The Standard Filters (which are standard in any non-HEPA vacuum) filter to 1.0 microns, which is perfect for drywall, sanding, autobody shops, woodworkers, and general cleanup. Many off-the-shelf wet/dry vacuums use 5.0 microns of filtration. The fact that Wap vacuums use 1.0 micron filters makes them much better at capturing dirt and dust so it doesn’t escape through the vacuum and back into the room (and that makes them better for your health by protecting your lungs from debris). Wap filters (exluding paper filters) are very durable and will last years with proper care (particularly when used in conjunction with a bag or pre filter – see below). All filters, except filters made of paper, can be blown clean or knocked out, then washed with water and air dried for 12-24 hours. Paper filters can be blown clean or knocked out.Non-paper and heavy duty filters, as well as all of the Standard 1.0 micron filters utilized by the SQ and Attix model vacuums, are coated with PET (polyethylene terephthalate), a synthetic coating that is the equivalent of polyester. This enhances their durability and resists mildewing associated with non-synthetic filters used by many other vacuum manufacturers.

HEPA Filters are more efficient than the Standard Filters, and thus filter all the way down to 0.3 microns. They are certified to OSHA, DoD, and EPA standards. The filters are typically used with asbestos remediation or lead based paint, and other dusts that are very fine and deemed hazardous to health. Wap vacuums that were originally not purchased with HEPA filters can often be converted over to HEPA by getting the HEPA filter listed next to your vacuum below. We generally do not recommend you invest in a HEPA filter unless you need it for health or safety purposes, hospital use, or “Clean Rooms” since the Standard 1.0 micron non-HEPA filters are excellent at capturing dust.

A Pre-Filter, also called Filter Liner, hangs down from the top of the canister and keeps dust from accumulating in the crevices o f the filter. This is particularly good if you use your vacuum to pick up large volumes of dry dust, drywall dust, wet dusty debris, etc. Some Filter Liners are “Plastic Coated,” making them more efficient a t repelling dust, particu larly wet dust. A Bag will capture dust, keeping the canister clean and filter cleaner. They also make for easy disposal of dust or debris. You can use a vacuum without the Bags or a Pre-Filter; however, this exposes the filter directly to the dust and dirt, making the filter get dirtier over time and decreasing suction pull through the filter. To avoid dirt buildup in the filter corrugations, we recommend you use either the Bags OR a Pre-Filter. Wap bags, unless otherwise noted, are very efficient and will catch all debris down to 1.0 micron, keeping the filter very clean, and increasing the lifespan of the filter. (Note, if you have one of the newer Attix vacuums with the XtremeClean self-cleaning filter system that blows the filter clean as you work, you probably will not need bags, unless you want to protect the filter with Bags or a Pre-Filter.)

If you have any questions about which filter or bags are right for your vacuum, please email us at [email protected].