Shop Vac Filter Hack - Make it Last!

[@SpicySteve-tz2so]

Stumbled on this video. Tried it, was absolutely stunned at how well this worked. No more compressor blowing out and cleaning the filter! Subscribed for life because of your ingenuity!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thanks brother! I’ve found that a lot of people on here talk negatively about, but EVERY single person that has taken the time to actually TRY it, really likes the outcome! Glad you found this video useful! Make sure to subscribe!

[@evilcanofdrpepper]

@@BurkeMakesStuff You could also make your filters last longer between uses by modifying the inside of the input into a kind of cyclone separator to throw the stuff sucked in sideways instead of directly at the filter. This would make the air spin in the bin and again use centrifugal force to spin the particles out of the air and onto the base. Just hot glue a 90 degree bend of PVC pipe on the inside pointed sideways and slightly down maybe 5 degrees below horizontal. I would go with a size a bit larger than the hose tube and you can experiment with the angles a bit with the hot glue by putting a go pro AND A LIGHT inside it to try to get the optimum angle where it throws the stuff sideways and down a bit without blowing the stuff that is settled on the bottom up again! Also maybe try using the shop vac's blow filter to outside to blow the dust off then like a reverse osmosis system works blow air into it backwards to finish blasting stuff out of the pores.

[@Fatazz]

Still might be worth finishing with the air compressor for the more stubborn dust.

[@mariopuzo4509]

@@evilcanofdrpepper craftsman unfortunately/fortunately ,depending how u look at it...addressed this.. the intake nozzlr does point down.

[@HoLeeFuk317]

What's so hard about using a compressor?

[@Andyloveswood]

I never thought that people would buy a new filter every time one gets covered with dust. And this is a pretty complicated solution to a problem I didn't know existed! I step outside, and use some air from the compressor--cleans the filter in about 30 seconds.

[@tompopowich8110]

Exactly, I’ve been blowing out the same original filter for 3 years now. Hasn’t cost me a dime.

[@mcw0530]

This exactly. I think this video is more of a click generator.

[@tyjaimjord]

My thoughts exactly... Blow out with air compressor is my hack. Genius!

[@brettralston3599]

I use water then let it dry. Same thing you do with pool filters.

[@5ive9inefx]

I go outside and tap it against the floor. Three years later and still works perfect.

[@dposcuro]

I used a 18v milwaukee portable vac for detailing heavy equipment. Whenever the filter got clogged with mud, silt and dust, I just went outside and dropped it on the ground a couple times. Works.

[@kelseyj9813]

Me too 😂

[@MarioRodriguez-xk3vo]

No no no, you need to science the hell out of it, over explain it and instead of simply using your eyes to see if it's clean use a scale, otherwise your method is crap

[@trekOCLVone]

I stumbled into an easy way to "super" clean a shop vac filter today. I took the filter outside - way outside. I then used a Milwaukee M18 battery powered leaf blower, and this cleaned the filter beyond belief. Hold the filter in one hand. Aim the blower at the filter and work around the filter and once in a while put the blower end inside the filter to help blow out more. In two minutes, you have a filter that is so clean it looks new. Then use the blower to clean yourself off and you and the shop vac filter are clean. Simple. * the Milwaukee blower is very powerful compared to other brands.

[@dposcuro]

@@robertbolding4182 What, you think I didn't drop the filter on the ground to clean it out?

[@rickycanady8640]

Toss that puppy in the air a couple times works almost as well as the compressor

[@mnsterbruiser]

I put a $2 beanie hat over mine, prefilter keeps the heavy crud out of the main filter.

[@brionbee]

If anybody hasn’t told you: Fantastic job!

[@LocdWolf]

That restricts air flow and ruins a beanie. Prefiltering a shop vac filter doesn't make sense to me, but cheesecloth with a rubber band would be a lot less stressful on the motor

[@DiscoveryDarks]

@@LocdWolf I recently saw a video of people using pool socks or w/e it's called

[@rogerd4559]

Cool I think Ill make filters out of two dollar beanie hats and sell them to hoover owners

[@need100k]

I've used an old t-shirt. Just catches the heavier stuff, like your beanie. Works well.

[@jimvargas5085]

Bought a home depo plastic bucket with lid. Drilled a larger hole than the screw in the center of lid then attached it to my drill lid fist. Put lid on bucket and spun, waited a few min for dust to settle. Worked grate no need to clean shop afterwards.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Yup. Did it that way for a while after this incident. Ended up doing a totally different t bike to solve all issues. Check it out. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@robertpatton1776]

I still use the same filter my shopvac came with in 2000. I just smash it against the inside of my trash can....OUTSIDE!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Lol! This whole thing came around from me doing exactly that! I live just outside of NYC and properties are super close together. I went outside to bang mine around and clean it out and ended up covering my neighbor’s yard. Led to a huge argument! 😆 that’s when I thought I should find a “better” way!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thank you so much for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 🙏🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@HollyWoodSlackn1]

Lol. Duh. Same here and then I spray it with water from inside out if it's real dirty and let it sun dry. Bam. 30 min, brandnew. Have never bought a new one........

[@jthonn]

@@HollyWoodSlackn1 Must be a good one, I got mine wet and it fell to pieces.

[@pepeluke5911]

Me too 🗑️💪💪🌪️

[@michaelburke5750]

I hit it with the leaf blower. Have had the same hepa filter over 20 years.

[@gavincurtis]

That’s a damn good idea. Air compressor nozzles damage the filter.

[@rogdotcom1]

Thats exactly what I do, what’s this guy thinking mounting it to a drill, what a tool lol

[@guyh.4553]

Been using a leaf blower for years as well. Thank you The Family Handyman Magazine! Also "sweep out" the garage the same way. Again, thank you The Family Handyman Magazine!

[@dalethomasdewitt]

I wrap the filter with cotton fabric and wire seal; then leaf blower. Vacuum cleaner filters are one of those intensive maintenance inventions begging for improvement but with patience are fine.

[@MrOregor]

I buy vacuum filter bags from thrift stores for about a dime and put the shop vac filter inside one of them. That fine dust hardly reaches the shop vac fillter.

[@kingjamesbiblecovertocover2212]

How much does a new filter weigh? Compare the weight of the cleaned filter with the weight of a new filter to see how "clean" the old filter really is.

[@Craig_Cole]

Exactly, can't believe he missed this little key piece of info.

[@davidegentile2324]

Agreed!

