy top handle. Thus, any user can use the product safely and comfortably, sliding it smoothly.
Nozzles and accessories
Ash vacuums are equipped with a flexible hose with an elongated tube-shaped metal end, slightly angled at its end, to facilitate suction. This is particularly useful for vacuuming ashes and coals from a barbecue or fireplace.
However, ash often ends up in crevices or hard-to-reach corners, preventing the vacuum tube from passing. That’s why many vacuum cleaners include a set of nozzles and attachments that allow for deeper, more thorough cleaning.
Some nozzles are small and specially designed to vacuum in very small or narrow areas. Likewise, there are brush-shaped nozzles that are very practical for vacuuming floors, carpets, or upholstery. Be sure to choose a vacuum with attachments like these if you want to use it for more than vacuuming ashes.
Price
You’ll be happy to hear that ash vacuums are priced to suit all budgets, ranging from £30 to £200. In this price range, you’ll find the vacuum cleaner you need to get rid of ashes and do a more efficient cleaning job.
What is an ash vacuum cleaner, and what is it used for?
An ash vacuum is a cleaning device designed to vacuum ash residue from grills, stoves, fireplaces, or any other surface. It consists of a metal container in which the ashes and dust are sucked by a hose or a suction tube.
The deposit accumulates ashes, and other dirt remains without allowing them to escape into the environment. This degree of airtightness is achieved through one or more filters inside the container. This way, complete cleaning can be carried out and the air is purified from ash.
An ash cleaner is a perfect tool for those who use a combustion heating system, such as fireplaces or pellet stoves. They are also widely used by barbecue enthusiasts to remove leftover ashes, coals, and wood.
Types of ash vacuums (industrial)
In principle, there are two models of ash vacuum cleaners. On the one hand, we have vacuum cleaners, which have an electric motor and all the characteristics necessary to suck up particles of this type. They are very often used for cleaning industrial ovens or large wood-burning stoves.
On the other hand, ash vacuum cleaners do not have their own electric motor to generate the suction force. To work, these models need the help of a traditional vacuum cleaner connected to the container by a second air intake. The ash particles are attracted by the suction force of the vacuum cleaner but do not reach the vacuum cleaner because they are trapped in the container.
Benefits of having an industrial vacuum cleaner
Since ashes are more challenging to clean with traditional methods, using a brush and shovel, it is essential to have an ash vacuum cleaner. The task is carried out efficiently, quickly, and with greater efficiency.
However, one of the main reasons why an ash vacuum cleaner is preferable is the level of safety it provides to the user. Sometimes a small portion of the ash may still be hot enough to melt the plastic and cause severe burns.
A typical vacuum cleaner would be badly damaged, like a brush and dustpan. On the other hand, Ash vacuums are designed to withstand the heat generated by hot coal you accidentally suck up.
In addition, the airtight metal container can retain even the most minor dust and ash particles inside, thus preventing you from breathing them.
On the other hand, cleaning fireplaces, stoves, and barbecues with a vacuum cleaner are carried out more carefully and hygienically than with a traditional method. The suction tube captures everything in its path without kicking up dust or leaving buildup in crevices and corners.
Indeed, the benefits of using an ash vacuum are multiplied when the product can vacuum wet debris and has a blow-out function. In other words, you will have a versatile tool and, therefore, will not need to buy other cleaning devices, which will save you money and storage space in your home. Home.
Why buy an ash and wet vacuum cleaner?
The main reason for buying a vacuum cleaner that picks up liquids and ashes is to have a single product that can be used for different tasks. Only some people can or do not want a specific vacuum cleaner for each area or surface of the house.
So if you buy a vacuum cleaner that not only sucks up ashes but also collects liquids and includes a blower function, you avoid buying 2 (or more) different vacuum cleaners for these tasks. They are usually instrumental, especially for large deck or patio users.
Additionally, these ash or industrial vacuums also tend to include more attachments than models that only vacuum ashes, so there will be more surfaces for you to use, and it can even replace a conventional vacuum cleaner.
The only downsides are that they tend to be more expensive and bulkier, so if you have limited space, think carefully before purchasing a model like this.
