Best Commercial Vacuums Reviewed

Types of Commercial Vacuum Cleaners

Commercial Vacuums Compared

Benefits of Commercial Vacuums

Choosing a High-Quality Commercial Vacuum

Purpose

Depending on what you require the vacuum for will influence what you opt for. If you need to clean above floor level, then an upright vacuum may not be the best option. If the area is large, then a portable vacuum (perhaps backpack) would be ideal or one with a large capacity.

Motor Power

A strong motor means that the suction power will be high. However, this requires a lot of electricity, due to this, and the fact that commercial vacuums are used regularly, they feature weaker motors. The design of the engine, alongside the vacuum itself, ensures that they are more than powerful enough to do the job.

Noise Level

The noise level varies significantly between vacuums. If it is going to be used in areas where people are working or relaxing, you may want a tranquil one. Some vacuums have different modes such as "full power mode," so they can be adjusted for noise requirements. 

Weight and Capacity

Commercial vacuums come in a range of weight and capacity. If the purpose of the vacuum is to clean a multi-story building, then it would be best to purchase a lighter vacuum. In regards to the capacity of the vacuum, the larger the canister capacity, the less often it will need to be emptied, and vice versa. So if you need to clean big buildings, or vacuum regularly, then go for one with a large capacity.

Filtration System

High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) refers to the filters which have been tested and certified to remove a high percentage of dirt. They produce cleaner air and helps contain pollen, dust, and other common triggers of allergies. All vacuums have some sort of filtration system even if it is not HEPA. If these factors are vital to you, then it is best to opt for one of these.

Brushes and Attachment Tools

The majority of commercial vaccines will come equipped with a standard set of brushes and tools. This is to allow you to clean multiple surfaces with ease. For this reason, it would be ideal to get as many attachments as possible so that it can cater to all of your cleaning needs.

Power Cord Length & Power Usage

Endurance/Adaptability

These vacuums are designed to take a beating and last for years as they are highly durable. With how portable they are and with the extra tools, these vacuums can adapt to most situations.

Ease of Use

Vacuums are easy to use, especially if the surfaces are all the same material. If the intention of the vacuum is continuous use, having an easy to use, on and off switch is a necessity.

Features

You may want the choice of having a motorized brush if cleaning carpets, as they tend to do the job better than one powered only by suction. Some vacuums have a switch that quickly deactivates the brush to avoid spreading debris.

1. Hoover WindTunnel C1703900

Hoover has engineered numerous products which satisfy every cleaning need. The WindTunnel 3 is a bagged commercial vacuum that comes equipped with cleaning bristles and an accessory pack.

This is perfect for cleaning all types of surfaces, baseboards, and corners. The Extreme Recline Handle, lets you quickly maneuver the vacuum so that you can easily clean around furniture. Ease of use is optimized with the five-way adjustable height so that anyone can use it. 

This powerful machine includes some fantastic features. Such features include WindTunnel technology which is, three air channels which lift and remove any dirt and debris which has built up. The wheels are designed to provide traction and prevent marking on the floor, and there is an easy to use power switch on the side.

Accessories included when purchasing the WindTunnel are a 12-inch wand, 11-inchlong reach crank device, and an upholstery brush, which allows you to clean anywhere. With the price at only $170, this easy to store vacuum is perfect for all commercial settings, from home use to schools if need be.

2. CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 

The CRAFTSMAN vacuum is available in a variety of sizes, in which this is the third biggest with a 16-gallon canister. This wet/dry vacuum has a Qwik Lock Fastening System which makes for convenient filter changes. Alongside this, there is also a built-in oversized drain, which allows for easy liquid disposal.

A flexible 7-foot hose which is 2 ½ inches wide, is included when purchasing this vacuum - this is perfect for cleaning large areas. The hose also features Dual-Flex technology for 180-degree mobility at each end to resist kinking.