[@shivrick9558]

To get an accurate measurement,you would have to clean your way vs cleaning it by just banging it against your house...but I did like your other videos..keep it up

[@AA-zq1sx]

If hes going to claim to be scientific compare two dirty filters. One spun, one just banged on something for a while. My guess is very little difference, in spite of all sorts of extra effort and a giant mess. Oh and, use a bag! Geez.

[@rogerd4559]

@@Craig_Cole why won't anyone just give the filter a bath It was even in the instructions from Sears when I bought the vacuum cleaner in 1975

[@rogerlyons209]

wondering if a air hose would the filter just thinking with the drill and air together might do a better filter

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

At the time I didn’t have an air compressor. There is DEFINITELY something to be said for blowing a filter out from the inside. Very mess, but very efficient!

[@WillN2Go1]

Here's my years of experience. 1. Always use a vacuum bag inside the shopvac. Tape it on with duct tape if you have to. (I've had your model of HD shopvac and I've taped it on many times) 2. Use a cyclone or pre-thing on a 5 gallon bucket to remove most of the heavy stuff. 3. The biggest health risk to you, and your family is the superfine dust you think of as that nice woody shop smell (Because you go in the house with this dust on you, the risk leaves the shop with you. Farmer's wives have a higher incidence of cancer then do their husbands who were spraying the carcinogenic pesticide all day in the field) The super fine particles of dust is in the fine dust on the filter, but it's also the pulverized invisible dust being blown out of the shopvac. ( There's a Chinese documentary that was so good the Communist government banned it within a week about PM2.5 micron dust. The stuff you cough up and snorrrrk! out of your nose is really not a long term health problem. Your body knows how to cough it up. It's the PM2.5 and smaller stuff that gets deep into your lungs that your normal lung functions can't remove. This is the stuff that gives you COPD and emphysema 30 years from now. To deal with this superfine stuff: 1. I always use a respirator even when my vacuum connect to my sander works well 2. You can run an extra hose from your shop vac outside the work space. (The new HDepot vacs don't have an exhaust attachment). I used to do this in my photography darkroom - clearly I would know if this worked or not and 3. Be more careful cleaning out that filter. To clean the filters I just vacuum them trusting that the bag alone will stop most of it, or I vacuum them using a second shopvac. I also do this with all the filters in my house. I do like your spinning method. I'd still suggest vacuuming the pleats. (If you do this through a piece of gauze you'll be able to see if this step is necessary.) And general shop dust collection. I've got some $300 and $400 HEPA air filter units in my house. The one I like best they don't make any more, the $400 one smells like the motor is burning. What has always worked is a HEPA Furnace filter wired to the back of my big floor fan. (The wire holds it when the fan isn't on, the fan alone is enough to keep it in place). For your shop make a hanging unit with a cube of 4-5 HEPA furnace filters duct taped together and a box fan on the 6th side of the cube. (I've run two filters with a box fan for a couple of years without burning out the fan so 4-5 filters? Should last forever. Hung from the ceiling is probably the most effective for your health. One thing we do: we remove our respirators when the dust is gone. That superfine crap is still floating around. (When I used to use cleaning products like windex and an regular vacuum cleaner inside the darkroom - the dust problem was permanent.) Something else I do to clean up my darkrooms, no cleaning products, instead I would wipe surfaces with a paper towel I wetted from the cold water tap. My darkroom in my photostudio was like the operating room in a hospital, but had a permanent dust problem, my last darkroom in a shed in my backyard? Using the methods above near zero dust problem and I'd often have mud and dirt on the floor tracked in from outside. Hope this helps.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Lol. True, however, most of what you’ve written hear I’ve alreadynencorporwted into my new 2 stage cyclone dust collection video. Coming out in a few days. I’d love your feedback on that!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thank you so much for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 🙏🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@martyroof9022]

Weird flex, but OK.

[@d.e.b.b5788]

Thank you for the six sided cube filter Idea. It's inexpensive to put together, and has worked very well so far.

[@Mogwai06]

That's a good idea about the canister lining. I'm gonna use that now. But please do go on about this whole secretly giving your wife cancer situation. Just let me grab a pen really fast aaaand, ok! Got it! Please continue. You have my full undivided attention... 😶👍

[@angrychef56]

I usually take the filter outside and use a air nozzle off of my compressor, resulting in a lot of particles on my grass and a large dust cloud that travels into the neighbors yard. Even though I don’t like them, I think that you are on to something. I believe that the solution is to drill a hole for the bolt in the lid of a 5 gallon bucket and spin the filter inside the sealed container. Wait a few minutes for the dust to settle and you are good

[@Beanmachine9198]

angrychef56 or spin it out in a 5 gal bucket with a lid on it🤔

[@Beanmachine9198]

KelMaster Construction 😂🤣😂🤣have big fun with that

[@daviddura1172]

EGG ZACHARY

[@dondutra3086]

@KelMaster Construction Even better if your neighbors have a freshly cleaned pool!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

so my issue, at the time was easy, and ya kinda hit on it below. Im just outside on NYC and properties are REALLY close. neighbors had a problem with the saw dust. Any of you have a 2 step system with a cyclone?

[@smshariff5641]

This is a great idea, will use next time. Does anybody know the weight of that size filter when its new, just curious on how close it is..rhanks

[@DanFilipi]

Should be called “The hardest way to clean shop filter” Mine has several years on it by washing with garden hose. Be sure to leave it in the open air to dry or the filter might rot

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

i totally understand! This came out of the fact that i didn't have an air compressor and my neighbors got upset about the dust. I live just outside of NYC and properties are really close. what do you do for dust collection?

[@BenjaminCronce]

I just purchased a shop vac for around the house. I winced at the hepa filter for $30, but then I noticed on the box it says to reuse the filter by rinsing it.

[@dalethomasdewitt]

@@BurkeMakesStuff N.Y.. didn't have any problem with thermonuclear dust. Or just afraid of calling out the mafia on that one?

[@libertarian1637]

Burke Makes Stuff: I also live in NY with next door 1 foot from my house. I use a cyclone separator with my shop vacuum and a washable Hepa filter on it. I get great dust extraction and you just poor out the 5 gal. bucket with the dust in it. I purchased a cheap one off eBay for 12 dollars and gave more in the bucket setup.

[@4dchessplayer516]

Not all airfilters can be cleaned with water though, its just a neat way to do something else. I use filterbags soooooooo yeah mine stays clean pretty much all the time.

