The article answers the question of what is a water filter in a vacuum cleaner. Talks about the nuances of choosing a product. What are the advantages of a vacuum cleaner with an aqua filter and how to properly care for it. The work uses expert advice and expert opinions. A rating of the most interesting models is presented, from a technical point of view and the efficiency of the washing device.
Gradation of equipment according to dust collection methods
Manufacturers offer us three main types of cleaning units that can collect dust in different ways. It is the method of dust collection that fundamentally affects their design features. So, what models are offered to us:
- With a bag.
- Cleaning equipment with container.
- Vacuum cleaner with built-in water filter.
Let's take a closer look at each of the presented types.
- Cleaning equipment with bag.
The cleaning device, collecting dust particles, concentrates them in a special bag made of fabric or thick paper. It needs to be emptied (shaken out) periodically. Paper bags are designed to collect dirt only once. Once it is full, the paper dust bag needs to be replaced.
Unfortunately, after falling into the dust trap, large and medium-sized dust particles settle at the bottom. Microscopic parts of dirt come back out.
Read also how to choose a vacuum cleaner with an Anti Tangle turbine.
Note!
As the dust container fills, the suction power decreases proportionally.
- With container.
This version of the model involves the use of plastic containers. It is much easier to remove dirt from them. The container has a built-in filter, which collects dust and gradually becomes clogged. But, unlike the option presented above, filling the container with dust does not in any way affect the suction power.
- With water filter.
Vacuum cleaners use a special device instead of a bag. Aqua filter for a home vacuum cleaner, what is it? The aquafilter allows dust to pass through, which binds to water molecules and settles. The structure is easy to remove and quickly process (wash). It is important that the design can be used many times.
Operating principle
The difference between vacuum cleaners with a water tank and units with filter bags is the constant dust suction power, regardless of the degree of filling of the container.
The principle of operation of a vacuum cleaner with a water filter is as follows: it draws in air containing dust and debris and passes it through a container of water, in which impurities settle, and the purified air is released back into the room. Water is a good natural solvent and is capable of absorbing and dissolving most substances that may be contained in air and dust.
The separator plays an important role in the cleaning process - its blades constantly rotate, creating a “cyclone” inside the water tank. Thanks to the separator, the smallest dirt particles are effectively associated with moisture droplets, after which the dirt settles at the bottom of the filter.
The principle of operation of the aqua filter
The device operates according to the generally accepted scheme for all cleaning equipment: air suction. Then there are differences. The operating principle of a vacuum cleaner equipped with an aquafilter is as follows: it passes through a special container filled with water. Large particles settle, while small particles remain dry. The separator located above the water container is designed to prevent them from escaping back out.
- Water filter device.
The separator is a cylindrical structure with longitudinally arranged plates, rotating under the pressure of constant air flows. They form a trap in the form of a water cycle, into which small dust particles are drawn. Therefore, everything, even small dirt and dust, remains in the water. Already purified air, saturated with moisture, comes outside.
Aqua filter for a vacuum cleaner: what is it?
First of all, you need to say a few words about the effect that comes from using a vacuum cleaner with an aquafiltration system. This unit humidifies and refreshes the air in the room, while simultaneously removing the dust contained in it. In other words, it creates the same microclimatic conditions that form outside after the rain stops.
Concept
An aquafilter is a component in the design of a device that is responsible for removing dust and small particles from the air that pollute a room. This is a real godsend for allergy sufferers - they can finally breathe freely at home. But people who are not prone to allergies will certainly enjoy breathing clean, fresh air while in an apartment.
How does an aqua filter work?
The role of the main part of the aquafilter is played by the water flask. The movement of liquid is ensured by a cyclone separator - it is also an important part of the aquafiltration system.
Ordinary vacuum cleaners, the list of purposes of which does not include wet cleaning, are not equipped with a cleaning element in principle. However, it is not always found in washing devices. You should ask the store manager about its availability or find out by reading the information on the packaging.
What is good and what is bad
It is necessary to provide full information about the technology and reveal the positive aspects without hiding the existing shortcomings. Aquafilter in a vacuum cleaner, what are the pros and cons of cleaning equipment.
- What is good.
An undoubted advantage is the high degree of purification (up to 99.99%). Only 0.003% of dust particles leak out.
Humidification of exhaust air. Dust and dirt are collected in a special container with water, and are not suspended. There is no leakage of dirt from the washing machine. Suitable for wet and dry cleaning. There are certain savings: there is no need to regularly buy dust bags.
- And what is bad.
The weight of the device and dimensions are much larger than a conventional vacuum cleaner. The average weight of the structure is about 10 kg.
After cleaning, the water filter and tanks must be rinsed under running water. The care regimen is shown in the attached instructions. The filter must be washed after seven cleanings. And maintenance of other filters is carried out regularly: after each cleaning of the room. Need a lot of meth to store. The cost of the device is higher in comparison with a traditional vacuum cleaner.