Other accessories included are two extension wands, a utility nozzle, a car nozzle, and a wet nozzle, which are fantastic for cleaning all sorts of mess. Affordable at a little over $100, this vacuum comes equipped with on-board hose storage, plus power cord and accessory organizers to reduce the amount of storage space it takes up.

This heavy-duty commercial vacuum is perfect for a job site where a lot of power is needed. The built-in rear blower port allows for quick cleaning of leaves in your garage and outdoors, which is why the CRAFTSMAN in also handy for tackling large clean-up projects.

3. Hoover CH30000 PortaPower

This Hoover is a canister vacuum which also gives you the option to utilize a bag if preferred. Weighing only 8.3 pounds, it is easy to transport, and therefore fully portable. This does mean that it will have to be held while cleaning; however, there is also a shoulder strap available to purchase.

The vacuum is quite small in size, so although it does not have a massive capacity, it is more than easy to store and allows the user to clean tight, small areas like the inside of a vehicle. The portability of the vacuum, alongside the 33-foot long cord, means that it can be used effectively in hard to reach areas.

Affordable at about $100, this vacuum can also be used as a blower for easy dissemination of debris. Accessories available upon purchase are, a crevice tool, dusting brush, a wand, and floor nozzle to ensure that wherever the mess, it can be cleaned up.

Certified by the Carpet and Rug Institute, this cleaner is suitable to clean small and large area which may be your home, office, restaurant, hospital, and any congested places. So don't worry about keeping your office clean, and dust-free, because this vacuum cleaner ensures you a healthy environment.

4. Oreck XL

Oreck produces lightweight, premium, and powerful cleaners, with this being the best commercial upright vacuum. Covering a 12-inch wide area, it makes cleaning quick and is better suited for low pile carpets than typical canister vacuums. The additional feature of side edge brushes allows for effective cleaning on corners and along baseboards. Not to mention the low profile design lets you get in tight spots and under furniture. The scuff-resistant bumpers on this vacuum will protect walls, furniture, and baseboards from damage while cleaning.

Weighing slightly over 8 pounds, the Oreck vacuum has the exclusive Microsweep feature, that allows you to switch from carpet to bare floors without having to adjust anything manually. Easy to carry at 8 pounds, the vacuum is limited to only cleaning floors as there are no attachments. 

The Oreck vacuum has a top fill bag design which helps the power at a maximum until it is full and can be easily disposed of. A fantastic feature of this vacuum is the Helping Hand Handle. It essentially gets rid of the motion of bending and twisting of the wrist, as well as squeezing of the hand. This makes cleaning easy and comfortable, and it has even received the Ease of Use Commendation from the Arthritis Foundation.

5. NILFISK HEPA

This low profile canister vacuum is made from a sturdy chrome-plated steel container, which safely collects and contains dust and debris. On top of this, it has multi-stage HEPA filtration which prevents the contaminants from being released - this is perfect for those who suffer from allergies. The vacuum features a motor thermal protection device that prevents overheating, whatever it may be from. With the sound of the vacuum being quieter than a normal conversation, this vacuum breaks down quickly so that you can maintain and replace parts with ease.

This vacuum is easy to tote around with the large, stable carry handle, alongside the fact that it can clean multiple areas with the accessories provided. These include a 6-foot hose with a bent wand, telescopic wand, combination floor nozzle, crevice tool, and a round brush/upholstery tool. A dust bag is provided on purchase too, which is a little bonus.

Due to the size and portability of this 4-gallon vacuum, it's an excellent choice for renovations, as well as heavy residential vacuuming.

6. Eureka NEU182A Powerspeed

This vacuum has a powerful suction due to the motor and deep cleans carpets and hard floors. There are five height adjustment settings, in which you turn the dial to be able to clean various surfaces. This upright bagless vacuum has an extra-large dust cup that holds 4.1 liters, which not only hold more dirt but also needs to be emptied less frequently. On top of this, the vacuum features a washable filter, which is cost-efficient as they can be reused. 