[@donny_bahama]

Really a brilliant idea and I will TOTALLY use this - OUTSIDE. I knew the box thing was not going to work well (you’re generating a lot of wind, there) but I wasn’t expecting THAT! Thanks for not editing that out. I haven’t laughed so hard in ages! I had tears streaming down my cheeks from laughing so hard! Thanks for the great idea - and the entertainment!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

My pleasure! 😂

[@donny_bahama]

@@BurkeMakesStuff I swear this gets funnier every time I watch it!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

@@donny_bahama I’m finally at the point where I feel the same! 😂

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thank you for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 🙏🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@Keefymonoped]

Like the idea of running it in a drill. I've used a compressor before outside but its really not ideal, so after watching this i'm going to use an old 12L fence paint container, drill a hole in the centre of the lid to feed my bolt through and try that to see if it works ok. Hopefully the lid on the bucket/paint tub will stop the dust from flying all over the place. Thanks for the idea.

[@michaelg.294]

I found that if I tie the filter off to my Ford's trailer hitch with a 10 foot piece of barbed wire (or whatever I happen to have lying around) and take a drive down to the CO-OP, by the time I get home it's as good as new! For some reason it doesn't work that well if I drive to the Feed 'n' Farm though. Which is fine with me 'cause it's 2 miles further and the road isn't paved.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Lol! This whole thing came around from me doing exactly that! I live just outside of NYC and properties are super close together. I went outside to bang mine around and clean it out and ended up covering my neighbor’s yard. Led to a huge argument! 😆 that’s when I thought I should find a “better” way! I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next build. Went and made a 2-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filter and dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@RobinhoodarrowsRHA]

Just tried it and it works great! 'To make it even more effective, right at the end when it was mostly clean, I held a small flat piece of metal across the filter elements as it was spinning. Really got into all the stuff that gets stuck in there. Very happy :)

[@baddinosaur1548]

I've always cleaned my filters with the air compressor. Can't remember when I've bought a new filter. Gee I don't think I ever have.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

If it works for you, rock it out!

[@01cissy]

I've done the same, with the same results.

[@huejanus5505]

30 seconds with compressed air and my filter looks brand new. Best done with the wind at your back. :-)

[@engineclinic]

Blowing with compressed air is not ideal according to studies done. The high pressure air forces particulates into the filter membrane and although it looks clean it's not really. I believe that you can do this and it's better than nothing however I would be curious as to the flow reduction. If it's working for you it's all good I just wanted to share the info.

[@hescottbeats1]

@@engineclinic i blast mine from the inside - out

[@scootermom1791]

Considering I don't own an air compressor and will probably never be able to buy one, this video was extremely helpful! Not only for attaching the filter to the drill but also for attaching any other object of choice to a drill. I wondered about how people do that, and now I know. Thank you for making this video! 🙂

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Glad I could help! At the time I didn't have one either. I ended up changing the setup completely, but this method never let me down.

[@scootermom1791]

@@BurkeMakesStuff Awesome! 🙂

[@roseymalino9855]

You don't need an air compressor. Just use the vac output or your house vac output to blow back through the filter like people have been doing for as long as I've known; over 70 years.

[@jonathancupp3686]

Just get a pancake compressor, they are dirt cheap ($125.00) for the Porter Cable. Very handy to have. I use mine a lot and it’s lasted about 5 years so far, and still going strong.

[@scootermom1791]

@@jonathancupp3686 that's really good to know! I checked on prices for the pancake compressors and even found some for less than $100. Thank you for this info! 🙂

[@tfree_]

Love how you took the time to use your fan with a string n nut to illustrate your idea...Perfectionist at his finest...I hear you, sir, and I relate!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thanks for the kind words. I just like to make sure the point is clear!

[@lancegirard3605]

First time here and love your voice and commentary! Love that you didn’t edit out your mess ups and showed us that we are all human! Keep up the good fight

[@matthewwasserman7709]

Very cool! I normally just drop it in a new garbage bag and knock it around, then one the dust settles (literally) I open the bag to my like new filter

[@anthonyhartman5586]

I have a second filter. when one gets clogged, I put the other in and use the vacuum nozzle to clean the first. no dust no fuss. perfectly clean.

[@kimberlydeprey]

Smart!!!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thanks for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 👍🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@anthonyhartman5586]

​@OneDayAfterAnother essentially yes. and I just cycle those two filters

[@acbenepe]

That's like the vacuum monster in "Yellow Submarine" who sucks in his own tail

[@juliemanning4795]

This is a really helpful idea! I normally just throw mine on the grass a bunch of times and beat it against the trunk or a tree until it cries a bit. Maybe I'll do your trick...far away from the house and with a respirator based on the other peeps have suggested.

[@scso1502]

I busted out laughing when you turned it on in the box! I knew immediately what happened! Thanks for the laugh!!!!

[@wagnerrdtradingpostonebay8934]

I just blow my filter out with compressed air outside the shop. Same shop vac filter going on 10 years.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

totally! I didnt have an air hose. had an issue with neighbors and saw dust. you every use a dust deptuy of a 2 step system? know anyone that has?

[@wagnerrdtradingpostonebay8934]

@@BurkeMakesStuff yes I just bought a cheap one from home depot works great. Just alot of buisness to lug around. Using this set up to vac sand sheetrock mud. Working great so far to trap majority of dust

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

No Name awesome!

[@walnutcontractors5661]

@@BurkeMakesStuff I've got the dust deputy going it works well. I bought the version that requires you bring your own bucket and it takes some assembly. I also created a little cart so I can pull it along with the shop vac - my cart tends to tip over though as the connection is at the top. If it tips the dust ends up back in the shop vac. If I manage to vac without the dd tipping not a lot reaches the hepa filter - I need to remake my dd cart or maybe create a elbow and riser and have the inlet for the vacuum hose at the bottom of the dd cart.

[@shivrick9558]

Right,like who the he spend 100s of dollars on vac filters?? Wtf is this dude smokin??

[@thomasbradley4868]

I did it with a old garbage 🗑 can . I drill a hole in the top it works great 👍! Thank you!

[@diannamorris9225]

I love the fact that you're not staged in your real person that's awesome. I am hey 100% do what you have to do with what you have at the time ,person. I've use pantyhose and I've used some things I'd rather not mention , for a Shop-Vac filter! this is by far the best idea! thank you so much!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thanks! I try to keep it honest and real! I ended up solving the problem entirely with this next version of the build. Went and made a two-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filters and a HEPA dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE I think it's a major improvement, but I’m sure it could still be better. I would appreciate any feedback you have!

