Here are some important things to consider when thinking about selecting and caring for vacuum filters.
Why are vacuum filters so important?
Filters are a critical component of a vacuum system. Together, with a good motor and effective seals, good filtration is essential to the performance of a vacuum. Filters are also important in maintaining the air quality of the space within which you’re working. It is the filter’s job to trap dirt and other particles from being expelled back into the air.
Even so, filters are probably one of the most ignored aspects of a vacuum cleaner, especially when it comes to their maintenance and care.
To understand all of this a little better, let’s look at the different types of filters you’ll find in commercial vacuum cleaners, and their specific uses and how to care for them:
Types of Vacuum Filters for Dry Application
Paper Bag filter
PURPOSE:
- Level 1 of filtration to trap bigger particles.
RECOMMENDED CARE:
- Needs to be replaced frequently: Once it’s half full, OR weekly – whichever comes first
Cloth Filter
PURPOSE:
- Level 2 of filtration to trap smaller particles than the bag filter
RECOMMENDED CARE:
- Shake it to remove bigger particles and dust.
- Wash regularly (once you start to see dirt collecting on the outside)
- Air dry
Micron Filter
PURPOSE:
- Level 3 of filtration to trap finer particles
RECOMMENDED CARE:
- Shake and brush off bigger particles collecting on the outside
- Use compressed air to remove the finer particles
- Replace annually
Fine Dust Filter
PURPOSE:
- Provides better filtration for finer dust particles from things like drywall, stone and concrete grinding, saw dust, etc.
- Using a fine dust filter will protect and prolong the life of your motor and retain the dust within the vacuum
RECOMMENDED CARE:
- Shake off big particles collecting on the outside
- Use compressed air to remove finer particles
- Unlike the cloth filter, this filter CANNOT be washed
HEPA Filter
PURPOSE:
- HEPA filters work to trap particles and bacteria as small as 0.03 microns in size
- These filters are good for environments where good air quality is essential (such as health care facilities and labs)
RECOMMENDED CARE:
- Shake and brush off bigger particles collecting on the outside
- Use compressed air to remove the finer particles
- Replace annually
Types of Vacuum Filters for Wet Applications
Mesh Filter (General Use)
PURPOSE:
- Has larger perforations to trap bigger particles and maintain an easy flow of water
- Made with waterproof material
RECOMMENDED CARE
- Rinse, wash and dry
Slurry Filter (Specialty Wet Filter)
PURPOSE:
- Good when dealing with fine particles that are suspended in water, creating slurry (i.e. after grinding marble)
- This filter is effective in keeping the finer particles from entering the motor with its smaller perforations
RECOMMENDED CARE:
- Rinse, wash and dry
Pro Tips When Thinking About Vacuum Filters
- Since you can’t use a HEPA or micron cartridge filter on a wet/dry vacuum, the fine dust filter is an effective way to adapt your wet/dry vacuum when dealing with fine dusts.
- Make sure that after washing the cloth filters, they are left to COMPLETELY air dry. This will avoid odor build-up and blockage from the crusting of dirt particles.
- It is essential to replace your HEPA and micron filters regularly (at least once a year) to maintain optimal performance of your vacuum cleaner. As more particles get trapped in the filters, they start losing their effectiveness and therefore put the vacuum under more strain.