Shop vacuums, also known as wet/dry vacuums, are extremely useful tools for DIYers, professionals, and home owners. They allow you to clean up wet or dry messes quickly and efficiently. The key component that enables a shop vac to do its job is the filter. Shop vac filters capture all the debris, dust and liquid that is sucked up by the vacuum. Over time, these filters can get very dirty and clogged. This leads many people to wonder – can you wash shop vac filters to extend their life?
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How do shop vac filters work?
Shop vacs pull debris and liquid into the tank through the suction inlet. The air and particles then pass through a filter before exiting the vacuum. Shop vac filters are made of a few different materials:
| Filter Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Paper | These are the most common and inexpensive filters. The layered paper fibers trap debris. |
| Foam | Foam filters feature open pores that capture particles while still allowing air to pass through. |
| Fleece | Fleece filters made from synthetic fibers also catch debris in small openings in the material. |
The filter captures all manner of dust, dirt, drywall dust, sawdust, pet hair and more. Over time, the filter becomes harder to breathe through as all these particles clog up the fibers. At a certain point, no air can pass through and the shop vac loses suction power.
Should you wash or replace shop vac filters?
When your shop vac filter becomes very dirty, you have two options:
1. Wash the filter
2. Replace the filter
Whether you can wash your shop vac filter depends on the material:
| Filter Material | Washable? |
|---|---|
| Paper | No, paper filters cannot be washed |
| Foam | Yes, foam filters can be washed |
| Fleece | Yes, fleece filters can be washed |
Paper filters are made of layered fibers that trap debris. Washing them would damage or destroy the fine fibers that filter particles, rendering the filter useless.
Foam and fleece filters, on the other hand, can withstand washing. The woven synthetic fibers or porous foam rebound after washing. With proper maintenance, you can reuse foam and fleece shop vac filters many times.
Replacing filters is easier but washing them saves money in the long run. You just need to take some precautions when cleaning shop vac filters.
How to wash a shop vac filter
Washing foam and fleece shop vac filters helps remove built-up debris and restore suction power. Here are some tips:
1. Check the manufacturer guidelines
While you can wash most foam and fleece filters, check your shop vac manual first. Some brands may recommend replacing the filter instead of washing.
Look up the exact model number to get the manufacturer’s advice. Following their guidelines preserves the warranty and ensures safe, effective filtration.
2. Remove large debris
Before placing the filter under running water, use a dry brush, rag or your fingers to dislodge any wet clumps or large debris caught in the filter. Removing these will prevent them from breaking up and re-depositing back into the filter fibers.
3. Use a hose or sink
Take the filter outside and use a garden hose to spray it down. The water pressure will help dislodge particles trapped deep in the filter fibers.
You can also use a sink inside: place the filter in a sink or tub and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Scrub gently with a brush if needed.
4. No soap
Do not use any soap, detergent or cleaning solutions when washing a shop vac filter. Even mild dish soap or detergent residues can degrade the filter over time. Just rinse thoroughly with plain water.
5. Air dry completely
After rinsing, shake off excess water and allow the filter to air dry fully before re-installing. Place it in a warm area with airflow, outside in the sun, or use a fan to speed up drying.
Putting a damp filter back in the vac can allow mold and bacteria to grow.
6. Check condition
Inspect the filter after washing. Very old or worn out filters may fall apart after a washing. If the fibers look damaged, frayed or broken down, it’s time to replace the filter with a new one.
7. Optional disinfecting
For filters that have been used to pick up mold, bacteria or other questionable substances, consider disinfecting the filter after the plain water wash.
White vinegar is a great all-natural disinfectant. Soak the filter for 15-20 minutes in a 50/50 vinegar and water solution. Then rinse thoroughly with plain water again and allow to fully air dry.
Signs your shop vac filter needs washing
Don’t wait until your shop vac has zero suction to wash the filter! Stay on top of filter maintenance with these signs that it’s time for a cleaning:
- Decreased suction power – Having to go over the same spot multiple times is a clue the filter needs a rinse.
- Dust blowing out the exhaust – See dust around the vacuum exhaust? The filter is not trapping particles anymore.
- Motor sounds strained – If the motor seems to be working harder, the filter is likely clogged.
- Musty smells – Smell something odd when vacuuming? Dirty filters harbor mold and bacteria.
- Visible dirt – Check the filter periodically for debris buildup. Wash once it looks very dirty.
Washing the filter every 5-10 uses will keep your shop vac suction at peak performance. Make it part of your routine maintenance.
Tips for making shop vac filters last
With proper care and maintenance, washable shop vac filters can last a long time. Here are some tips:
Use filter bags
Disposable filter bags that fit inside the filter cage protect the actual filter from dirt. Empty the bag instead of washing the filter each time.
Buy high quality filters
Cheap filters are often lower quality. Spend a bit more for ones that withstand frequent washing.
Alternate between two filters
Having a spare filter allows you to wash one while the second is in use. It ensures you always have a clean filter ready to go.
Rinse after wet jobs
If you pick up lots of mud or other wet debris, rinse the filter immediately after rather than allowing it to dry on.
Check seals
Make sure all vacuum components and seals are tight. Any air leaks let unfiltered debris into the motor.
Clean the exhaust
Use pressurized air to clear the shop vac exhaust port 2-3 times per year. Built-up debris hurts performance.
With a few washings, foam and fleece filters will last for years. Proper maintenance keeps your shop vac working like new.
Conclusion
Regular filter washing extends the life of shop vac filters, saves money on replacement filters and maintains optimal suction power.
While paper filters cannot be washed, foam and fleece filters can handle frequent rinses. Just be sure to check manufacturer guidelines first, remove large debris before washing, rinse thoroughly and let air dry completely before reinstalling.
Washing every 5-10 uses prevents clogging and keeps vacuums working properly. Combine with filter bags, quality filters and proper maintenance for a shop vac that sucks like new for years to come.