What’s the one thing that’s in common with fireplaces, pellet stoves and BBQ grills?
Have you given up yet? Well, we’re talking about ash.
Unfortunately, ash isn’t easy to clean, especially when you don’t have the right equipment. And let’s not forget about the other forms of dirt and debris that can accumulate inside your fireplace or grill. Sounds like a messy situation doesn’t it? You can quickly put an end to this sticky situation by getting yourself an ash vacuum.
These vacuums will keep your clothes and carpets clean the next time you start a fire or light up a BBQ. It’ll save time and will give you the opportunity to unwind after a long day as opposed to scrubbing your weekend away. And since we care about your money, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best ash vacuum cleaners in the market.
Keep reading if you want to learn more.
Top Rated Ash Vacuums Comparison Chart
Before we dive into the details here is a quick illustrative guide of our top picks. As you can see, we’ve rounded up the best ash vacuums by taking various factors into account.
| Best Ash Vacuums 2020 | Capacity | Weight | Warranty | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dustless Technologies Cougar+ Ash Vacuum | 3 gallon | 15.35 lbs | 10 years | Check Price |
| Vacmaster VQ607SFD Stainless Steel Wet Dry Vacuum | 6 gallon | 15.87 lbs | 2 years | Check Price |
| Dustless Technologies Cheetah Ash Vacuum | 3 gallon | 14.5 lbs | 3 years | Check Price |
| PowerSmith PAVC101 Ash Vacuum with Metal Lined Hose | 3 gallon | 13 lbs | 2 years | Check Price |
| Snow Joe ASHJ201 Ash Vacuum | 4.8 gallon | 8.8 lbs | 2 years | Check Price |
| Stanley Wet/Dry Vacuum | 6 gallon | 13.4 lbs | 1 year | Check Price |
Best Ash Vacuums 2020 Reviews – (My Picks)
It’s time you say goodbye to ash for good. After conducting thorough research for several hours, we have reviewed some of the very best contenders in the market. Here is a list of our personal favorite ash vacuum cleaners:
1. Dustless Technologies Cougar+ Ash Vacuum
- For use with cool to warm fine ash, not hot ash or coals
Quick Features:
- Can be used for clearing out cool to warm ash (do not use on hot ash and coal)
- Patented filter system
- Works well for fire places, pellet stoves, wood stoves and BBQs
- Sturdy metal construction and fire resistant parts
- Includes accessories along with a carry bag
Cleaning out ash isn’t fun but it doesn’t necessarily have to be difficult. The Dustless Technologies Cougar is an excellent machine and does a fantastic job at sucking out ash from your fireplace. With its double filter system, the product picks up even the tiniest particles of airborne ash. It has a relatively quiet motor which brings in some extra peace of mind while vacuuming. Also, the flame-retardant hose won’t cause any damage to itself while getting the job done.
To prevent ash from spitting out in your surroundings, the Cougar Ash comes with a six-gallon canister with metal clamps to seal the top. This minimizes cleanup time afterward and protects your lungs against dangerous particles.
Best of all, the machine offers a whopping 10-year warranty that secures your purchase. What more could you want?
- Sturdy metal exterior
- Easy to clean
- Quiet motor and smooth operation
- Includes tool kit
- Metal handle carry resulting in easy transportation
- Flame resistant material for added protection
- Weak suction
- No holder for the hose
- On the pricier end
2. Vacmaster VQ607SFD Stainless Steel Wet Dry Vacuum
- 6 Gallon Stainless Steel Tank
Quick Features:
- Multipurpose ash vacuum
- Heavy-duty design
- Top handle for easy carry
- 2-year warranty
- Multiple accessories including a crevice tool, two extension wands, floor nozzle
While the Vacmaster VQ607SFD isn’t specifically designed for cleaning out ash, it does a pretty decent job at it. In fact, it’s considered one of the finest, second to the Cougar. It includes a three-peak HP motor that offers powerful suction. At first glance, the machine does not look heavy-duty but its performance proves otherwise.
The drum has a capacity of 6-gallons which is plenty for regular cleaning sessions before needing to empty the canister. We’re also a fan of the stainless steel tank which is fire-resistant. It’s also great value for money since you get a number of accessories including a crevice tool and two extension wands.
