Should you build your own fireplace ash vacuum or buy a new one?
If you are considering building your own ash vacuum keep in mind that a regular shop vac will not work, it will clog the filter and ruin the motor. You need a vacuum cleaner that is specifically made for ash and is made of a metal base.
You will also need strong filtered bags so that the ash particles don't end up back into the air and into your families lungs. If you plan to suck up warm and cold ashes you will need a fire resistant hose.
There are a few companies who make vacuum cleaners just for ashes , you can expect to spend around $200 on a good one and most allow you to suck up both warm and cold ashes safely!
