Beginners Guide To Industrial Vacuum Cleaners

Regarding heavy-duty cleaning, few tools are as up to the task as an industrial vacuum cleaner.

These powerful machines are designed to take on even the toughest messes and can quickly work out dirt, grime, and other debris. But operating one can be a bit daunting if you've never used an industrial vacuum before.

The world of industrial vacuum cleaners can be a little bewildering for anyone new to it. There are many different types and brands, each with distinct features and benefits. Whether you're shopping for your first industrial vacuum cleaner or want to upgrade from an older model, it pays to do your research first. 

This guide covers everything you need to know when buying an industrial vacuum cleaner. We'll begin by explaining the main differences between various types of vacuum, including what makes them suitable for a factory environment and the pros and cons of each type.

What Is An Industrial Vacuum Cleaner?

An industrial vacuum cleaner is a powerful cleaning tool designed for heavy-duty use. These vacuums are typically much more robust than regular household commercial vacuum cleaner models and are built to withstand continuous use in tough environments.

The type you choose will ultimately depend on the dirt you want to remove from your premises and how frequently you need to clean it. In a factory environment, vacuums are used for everything from basic cleaning and removing dust and small bits of debris from the floor to sucking up liquids like oil and coolant.

They can also be used to clean and remove machinery and equipment dust. Industrial vacuums are often big and bulky, with a powerful suction that's strong enough to lift large pieces of debris.

The Benefits Of Industrial Vacuums

• Greater Versatility

Industrial vacuums are designed to tackle a wider variety of dirt than their domestic counterparts. They're strong enough to suck up larger pieces of debris and can also be used to suck up liquids. This makes them much more versatile than a domestic vacuum cleaner. The vacuum pump and motor are also usually more powerful on industrial models.

• Better Filtration

Airflow and negative pressure are two important aspects of industrial vacuum systems. These vacuums typically have more robust motors that create a higher negative pressure. A HEPA filter is also used to trap particles as small as 0.3 microns, making them ideal for use in environments where dust control is a priority.

Another key feature of industrial vacuums is their superior filtration systems. This is especially noticeable with bagged vacuums, which often have better filtration than bagless models. Fine dust particles are trapped in the bag rather than being blown back into the air.

• Longer Lifespan

Another benefit of these vacuums is that they typically have a longer lifespan than domestic models. This is because they are designed to cope with much harsher conditions.

Commercial vacuum cleaners usually have a stronger build quality, which means they can withstand being used more frequently.

• More Powerful Suction.

One of the essential features of an industrial vacuum is its suction power. These vacuums usually have more powerful motors than their domestic counterparts, which can suck up more dirt and debris. The negative pressure pulls the dirt and debris into the vacuum, where it is then trapped in the dustbin or bag.

Industrial Vacuum Types

When it comes to the different types of industrial vacuum cleaners, there are four main categories: Wet, dry, wet and dry, and bagless. Let's take a brief look at each type.

Wet Vacuums

Wet vacuums (also known as wet and dry vacs) are designed to suck up both dry and wet debris from the floor. Their powerful suction is capable of sucking up liquid and debris at the same time. Wet vacuums are typically more expensive than other types of vacuums.

Dry Vacuums

Dry vacuums are designed to suck up only dry debris and are cheaper than wet vacuums. Because they only have to deal with dry dirt, they are smaller than wet vacuums.

Bagless Vacuums

Bagless vacuums have a filter bag inside the machine, designed to trap dirt and particles. You must clean the filter bag regularly to ensure the machine is working properly.

Bagged Vacuums

Bagged vacuums have a bag inside the machine to collect dirt and debris. You must change the bag regularly and clean the machine regularly to maintain optimal performance.

A Guide To Help You Get Started

Here's a quick guide to help you get started with using an industrial vacuum cleaner:

Choose The Suitable Model For Your Needs

There are a variety of industrial vacuums available on the market, so it's crucial to select the model best suited for your particular application. If you're unsure of which model to choose, don't hesitate to consult with a professional.

