If you’re a proud owner of a wood-burning stove, fireplace, or pellet stove, you know the joy of curling up in front of a warm fire on a cold winter’s night. But as the saying goes, with great warmth comes great responsibility – and in this case, it means regular ash cleanup. We rounded up the best ash vacuums of the decade.
Gone are the days of spending hours on your hands and knees to get rid of stubborn ash residue. These top-rated ash vacuums are here to make your life easier and your home cleaner. From powerful motors to detachable blowers, these vacuums have everything you need to tackle even the messiest of ash cleanup jobs.
So don’t let ash bring you down any longer. Check out our list of the best ash vacuums of 2023 and say goodbye to dusty, dirty floors for good! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to keep your home ash-free with the help of one of these top-performing vacuums.
Top 8 Best Ash Vacuums List in 2023
- BEST OVERALL: PowerSmith PAVC101 Ash Vacuum
- BEST BUDGET: Snow Joe ASHJ201 Ash Vacuum
-
Best Stylish : Cougar + Ash Vacuum
- BEST VALUE: Vacmaster VBV1210 Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum
- BEST LIGHT DUTY: DEWALT DCV580H Cordless Wet-Dry Vacuum
- BEST HEAVY DUTY: CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 GallonWet/Dry Vac
- Best Splurge: PowerSmith 4 Gallon All-In-One Ash and Shop Vacuum
- Best Filtration: Vacmaster Pro 8 gallon Wet/Dry Vac
- Type: Wet/dry vacuum
- Perfect for : The hot and cold ash
- Capacity: 3 gallons
- Noise Level: 79 decibels
- Weight: 13 pounds
The Power Smith PAVC101 Ash Vacuum is among the best choices. It’s specifically designed to remove ash from wood stoves, pellet stoves, fireplaces, and even barbecues. It works well. No more dirty ash buckets or awkward hand-scooping – just attach the metal hose, turn on the 10 Amp motor, and watch as the PAVC101 sucks up all the ashes with ease.
Even the finest dust and ash particles can be captured by the PAVC101, which has a replaceable and fire-resistant filter system. It is possible to clean up in peace and quiet with a noise level of less than 79 decibels. The heat-resistant metal hose and metal canister ensure that the PAVC101 can survive high temperatures and prevent any fire dangers.
The PAVC101 is a versatile and regular shop vacuum because it comes with additional accessories, as well as a 16 foot cord, making it a versatile and regular shop vacuum as well. With a 3 gallon ash capacity and a 5.2 gallon canister size, you will have plenty of room to store all your ash and debris.
So say goodbye to dirty ash buckets and hello to the PowerSmith PAVC101 Ash Vacuum – the ultimate ally in your ash cleanup endeavors.
PROS
- Flexible cord and hose
- Metal is durable and heat-resistant
- Filter system catches dust and fine particles
- Multiple extensions and nozzles are included
- Easily maneuverable with wheels
CONS
- After each use, the filter needs to be cleaned
- A bit louder than some wet/dry vacuums, but average for this type
- Type: Standard vacuum
- Suitable for: Cold ash
- Capacity: 4.8 gallons
- Noise Level: Not listed
- Weight: 8.8 pounds
The Snow Joe ASHJ201 ash vacuum is specifically designed for cold ash pickup from a wood stove, pellet stove, fireplaces, fire pits, and BBQ grills. Its powerful motor can generate up to 500 W of power, making it easy to clean ash. The Ash Vac has a dual system that traps dust and prevents it from escaping into your breathing space. Also, a fine-dust pleated filter and a coarse-dust pre-filter are included.
Snow Joe ASHJ201 Ash removal with just a simple lift of the container lid is possible with the self-contained, bag-free system of the Ash Vac. Its large metal canister can hold up to 4.8 gallons of ashes, so you don’t have to empty the container every time you need to do something.
The Ash Vac has a safety stop switch to prevent it from operating without a properly fitted filter. A wire filter basket protects the fine dust filter, so users don’t have to worry. It’s easy to carry, and there’s an onboard cord/hose organizer for convenient storage. The Snow Joe ASHJ201 Ash Vacuum makes it easy to clean up ash. You can check it out if you need a vacuum for cleaning.