- Sufficient 6-gallon capacity
- Fire-resistant exterior
- Ultra-lightweight and portable
- Not great at collecting dust
3. Dustless Technologies Cheetah Ash Vacuum
- Made in the U.S.A.!
Quick Features:
- Sturdy construction and steel nozzle
- Double air filter system
- Fireproof steel chamber
- Available in four colors
Keeping safety a high priority here, Dustless Technologies Cheetah is the ultimate ash vacuum for clearing out minute ash particles. Say hello to its impressive double filter system that purifies air and keeps those allergens away. The product is available in four colors and exhibits superior performance, all while keeping the noise level to a minimum.
Unlike most ash vacuums available online, this model operates mess-free and moves quickly.
- Powerful motor
- Filters the air
- Steel nozzle
- Good value for money
- Product can be difficult to find
4. PowerSmith PAVC101 Ash Vacuum with Metal Lined Hose
- Specifically designed to clean warm and cool ash out of fireplaces, wood stoves, pellet stoves, and barbeque grills
Quick Features:
- Great for cleaning warm to cool ash from BBQ grills, fireplace, pellet stoves etc.
- Includes additional accessories
- Metal heat resistant canister and hose
- Washable air filter
- 10 amp power motor
The PowerSmith PAVC101 is a sight to see with its stunning olive green body. It’s the only vacuum on our list that’s available in a bright color – perfect for quirky folks. Apart from its eye-catching exterior, the appliance does a super job at cleaning conventional indoor and outdoor stoves, grills and fireplaces. Most importantly, we love how the PAVC101 is versatile but still manages to fall under a reasonable price range.
With its two-stage filter system, the vacuum sucks out the finest ash particles with ease. Once that’s taken cared off, the residue is sealed shut inside to prevent an extra mess. Users can wash the interior of the filter, eliminating the need for new disposable ones. Even better, the hose and canister are both made of metal which ensures durability and protects the exterior against hot ash.
- Captures the finest ash
- Quiet motor
- Come with a warranty
- Ash level indicator
- All metal construction
- Air filters are prone to damage
5. Snow Joe ASHJ201 Ash Vacuum
- Versatile: designed for cold ash pickup from wood stoves, pellet stoves, fireplaces, fire pits, and BBQ grills
Quick Features:
- Suitable for pellet stoves, BBQ grills, wood stoves etc.
- Reusable dust cartridge
- 4 amp and 500-watt suction power
- Large metal canister
The Snow Joe ASHJ201 is an impressive model. It might look small but that didn’t stop us from adding it in our list. This ash vacuum cleaner works well with outdoor grills, pellet stoves, outdoor grills and whatnot.
We are pleased by the powerful suction since it picks up fine ash and dust particles quite well. Coming to its dual filtration system, it can effectively remove fine ash which means you don’t have to deal with odd smoky scents and smells afterward.
The 500-watt suction power is also worth raving about. As for the vacuum, it can collect about five gallons of ash which isn’t a bad deal. We’re also a fan of the removable dust cartridge which can be cleaned several times. Furthermore, you also get a two-year warranty which gives you plenty of time to secure your purchase.
- Dual filter to efficiently dust or ash
- Hassle free use due to the portable design
- Product is non-returnable
- Filters may clog
- Motor isn’t as strong
6. Stanley Wet/Dry Vacuum
- ❤【LARGER CAPACITY】Stanley SL18116P Wet / Dry Vacuum has a larger capacity over 22 L, makes small clean-up jobs a breeze for you as you don’t have to empty the bucket frequently any more
Quick Features:
- Offers high suction power for heavy-duty work
- Swiveling casters – easy to maneuver
- 10 foot, built-in cord with cord wrap
- Waterproof design
- Can convert to rear blower
This is a heavy-duty ash vacuum that also works for collecting dust from drywall, cement or wood. Unlike most vacuums in the market, this one is portable and moves around nicely. The swiveling casters add a nice touch and makes it possible for users to use the machine anywhere they want, perfect for industry professionals. It also includes a large handle along with a waterproof design for added convenience.
We also like the 10-inch floor nozzle and the added accessories that come with the package. All in all, it provides good value for money.