Tips for using an ash vacuum cleaner
To get the most out of your ash vacuum cleaner, we recommend you pay attention to some tips and safety measures. In addition to following the instructions in the user manual, please note the following:
- Vacuum only when the fire is ultimately out, and the ashes are cold.
- The container should only be opened when the appliance is switched off and unplugged to avoid any electrical risk.
- Remember to clean the filter frequently, if possible immediately after using the vacuum cleaner.
- Only use filters compatible with the device’s brand and model to avoid poor quality or faulty suction. You are not only putting the performance of the equipment at risk but also your health.
- Never use a conventional vacuum cleaner to suck up the ashes. These models are not designed to contain the fine particles released by combustion.
- Wear a mask, eye protection, and gloves when cleaning the fireplace, stove, or grill. It is also necessary to use the minimum safety equipment to empty the contents of the container.
How to clean an ash vacuum?
Here are some tips for cleaning and maintaining ash vacuums. If you stick to them, you will notice that the machine will retain its power and suction ability much longer.
- Remember to empty the tank, regardless of its storage capacity, frequently. This is especially important if you use a vacuum to clean wet and dry spots.
- Keep the filters clean and replace them whenever necessary. Some filters are washable, while others are disposable. Also, always keep spares on hand to replace them at the end of their life.
- Unplug the vacuum cleaner when not in use. This can avoid product internal system problems and save energy. Also, store it in a clean place and do not expose it to the weather.
- Although vacuums are designed to withstand the presence of hot coals, it is best to vacuum when the ashes are cool.
How do you remove the filter from an ash vacuum?
Cleaning your ash vacuum filter depends on your model, as not all models use the same filtering system.
If your model’s filters are washable (check the user manual), you must remove them and clean them under the tap. You can add a little detergent to remove any remaining impurities.
It is imperative to be completely dry before putting them back in the vacuum cleaner.
If your vacuum’s ash filter isn’t washable, you’ll need to shake it occasionally, tapping it lightly to loosen the ashes. Another way to clean it is to use a brush to remove adhering dirt. Some users even use an air compressor to clean it or a traditional vacuum cleaner to suck up any ash or dust the filter may have.
Some models incorporate a filter cleaning system activated by pressing a button or a small lever and automatically shaking the filter.
Always check that the filter is in good condition before putting it back in the vacuum cleaner. Otherwise, you risk damaging the motor or releasing dust or ash outside.
Frequently asked questions about ash vacuum cleaner.
1- Are ash vacuum cleaners very noisy?
All vacuums make noise that is hard to ignore, and ash vacuums are no exception. However, there are models with a noise level below 65 decibels, enough to vacuum comfortably. If you think noise will be a problem, choose an ultra-quiet vacuum cleaner.
2- What can I do with the ashes?
Inevitably, ash residue builds up and can become a problem if you need help finding an effective way to dispose of it. If you have a yard or garden at home, it is best to bury the ashes, as they are a rich source of plant nutrients.
If you don’t have a garden or yard, it’s best to put the ashes in with the rest of the trash at least once a week.
3- What can I do if the suction pipe is clogged?
This can happen if a massive piece of wood or coal gives way to the force of suction and gets stuck in the pipe. In this case, the best thing to do is to turn off the vacuum cleaner and, remove the hose, then remove the obstruction. Do not strike the pipe or insert sharp objects into it.
4- Can I clean up spills with my ash vacuum?
Yes, but remember that not all models have this feature. To be sure and avoid misusing your vacuum cleaner, consult the product’s user manual or the technical sheet. On the other hand, remember to wash the container immediately after vacuuming up a spilled liquid.
5- Should I cool the ashes with water to vacuum them?
This is not recommended, as the water can end up turning the ash pile into a paste that is difficult to suck up. It is best to wait for the ashes to cool naturally.
6- How long should I wait for the ashes to cool?
Depending on the size and intensity of the fire, you may have to wait several hours or up to an entire day for the ashes to be completely extinguished and cooled. You can stir the ashes to speed up the cooling process and ensure there are no hot coals.
7- Can the ashes be vacuumed with a conventional vacuum cleaner?
This is not recommended, as conventional vacuum filters are not designed to retain particles as fine as ash. The absorption system could be damaged beyond repair.