[@TheNewenglandboys]

I put mine in a plastic trash bag and wack it against a tree several time. Good to go

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Great, simple! Awesome!

[@TheNewenglandboys]

@Harris Crotum naa you just blow it out if your worried about it. I've got a rigid vac and its 10 years old. Never had a problem. But I only refuse the filters one time.

[@rogerd4559]

I put mine in a plastic trash bag and the next thing I knew the garbage man was hauling it away

[@robertray3746]

Thank you you know what else if you want to get really crazy wash it with the garden hose let it dry for a couple of days and it's like new

[@graebeard6882]

As soon as I saw the open box, I knew what was to come. I have used the compressed air method in the past, but I think using a large garbage bag instead of a pail or closed box would be a lot more convenient.

[@amyjones3355]

That's exactly what I was thinking, too. And use a pool filter sock to begin with. But my dad always did the blow out with air compressor hose thing

[@evilcanofdrpepper]

You could also make your filters last longer between uses by modifying the inside of the input to throw the stuff sucked in sideways instead of directly at the filter. this would make the air spin in the bin and again use centrifugal force to spin the particles out of the air and onto the base. Just hot glue a 90 degree bend of PVC pipe on the inside pointed sideways and slightly down maybe 5 degrees below horizontal. I would go with a size a bit larger than the hose tube.

[@juliemanning4795]

Great idea! Thanks!!

[@WJCTechyman]

Most machines already have a deflector to do that and the filters still get clogged. Bags and interceptors are your friends and really aren't that expensive.

[@timrobertson299]

@@evilcanofdrpepper doesn’t help. My craftsman has a deflector built into it. It does toss the bigger stuff off to the side but the smaller stuff still gets drawn right in to the filter because it’s too light to fall before it hits the filter I’ve just ordered some vacuum cleaner bags for my shop vac. This will catch all the big stuff and the majority of the small stuff. Extending the cleaning cycles of the filter

[@grumpus_hominidae]

I've just been beating the filters against a tree or a curb. I clean chimneys, so I pick up a TON of soot, which is just SUPER fine particulate. Thanks for this nifty idea! After I try it, I'll edit this comment to give the results of spinning soot off the filter. Thanks again!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Lol! This whole thing came around from me doing exactly that! I live just outside of New York City and properties are super close together. I went outside to bang mine around and clean it out and ended up covering my neighbor's yard. Led to a huge argument! Lol.! That's when I thought I should find a. Better. Way! I ended up solving the problem entirely with this next build. Went and made a two-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filters and a HEPA dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE I think it's a major improvement, but I’m sure it could still be better. Would appreciate any feedback you have!

[@matthewgrills4135]

Actually, the results monitor is to weigh a new unused filter vs your “clean” one to see how much dust the “procedure” removed.

[@greggh.748]

Totally agree with you. If a unused filter weight is way lighter than his cleaned filter..... I've always use a bench brush , and then an air compressor to extend the life of my filter. It's a dusty mess, but it only takes a few minutes.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thank you so much for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 🙏🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@jonnyshoestring9368]

Good tip and glad the dust is yours 🤣 I will be trying this and as I don't need to show think I will stick it in a plastic bag then tape and hold. 👍👍👍

[@briankrian3834]

Um, take the filter outside and tap it smartly on a tree while supporting it from the inside of the filter with your hand.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

lol. absolutely! the big issue i have where in am, just outside of NYC is that properties are really close. My neighbors had an issue with the sawdust, so that where the need arose. ending up ordering a dust deputy to help! ever use one?

[@lylelay]

Put the filter in a plastic bag, hold it closed with one hand (around your wrist), do what Brian said with the other. Been doing some variant of that for 40 years, learned it from my dad

[@MachtPlays]

@@BurkeMakesStuff Before cleaning up next time.. take off the filter and put an old sock over the filter housing. I have used old socks for filters for years. Filters are really only needed for extremely fine particles like fiber glass or something that would actually fuck the flywheel connected to the motor that creates the suction up.

[@treypar1080]

Or just blow it out with an air compressor, and never buy another one again....

[@tjwright]

@@treypar1080 Exactly!!! My shop vac is probably 20 years old and I've never bought a filter for it. I don't use it a whole lot, and I'm sure it's not running at peak efficiency... but I just use compressed air, tapping, shaking, wiping, etc to clean it off and I put it right back in. It still works quite well.

[@madebyfergws9944]

I nearly wet myself laughing when you spun that filter for the first time! Mentally, I was saying "he's not going to do that inside, is he?" I'm sure we've all done dumber things. Thanks for sharing.

[@evilwoodchuck]

My dad once attempted to dry his nylon socks in the microwave. That didn't end well.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

im glad you enjoyed it! know anything about 2 step dust systems like with a dust deputy? just ordered one and looking for advise.

[@mrfixitusa6165]

@@BurkeMakesStuff I made my own 2 stage using 2 35 gallon plastic drums and an HVAC 4inch media filter in a home made "plenum". It basically just replaces the "bucket" portion of my shop vac.

[@rogerd4559]

another dumb-ass trying to teach intelligent people how to do things

[@tomstanley5276]

That's good advice for those who need to clean the filter and although it's not cheap, I have continually used bags for my vac. I don't have to remove and clean my filter and I don't have to worry about any dust because everything is contained in the bag. Alot less time involved changing bags compared to cleaning the filter

[@mikehennessy7014]

It was a good idea in theory. I was always looking for ways to clean the filter. In stead of buy new filters every month you can just use compressed air and blow it out. You may want to buy a dust separator ($75 -$100). You can then get air filtration unit to collect the dust in the air (wen makes one for $100). Both have changed my life.

[@nateb4543]

As much as i support buying American, im cheap. Aliexpress dust separators are like $30. Filter still fills up with the fine stuff but well worth it, eady to set up too

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

Some high dollar vacs have a shaker that vibrates the filter. Pressing a 1/4 sheet hand sander next the the filter also works.

[@steverone7623]

I take the filter off, put the hose on the “blow” end with a small nozzle and blow the filter out if compressed air isn’t available

[@game4alaughman]

Am thinking do this outside on the grass…. Tie the drill onto something, tape trigger down, run along extension into the house switch it on with doors shut and hopefully your neighbours aren’t putting their washing out lol 😂 sorted

[@RDHD50]

Could you use a drill if you don't have a small fan?

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I only use the fan for the demo of centrifugal force. I use a drill for the cleaning.

