13 Best Backpack Vacuums of December 2021

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Backpack Vacuums - the Best Portable Commercial Choice?

Backpack vacuums are the best choice for commercial cleaning services, as it suits many different tasks. Some home owners love them as well though, as they are both practical and easy to carry around on their back. This means no canister bumping around the floor, and no clumsiness when you want to reach all the way underneath your couch or dining table. However, backpack vacuums come in many types and varieties, so here’s a helpful overview.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Backpack Vacuum

What makes a great backpack vacuum cleaner? That’s actually a good question. There are a lot of factors to consider before buying, as this type of vacuum is significantly different compared with other vacuum types.

Weight

Backpack vacuums are definitely not among the most heavy vacuums out there, but you have to keep in mind that you’re carrying it on your back, and the weight increases according to how full the canister is. The weight is one of the key points when choosing a backpack vacuum, and you should probably have somehow decent physics in order to use the backpack vacuum on a regular basis.

Design

When it comes to design, there isn’t really a lot to say. The canister is usually round or rectangular, but one thing is REALLY important to consider: The diameter/depth. This measure tells you exactly how far it sticks out from your back, and the shorter is goes, the better it is. Larger canisters puts you in the risk of bumping into walls and objects while turning around, while smaller or more well designed models makes it easy to pass through even the most narrow hallways or door openings.

Ergonomics

The harness of your backpack vacuum is one of the key elements in easy and comfortable vacuuming. It should be properly bolstered with nice thick shoulder pats, and if it’s one of the larger models, it should also be equipped with a comfortable waist belt as well. Some backpack vacuums have storage straps for accessories sewn into the waist belt, so it doubles as an accessories holder as you go.

Capacity

The capacity of the dust bin varies from just 0.5 gallons and all the way up to multiple gallons. However, the backpack gets heavier the bigger it is, which is understandable. You need to find your sweet spot here, because if the dust bin is too small for your needs, you have to empty it all the time. But if it’s too big, it gets both heavy and bulky, and your movement might be limited a bit. Most people are happy with a capacity of in between 1.5 to 2 gallons, but for commercial use you could also consider larger models. For a home owner 1 gallon would be more than enough.

Corded or Cordless?

Unfortunately, most backpack vacuums are corded. This limits its functionality, and you have to keep it plugged in. Some models come with just a few feet of cord, which means you’ll have to connect an extension cord in order to use it. The corded models are able to keep going as long as there’s a power outlet nearby, which is great. Cordless models are quite expensive, although much more practical. You don’t have to bring out a large cord and keep it organized, you simply recharge the batteries and go on. Cordless Backpack Vacuums should be considered for tasks where you need to stay mobile and go from place to place quickly, e.g. if you’re hired to clean a retail store, or go to multiple houses during your work day.

Ease of Use

Backpack vacuums are usually quite simple and easy to use, but here are a few things worth considering, when it comes to ease of use on a regular basis:

• Choose a model that comes with its own storage for accessories.
• Make sure you get the right accessories for the type of tasks you’re doing.
• Choose a model large enough for your needs.
• Check if the on/off switch is easy to reach.
• Make sure the canister is able to stand on its own with no support.
• If you’re going to use it for commercial purposes, make sure it has spare parts available from local stores.

Tools Included

When it comes to tools included in the package, you have to make a proper choice. It is most likely that you don’t need all the tools included in the package, but sometimes you might miss just the right tool for the task you need to do every day. Make sure to check which tools are included, and also check if extra tools are available and easy to order.

Filters

If you’re suffering from dust mite allergy or asthma, it is a great idea to choose a model with an efficient filter. Go for a model with a detachable HEPA filter, and make sure it doesn’t emit too much dust while going. Usually the cheapest models aren’t good at retaining small dust particles, but some of the more expensive models promise a bit more. If filters are a big deal to you, you should definitely consider buying a backpack vacuum from one of the more well established brands, and never settle with a cheap model.