Assembling this vacuum is of no issue at all, simply snap on the quick release handle, fix the hose and wrap the cord on. The accessories included make it possible to clean areas above floor level, even ceilings. These accessories include a 7-inch long crevice tool, a dusting brush, an upholstery tool, a quick-release handle, and an extended hose.

The vacuum has onboard storage for all of your tools so that they will be easily accessible, whatever the task may be. Weighing 10 pounds, and at an affordable price, this vacuum is best for home use, or small businesses such as a restaurant.

7. VacuMaid GV50PRO

This wall-mounted garage and utility vacuum is built to last with the durable steel design and powder coating. The fact that this powerful machine is wall-mounted means that it can be stored easily, using less floor space. The filtration system is easy to maintain with a disposable HEPA type bag which eliminates the risk of mess. This vacuum has a 5.7" motor, which can run for an astonishing 550-600 hours.

Accessories included upon purchasing this vacuums which allow for versatile cleaning are 30 or 50-foot crush-proof hose, a hose hanger, caddy bag, 12-inch floor brush, crevice tool, upholstery tool, dusting brush, metal telescopic wand, and a curved metal wand.

The vacuum has a 7-gallon dirt capacity and is available to purchase in 7 different colors. It is best to use in residential and commercial settings such as garages, vehicles, workshops, etc. There is also the option to buy upgraded tools and a higher performance motor if necessary.

8. DEWALT DCV581H

The DEWALT vacuum is powered by either an 18 or 20-volt MAX battery or an AC outlet, and it can provide both corded and cordless option. The tank capacity of this vacuum is 2 gallons, and it features a fully integrated 5-foot crush resistant, heavy-duty hose. The tranquil motor lacks power at only 2 horsepower, although it is still a versatile vacuum as it can clear all sorts of mess, including liquids. 

This vacuum features a washable, HEPA grade filter that traps up to 99.97% of dirt. The DEWALT vacuum can be used as a blower with the side exhaust port, and also comes equipped with a crevice tool and a wide nozzle cleaning tool. The battery and charger, however, need to buy separately.

The vacuum has onboard hoses and accessory storage which make transporting the vacuum easier. It is probably best for renovations, small businesses, etc. due to power. However, the portability of the vacuum should mean that it can be used in larger areas, but the power of the motor does not allow it to do so.

9. ProTeam

This backpack vacuum is ergonomic as it utilizes mountaineering style backpack technology to carry the vacuum across the hips. The size and design of this vacuum mean that it can tackle the most demanding of cleaning tasks. The capacity of the ProTeam is three times larger than a standard upright vacuum which is perfect for large areas. A Four-Level Advanced HEPA Filtration System is used for improved air quality, which has been certified Gold by the Carpet and Rug Institute.

The commercial backpack vacuum cleaner comes equipped with the Xover Multi-Surface Telescopic Wand Tool Kit which is an all-in-one tool for low pile carpets and hard surfaces.

Powerful, yet one of the quietest in its class, this vacuum has a long 50-foot long cord so that you do not need to keep unplugging. The ProTeam vacuum is ideal for vacuuming large areas, more specifically, educational institutions like schools.

10. Hoover TaskVac

To complete the list is another Hoover vacuum, this being an upright cordless vac with Lithium-ion technology for long-lasting battery life. The powered brush roll can alternate between picking up dust and debris as well as hard floors with ease. This vacuum features a bottom release dirt cup for quick and straightforward liquid disposal, and a washable filter to prolong life. The Hoover also comes equipped with interchangeable batteries which ultimately makes cleaning faster. 

The vacuum has Hoover patented WindTunnel technology which are three air tunnels that lift and remove all kinds of dirt. It uses HEPA and micro filter filtration, which does not cause any mess while removing and disposing.