[@craft-can]

I too used to bang it outside leaving a mess in the grass that someone I live with was not all too happy about :p But this idea I will use with modification of a 5 gallon bucket and lid - 2 filters Spin clean 1 let it set in bucket use the other filter til dirty and swap :D

[@rogerd4559]

its a great way tp piss off your neighbors and get them to move away

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thanks for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 👍🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@tdalb8985]

That seems a lot more work than tapping it on the driveway a few times.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thank you for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 🙏🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@lesbrown9338]

I'm going down to my shop now and try your idea that seem to be great...I'll let you know...thanks

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Outstanding! When you’re done, send me a pic for the Facebook group, if you would! [e-mail]!

[@ThatFixItGuy]

Dude! Subscribed! I'm ready to try this! There is a shout out coming your way! Keep up the great work.

[@med1pilot1956]

I take my filter outside, and using my shop vac in reverse, I blow from the inside out on my filters. Not quite like new, but pert near.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

med1pilot1956 I absolutely LOVE the idea of using the blower end of the vac to blow it out. Super messy, but a massive step up from people assuming everyone has an air compressor. In your case we KNOW they have what they need already on hand! Awesome! Thank you!

[@PaganWizard]

This is called creating air pollution and can end up getting you a rather hefty fine if someone reports you or if the Police should happen to see you doing this. Not worth the risk IMHO.

[@BillMacfarlane]

@@PaganWizard I don't think anybody in the history of ever has been fined for blowing out a residential vacuum filter outside. There's more sawdust released into the air in 15 minutes on a typical home construction site than there is in blowing out a shop vac filter, and given the current rate of building, it's likely anyone living in a typical city has a construction site nearby. You'd be hard pressed to find a municipality that has someone running around giving out tickets for dust, let alone taking up valuable time of a police officer.

[@daviddura1172]

@@BurkeMakesStuff or a leaf blower, I have an old electric one from 1977

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Bill Macfarlane fined, no. Caught crap from their neighbors that house they blew saws dust all over yes....🙋🏼‍♂️

[@KennelGirlBC]

Love it! Thanks for being human and hilarious, as well as giving us scientific info and inspiring ideas. Yes, I would have taken that baby outside, lol, and therefore, for 2 seconds, I for once felt really smart : ) I've read that some people use things called pool skimmer socks as a first filter, in place of the paper towels I see mentioned below which I had thought about but haven't yet tried. For those people who say why not "just use canned air?" the way they've been doing for years and say it hasn't cost them a cent, I would like to know where they get the free canned air. I have to pay plenty for mine, and the planet pays more. Centrifugal force IS free. As I'm not an engineer or scientist, I do not know nor do I have a way of measuring how any or all these treatments affect the ability of the filter to do its particular job, which is to capture the extremely fine particles. If I bash my filter about to knock debris off, or use force including air compressors etc., I wonder if, over time, that wouldn't cause some seams to loosen or the fibers to weaken or separate -- thus defeating the safety aspect and reducing this health aid to a general debris filter. As such, it would no doubt last 20 years. But that's not its job. I'm hoping that the methods I want to try to defend it from more of the debris will prolong its specific useful life span. I still think this a great idea and will be trying it (maybe a bit more gently) once the cold monsoons let up. Right now, I'm being wimpy, happy to stay inside. But, wait. Possibly it would be better to do it while it's pouring. It would definitely 'keep the dust down,' as we are fond of saying around here. Another experiment? And yes, I too want to build a dust collector 1st stage. Your vid on that is next up. Dude, I'm sub'd : )

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next build. Went and made a 2-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filter and dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@captainprincess5943]

When I had a pool, I substituted old hosiery for the fine partial skimmer. Never thought of putting them over my shop vac filter to prolong its life. That's a good idea!

[@rustyicepick8462]

Great idea. Once you get it clean, you may want to consider using a foam filter cover that fits over the filter canister and acts as a prefilter.

[@bob19611000]

Instead use a swimming pool filter sock. Cheap, easy to install, semi reusable, but when you just want to do a quick change they are fast to replace since they generally come in multiple packs. I put my extras in a small "zip lock" bag and leave inside the vac bucket for easy storage/location (just remember to pull it out before emptying it).

[@GetRealBaby]

@@bob19611000 Those pool socks work great. They're also cheap. I first use a foam filter to cover the canister filter, then add the pool sock over that, which makes a great canister filter saver. I've used this setup for years and have never changed my canister filter since. The spinning of the filter isn't needed and actually doesn't extract the very fine dust. A quick few shots from an air gun does the trick, inside-out of course.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I’ve heard about that. Sound promising! I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next version of the build. Went and made a two-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filters and a HEPA dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE I think it's a major improvement, but I’m sure it could still be better. I would appreciate any feedback you have!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I’ve heard about that. Sound promising! I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next version of the build. Went and made a two-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filters and a HEPA dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE I think it's a major improvement, but I’m sure it could still be better. I would appreciate any feedback you have!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I’ve heard about that. Sound promising! I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next version of the build. Went and made a two-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filters and a HEPA dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE I think it's a major improvement, but I’m sure it could still be better. I would appreciate any feedback you have!

[@snap-off5383]

Yeah there's gotta be a method of compressed air from the inside to power it able to spin, so it goes like 10 zillion RPM and has air pushing as well that would be peak effectiveness.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next iteration of the build. Went a very different route. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@joeguilfoyle1922]

Very smart idea! I was just curious the weight of the filter brand new. I realize that you won't get 100% of the crud out but knowing the weight of the original, brand new one should tell us exactly how well this works. My guess would be somewhere around 95-99% effective. Thanks for this video and idea. Brilliant.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I didn’t weigh it. Totally my bad. 🥺

[@nnamerz]

Also each type of shop vac takes a different sized filter so the weight of a new filter will vary. Not only that, but the weight will also vary between the different manufacturers & the materials they use.

[@markpuffer9615]

Drill a hole in the bottom of a 5gal bucket. Attach a lid on the bottom or place it in a long trash can outside works great.

[@mirkopolyak3592]

Drill your hole in the lid instead - that way when you aren’t using it to spin clean your filters, you still have a working bucket for other purposes.

[@DoingItLocal]

I use to just pound it against the side of the shed. Same principal!

[@Snarkapotamus]

I did the same thing on the driveway, but put it in a plastic Walmart bag to catch all the crap...