Read The Instructions Carefully

Once you've selected the right model, read the instruction manual thoroughly before using the vacuum. This will help you understand how the machine works and ensure that you operate it correctly.

Set Up The Vacuum Properly

Before you start using the vacuum, set it up properly for a few minutes. This includes connecting all the hoses and attachments and ensuring that the power cord is plugged in securely.

Vacuum Attachments Are Key

Most industrial vacuums come with various attachments that can be used for different applications. These attachments can help you reach tight spaces and corners and make it easier to vacuum larger areas.

Start Vacuuming!

Combustible dust is a significant concern in many industrial environments. To minimize the risk of explosion, it's important to vacuum regularly and ensure that all combustible dust is removed from the work area.

Once you've set up everything, turn on the vacuum and start cleaning. Remember to move slowly and methodically so that you don't miss any areas, and be sure to empty the vacuum's dustbin when it gets full.

When Should You Use An Industrial Vacuum Cleaner?

The best time to use an industrial vacuum cleaner is whenever your floor is covered in dirt and debris. It's important to note that not all types of dirt are suitable for these machines.

You should avoid using an industrial vacuum to suck up tiny particles like sawdust, wood chips, or liquids like water or oil. Bagged vacuums are better suited for sucking up large pieces of debris from concrete or wooden floors.

Bagless vacuums are better for sucking heavier dirt from concrete, such as sand and grit. A backpack vacuum is a good choice for vacuuming hard-to-reach areas, such as ceiling corners and tight spaces.

How Much Should You Spend On An Industrial Vacuum?

Like any purchase, the price of the vacuum will depend on the features you need and want. The cost of an industrial vacuum cleaner can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.

The most expensive models tend to be wet/dry vacuums designed to handle the most challenging cleaning tasks. Cheaper models are intended for lighter cleaning tasks, such as sucking up dry debris from concrete floors.

What To Look For When Buying An Industrial Vacuum Cleaner

The Cleaning You Need To Do

Different floor types and debris require different types of vacuum, so you should choose a vacuum best suited to your cleaning needs.

Type Of Filtration System

This is especially important if you are sucking up a lot of liquid or have employees who handle toxic substances. A bagged vacuum is preferable as it prevents liquid from getting into the machine and keeps it from gumming up.

Size Of The Machine

If you need a vacuum for indoor use, you want one that is lightweight and easy to maneuver. If you need it for outdoor use, you want one that is designed to withstand harsh conditions, such as extreme weather, and has a longer lifespan.

Filters

Some vacuums come equipped with a filter, while others don't. A filter is a mesh that sits inside the machine, trapping small dirt particles. You have to clean the filter regularly to keep the machine working properly.

Mesh Sleeves

These cylindrical sleeves with mesh inside allow you to clean the inside of dust collectors, machinery, and other hard-to-reach places. 

Brands To Look Out For

Most major brands offer industrial vacuum cleaners, which come in various types and price points.

In the wet and dry vacuum category, brands like Miele, Electrolux, and Kirby are some of the most popular.

For bagged vacuums, brands like Bissell, Hoover, and Dirt Devil are a few more popular ones.

If there's one thing this guide should have taught you, there are many different types of vacuum out there, each with its unique features and benefits.

What you choose will depend on your specific cleaning needs. Choosing wisely when buying an industrial vacuum cleaner is essential to get the best value for your money.

Wrapping Up

An industrial vacuum cleaner is a powerful machine that can make light work of even the most challenging cleaning tasks. They are available in various types and price points, so you should carefully consider your specific needs before purchasing.

This guide has provided you with some essential things to look for when buying an industrial vacuum and some of the top brands to consider. With this information in mind, you'll be well on finding the perfect vacuum for your industrial facility.

With these simple tips, you'll be able to use an industrial vacuum cleaner like a pro in no time. So don't be afraid to try one of these powerful machines the next time you need to tackle a big cleaning job.