Last updated on November 28th, 2023
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So, as far as ash vacuums go, why would you need one? Well, it is the type of product you don’t know how much you need one until you actually use one. I use mine mainly for cleaning my wood burning stove, but you can also use them for cleaning fire pits (which I also do), cleaning chimineas and cleaning coal BBQs.
Before I purchased an ash vacuum, I used to use a dustpan and brush, but it made such a mess. There would be dust everywhere, and that would take the enjoyment out of using the wood-burning stove, but when I started using an ash vacuum, it really was a game-changer. I wish I bought one years ago.
It’s almost something I look forward to using. But best of all, it is also super clean, minimising dust and it now only takes a minute or two to clean my stove.
The problem, as always, is choosing the best ash vacuum for you from the range of products on the market. But after scouring the internet and going through countless reviews on Amazon UK and then testing the top models myself, I bring you the top-rated ash vacuums that you can pick from. My personal favourite is the Vonhaus ash vacuum, and I have also included a video on this further down my article.
Let’s start with the two models that I highly recommend.
BEST PICK
Runner-up
The Top 5 best ash vacuums
- VonHaus 1800W 15L Ash Vacuum Cleaner – BEST PICK
- BACOENG 800W Ash Vacuum Cleaner
- Maxi Vac 15L Ash Collector Vacuum
- First4Spares 800W Debris Collector and Vacuum Cleaner
- De Vielle 25 Litre Ash Vacuum Cleaner
TOP 5 BEST ASH VACUUMS
BEST PICK
1. VonHaus 15L Ash Vacuum Cleaner
So before I tell you about the specifications of this model by Vonhaus, I want to quickly make a point of saying that this is the model I now use myself.
To begin with, it has a large 15-litre ash collection bin that I find is plenty if you have a wood-burning stove to clean. To be honest, most other models are also 15 litres, but you can also find some 20-litre models. I personally think that these are just a little too tall and bulky for me as mine fits perfectly under the stairs.
I would say that when I’m using the stove daily, which is usually October through to March/April, I need to empty it every couple of weeks or so.
Power-wise, it is powered by an 800-watt motor that is the same as most other models, and it provides it with plenty of suction power. It really is a powerful little motor. The only feature this model does not have, but I don’t think you need it, is a blowing function.
In reality, I don’t think you would use this inside the home anyway as it would surely just blow dust everywhere.
So why do I think this is better than some of the alternatives? Firstly the build quality is excellent and it comes with a 2-year warranty whereas most other models only have 1 year. If you are comparing models, to me it says a lot.
The suction hose on this Vonhaus model is also slightly longer than most other alternatives, at 1.25 meters, which is just over 4ft of hose. This is plenty for what I myself use it for, and if it were any shorter it wouldn’t be useful, and if it were any longer, it would probably get in the way.
Now my next point is something you don’t really think about but is important, the length of the power cable. Most models only have a 2-meter power cord, which I think is too short (unless you have a plug socket right next to your fire) and for most people, this probably isn’t the case.
However, this model has a 4-meter power cord. This is around 13ft in length so much more effective and makes it far easier to reach the plug sockets in most rooms and probably long enough for most people.
In terms of filters, it has a HEPA filter as well as a cloth filter, and up to now, they have worked well, and I have never needed to change them.
I like that it’s also bagless and this makes it easier to empty too. I usually just empty it into a bag for the bin, but for the purposes of this review, I have emptied it into a bucket.
So how is it to use? Quite simply, to begin with, I love this model. It cleans well and doesn’t really get clogged up in the pipes, which I am aware can be an issue with some vacuums.
The only small issue I have found is that if you use the protection mesh cage over the steel metal attachment (which it comes with), it does tend to get clogged up, so I have to either give it a few knocks to clean the end or turn the vacuum off for a few seconds.
To be honest, I don’t use it that much and don’t really have any problems with the pipes getting clogged without it, but at least it’s an option as most other models don’t seem to include it at all.
I also like the crevice tool for getting into the corners of the stove and cleaning harder to reach areas.
Final conclusion
That’s it for my review of this Vonhaus ash vacuum. If you are looking to purchase an ash vacuum, consider the Vonhaus model, and you won’t be disappointed.
To sum it up, what I like about this model is the overall performance, with plenty of suction from the 800w motor. It has a reasonable suction tube length of 1.25 meters (4ft), and that the power cord is 4 meters long is a real advantage over most models that only have a 2-meter power cord and are simply too short unless you have a plug socket right next to the stove. Finally the build quality, of the stainless steel ash collection bin is better than some of the models that use plastic. Overall, this is the one model I feel ticks all the boxes which is why I also choose to use this model myself.
Are you using a stove fan?
