Craftsman Ash Vacuum (5 gal)

Craftsman has long been a name synonymous with quality and durability, so I was eager to test out the Ash Vacuum (5 gal), model CMXEVBE17585, especially given its specific design for handling cold ashes from fireplaces, pellet stoves, wood stoves, grills, or fire pits. This vacuum is marketed as a dry application tool, which means it’s intended solely for ash and fine particle pickup. With its heavy-duty aluminum construction and metal-lined hose, it promises a robust solution for a niche cleaning task.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about the Ash Vacuum was its solid build. The aluminum construction feels durable, and the metal-lined hose, complete with an LED light for better visibility, adds a layer of practicality. The vacuum includes a 3 ft. locking hose, a metal wand, and a crevice tool, all of which are designed to handle the rigors of ash cleaning. However, the hose is notably short and inflexible, which can be a bit of a hassle when trying to reach tight spots or when maneuvering around a larger area.

One of the standout features is the non-stick coated HEPA media filter that is designed to capture fine particles efficiently. This is a crucial aspect for any ash vacuum, as the fine particles can easily escape a less efficient filter and create a mess.

Performance

When it comes to suction power, the Ash Vacuum performs reasonably well. It’s not the most powerful vacuum on the market, but for its intended purpose of ash and fine particle cleanup, it does the job adequately. The 120V power source provides consistent suction, and the vacuum is not overly noisy, which is a plus for indoor use.

However, the design of the wand attachments leaves much to be desired. The male end of the wand being on the suction end and the female end clipping over it causes frequent clogs. This design flaw is particularly problematic given the narrow 1.5" hose. Even small debris can cause blockages, making what should be a straightforward task much more labor-intensive. This is something to keep in mind if you plan to use the vacuum for anything other than fine ash.

Usability and Comfort

The Ash Vacuum is relatively lightweight at 12.2 lbs and easy to move around. However, the short hose and lack of flexibility can make it cumbersome to use in tight or awkward spaces. The hose does not include a swivel, which means you often have to fight with it to get the right angle for cleaning. This can be particularly frustrating when working in cramped quarters or trying to reach high places.

The latches that hold the lid on are another weak point. They can be a bit flimsy, especially when the canister is full. This can lead to the lid coming off unexpectedly, which is not only inconvenient but can also create a mess.

Maintenance

Maintenance of the Ash Vacuum is straightforward. The HEPA filter is easy to clean, and the vacuum itself is simple to empty. However, the unit does require regular attention to ensure it operates efficiently. The frequent clogging issue means you’ll often find yourself stopping to clear blockages, which can be time-consuming.

One peculiar aspect is the branding and compatibility of parts. Despite being branded as Craftsman, some of the parts, like the cartridge filter system, are actually from Stanley. This can lead to confusion when trying to find compatible replacement parts. It’s something to be aware of if you plan to use the vacuum frequently and need to replace filters or other components.

Versatility

While the Ash Vacuum is designed for a specific purpose, it does have some versatility. The crevice tool and metal wand are useful for reaching tight spots, and the LED light on the hose is a nice touch for better visibility. However, the short power cord and hose limit its range, making it less suitable for larger areas or more general cleaning tasks.

Conclusion

The Craftsman Ash Vacuum (5 gal) is a mixed bag. On the one hand, it offers solid build quality, decent suction power, and a good HEPA filter for capturing fine particles. On the other hand, it suffers from design flaws that can make it frustrating to use, particularly the short, inflexible hose and the poorly designed wand attachments.

If you’re looking for a vacuum specifically for cleaning cold ashes and fine particles in small, manageable areas, this can be a reasonable option, especially given its price point. However, if you need something more versatile or powerful, you might want to consider other options.

In summary, I would recommend the Craftsman Ash Vacuum for light, specific tasks related to ash cleanup, provided you’re willing to deal with some of its usability issues. For more demanding tasks or larger areas, you might be better served by investing in a more powerful and versatile vacuum.