PROS
- Affordably priced and high-quality
- Portable and lightweight; includes a carrying handle
- Easy to maintain and small fireplaces
- Efficacious dual filter
CONS
- Wheels are not included
- Fire hazard; not intended for warm ash cleanup
- Type: Ash Vacuum
- Suitable for: Warm and cold ash
- Capacity: 6 Gallons
- Noise Level: 79 dB
- Weight: 15.32 pounds
The Cougar+ash vacuum is a simple way to remove ashes from fireplaces. This handy tool is made by the Love-Less Ash Company in the USA and is designed to remove fine ash from warm to cold temperatures . It features a patented dual filtration system that captures even the smallest ash particles, ensuring a thorough and dust-free cleaning experience.
With a 6 gallon canister and 3 gallons of capacity, the Cougar+ Ash Vacuum is the perfect size for tackling ash cleanup. It’s also quiet, with a 79 dB operating noise level, so you can clean up in peace. The weight and expansiveness of this vacuum are its only drawbacks, and it also comes with a handy carry bag and accessories.
But the Cougar+ Ash Vacuum is more than just a vacuum – it’s also a blower! Simply connect the hose to the air outlet and use it to blow debris away. It’s perfect for cleaning up your garage or workshop, or for clearing leaves and other debris from your yard.
The Cougar+ Ash Vacuum is made with fire resistant components and features a flame resistant hose and filters, so you can safely remove warm ash without worrying about any accidents. And when it’s time to clean the filters, you can do so without even opening the unit thanks to the handy agitator rod.If you don’t care about weight and budget, you can see if you like this stuff.
PROS
- comes with a handy carry bag
- Two-part filtration system
- Ash both cold and warm
- Ash capacity of 6 gallons
CONS
- The weight and expansiveness of this vacuum
- Type: Wet/dry vacuum
- Suitable for: Warm and cold ash
- Capacity: 12 gallons
- Noise Level: Not listed
- Weight: 23.9 pounds
The large capacity and helpful features make it our favorite model. The 2-in-1 unit can switch between a wet/dry vacuum and a handheld blower, so it can be used for different types of cleaning around the house. If you want to take your ash cleaning game to the next level, this vacuum is perfect.
You can be sure that it’s going to get the job done because it has a whopping 10.5 Amp of power. Also, the 12-gallon tank size and 5 peak horsepower motor of this vacuum will make it easy to clean up. Even the toughest debris can be handled by this vacuum, which has a blowing speed of over 210 mph. And with its 19-foot cleaning reach and extra large drain port, you won’t have to constantly empty it out.
Plus, the on-board accessory storage ensures that all of your tools stay organized and in one place. It makes some noise, but it doesn’t matter, because it comes with a noise Diffuser attachment.The Vacmaster VBV1210 comes with a 7-foot x 2.5-inch secure fit hose, two extension wands, a utility nozzle, an standard cartridge filter, and a foam wet filter.to keep in mind with this vacuum.
It can only pick up cool ashes, so you’ll have to wait until your fire pit or fireplace has been put out before you can use it. Also, its heavy and large size may be confusing. So, consider these two factors before buying a Vacmaster VBV1210.
PROS
- A large tank
- Easily cleans
- Multiple accessories are included
- Easily detachable blower
- Easily cleaned and emptied drainage port
CONS
- Large and heavy; difficult to move
- Powered by heavy-duty motor, it's noisy
- Type: Wet/dry vacuum
- Suitable for: Warm and cold ash
- Capacity: 2 gallons
- Noise Level: Not listed
- Weight: 8 pounds
Are you tired of lugging around a heavy, clunky vacuum that feels like it weighs a ton? Well, say goodbye to those days with the Dewalt cordless vacuum! This little guy may be small, but don’t let its size fool you. It packs a punch with a 20-volt battery that is compatible with all of Dewalt’s 20V Max tool lines.
This vacuum only has a 2-gallon capacity. Although it seems a little less, but it is also a standout product in the market due to its ability to remove even the smallest particles from the air.In terms of cleaning power, the 1.6 amp suction may not be the highest on the market, but it’s still effective at picking up dirt and debris. And with a HEPA-rated filter that can handle both wet and dry messes, even the smallest particles from the air can be filtered out.
Dewalt DCV580H is great for picking up ash, but it also has a reusable and washable filter that can easily be cleaned with a simple tap of water. The hose is fully integrated and provides durability, flexibility, and ease of use. And with its onboard hose and accessory storage, it’s easy to carry and transport to wherever you need it.
Dewalt DCV580H converts easily into a 31 CFM handheld blower. So not only can it clean up your ash, but it can also tidy up your yard or garage. One thing to note is that batteries and chargers are not included in the package. If you don’t already own the 20-volt collection of tools, you’ll need to purchase the battery and charger. Considering the benefits of the vacuum, this is a small issue.