[@nicklk]

Or the inside of your garbage dumpster.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thanks for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 👍🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@s1udgeguts]

I had the same problem - and came up with the same solution. Heck, I even use the same technique to clean my paint rollers, simply spin the excess paint out, spin again in a bucket of soapy water, using my hand to agitate the pile of the roller, then spin out all the water, one nice, dry, clean roller in seconds. but I tired of spinning my vac filter all the time (not to mention the huge clouds of ultra-fine dust that is thrown out) and I came across a cyclone dust filter on ebay, cost about £10. I bolted this to the lid of a large bucket. The cyclone has 2 ports, inlet from suction nozzle and outlet to vac. I have sucked up hundreds of litres of sawdust and happy to say that none of it has reached the filter, the cyclone dealt with it all.

[@5000go2]

Reverse flow in general is the concept, with centrifical force force being a single means to achieve this. I would look more into reversing high air pressure backwards through the filter. Another suggestion if you get really involved would be to look at the charge of the debris caught in the filter. If you know the charge you can (like a magnet) aid in pulling the debris from the filter. If you think about it, fans themselves experience centrifugal force, yet still become covered in dust. The static charge is bigger than people think

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next version of the build. Went and made a two-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filters and a HEPA dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE I think it's a major improvement, but I’m sure it could still be better. I would appreciate any feedback you have!

[@timdoyon1964]

I just blow them from the inside out using my tornado high pressure air gun. After a couple minutes I’m blowing out clean air and I’m done for another month.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I wish I had one! At their end, I didn’t have an air compressor.

[@timmeister6721]

Same here. I’ve only had 2-3 filters in the past 20 years.

[@davidsnellen6853]

You know an air compressor used outside works faster and better. Just stand upwind or wear a mask. A simple two stage filter works even better. Haven't had to change my ShopVac filter in over a year. I do empty the 1st stage container every week or so.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

David Snellen I’ve tried air compressors. Not a fan. And I wouldn’t say better. It’s a different way to tackle the same problem. If you like that way, more power to you. Also remember that an air compressor for most, is a tool the Don’t have, but a drill is pretty basic and a bit, bolt and washers was less that $3.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

David Snellen I’m looking into 2 stage filters now. Any preference? Onida is expensive. I see online that Home Depot makes one that snaps on the top of a 5 gallon bucket as the first stage. Know anything about it?

[@davidsnellen6853]

@@BurkeMakesStuff There are a number of Chinese knockoffs that may work. Check eBay and Amazon. I got the Oneida Dust Deputy and fitted to a 5 gallon bucket. If HD has one, look into it.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

David Snellen Outstanding! Thanks man! 2 stage filters really should be the next thing I look into. Just have to keep it as small as possible, as my shop is only 14’x12’

[@bcrash11]

@@BurkeMakesStuff I have the dust deputy and I never clean my filter cause it stays clean. I use mine in my wood shop. Best investment yet.

[@MyHappinessUnleashed]

I see a lot of comments about washing, using a leaf blower or compressor, or tapping the dust out but this is a much more thorough way of doing it! Water will set the dust in and air or hitting/tapping isn't going to get it all out. Thanks for the video!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Great point!

[@adammartinez8698]

It's people like this guy that tools have warning labels.

[@johnwhodat8135]

Hahahaha

[@jeisonsanchez4842]

Mark Rober could use your shop vac dust in his “package thief vs glitter bomb” video. 😂

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Lol!!!! Absolutely! Thanks for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 👍🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@agfa663]

Instead just do this: Take the filter off the ShopVac. Plug your hose to the reverse port. Move outsise and start ghe ShopVac Blow the filter. It will look like there is a fire du to all the dust flying in the air. Now your filter is like new again.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

That's how this whole thing started! I took my filter into my yard to clean it. I'm JUST outside of NYC and homes are extremely close. I ended up covering my Neighbor's yard in saw dust...they were Mad! lol! Had to attempt to find a better way! What do you use for dust collection?

[@dallasfingrocks]

I wonder if you could get the shot vac to do this while it runs🤔

[@1r2i3c4h]

As my father would say, “going around your head to scratch your a$$.” As you saw, makes way to much dust. Hose it off with a garden hose. Like new, and no dust. Just have two so there is no downtime waiting for the one filter to dry.

[@tomsheppard7648]

Great idea

[@zbeshears6945]

I’ve done that more than once and have bought way to many hepa replacements for the dozens of shop vacs I’ve bought and thrown away. Wetting it down with a really fine dust already in it is almost impossible to get it all out, and if you don’t when that fine dust dries it’s like concrete covering the small pores that the air would travel thru. I suggest never wetting down your filters. This guy has a solid idea but should be done outside. I use a cordless leaf blower to help get it out of the filters when I clean then

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

@@zbeshears6945 ive heard really mixed reviews about wetting it,as seem above. whats been your experience with it?

[@zbeshears6945]

Burke Makes Stuff they are never the same again once they get wet, that’s my experience. Also makes them tear apart or fall apart easier after they dry out, if that makes sense. Plus even wetting them down you will never get all the old dust out and once it’s wet it’s like it clogs those tiny little pores that are there to allow it to breath That’s just my experience with them. Usually I beat them out, then run my palm around it a few times just flexing those fins back and forth to break up the fine dust that turns into cake dust after some use, beat it out again then blow it out with compressed air or my 18v mini blower from the inside out. Beat again if necessary. Always with the wind to my back lol When my filters got to the point that that process didn’t clean hyphen I toss them. Spread the cost of filters out over a few jobs and no one even notices. Plus they’ve gotten so cheap lately. Bought myself a new rigid 6 hp vac 3 months back that I really like so far and the filters themselves seem way better constructed and easier to clean than shop vac/craftsman brand vacs. I’ve went thru dozens of shop vacs in my 20 years of construction and remodeling I like you idea of spinning them like you would a roller cover or paint brush, just do it outside next time lol

[@indawgwetrust4255]

z beshears I've had the HEPA filter on my upright vac crumble and turn to dust after i tried rinsing it out. They say on the side to NEVER rinse them. Can't say i've ever had a HEPA filter on a shop vac though. i bet the cheaper ones would be fine to hose down though. I just take it into the yard and kick it around a bit.

[@gabrielortega328]

Purchase shopvac bags, it'll catch everything that's fine and won't fill up your filter.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

i ended up ordering a dust deputy. should help a lot! what do you do for dust collection?

[@pyroboobysmith359]

Exactly, I can't believe how many people run these shop vacs without a catch bag and will tell you that they are not needed, this video should be called , how not to use a shop vac, because this is what happens to your filter.