Runner-up
2. Bacoeng 15 litre 800w Ash Vacuum Cleaner
The Bacoeng 15 litre 800w Ash Vacuum Cleaner is such a powerful model that it makes light work of sucking up the ashes from your fireplaces. It offers plenty of storage in the form of a 15L tank, reducing the trips you will need to make to the bin.
It comes with a 1m hose plus a 2m cable and this combination allows you to reach all corners with ease and gives you plenty of reach. A great addition to this product is the filtration system that includes a HEPA filter. These filters capture the dust and prevent stray particles from lingering in the air. The filtration system also plays an important role in preventing the motor from damage that may result from ash and dust clogging inside the components.
The overall construction is great as you get a nice combination of high-quality materials and superb workmanship. The motor itself benefits from overheating protection for user safety. Keep in mind that this ash vacuum is only designed for cold ash pickup, therefore, ensure that the embers and debris are totally cool before using this machine.
Pros
- A powerful 800W motor delivers plenty of suction power.
- The 15L capacity ensures reduced trips to the bin.
- Comes with a 1m hose and 2m cable for an extended reach.
- Overheating motor protection for operator safety.
- Comes with a filtration system that prevents particles from straying into the air.
Final Conclusion
This ash vacuum is certainly one of the best thanks to a host of top-of-the-range features. Its 800W motor is unmatched in terms of suction power and that’s what you need to clean heavy loads of ash quickly. The canister capacity is well within many people’s needs and so is the reach offered by the hose and cable.
We struggled to find any deal breakers with the exception that a longer powder cable would be better and maybe some hooks to hold the cable and suction tube in place. This model is relatively new and that’s one of the reasons why we recommend this Bacoeng 15 litre 800w Ash Vacuum Cleaner to any standard household.
Read next: Best wood-burning stoves for burning logs and charcoal
3. Clifford James Maxi Vac 15L Ash Collector Vacuum
The Clifford James 15L Ash Vacuum Cleaner is a bargain. At an affordable price, you get yourself a very dependable ash vacuum. This machine has an 800W motor that is powerful enough to provide sufficient suction. This cannot be considered a small motor because the suction is rather intense.
This ash vacuum has a large capacity. You will not have to empty the ash vacuum regularly as it has a sizeable 15L tank. This is a larger capacity than some of the other models featured. The tank is heat resistant and can hold ash at temperatures up to 40°C. The ability to house warm and cold ashes is an advantage as you don’t need to wait until it has totally cooled down.
For a machine that has such a powerful motor, it works unbelievably silently. Let’s say, if you have a baby or a finicky neighbour, a loud machine is the last thing that you need. This ash collector is home friendly as it is designed as a low noise model and this is noticeable when it is compared to other ash vacuums. The neighbours will thank you for it. The handle is well made to ensure that you can move the vacuum cleaner easily when it is full.
We love ash vacuums with effective filters. This is because the filters capture the ashes and prevent it from being released back into the air. The filter also protects the motor from unnecessary blockages. The dimensions of this ash vacuum are 28 x 28 x 43cm making it easy to store and as it isn’t that heavy it can be easily carried.
PROS
- It comes at an affordable price.
- Nice ash capacity tank.
- Very powerful.
- Runs quietly.
- 1-year warranty
Final conclusion
The Maxi Vac Ash Vacuum Cleaner is probably one of the best models overall and was previously our ‘best pick’.
The motor is strong enough to provide an adequate suction and is surprisingly more powerful than you might think. For those who are looking for a model that can hold both hot and cold ash, you can’t really go wrong with this model.
Overall this ash vacuum is probably one of the best choices for the majority of people who are looking to vacuum up ash and is also one of the cheapest models on our list. Our only wish that the hose was a bit longer. Other than that, it is an ash vacuum that you won’t regret purchasing.
Being that this model is very well built, has great suction and comes at a more than fantastic price we felt it was worthy of a top spot on our list of the best vacuums.
4. First4Spares 800W Debris Collector and Vacuum Cleaner
The First4Spares 800W Debris Collector and Vacuum Cleaner is another cold ash holder. It has a capacity of 15 litres. This capacity is not that big but it will be sufficient for smaller jobs such as collecting that ash that falls under the grate and cleaning out smaller fires etc. This cold ash collector will save you the time that you would have spent running around constantly emptying the vacuum every ten minutes. The motor emits a low noise level so it will not disrupt the neighbours or give you a headache when using either.
A motor is the heart of the ash vacuum. If the motor is not working well, the suction will be off and inconsistent. The motor that this model is fitted with is of 800W output, meaning that the suction will be better than average, but certainly not the best. No good ash vacuum come without a filter and that is why this model, just like the rest, is fitted with filters.
This model is versatile and you can use a bag to collect the ashes or do without, the choice is yours. Most people prefer using it bagless as it saves on costs in the long run and the bags have been reported to burst. The easy to clean and easy to maintain ash vacuum will make a good addition to handling smaller jobs. The handle is fitted for easy transportation from one location to another.
