Perhaps you are searching for the proper gear to clean up your garage mess, whether dry or wet; a shop vac can handle the job effectively, irrespective of the mess that needs handling. However, numerous individuals are always divided on whether a cordless shop vac with no filter can be used for cleaning and still get the desired outcome. One of the primary questions these individuals always ask is: can I use my cordless shop vac without a filter?
Yes. You can use a cordless shop vac without a filter or bug when cleaning. A cordless shop vac only requires a filter to prevent dust from blowing off. It is important to note that you should only use the shop vac without a filter when cleaning the wet debris and water. However, when working on dry debris, you must use a filter to offer more surface area to enhance the airflow and minimize clogging that can compromise dust collection.
Cordless shop vacs are the most effective vacuum cleaners in the garage world, preferably in areas requiring heavy-duty cleaning. Besides, they’re top-rated to be lighter than other standard vacuum cleaners and, more importantly, don’t need to be plugged into a socket wall to work.
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The purpose of a filter
First, let’s get a clear glimpse of the primary purpose of using a filter in a shop vac. It’s indeed true that the first thing we all think about when shopping for a shop vac for the first time is the importance of a filter and under what conditions a shop vac can be used without a filter.
Well, filters are mainly used to collect nails, dry dust, or screws. This is the most straightforward reason for using a filter in your dry or wet vacuum cleaner. Thus, when working on dry matter, the filters are essential to prevent the dry substances from clogging your shop vac. The filters can capture and contain dust, dirt, debris, and other particles sucked up when cleaning. If your vacuum has no filter, these particles will circulate into the air and can present a danger to you and your family as they can expose you to respiratory diseases.
However, when working on wet materials, you do not need to worry about the filter as there are no fears of possible dry-matter clogging.
Moreover, the filters in a shop vac help improve air quality by trapping fine particles and allergens like pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. The filters contribute to a healthier and more breathable environment by preventing the articles from being released into the air.
Besides, the filter in your shop vac can prevent clogging and damage. Your shop vac’s internal
components, like the motor and fan, are crucial and should be debris-free. Clogging can reduce suction power, overheating, and premature wear and tear on the vacuum, shortening its lifespan.
The image above shows BISSELL Crosswave Pet Pro All in One Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner and Mop for Hard Floors, one of the best cordless shop vac units you can purchase on amazon. This unit can be used for multi-surface cleaning and can pick up pet messes as it comes with a Tangle-Free Brush Roll, Pet Hair Strainer and PET Multi-Surface Formula with Febreze Freshness.
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DIY ways to use a shop vac without a filter
Cordless shop vacs are generally designed to suck up almost everything. It’s a perfect choice to have around to perform all kinds of vacuuming work, as they are incredibly versatile and powerful.
That said, it’s recommended that you use a shop vac for cleaning wet debris only if you decide to go without a filter. If not, your vacuum can get clogged and fail or stop functioning. Similarly, when vacuuming wet places or items, you ought to remove the dust bag, that is, if you have one.
Additionally, if you decide to use your shop vac without a filter, ensure it can support itself without one since not all vacuums can run without a filter. Also, make it a priority to use it in an open area to prevent the dust from being blown back into your house.
Placing some water in the tank’s bottom can help trap dust, mainly if your vacuum cleaner uses water as a filtration system. However, if you’re unsure of the process, kindly avoid attempting it, as it may shorten your device’s lifespan.
How a cordless shop vac works
These units are often called bucket vacuums since they are often shaped like buckets. They are popularly used and recognized for cleaning commercial buildings, filthy areas, or woodworking shops.
They are mostly identified as possessing a powerful suction capacity and motor to suck all kinds of dust or even bigger lumps of garbage that require cleaning. Usually, these units work on the same principle, just like any other regular vacuum cleaner. However, the only slight modification of a shop vac is that it can perform way better than a traditional household vacuum cleaner.
These units are designed to suck up larger particles of dirt and clean up liquid spills found in workshops or industrial areas. Additionally, you can always use them in your home. Although they are pretty easy-to-use gadgets, the lack of more satisfactory pointed attachments may make it difficult for the machine to pick up all the tiny particles found in homes.
Although a shop vac comes in multiple models, most models feature a floating ball mechanism that stops the device when the tank is full. It usually creates a high-pitched noise, indicating that the device is full and needs to be emptied. Always rinse your vacuum and preferably leave it outside to dry before storing it.