[@ryane6719]

I bought a dust deputy to work in conjunction with my Festool ct48... the dust deputy only captures about 40% by weight. 🙁

[@frozenwalkway]

@@pyroboobysmith359 trying to save money on filters and the solution is to buy one use bags?

[@pyroboobysmith359]

@@frozenwalkway If you are only getting one use out of your bag, it is time to buy a broom and a dust pan. For general use, you get many, many uses out of a collection bag and the efficiency lost with a plugged up filter is just false economy.

[@laurie3881]

I would have laughed except I was cleaning my filthy, dust filled filter while I watched this. I got my son-in-law to bring in another small shop vac from the garage. I turned it on -- it was on blow, not suck. I'll be cleaning dust out of my den for years. LIve and learn I suppose.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

absolutely! What do you do for dust collection now?

[@Yamaha_Bolt]

I’m doing this. I’ll do it into a garbage pale with a hole in the top the size of the bolt. This is such a great idea!

[@TheNitroG1]

"i needed to make a lid for the box."...im here like is outdoors on fire or something?

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thank you so much for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 🙏🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@fredmandery8620]

Another name for centrifugal force is inertia. As you pointed out, if not for the string the washers would fly off. They would go in a straight line tangent to the circle. The string applies the centripetal acceleration to keep them moving in a circle. Great idea for cleaning the filter and a lot easier on the filter than banging it on the ground like I've been doing.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

It’s really inertia and linear momentum. But I get like trying to explain all of that was a lot when it wasn’t the point of the video. Thank you though! I appreciate it!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thank you so much for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 🙏🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@mrgallbladder]

This also works for cleaning paint rollers, apparently.

[@sitgesvillaapartmentneilsc7924]

it does, use the shower hose with the end off in the bath or a normal hose and spin the roller on a long pole on the grass outside and watch the result, youll need to partially clean it first but it does come up super clean and fluffy again, im talking about real rollers from sheepskin with at least half an inch of wool on them not manmade ones, bin those, I have had rollers for years doing this. Also they are good for the next day if you havent finished today put in a plastic bag, seal and pop in the fridge, it can last up to a week like that without cleaning. old painters tips!! Emulsion paint only....( water based)

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thanks for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 👍🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@jackhenson2900]

After tossing it around my backyard several times. I use compressed air to get rid of the rest. I buy one filter a year. But I do enjoy your videos.

[@Mastertech6]

I use sheet rock bags, cuts down on the heavy dust. saves a lot of these problems, just throw it away!!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

inside the vac? i know nothing of them. please advise.

[@thepatriotrocker8001]

You know I have read other comments and I have to say the same thing I just take mine outside and bring it on the ground. I haven't bought a new filter in years. But hey, that's the way to science the shitt out of it 👍👍

[@mytimebytony2315]

I expected more of a box from someone saying “centrifugal force” 😳😂

Somebody explains to me centrifugal force, I feel disrespected and patronized lol What going on with that educational system Ayeaye aye

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thanks for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 👍🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@stephandelange1776]

This is an oldies trick. I've been doing this ever since they started putting filters like this in many things. But let me give you some good advice!! If you want to do this, use a small but hefty garbage bag.. Put your drill inside, just leaving the trigger out of the bag. OR if you dont mind dust on your hand. Put you hand in it, shut the bag tight and let it spin, several seconds and bang, its almost new. You can do the rest with a rag if you really want it perfectly clean. "But who does?" as long as it's clean and it catches the dust, YOU'RE A WINNER! Job Done and MONEY SAVED!

[@dentalairquality1488]

The smallest particles will remain in the filter because electrostatic forces are holding them in place, but the larger particles will likely come off. Be sure to wear a respirator or your lungs will end up filtering out all the particles you release from the filter!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I’m using the Microclimate Air2 & liking it very much.

[@fergusontea]

“Elongating the life”? That should be “prolonging the life”. lol

[@joeohhboy5384]

Thank you Mrs. Johnson..... I will bring an apple tomorrow.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

You sir, are correct! 🍎

[@fergusontea]

@@BurkeMakesStuff - Sorry! :) Couldn’t resist.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

@@fergusontea I’m a teacher. I should know better! 😆

[@farrier2708]

@@BurkeMakesStuff : You should have ignored the criticism and claimed 'Poetic Licence'. What you said made perfect sense and was in colourful keeping with the American dialect. Language is so prismatic. Ain't it?

[@Read_Exodus31]

When i worked at an autoshop I would take all the vac filters outside, then throw them straight up in the air a few times with as much spin as possible. Works the same.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Awesome! Absolutely the same idea! I just wish I had done MINE outside! Lol

[@MASS1866]

Why not an air hose

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

@@MASS1866 don't own one. i live just outside of NYC houses are also very close together.

[@dennisdubin2126]

Yeah...I tried it and it was great. But what I did was take a tough old plastic 32-gallon garbage can...drill a hole in the middle of the lid...feed the filter-and-bolt assembly up through the lid...chuck the bolt into my drill...put the lid on the garbage can (with the drill sticking up)...and let it rip. Spin it for a while, give it a couple minutes to let the dust settle, and no mess!

[@Spectt84]

I think I'll skip the "box" and just go outside...

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Lol. Yeah, I live in NYC so houses are really close together. My neighbors were none to happy with the dust the last time I did that! Lol Setting up a dust deputy system instead. Should work great! Thanks for checking out the video!

[@duneme]

My Wife cuts my hair, that’s how I get the savings!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Lol!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Thank you so much for supplying some motivation for this new build!! 🙏🏻 Solved the problem from this one! Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@Rapidfire556]

Get a dust stopper from hd and stop monkeying around with these filters.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Just ordered the dust deputy. Do you prefer the dust stopper?

[@MadLadCustoms]

@@BurkeMakesStuff I did the bucket over vac setup and I can appreciate the lower height vs going for dust deputy. (I'm in construction, and the vac does a lot of traveling around)

[@Mikha1y4]

@@MadLadCustoms The height is the problem... :(((

[@Mikha1y4]

@@BurkeMakesStuff Look at Aliexpress! You can find four for the price of one DD

[@MadLadCustoms]

@@Mikha1y4 did not think to look there, thanks!

[@stantilton2191]

I usually just slap or tap my filter against something outside. I will try this for sure. Thank you. By the way, my biggest mess was cutting chimney tile with a disc on my 4-inch grinder. Yes inside, OMG what a mess, everything was orange.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Lol! This whole thing came around from me doing exactly that! I live just outside of NYC and properties are super close together. I went outside to clean it out and ended up covering my neighbor’s yard. Led to a huge argument! 😆 that’s when I thought I should find a “better” way! I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next build. Went and made a 2-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filter and dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@mightyporky]

Must be married , had hard time finding the hole in the filter....