Advantages and disadvantages
Before buying a vacuum cleaner with an aqua filter, it is important to compare its pros and cons. First, let's look at the advantages of the device.
- High degree of purification. Cleaning removes more than 99% of dust. There are not even the smallest particles of it in the escaping air.
- Possibility of dry and wet cleaning. The washing vacuum cleaner thoroughly washes the floor, cleans upholstered and cabinet furniture, and sucks up spilled liquids.
- Preventing dust from entering the room from the vacuum cleaner. The collected contaminants do not circulate inside the unit, but accumulate in a container with water.
- Delay of microorganisms and bacteria, which is especially important for allergy sufferers.
- Air washing. The multifunctional device replaces the air purifier. You can turn it on and leave it running for a while.
- Constant power. The suction power of the device does not decrease even with prolonged use. The same cannot be said about models with garbage bags.
- Significant savings. The unit does not require the purchase of additional accessories. The basic package is the ultimate expense.
Among the main disadvantages of vacuum cleaners with an aqua filter are their dimensions and weight. In the latter case, the values reach about 10 kg. Such models are clumsy and require a lot of storage space. Care and maintenance also takes time. After each cleaning, you need to rinse the water tank and filter. Otherwise, during the next cleaning, the apartment will be filled with unpleasant odors.
Types of aqua filters, features of their work
When choosing equipment, you need to at least understand a little about the principle of operation of two water filters:
- Turbulent operating principle.
- Separator option.
Let's look at each type of aqua filter and look at their operating principle.
- Turbulent installation.
The principle of operation is the creation of water turbulence by nozzles that connect dirt with water. In this case, the air is purified by 96%. Then, the work is assigned to the turbulent filter. It creates vortex flows by mixing smaller dust particles (up to 0.3 microns) with water. At the third and final stage, the HEPA filter does not allow any remaining uncollected dust to pass through. This technology for retaining dirt is inherent in the world's leading manufacturers of home appliances.
- Separator option.
Operating principle: leaf turbines create turbulence. The rotation speed reaches 25-36 thousand revolutions per minute. At this speed, the size of the water particle is similar to the dirt entering the vacuum cleaner. It is believed that the described principle of operation is the most effective, and the degree of purification is higher. Naturally, such cleaning devices will cost more.
Comparing models
Let's use one example to look at two models from one of the leading manufacturers. We are talking about the Kärcher company. Among others, the global giant produces two types of cleaning equipment:
- Device with water filter DS 6000 Mediclean.
- Washing design SE 5.100.
In the washing vacuum cleaner, manufacturers tried to learn negative lessons and eliminate shortcomings.
- DS 6000 Medical.
The original design allows for easy maintenance of the equipment. There is no need to disassemble it, it is easy to clean. It is enough to lift the protective cover and remove the container with dirty water, pour it out and rinse.
An important step towards comfortable work is a significant reduction in the noise of the operating unit to 66 dB. You can use the equipment without fear of incurring the wrath of your neighbors. These indicators are recommended for medical treatment institutions.
The manufacturer's recommendations can be considered the most indicative: the vacuum cleaner is suitable for an apartment where small children live and there are animals.
As an additional weapon in the fight for room cleanliness, the DS 600 model is equipped with an additional Nera-13 filter capable of retaining up to 99.99% of dust.
- Model SE 5.100.
In this version, everything works simply and functionally. There are 2 containers of different colors:
- one container with a white handle for clean water;
- another container with an even-colored handle for dirty water.
A good design solution can be considered to lay the water supply hose in the suction structure.
How to choose the right vacuum cleaner with an aqua filter: expert advice
When choosing a vacuum cleaner with an aqua filter, you need to know a few simple rules and use them:
- choosing a vacuum cleaner. This can be wet and/or dry cleaning of premises. The range of capabilities directly affects the cost of the model;
- air suction power. This indicator affects the quality of apartment cleaning. Experts say that you can clean a room with a device with a power of 300-350 W. But if there are carpets in the house, especially with long pile, you need equipment with a suction power of 450 W or more. A big plus would be the presence of a suction regulator;
- number of filtration stages. The more there are, the better the final cleaning result will be;
- An important aspect when choosing a home assistant is the noise level. Recommended values within 65 dB;
- choose according to model configuration. There is a standard option with a minimum set. Extended configuration options are available. The more additional devices, the better the cleaning process, including complex surfaces;
- a container for water, or more precisely, its displacement. This indicator affects the ability to clean a certain area of the room in one go;
- working length of cord. Everything here is simple and clear. The longer it is, the more maneuverable the equipment. Pay attention to the telescopic pipe. It is made of metal or plastic. The metal version is more reliable and durable;
- An important indicator that is often ignored when choosing a device is the presence of protection. Without it, the device can simply burn out.