The nozzle can be switched to fit the requirements. You can use the round-nosed nozzle or the flattened one. The hose is made from durable material that has no holes preventing any ash from being released back into the air.
PROS
- Comes at an affordable price.
- Robust stainless steel construction.
- Can use a bag for ash collection or alternatively choose not to.
Final conclusion
The First4Spares Ash Vacuum Cleaner is a good product overall. It is designed to handle small loads of ash. Heavier functions would just put pressure on the motor and capacity. The manufacturer had a good concept in mind whilst making this ash vacuum. The problem comes in when the vacuum is blocked by debris and the machine unleashes a cloud of ash into the room.
This can be a real setback, especially for those working indoors. This means that this machine has to be regularly cleaned out to avoid said blockages.
If you need a better model we would recommend our ‘Best Pick’, the VonHaus Model. This will be a perfect fit if you are looking for something a little lighter.
Overall, not a bad model to invest in and certainly very popular on Amazon with plenty reviews. We aren’t really that sure why it is so popular, especially because we found a better option that also costs less. However, certainly not a bad model to try.
5. De Vielle 25 Litre Ash Vacuum Cleaner
The De Vielle 25 Litre Ash Vacuum Cleaner comes with a much larger capacity than our Best Pick. This large tank can hold 25 litres of ash and will definitely save you some time. The constant emptying that one experiences with smaller tanks are avoided in this model making it especially useful for larger fires and stoves. If you have a small amount of ash, you can go a couple of days without needing to empty the two chambers provided.
This ash vacuum is equipped with a hose that is lined with aluminium. This way, any debris that goes through the hose is unable to cause irreparable damage. It is always a good idea to look at the quality of the hose on the vacuum you are purchasing to ensure that it can withstand constant use. The length of the hose is adequate to provide you with enough reach.
This model is also designed to be easily cleaned and dispose of the ash effectively. You just have to remove the filters and dispose of the ash. The 3-layer filter system will ensure that the collected ash does not go into the wrong areas. The filters need to be cleaned regularly to avoid unnecessary blockages. The very powerful 1200W motor will ensure that this machine runs smoothly (as to be expected) and has plenty of suction.
This ash vacuum comes with a handle and it is provided to facilitate easy transportation. Without the handle, moving 25 litres of ash would prove tasking. This durable machine is one that can be depended upon to take up all of your ash.
PROS
- It comes with two tanks for normal and fine ash.
- Can be purchased at an affordable price.
- The large tank capacity prevents time being wasted due to emptying requirements.
Final conclusion
The De Vielle 25 Litre Ash Vacuum Cleaner is good for those with large amounts of ash, so is perfect for cleaning larger stoves and fireplaces.
The impressive 1200w motor is powerful enough to provide enough suction to fill the tank with ease and is actually very impressive in terms of suction.
We like that the handle has been ergonomically designed. This way, a consumer can move the tank without injuring their hands. The price is affordable when you take into consideration the larger tank size and powerful motor, not to mention the quality. If not for a few flaws, this product will be nothing short of perfect and would have been our ‘Best Pick’. Unfortunately, it is not suitable for hot ash and this is it’s only real downside.
If you need something that can handle hot ash, try the Clifford James 15L Ash Collector Vacuum Cleaner. If you do not mind waiting for the ash to cool, you can consider it confidently to be amongst your top picks and probably the best choice for you.
It is worth noting that this model has over 170 mainly positive reviews on Amazon.co.uk, which is very impressive in itself and further confirms how good this product is.
FAQs
How to clean ash vacuum filters?
Almost all ash vacuums have a dual filtration system. There is an outer filter that is usually treated with a chemical and should never be washed using soap or detergent as a result. For this one, you can use an air compressor to clean it thoroughly. Any residual ashes can be pulled off using another external vacuum cleaner.
The inner filter, on the other hand, can be taken out and cleaned with detergent or any such substance. Some models such as VonHaus 15L Ash Vacuum Cleaner use a cloth as the secondary filter. This cloth can be washed using soapy water, rinsed well and then left to dry completely before reinstalling into place.
Ideally, not every model uses the same type of filters. So check whether the manufacturer says the filters are washable or cleanable at least.
Can you use ash vacuums with hot ash?
Most machines are designed to pick up cold ashes. This means you have to allow the fire to cool for many hours before you vacuum it. There are still a few models that can handle hot ash, but this usually means up to 50°C. Still, occasional warm ash may not destroy the ash vacuum but it’s not wise to vacuum hot embers.
Where can I use an ash vacuum?
Almost anywhere ashes are, from fire pits to wood stoves, pellet stoves, BBQ and coal fires. However, it shouldn’t be used to clean the chimney as you’ll run the risk of causing a fire.