The sleek design of this vacuum means that it can be stored without taking up too much room. The vacuum also allows you to choose between five different head heights which are perfect for anyone to use, plus a LED battery gauge determines how much power is left. This commercial cordless vacuum is ideal for all sorts of settings.

Commercial vs. Household Vacuums

The main difference between these two types of vacuums is the size. Household vacuums are smaller and are only designed to clean a couple of rooms. This also means that the capacity is rather small, and has to be emptied regularly.

Commercial vacuums, however, are designed to be used every day. For this reason, they are durable machines that do not need to be cleaned regularly. Household vacuums are not used as frequently, yet are replaced every couple of years or so. This is why commercial vacuums are the superior of the two – they last years!

Bagged vs. Bagless: Which is Better?

Bagged vacuums collect the dirt and dust in a bag which needs to be emptied and replaced, whereas bagless vacuums utilize a removable canister instead. Bagless vacuums are easier to maintain and are cost-friendly as you do not need to buy any bags.

Not to mention the fact that you spillages while emptying the vacuum will not be an issue. Commercial vacuums are used in a business setting; for this reason, the power of the machine, and capacity is of great importance. Bagged vacuums tend to have large capacities, and are more potent than bagless vacuums as they are sealed up better.

Cleaning, Care & Maintenance: Commercial Vacuums

Although commercial vacuums can last for years, that does not mean that they can be used and stored, there is some work required for them to stay in tip-top shape.

Every time, before use, check the filter bag. If you wait for it to get full then it will minimize the performance, be sure to change it before it gets to this point. Same goes for the micro filter compartment, if it is visibly dirty or there is an odor, then change the filter.

Checking the brushes is an integral part of maintaining your vacuum. You do this by removing the brush, and then cleaning any strands of hair or carpet around it with a pair of scissors. Be sure not to cut any of the bristles.

For wet/dry vacuums, empty dirty water from the tank, then rinse and dry. This is for optimum cleaning results and to avoid any unpleasant odors.

Common Industrial Vacuum Issues & Fixes

Most issues one will come across with a commercial vacuum are usually fixable.

There is the potential for the vacuum to lack suction. This is probably because of a clogged air filter. If this happens, remove and clean the filter, or replace it is it significantly damaged. This could also occur if the hose is blocked. If so, you can pry and dirt out with a long tool.

Another potential issue is for the belt to break or for the brush not to spin. This usually happens when string or hair gets caught in the brush roll, which results in increased friction and pressure on the belt. If properly maintained, this should not happen, however on the off chance that it does, take off the brush roll and clean it.

If the vacuum is noisy and vibrates, it could be down to blockages which can be clean easily as discussed. If the noise appears to be coming from the brush, then it needs to be removed and replaced.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Do higher watts in vacuum cleaners mean more suction power?

Higher watts mean that the motor is more powerful, and with a powerful motor comes a powerful suction, so in essence yes.

Where is the best place to buy commercial vacuums?

The best place to buy a commercial vacuum would be Amazon, to ensure that you get what you pay for and can make queries.

How do I attach the tools or additional wands to my commercial vacuum cleaner?

Most attachments are wriggled on and off. However, if you are having difficulty, you can always refer to the user manual.

Where can I buy replacement bags and filter for my commercial vacuum?

The place in which you bought your vacuum will most likely stock replacement bags and filters. If this is not the case, they can be purchased through online retailers such as Amazon.

How long do commercial vacuums last?

Due to the durability and design of commercial vacuums, they are supposed to last for years.

What are the top industrial/commercial vacuum brands?

The top industrial/commercial vacuum brands include Hoover, Oreck, Shark, Sanitaire, and Dyson.

Conclusion

Commercial vacuums are ridiculously durable and robust machines; for this reason, they will not have to be replaced for years.

They can clean areas where regular vacuums cannot, and have to power and capacity to clean large areas such as schools, hospitals, restaurants, etc. The Hoover WindTunnel has no limits; this is the best commercial vacuum for all settings.