How to Build a Vacuum for Fireplace Ash

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By eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (1 Ratings)

If you have ever tried using your regular vacuum cleaner to clean out your fireplace, then you probably know that it's not a good idea. The ash particles are so fine that they pass through the bag and filter, spraying directly into the air. This problem is easily solved by a trip to the hardware store.

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Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Shop vac
Vacuum bag for fine particles
Cylindrical filter for shop vac

Step 1

Buy or borrow a standard shop vac of any size.
Step 2

Go to a major home supply store and purchase a shop vac bag rated for ultra-fine particles. Look on the label. Some are even specifically rated for ash.
Step 3

Make sure that the bag fits the capacity of your shop vac. It would also be a good idea to get a cylindrical filter as well, if you do not have one for your shop vac.
Step 4

Install the bag and filter according to the instructions.
Step 5

Vacuum your fireplace with confidence. Take the shop vac outside before removing the bag for disposal.
Step 6

Take the shop vac outside before removing the bag for disposal.