PROS
- Light-duty, small model is quieter
- Portable; sturdy carrying handle
- converts easily into a 31 CFM handheld blowe
- Crevice tool and wide nozzle included
- Flexibility is provided by cordless design
CONS
- A small capacity for the tank
- batteries and chargers are not included in the package
- Type : Wet/dry vacuum
- Suitable for : Warm and cold ash
- Capacity : 16 Gallons
- Noise Level : 79 dB
- Weight : 26 Pounds
If you’re in need of a heavy-duty ash vacuum, the Craftsman CMXEVBE17595 16-Gallon Wet/Dry ash Vacuum might be just what you’re looking for. With a powerful 6.5 Peak HP motor, this ash vacuum is capable of tackling large clean up projects in the garage or on the job site. The ability to function as a wet or dry vacuum makes it versatile.
One of the standout features of this ash vacuum is its built-in blower port, which allows for quick cleaning of leaves and grass clippings in your garage or outdoors. And, when it comes time to empty the vacuum, the oversized drain makes it easy to get rid of any liquids.
The 2-1/2 inch diameter hose features Dual-Flex technology, which allows for 180-degree mobility at each end to resist kinking. The ash vacuum also comes with a range of accessories, including an extension wand, utility nozzle, car nozzle, and wet nozzle. The Qwik Lock Filter Fastening System makes it easy to change the filter when needed.
Craftsman’s CMXEVBE17595 ash vacuum is designed with convenience in mind, with on-board hose storage and accessory and power cord organizers to reduce clutter. It also has caster wheels at the bottom so you can easily move it.And 3 year limited warranty will make you feel confident in your purchase.
This model does not come with a separate wet filter also weight is high, which is the downside of this product, so it’s important to remove the dust bag and cartridge filter before cleaning up messes. You don’t want to ruin your filters with a wet ash disaster which is why this ash vacuum is a reliable and durable choice for your cleaning needs. If you’re tired of dealing with soggy ashes, you should try the Craftsman CMXEVBE 17595.
PROS
- Large capacity
- built-in blower port
- Wet nozzle attachment
- 3 year limited warranty
CONS
- Weight is high
- Wet filter not included
- Type: Ash and Shop Vacuum
- Suitable for: cold ash
- Capacity: 4 gallons
- Noise Level: 79 dB
- Weight: 12 pounds
The Power Smith Heavy Duty Fireplace Warm Ash Vacuum may cost a little more, but it comes with a lot of additional features that make it a better product. This vacuum can hold both warm and cold ash, making it a versatile cleaning tool for your fireplace.
In terms of maintenance, this vacuum comes with two reusable filters, so you always have a clean one ready to use. With its low noise level of 79 decibels, it is an excellent choice for those who don’t want their homes disturbed by others while they are cleaning.
The heat-resistant filter will trap the finest dust and ash, so you can be certain that you’re getting all the mess cleaned up. The metal hose and metal canister have a 4-gallon ash capacity, so you won’t have to empty them out frequently.
The PowerSmith PAVC102 also comes with all the accessories you need, including a deep cleaning kit, two filters, and a 10-ft metal-lined hose. And with its compact size and convenient wheels, it’s easy to store and move around.
Overall, the Power Smith Heavy Duty Fireplace Warm Ash Vacuum is an efficient and powerful cleaning tool for your fireplace or fire pit. Its dual function as both a vacuum and a blower makes it a valuable addition to any home. It may be a bit too expensive for some users. A 2-year manufacturer warranty and US-based customer support are also included.
PROS
- two reusable filters
- Long cord and hose
- Stylish and well-made
- Good quality and easy to use!
CONS
- expensive
- It shuts down when the motor gets too hot
- Type : Wet/dry vacuum
- Suitable for : Warm and cold ash
- Capacity : 8 Gallons
- Noise Level : 79 dB
- Weight : 19.4 Pounds
As with all the other vacuums on this blog, the Vacmaster Pro 8 has many features. As any fireplace or wood stove owner knows, cleaning out ashes can be messy and time-consuming. However, the Vacmaster Pro 8 ash vacuum is here to make your life easier.
Featuring a crush-proof 8-gallon tank made of polypropylene and a powerful two-stage industrial motor, this vacuum can tackle even the toughest ash cleanup jobs. In addition, its HEPA filter is certified and effective at capturing small particles, as small as 0.25 microns, so you can keep your home clean.