Ash Vacuum Buyer’s Guide
Like any product on the market, you will meet with different variations from different brands. When it comes to ash vacuums the differences are not so many, but the ones that are there make a huge difference. These differences may also be influenced by your preferences.
Be sure to look at the function that you want the ash vacuum to undertake and the possible features that go with it. Read various reviews to make certain that the prospective ash vacuum you want is a good fit. Below are some of the most notable and important characteristics:
- Consider the amount of ash to be collected – If you look at the ash that collects in your fireplace or woodstove, you might be able to determine the capacity of the ash vacuum tank that you need. If you collect a lot of ash, it is safer to go with larger models. Larger capacities definitely cost more than the smaller capacities and if you are on a tight budget you can settle for a smaller tank. The issue is that you will have to stop and empty frequently in order to clear a large pile of ash. In reality though, most vacuums have adequate storage space.
- Hot ash or cold ash? – There are ash vacuums that can handle hot ash. These types of ash vacuums usually have metal tanks and heat resistant hoses. The heat resistant material allows you to clear out the ash without needing to wait for it to cool. If you have impromptu need of cleaning your fireplace or wood stove you can. There are ash vacuums however that can only handle cold ash. These kinds of ash vacuums leave the user with no option but to let the ash cool. If you are to have impromptu visitors, you will have to let them meet the fireplace stacked with hot ash. It is safer if you seek models that can contain both hot and cold ashes.
- How is the ash disposed of? – All the ash that is collected has to be disposed of carefully. This is because ash is very fine a can spread in a jiffy. Most models will have sealed tasks that discourage any trapped ash from escaping. When this ash collects there are two ways to manage the ash, and these are either using bag or bagless. With the bagless option, the vacuum collects all the material that can later be disposed of. The bag option is also available for those who prefer to engage less with the ash. Depending on your preference, you can select accordingly.
- Pay attention to the motor and filter – The motor is the tool that facilitates the suction movements. If you are working with a small motor, you are more likely to have weaker suction. Weak suction means you will spend hours trying to get through a load of ash. A strong motor will provide stronger suction which will, in turn, save you some valuable time. A silent motor is also important as you do not want to disturb the neighbours every time you use your ash vacuum. The filter is important as it prevents the ash from collecting in the wrong area. If the ash has the ability to get through various nooks and crannies you will find that your motor will start having problems. For models that can take hot ash, the filters help remove the coals that may burn through the final filter. There are filters that have to be replaced and those that can be washed and re-used.
- Ease of use – An easy to use tool is always an added advantage. It makes the consumer feel like they can handle the product. When it comes to ash vacuums, the tanks need to be easy to clean. This is because if ash remains in there over time, it will clog and a clogged vacuum will prove inefficient in the long run. Some models come with wheels for easy mobility when it is full, whilst others have indicators. These indicators tell the user when it is time to empty the vacuum cleaner. The hose has to be made from a strong but supple material and one that you can retract to the ash vacuum at any given time. If it is a heat resistant hose it needs to be insulated to protect your hands. The mouth of the hose can be round or flattened to provide more access in tight corners. There are manufacturers that offer accessories to help maintain the ash vacuum. Some brands come with their own cleaning tools so that you can maintain your ash vacuum at home. If you need a brand that offers accessories be sure that they are of quality.
- What is the cost of the ash vacuum? – This will all depend on the amount of money that you are willing to spend. There are high-end brands that offer capacity and quality. The low-end quality gives you the basic functions but skimp on the quality. Look at the ash that needs to be cleared and how often. Then you can select any of the best ones in that price range, we found you can pick up a good reliable model with plenty of suction for a little over £30, with some models being around £50. We found price didn’t seem to make much difference.
Our Final Conclusion
With ash vacuums, things do not have to be complicated. You just need to know how much ash is to be collected and whether you need to vacuum hot ash. The rest will figure itself as you look at the provided specifications.
We have seen that not many models can house hot ash. If you are on the lookout for a model that can contain hot ash, be sure to check the maximum temperature recommended. Otherwise, you might end up with a useless machine that you rarely use.
There is a lot of information out there. You can use this information to discover more about your preferred ash vacuum. Don’t forget to read other ash vacuum reviews and the best place to do this is by reading Amazon user reviews to see what other users have to say about new models on the market.
With that being said and done, we hope we have given enough information so you can make an informed decision about which model is right for you.
Below is a quick reminder of our best pick
Then there’s a debris filter that prevents intake of large debris that could potentially block the system, as well as the HEPA and cloth filters that capture tiny allergenic particles. Add to the fact that these filters are a breeze to clean and you have a truly convenient ash vacuum cleaner. An ergonomic carry handle on top of the machine also makes it easy to transport the whole thing to the bin. Given that this model is available at less than £50 and is backed by a 2-year warranty, there’s no doubt it’s one of the best out there.
Last update on 2024-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
