Commercial Wet/Dry Vacuums

Kärcher's high-performance wet/dry vacs are engineered to tackle virtually any mess, whether dry, damp, or liquid. These versatile machines serve as essential cleaning tools for tradesmen, contractors, and detailers.

What is a Wet/Dry Vacuum?

Commercial wet/dry vacuums are heavy-duty machines built for construction sites, workshops, hospitality, and industrial environments. Unlike standard commercial vacuums, they are engineered to handle both dry debris and liquids, easily handling massive amounts of fine dust, slurry, and coarse materials.

Built to withstand challenging daily operations, these rugged units feature reinforced housings, heavy-duty casters, and industrial-grade power cables designed for the toughest jobs.

Diagram of wet/dry vacuum cleaner categories

Deep Cleaning Floors and Removing Spills

Large volumes of liquid are difficult to manage without proper extraction equipment. Standing moisture damages subfloors and creates serious slip-and-fall workplace hazards. Our specialized wet/dry vacuums turn these challenging cleanups into effortless tasks. Whether you need to deep clean porous floors or rapidly remove spilled liquids, our systems eliminate fluid volumes quickly and reliably. If your operations primarily require liquid recovery, our standard class wet/dry vacuums are the ideal choice.

Person using Kärcher wet vacuum cleaner on tiled floor in car dealership.

Person uses Kärcher fine dust vacuum cleaner with filter cleaning on construction site.

Fine Dust Vacuums With Automated Filter Cleaning

Maintaining a clean job site requires the right equipment. Large quantities of fine dust, airborne sawdust, and abrasive material residues consistently accumulate on construction sites and in workshops, clogging machinery and creating health hazards. Our fine dust vacuums are precision-engineered for these demanding environments.

Kärcher's patented Tact fully automatic filter cleaning technology makes it possible to vacuum large amounts of fine dust continuously without a filter bag. This allows operators to utilize the full capacity of the container while eliminating the ongoing cost of replacement bags. Suction power remains consistently high so you can work at peak efficiency without interruption—whether collecting dust directly from an attached power tool or remediation deposits on the floor.

How Do Kärcher Wet/Dry Vacuums Work?

To cope with the rigorous demands of construction sites, manufacturing plants, and workshops, Kärcher wet/dry vacuums utilize specialized mechanical designs tailored to the type of debris being recovered.

Our systems differentiate between dry and wet contamination, adapting to the specific physical characteristics of the material. Whether you are extracting coarse-grained debris, fine airborne dust, low-viscosity spills, or heavy industrial sludge, there is a Kärcher wet/dry system engineered to handle materials in any state, from solid to liquid.

Diagram showing the best cleaning method based on wet or dry dirt

How It Works for Wet Dirt

The liquid is transported into the container via a suction hose, thanks to the bypass blower vacuum generated in the container. To prevent liquids from reaching the fan in the event of overfilling, a mechanical float system interrupts the air stream, whereby a float blocks the suction channel or an electronic automatic cutoff switches off the vacuum cleaner.

Mechanical Float Systems

When the liquid in the container increases, the system pushes the float upwards until it blocks the suction channel, preventing overfilling that would lead to the suction blower being flooded.

Electronic Float Systems

If the liquid in the container joins the electrically conductive contacts, the machine switches off to prevent overfilling.

How It Works for Dry Dirt

A vacuum is generated in the container by a bypass blower, which transports dust inside the container through a hose. As a result, the dirt is separated or filtered through a flat filter or cartridge filter. Over time, dust will clog the filter, reducing suction power. To prevent this, there are models with the option of cleaning the filter semi-automatically or fully automatically. For a short period, an air flow is generated that flows through the filter from the clean side, which cleans the filter. Thanks to the design of the suction hose port on the container, the dirt is rotated and heavy, coarse particles settle directly on the container floor, like a cyclone.

What Are the Benefits of Semi-Automatic or Fully-Automatic Filter Cleaning?

When vacuuming dust without using a filter bag, the filter has to be cleaned regularly to minimize loss of suction power. Many vacuum cleaners have integrated filter cleaning to do this conveniently.

Advantages of Automatic Filter Cleaning

Consistently high suction power
No need to remove the filter
No contact with dirt
No breathing in dust during filter cleaning
No mechanical strain, e.g. from knocking out dirt
Work time savings
Reduction of incorrect use
Cost savings since no filter bags need to be used
Making full use of the whole container volume (in contrast to use with a filter bag)
Container does not need to be emptied as often

Schematic representation of Kärcher triggered air cleaning technology.