And the last thing is the warranty performance of the equipment and service life. After getting acquainted with the little tricks that can help when choosing, it will be natural to review some of the most popular models: characteristics and technical data.
Criterias of choice
When purchasing a vacuum cleaner with an aqua filter for your home, study its technical characteristics. Pay special attention to the parameters below.
Purpose of the device. The device can be used for dry or wet cleaning. Some models combine these functions.
Suction power. Its values directly affect the quality of cleaning. On average, a power of 300–350 W is required to clean a room. If the house has long-pile carpets, then a setting of 450 W or more is considered optimal. A convenient function is to adjust the suction power.
Noise level produced. The comfort of the owners depends on this indicator. Too loud operation of equipment causes negative emotions. Leading manufacturers produce models that produce noise not exceeding 60–65 dB. This is comparable to the hum of a washing machine.
Number of air purification stages. The quality of cleaning depends on this indicator. The more filtration stages, the better the unit copes with the task.
Equipment. The standard kit includes 5–7 attachments. Among them are a narrow nozzle for cleaning crevices, a turbo brush and brushes for different types of surfaces. Choose a unit that has as many attachments as possible. Also pay attention to the wheels. Their minimum quantity is 3 pieces. It is desirable that the surface be rubber. This design will not leave chips on the corners of the furniture and will not scratch the floor. A telescopic pipe with fixation in several positions would also be useful. A metal part is more durable and reliable than a plastic one.
The more air purification stages a vacuum cleaner with an aquafilter has, the better quality it cleans the room.
Water tank size. The larger its capacity, the larger the area is cleaned at one time. On the other hand, it affects the dimensions and weight of the case. A container that is too small will have to be washed more often, taking forced breaks. To care for a house of about 70 m², a vacuum cleaner with a 4–5 liter tank is suitable.
Individual needs. For a large family that has pets and loves to cook, it is advisable to purchase a vacuum cleaner with a separator filter. If you do not decorate the interior with carpets, choose a device with a hookah type of filtration.
In addition to these parameters, when choosing a vacuum cleaner, the length of the cord and the ability to automatically rewind it are important. It is also desirable to have overheating protection and an automatic shutdown function for the device.
Popular models
- Let's look at Zelmer 919.0 ST Aquawelt, let's start with it.
There is an almost perfect combination of price and quality here. Plus, many positive reviews from users. It is equally good for wet and dry cleaning.
Interestingly, if necessary, the aqua filter can be easily replaced with a regular bag to collect debris. The set includes a wide range of additional attachments, which expands the possibilities for high-quality room cleaning.
These are: crevice and turbo/brush. Nozzles: for cleaning stone, high-quality cleaning of parquet, floors, furniture and collecting liquids. Considering the characteristics of the unit, we note that the suction power is at an acceptable level - 300 W. The dust container is designed to fill 1.7 liters. Good cord length: 9 meters, which allows you to maneuver when cleaning and not switch the unit when moving from one room to another. The pipe is made of steel.
The total weight of the structure is 8.5 kg with a product cost of 10,900 rubles. The delivery set includes a HEPA filter and an aquafilter.
But there are also negative aspects that need to be talked about. This is a high noise level. At the recommended 66 dB, the device produces 80 dB. The technology itself is cumbersome. Dimensions 49/35/34 cm.
The design has several modes, which in practice the owners of this vacuum cleaner do not use. But, they are included in the final cost of the model.
Users note the high cost of spare parts and consumables. Nozzles made of plastic do not last long.
- Karcher DS 6.000 Mediclean.
We have already partially examined this model. We can only note that the 900 W unit can perform dry cleaning of premises using a waste collection container.
The kit comes with a wide range of attachments. The pipe is made of durable and lightweight steel. The weight of the device is 7.5 kg. Price 20 thousand rubles. The cable length is 11.5 meters. The disadvantages include the high price of consumables.
- Vitek VT-1833.
The device, with a suction power of 400 W, is designed for dry cleaning with multi-stage filtration. There are 5 levels of cleaning available. The dust container holds 3.5 liters.
The working radius is limited to 7 meters. The pipe is made of metal. The weight of the model is 8800 rubles. The water filter can be easily removed and washed. Suction power is at the proper level.
The need for regular maintenance of filters and containers after each switching on of the equipment presents certain inconveniences. Owners talk about the high level of noise produced during operation.
- Thomas Twin Helper.
This model is designed for combined cleaning of premises: dry and wet. The container holds 4 liters of water. The working radius of the model is 10 meters: quite comfortable. The telescopic pipe is made of steel. Automatic winding of the electrical cable is provided. The wide range of attachments included in the kit allows for more thorough cleaning of rooms, easily treating hard-to-reach places. The weight of the vacuum cleaner is 8.4 kg. The price of the product is 19 thousand rubles.