- Sturdy waterproof design
- Two extension wands
- Multiple accessories
- Versatile machine
- 6-gallon capacity
- Lid doesn’t secure tightly
Key Aspects To Consider Before Choosing An Ash Vacuum
An ash vacuum that releases dust and smoke particles in the air can create an even bigger mess. Avoid such unpleasant events by keeping these factors in mind the next time you make a purchase:
– Fire Resistant Components
Since we’re dealing with hot or warm ash, opt for materials that are heat and fire-resistant. A lot of earlier, more conventional models featured plastic parts that are prone to heat damage and melting. Not only can this release toxic fumes in the air but it also shortens the overall life of the machine.
Invest in an ash vacuum with metal or steel parts. Such materials have a longer life span and will not deteriorate over time. On the other hand, steel and metal products can be difficult to maneuver because of its heavyweight. This problem can be easily solved by purchasing a mobile vacuum that comes with wheels or a handle.
– Canister Size
Needless to say, you’d want the canister to hold as much ash as possible. While large canisters might be inconvenient to carry, they do have an edge over smaller compartments. Most fireplaces produce tons of ash which can be difficult to clear out. Consider buying a vacuum with a 6-gallon capacity, this is a fairly good number and should be enough to help you get started.
However, if you don’t own a fireplace and aren’t looking for something too fancy, smaller models should do well. These vacuums will be easier to transport and clean in the long run – perfect for smaller families.
– Cleaning Filters
What’s the point of investing in a cleaning appliance if it’ll resort to even more cleaning? The filter inside the vacuum to trap ash and prevent it from spilling all over your carpets and rugs. Additionally, the filter component shouldn’t let out a smoky smell in your surroundings. This can lead to a number of airborne allergies that you’d want to avoid.
Try getting your hands on a HEPA air filter which will protect your family against dangerous allergens.
Tips for Maintaining a Wood Burning Fireplace
A wood-burning fireplace is perfect for keeping your home warm and cozy during the winters. Taking special care of your fireplace will not only add value to your home but will minimize cleanup time in the longer run. Here are a couple of handy tips you can follow:
1. Frequently Clean the Interiors
It’s safe to assume that burning wood produces loads of ash, dirt and other residues. As part of your cleaning regimen, don’t let all this gunk settle for too long. Make it a habit to clean the interior each week. This can easily be done with an ash vacuum. Clearing out the dirt will help your fireplace burn with a brighter blaze whilst also looking more presentable.
Additionally, creosote buildup can turn into a breeding ground for a number of illnesses in your home. Always remember to use a dust mask while coming in close contact with ash to prevent inhalation.[1]
2. Beware of Smoke
On a regular night of wood-burning, you shouldn’t notice any smoke coming out of the fireplace. If you do, this could mean two things:
- You’re not burning the right wood
- There’s soot buildup in the chimney
Smoke serves as a warning signal and indicates that you must immediately clean the fireplace. Whatever the reason might be, we highly recommend you check the damper to rule out any problems.
3. Annual Inspection and Maintenance
Much like the other avenues of your home, the fireplace requires annual inspection and maintenance. Don’t get us wrong, we’re big fans of DIY cleaning but somethings are better left at the hands of professionals. Call up your local fireplace cleaner and they’ll prepare your cozy nook for the season.
It’s also worth noting that a specialist possesses the right experience, equipment and skillset to identify any potential red flags.
4. Keep an Eye Out for Soot
Apart from ash, thoroughly clean any soot deposits inside your fireplace. Soot is an injurious by-product of burning wood. If not paid attention to, it can spread and cause a fire outbreak.
5. Burn the Right Wood
Burning the right wood can significantly decrease maintenance time. Using green wood isn’t a good idea as it will produce smoke and leaves. We suggest using maple and oak for a clean and slow burn. Also, make sure the wood is seasoned well so that it lights up better and does not give out soot.
6. DIY Cleaning Solution
While there are a multitude of cleaning solutions available in the market, you can make your very own DIY cleaner at home. Simply mix your regular hand soap with some table salt. Use this mixture to scrub away dirt and grime from your fireplace. For better results, allow the mixture to settle on your fireplace for fifteen minutes prior scrubbing.
Fireplace Safety Tips to Keep Your Home Warm And Safe
Wood fireplaces certainly serve as the pinnacle of warmth and relaxation during winter nights in your home. Unfortunately, where there’s fire, there’s ash, coal, cinder and the potential threat of danger that nobody can foresee.