[@47luscsettle44]

I can't believe I just wasted 8 minutes of my life watching this video.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

If you feel that way, I’m more surprised that you then took the time to sit and write this response. Thanks for checking it out anyway!

[@frankblennau5251]

you can put the video on fast foreward

[@marshallcollins8634]

I knew this was going to be funny when I saw you use the channel locks BACKWARDS.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Absolutely! Lol. I was just focused on tightening them, didn’t really care how I got it done, as long as it got done. Did the same in the piano video, but again, it worked well

[@jons2447]

Yeah, AND he called pliers a "wrench"

[@Zonniezonnie_Minecraft]

I came up with this 20 years ago. I should have patent it 😂 I upgraded by grabbing a bucket and screwed silicone flaps inside of it where the filter spins it that are the length if the filter. I got them from a silicone baking mat and cut them, this won’t damage the filter but spinning in the opposite direction gives it a little beating. Let it settle for a few min.Then you’re done.

[@crimsony3366]

I dont even know what a shop vac filter is

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Crimsony lol. A shop vac is a special type of heavy duty vacuum. Have you ever seen one?

[@AltonRowell-gb1lb]

It a filter that goes into a shop vac.

[@butitissinandkillsthesoul5122]

Juuuuust before you spun it, I thought, "I wonder if he cut a slit in the top of the cardboard to close the top of the box?" Uh, no. I guess not. I felt bad for the mess you had to clean up....😕

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

worth it. A valuable lesson learned! The whole thing actually started because I was cleaning it outside in my yard. I'm JUST outside of NYC and homes are very close together. Ended up covering my neighbor's yard in saw dust. I felt horrible and they were MAD! lol. Had to attempt to find a better way! DO you use any other dust collection that you'd recommend? Dust separator, 2 stage system, anything like that?

[@benjaminswinn]

So what your saying is the shop vac needs an internal spinning filter while running. Or would that just decrease the suction power just like clogged filter? I do this with 3 or 4 filters i keep in rotation but i also spray with garden hose (while spinning in bucket) and let dry for almost like new filter.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I actually thought about that a lot. The issue you’d have in that instance is that the 2 forces would be working against each other. One would be trying to suck dust in, while the other tries to push it out. The forces would either cancel each other out or one would have to win over the other. Can’t exist together. Awesome idea though!

[@nateroo]

I always just used my compressor but now I do both; I'm not pressed for time so it doesn't take much to attach a bolt, spin the majority of dust off in my garbage can and shut the lid quickly, then blow out the rest with the compressor. Keeps the majority of dust from blowin' around the area and neighborhood. Some don't worry about that but I do what I can to minimize it. Thanx for the tip!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next version of the build. Went and made a two-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filters and a HEPA dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE I think it's a major improvement, but I’m sure it could still be better. I would appreciate any feedback you have!

[@johnbodnar3720]

Have you tried tapping the filter on the table on its side to get rid of the rest, thanks for your help.

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next iteration of the build. Went a very different route. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@barryallenflash1]

This is AWESOME!! I was watching videos on shop vac comparisons and this video came up in my recommended. Unfortunately I left my filter out for JUST THIS REASON and blew out the bearings in the motor! ARGH!! So, I guess I'm gonna get a new shop vac! The previous video actually recommended a Craftsman, soooo....YOU have one! Gonna look into it! The vac I have is a basic "no name" brand that I got from a yard sale at a REALLY good price and have had for a few years now, so I guess it's time! Thanks Andrew!

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

My pleasure!

[@thomasbradley4868]

I did it but I used a old garbage 🗑 with a top I drill a hole in the top it work great 👍 thank you !

[@wildandwackywade]

But taking a filter and spinning it and putting an air dryer or something that will blow the air away from it or blow on it making more particles come off work?

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Probably could. I’d have it blow from the inside on the filter in that case though. It could help dislodge particles, I suppose.

[@mickjager5974]

How does that compare to using an air hose to blow the dust off from inside the filter? And just knocking the filter against some hard surface like the floor? Or using another vacuum to clean the filter?

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Wonderful question. The idea wasn’t really to test what was “best” it was just to find a cleaner way....ironically. Lol! This whole thing came around from me doing exactly that! I live just outside of NYC and properties are super close together. I went outside to bang mine around and clean it out and ended up covering my neighbor’s yard. Led to a huge argument! 😆 that’s when I thought I should find a “better” way!

[@FractalRelic]

I've been using the same shop vac filter forever, knock all the loose/heavy stuff out in the outside garbage bin then spray it off in the yard with the compressed air line. Looks like your method works great too

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

Lol! This whole thing came around from me doing exactly that! I live just outside of NYC and properties are super close together. I went outside to bang mine around and clean it out and ended up covering my neighbor’s yard. Led to a huge argument! 😆 that’s when I thought I should find a “better” way! I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next build. Went and made a 2-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filter and dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE

[@卂I-n3f]

Ok so what was the difference in weight between he cleaned filter and the brand new filter?

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I wish I knew. I didn’t weight it when it when it was fully clean.

[@ScottRobinett-z4j]

Going to try this. The idea makes sense.

[@paulhughes3961]

Super cool idea, I will definitely try this next time my filter needs cleaning.

[@roberthernandez3801]

What was the original weight of dry filter from HD?

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I wish I knew. It was def my mistake in not getting it, as it would have answered a lot of questions about this. I ended up solving the problem entirely with this next version of the build. Went and made a two-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filters and a HEPA dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE I think it's a major improvement, but I’m sure it could still be better. I would appreciate any feedback you have!

[@MyrtleBeach123]

Can you wrap it with a pre-filter and vacuum out the pre-filter?

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next version of the build. Went and made a two-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filters and a HEPA dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE I think it's a major improvement, but I’m sure it could still be better. I would appreciate any feedback you have!

[@hydro2wheel]

Thank you for this! I have a Sears-Craftsman shop vacuum. When was the last time you were able to walk into a Sears, go to the tool section and purchase a new filter for your Craftsman shop vacuum?

[@BurkeMakesStuff]

QUITE some time ago. I ended up solving the problems entirely with this next version of the build. Went and made a two-stage dust collection system implementing HEPA rated filters and a HEPA dust bag. Check it out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWaqoYGvfcR5eNE I think it's a major improvement, but I’m sure it could still be better. I would appreciate any feedback you have!