Using a shop vac for wet cleaning
Although using a shop vac for wet cleaning is seemingly possible, it might be stressful, especially in large areas like pools. Conversely, the process cannot damage your unit, yet emptying the tank after every 20 seconds can be tiring.
Nonetheless, if it’s requisite that you do it, always ensure that you have an output hose that will significantly make the cleaning process faster by making water go out even as it rushes in. Always be careful, as the hose may not necessarily manage the water.
Do you use a filter in a shop vac for water?
The primary purpose of a shop vac is to prevent the dust from blowing out of the top during the cleaning process. However, if you are cleaning a wet surface or for water, you will not need a filter; you can entirely remove it from the model.
Water and other liquids damage the filters. In the end, you may destroy the vacuum if you suck up the water without removing the filter. Thus, you do not need to use the filter in your cordless shop vac when cleaning a wet surface or water.
Understanding the battery capacity
Since we are dealing with a cordless version of a shop vac, it’s quite essential to understand the battery capacity. Well, a cordless shop vac can operate independently. However, before making a purchasing decision, it’s, without a doubt, crucial to check the runtime its battery can offer.
For starters, 18 or more volt batteries can provide much longer runtimes because of their large capacities. Similarly, another vital aspect you can always consider is the time the shop vac takes to charge up completely. Well, most cordless shop vac batteries will take at least 3-4 hours to recharge completely.
Power
Power is also an essential aspect when dealing with a cordless shop vac. When talking about power in a cordless shop vac, we often refer to its suction pressure. This metric refers to the airflow that passes through the nozzle of a vacuum machine per minute and is often measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM).
If a shop vac has a higher CFM, it tends to pick materials much faster. Similarly, the suction power or water lift is another power metric in cordless shop vacs that should be considered. If your shop vac has a higher water lift capacity, the heavier the items it can pick.
DIY ways to improve filter performance
First up, ensure you determine and understand the purpose of a filter. You can always use a foam filter to vacuum water or other wet items. A dust bag can correctly handle the job if you prefer to use it for dust cleaning.
Well, don’t forget to maintain your filter. Regularly maintaining the filter and filter cartridge can potentially increase the filter’s lifespan, which is the right way to protect your investment. Remember that there’s no magic formula for improving a filter’s performance, but you’re prone to see significant improvements by doing things right. The choice is yours!
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a filter for the wet vac?
Ideally, the role of a filter is to prevent dust from blowing out while cleaning. In this essence, wet surfaces don’t necessarily need a filter, mainly because the liquids can entirely damage your filter. Removing it would be best if you don’t want to damage or ruin your vacuum potentially.
Can a shop vac be used for picking up leaves?
Indeed, more so if you’re not hurrying to pick them up quickly or a pick-up is a concern. Nevertheless, it’s more counter-productive for you to round up every last leaf using a leaf blower.
Can I vacuum-clean a dry place without a bag?
Of course, it’s very much possible. However, it might not be that effective. Using a bag will save you a lot of stress by preventing clogs. If your shop vac lacks a bag, the chances are that it will get damaged much faster.
Why does my filter keep on blowing dust back?
Well, it could be that you failed to install the filter well, or there’s possibly a hole in the motor. You may want to check these two things before proceeding. Similarly, it could also be that the dust is too smooth, so we recommend a filter with a high-efficiency disposable bag.
Is it okay to use my shop vac in the basement?
If your basement is flooded, you’ll need a way to get rid of the annoying water. Interestingly, Shop Vac has multiple units designed for such kinds of jobs. A pump vacuum can correctly handle large quantities of water from one location to another. You’ll only need to connect one end of the hose to the pump. The water will then be transferred where you want it to go as you pump.
Below is an example of one of the best cordless shop vac units available in the markets with the HEPA filter that can help you work on dry and wet surfaces. You can buy this model at Amazon at an affordable price and never regret your investment in this unit.
Final thoughts
Well, using a cordless shop vac without a filter is okay. However, we strongly recommend using a filter to avoid damaging your vacuum. For your shop vac to perform to its maximum strength, ensure it’s well-maintained. If you take good care of your shop vac, it will serve you longer!
Moreover, buying a shop vac with a filter is only logical if you’re allergic or sensitive to dust. More importantly, always ensure that it’s a HEPA filter, one of the most valuable types of filter you can always find.