More than your comfort, we care about safety. Here are some tips to keep your home safe while you’re enjoying the cozy fire:
- Prepare the Surrounding Area: Before you put the fireplace into use, perform an inspection of the surrounding area. Are there any creaks or chips on the walls and bricks? If so, get it fixed. Additionally, clear combustibles away from the area and install a fire screen. This will reduce the risks of sparks which may lead to a fire. We also recommend you to layout a non-flammable rug in front of the fireplace since it’s a safer alternative to conventional rugs and carpets. The fabric is resistant to fire and won’t melt or burn down in case of a spark.
- Keep A Fire Extinguisher Nearby: Sometimes bad things happen without warning. Sadly, all we can do is prepare ourselves for the worst. Keep a fire extinguisher on hand and make sure you and your family know how to operate it in case of an emergency. We also highly recommend installing carbon monoxide and smoke alarms in the room. Ensure the batteries are working and that everything is in place. Other safety precautions include keeping a first aid kit in your living room.
- Steer Clear From Chemicals: In case you haven’t noticed, chemicals and fire don’t mix well! Never attempt to start a fire using charcoal, kerosene or gasoline in your home. Better yet, keep these chemicals far from the reach of children, locked inside a cabinet. Also, beware of aerosols and air fresheners. These are flammable products that shouldn’t be used near a fireplace!
- Watch What You’re Burning: A burning fire isn’t an excuse to toss in anything you want. Don’t use moldy, wet or rotten wood to get things going. Also, don’t toss in painted plywood in the fire as the paint can give off toxic fumes that could endanger your family. When starting a fire, only use old newspapers, pine cones and dry kindling. Pine cones are made up of natural resins that burn well enough to get the flames going.
- Educate Your Children: If you have younger children, never leave them unsupervised when the fire is crackling. As for older kids, educate them not to perform dangerous science experiments nearby. Stress on the seriousness of the matter to eliminate the potential risks of accidents.
- Install a Chimney Cap: A chimney cap will prevent stray leaves, animals and debris from falling and clogging the chimney. These caps typically feature a mesh material that filters out smoke without letting dirt and debris inside. It will also prevent sparks that could cause accidents and burns. Once installed, remember to have the chimney cap checked every year.
FAQ’s about Ash Vacuums
In case you haven’t heard much about ash vacuums and are still skeptical about making a decision, these FAQs may help you out. We realize how daunting the whole process can be, here are a few common questions one might ask:
#1. Are they worth buying?
Well, do you have a fireplace? If you don’t, you probably won’t require an ash vacuum. However, if you do, it’s certainly worth the investment. Ash, dirt, dust and all kinds of hazardous particles can collect in your fireplace. It’s always a good idea to conduct a thorough clean up session after every few weeks and that’s only possible with an ash vacuum.
#2. Why Can’t I Use Regular Vacuum?
The answer’s fairly simple. Regular vacuum cleaners are typically made of plastic which isn’t a very sturdy material. In fact, it can melt as soon as it comes in contact with warm ash. While even ash vacuums are not meant to be used on hot coals and ash particle, they feature metal construction that minimizes damage. These machines are also fire resistant and contain the right filter to collect finer ash particles in the air.
All this wouldn’t be possible with an ordinary vacuum cleaner.
#3. How It Actually Works?
The workings of an ash vacuum isn’t much different from the regular kind. It will include a wand to suck in soot and ash. Use the wand against the walls of your fireplace or BBQ grill. Remember, these appliances are not meant to be used on hot coal hence be careful where you’re pointing the nozzle.
The residue collected will now find its way inside the canister. These tanks or drums are made of metal and are heat resistance. Depending on the capacity of the drum, you’ll have to empty it when it’s full.
We also recommend you clean the wand thoroughly to prevent clogging. This will prolong the life of your product and allow you to use it more efficiently.
#4. What Are Some Of Top Rated Brands On The Market Right Now?
Some top brands include:
- Dustless Technologies
- Shop-Vac
- PowerSmith
- Snow Joe
- Cougar
Wrap Up
The ideal ash vacuum should be portable, powerful and multi-purpose. After all, there’s no point in buying a product that will only last a few months. As an added tip, invest in a brand that offers excellent customer service. This always comes in handy in case the machine stops working or if you have any questions.
Is there anything you’d like to add? Let us know your favorite ash vacuums in the comments below.