But the Vacmaster Pro 8 isn’t just good at picking up ash – it’s also ultra-quiet, thanks to its two-stage motor. You won’t have to worry about waking up the entire neighborhood while cleaning.
The vacuum also comes with a large 10-foot hose, which is a big one-and-a-half inch in diameter. This allows you to reach all corners of the house quickly.The Vacmaster Pro 8 also has a water lift of 78 inches and a CFM of 125 at a two-and-a-half-inch orifice. This makes it a true powerhouse in the world of ash vacuums.
The Vacmaster Pro 8 also has a two-stage industrial motor that guarantees consistent, long-lasting performance, and it comes with a separate wet filter and a sealable, tear-resistant dust collection bag for easy cleanup. The only potential downside to this ash vacuum is its size – it may be challenging to store in a smaller home or shed – but if you have the space, it’s definitely worth considering as a top choice for efficient and reliable ash cleanup.
PROS
- certified HEPA filter
- ultra-quiet
CONS
- May be difficult to store
Beginner's guide to the best Ash vacuum
Best Ash Vacuum : What is it?
Ash Vacuum vs Regular Vacuum
Regular vacuums are a common household tool used When it comes to cleaning, regular vacuums and ash vacuums each offer distinct advantages. Regular vacuums are typically less expensive and more versatile, making them well-suited for everyday cleaning. On the other hand, Ash vacuums are more specialized and may be more expensive, but they are advantageous for specific tasks. Choosing between a regular vacuum and an ash vacuum is ultimately based on individual needs and cleaning requirements.
To remove dirt, dust, and debris from carpets and floors. Using a motor and a fan, suction is created and passed through a filter to trap the particles. These vacuums can be used on various surfaces, including carpets, hardwood floors, and upholstery.
In contrast, ash vacuums are made to clean up ashes and soot from fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, and grills. With special filters to trap fine particles, ash vacuums are highly efficient at removing hot and cold ashes, which may contain harmful chemicals. They are also designed with a fireproof exterior to reduce the fire risk.
Best Ash Vacuum Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Size and Capacity
The first thing to consider is where and how you’ll be using your ash vacuum. If you’re a camping fanatic who needs a portable option for cleaning up your campfire, a lightweight ash vacuum with a capacity as small as 2 gallons might be the way to go. But if you’re just using your fireplace or fire pit during the winter months, a standard ash vacuum with a capacity of 4 to 10 gallons should do the trick.
And if you find yourself in need of something with a little more oomph, you might want to consider a wet-dry shop vacuum. These bad boys not only have a larger capacity, but some models even double as blowers for cleaning up other messes. Now that’s what I call a multipurpose cleaning machine!
weight and portability
Let’s talk about weight. Nobody wants to feel like they’re lifting a small elephant every time they need to clean out the fireplace. Look for an ash vacuum that’s on the lighter side, and make sure it comes with a handle or carrying strap for added convenience.
But weight isn’t the only factor to consider when it comes to portability. You’ll also want to think about the distance you’ll be transporting your ash vacuum and any potential obstacles in the way. If you have to carry it up and down stairs or take it outside to the trash can, a lighter model will definitely be your friend. And if you have multiple fireplaces in your home, you’ll definitely want an ash vacuum that’s easy to move around. No one wants to be that person huffing and puffing as they try to lug a heavy vacuum from one room to another.
Engine and Power
An ash vacuum’s engine and power are important to understand. The amount of electricity flowing through the vacuum is usually listed with their Ampere, which gives you an idea of the amount of electricity flowing through the vacuum. Don’t get too excited; amperage doesn’t directly relate to cleaning power or suction. A comparison of the input power of different vacuums is possible. So, if you see a vacuum with an amperage of 10, it’s probably going to be more powerful than one with an amperage of 5.
Now, let’s talk about wet-dry vacuums. These guys are a little different – they’re sometimes listed with a “water lift” rating, which refers to their sealed suction power. Basically, it’s how much resistance the vacuum can handle while the motor is sealed off. The higher the water lift, the better the overall suction of the vacuum.
So, if you’re looking to clean up ash and debris, you want a vacuum that can handle the job. You don’t want to be stuck with a weak, wimpy vacuum that can’t handle the tough stuff. Vacuuming isn’t exactly the most exciting task in the world. But with the right ash vacuum, it can be a little more bearable. So, if you’re ready to upgrade your cleaning game, be sure to consider the engine and power of the vacuum you’re looking at.