Safety is a Matter of Tact

We want to do our bit to protect workers in the construction industry from the dangers of fine dust. So, we've developed a range of vacuum cleaners for removing wet and dry dirt and dust – with the option of vacuuming directly at the dust source thanks to chip and dust suction.

What Does "Tact" Stand For? Triggered Air Cleaning Technology

Thanks to a range of functions, such as our new, sensor-controlled automatic filter cleaning system (Tact), Kärcher Commercial vacuum cleaners detect when the flat pleated filter needs cleaning – then they briefly reverse the air flow and blow air through the filter. As a result, users can work without losing any suction power and without any interruptions. This revolutionary system leads to never-seen-before quantities of dust that can be vacuumed without manual filter cleaning, as well as significantly reduced noise if only small amounts of dust are present.

Thanks to this highly efficient filter cleaning, the powerful Tact vacuum cleaners are perfect for both typical and hazardous dusts. The filters have an unparalleled service life – they only need changing after vacuuming 400 lbs of fine dust (category A mineral dust). As a result, you can enjoy longer periods of uninterrupted work with consistent suction power, as well as better protection against fine dust.

Overview of machine features of a Kärcher wet/dry vacuum.

Wet/Dry Vacuum Features

Central rotary switch for setting and adjusting filter cleaning to suit your needs
Suction hose connection in the machine head for an increased net volume and easy emptying
Robust container with bumper and handhold for a long service life and convenient handling
Rubberized case rack and fixing solution for tool boxes and other implements
Flexible hose and power cable storage to fix different hoses securely
Storage of crevice nozzle and tool sleeve at the side for increased safety against loss
Large and sturdy metal castors for optimal mobility, even in tough construction site use

Overview of accessories of a Kärcher wet/dry vacuum.

Vacuum Accessories Features

Tool sleeve with air-flow regulator and rubber attachment for optimal compatibility with power tool
Wide floor nozzle with quick-change inserts for wet and dry applications
Ergonomic bend with handle area made from soft component for pleasant working
Improved clip system for easy change, e.g. from bend to tool sleeve
Dirt-resistant bayonet fastening to disconnect the hose easily from machine

Understanding Dust Classes

Dust is a complex airborne mixture of solid particles that vary drastically in shape, size, chemical composition, and physical traits. Based on these variables and their corresponding hazard levels, dust is categorized into three international risk classes: L, M, and H. Fine mineral fibers and highly dangerous materials like asbestos can penetrate deep into the respirable tract. Identifying the specific dust class of your environment is critical for conducting an accurate hazard assessment and selecting the right vacuum system to ensure regulatory compliance.

L Class (Low Risk)

Class L vacuums are engineered for low-risk, everyday materials such as softwood, chalk, gypsum, and drywall dust. These particulates represent a moderate risk, and their disposal typically does not require specialized hazardous waste containment or specific precautionary measures.

M Class (Medium Risk)

The standard for job site safety. Class M vacuums provide upgraded filtration efficiency suited for moderately hazardous dust and debris generated by hardwoods, panel materials, paint particles, ceramics, concrete, and brick. In many industrial applications, M-Class filtration represents the baseline level required to meet OSHA silica dust regulations on construction and demolition sites.

H Class (High Risk)

The ultimate standard for hazardous remediation. Class H vacuums are engineered for safe containment and disposal of high-risk, carcinogenic, and pathogenic substances. This includes asbestos, lead, coal, nickel, cobalt, copper, cadmium, toxic chemical residues, and mold spores.

Dust Class Specifications: Permeation Rates & Material Suitability

Dust class	Permeation rate	Suitable for	Use for
L	≤ 1.0%	Dusts with MAC values > 1 mg/m³	Lime dust Plaster dust
M	< 0.1%	Dusts with MAC values ≥ 0.1 mg/m³ Wood dusts up to 1200 W/50 l	Wood dust (beech, oak) Paint dust particles Ceramic dusts Dust from plastics
H	< 0.005%	Dusts with MAC values < 0.1 mg/m³ Carcinogenic dust (Section 35 of the German Hazardous Substances Ordinance) Pathogen-containing dust	Carcinogenic types of dust (lead, coal, cobalt, nickel, tar, copper, cadmium, etc.) Mold, bacteria Germ spores Formaldehyde
Special requirement: Asbestos*	< 0.005%	Asbestos-containing dust	Asbestos dust from night storage heaters or firewalls
Explosive types of dust (ATEX zone 22)	Like dust class L, M or H with special requirements	Types of dust in the dust explosion class in Zone 22	Paper dust Flour dust