Construction and Durability
Look for an ash vacuum made from fire-resistant materials. You don’t want to be using an ash vacuum made from flammable materials, especially if it’s advertised as being able to handle warm ashes. That would be like putting a match to a powder keg – not smart. Next, check out the hose. A reinforced metal hose is a must if you want to be able to safely suck up those warm embers. No one wants a plastic hose melting on them while they’re trying to clean up their fireplace.
And finally, the canister. You want to make sure it’s either made of metal or has a metal lining. This will ensure that it can withstand the heat of the ashes and embers and won’t melt or catch fire. So, If you want a durable and safe ash vacuum, make sure it’s made from fire-resistant materials, has a reinforced metal hose, and either a metal or metal-lined canister.
Hose and Cord Length
Your Hose and Cord Length must be considered before buying an ash vacuum.Do you want to be stuck in the same spot for hours on end, or do you want to have the freedom to roam around your fireplace while you clean? If you have a hard time reaching your wood stove or a large fireplace, opt for a model with a longer hose.
And don’t forget about the cord! You’ll want to choose a model with a cord long enough to give you some mobility as you clean. It’s like a leash for your ash vacuum – if it’s too short, you’ll feel like a tethered dog. But if it’s too long, you might trip over it and end up face-first in a pile of ash (not a good look). So go for a standard size cord – it’s the Goldilocks of cords.
Now, if you’re thinking about getting a cordless ash vacuum, all of this cord and hose talk is irrelevant. But just make sure you have a fully charged battery before you start cleaning (no one wants to be caught mid-clean with a dead vacuum).
Noise level
Using a vacuum that sounds loudly will not be liked by everyone, and the neighbors may not be too happy about it. That’s why it’s important to check the noise level before buying a vacuum
They don’t want a jet engine in their living room. Traditional vacuum cleaners can reach an average of 75 decibels, which is pretty darn loud, but a household refrigerator can only produce 55 decibels. Ash vacuums operate in the range of 79-90 decibels, so you won’t have to break out the ear plugs to clean up the ashes. When choosing the best ash vacuum for your home, noise won’t be a factor because of the minimal variation between high and low decibel ranges.
So go ahead, upgrade to an ash vacuum and enjoy the peace and quiet while you tackle those pesky ashes.
Conclusion
The best ash vacuum is dependent on your specific needs. Make your decision based on the size and capacity of the vacuum, the power of the motor, and the ease of use and maintenance. Also, Check out our review of the best ash vacuum reviews. Based on customer reviews and expert evaluations, some top options in this price range include vacuums from PowerSmith, Snow Joe, and Vacmaster. These models offer a balance of performance, convenience, and value and have received high ratings for their ability to clean ashes and embers from a variety of heating sources. A good ash vacuum should be powerful, efficient, and easy to use, as well as be designed to endure the heavy-duty use that ash cleaning requires
FAQs about best ash vacuums
Do you need a special vacuum for ash?
You don’t have to have a special vacuum for ash, but you should use a dedicated ash vacuum cleaner. Dust filters tend to get stuck in regular vacuums and can interfere with their performance. If you use a dedicated ash vacuum cleaner, you will be able to clean the fireplace effectively and remove the ash without getting the surrounding area dirty.
Is a shop vac good for ash?
There is a shop vac that can clean up ash. It’s great for removing ash from your floor and furniture because it can pick up particles that are less than 2mm in size. If you don’t clean the filter regularly, it will get blocked with ash and you will have to change it.
Is there a vacuum for hot ash?
Yes, there is a vacuum for hot ash. In fact, there are many of them available, and you can choose the one that suits your needs best. However, you should be careful to choose one that is compatible with your fireplace, and comes with a suitable hose and adapter.
How do you clean an ash vacuum filter?
You should first wash it with a sponge or brush, followed by cleaning the filter with a mild detergent solution. You should then let it dry completely, and you’re done!

Written by Sadman Tajwar
I’m glad you’re here, and welcome to my vacuum cleaner blog! Our website features product reviews, organization tips, cleaning hacks, and so much more. You will find the answers to the questions you’ve been searching for if you stick around.
As an industry expert, I can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on the most advanced vacuum cleaners available. To get your house in tip-top shape in no time, I bring you the best tips, the most in-depth reviews, and the most innovative home tips! Have fun cleaning!