Top in Every Class

A Vacuum Cleaner is Only as Good as Its Filter

It has never been safer to show your true colors. Our filters are color-coded by application to ensure foolproof selection. Brown signifies wood and fiber dust. Red indicates HEPA filtration. Black denotes the toughest industrial applications. Blue means universal use, anywhere. And green stands for dry dust and maximum cost-effectiveness.

Wood Cartridge Filter

Dust class: M + L

Our cartridge filter fits into the latest generation of all single-motor Kärcher Tact vacuum cleaners. The eight cartridges with PTFE coating work extremely efficiently for wood and fiber dust of any kind. Certified for M and L dust classes. Guaranteed dust separation rate: 99.9%.

Enables fiber dust vacuuming without a filter bag for the first time
Guarantees high suction power (no clogging)
Moisture and rot resistant

Safety/HEPA Flat Pleated Filter

Dust class: H

The first cleanable H filter for wet and dry vacuum cleaners. Single-stage and available exclusively from Kärcher. Certified for dust class H. Guaranteed dust separation rate: 99.995% (HEPA).

Suitable for vacuuming hazardous and explosive dusts
The new PTFE H filter is the first cleanable H filter on the market. It therefore enables vacuuming of large quantities of fine dust without a filter bag
A safety filter set or disposal bag is required for vacuuming hazardous dusts

Ultimate Flat Pleated Filter

Dust class: M + L

We have the best filter solution for applications that create a great deal of dust, e.g. sanding fresh concrete or working with toners: our PTFE filter. Can be used in all NT Tact models. Certified for M and L dust classes. Guaranteed dust separation rate: 99.9%.

Moisture and rot resistant
Even more cost-effective thanks to longer filter service life
Guarantees high suction power (no clogging)

Wet/Dry flat pleated filter for wet and dry applications.

Wet and Dry Flat Pleated Filter

Dust class: M + L

These PES filters (standard feature in our new NT Tact vacuum cleaners) provide excellent results for both wet and dry applications. Certified for M and L dust classes. Guaranteed dust separation rate: 99.9%.

Moisture and rot resistant
Even more cost-effective thanks to longer filter service life
Ideal for frequent switching between wet and dry vacuuming

Dry paper filter flat pleated filter for dry applications with all Kärcher NT Tact vacuum cleaners.

Dry Flat Pleated Filter

Dust class: M + L

These paper filters are an excellent choice for dry applications, including in terms of price. Can be used in all NT Tact vacuum cleaners. Certified for M and L dust classes. Guaranteed dust separation rate: 99.9%.

High suction power when vacuuming fine dust
High rate of dust retention
The filter must be dried after vacuuming liquids

What is Construction Dust?

Construction dust is a general term to describe the types of dust that typically occur when working in construction. If not properly controlled, the dust types may have serious negative impacts on your breathing and health. The new Kärcher wet and dry vacuum cleaners stand out from the crowd thanks to improved filter technology, which helps to control the dust in your environment, as well as protect you and others from it.

Fine Dust on Construction Sites

Construction dust is more than simply annoying – if not properly controlled, it may seriously harm your breathing and health. Long periods of exposure to some types of dust may cause life-threatening lung illnesses, even leading to death.

We're on familiar ground with fine dust particles that circulate in the atmosphere day to day, such as human skin cells, textile fibers and even particles of burned-up meteorite. However, workers in the construction industry face significantly more hazardous types of dust.

There are three main categories for dust generated during cutting, filing, sanding or any other way of breaking up materials:

A cloud of white dust on a dark blue background.

Silica Dust

Concrete, bricks, tiles, mortar and sandstone (also known as "respirable crystalline silica")

Wood Dust

Softwood, hardwood and wood products, such as MDF and plywood

A worker sands tile and produces flying dust.

Dusts With Low Toxicity

Plaster (e.g. in plasterboard), limestone, marble and dolomite

Vacuuming Up Instead of Coughing Up

Our lungs simply aren't built to deal with fine dust, let alone large volumes of it. And it's those large volumes that can be extremely dangerous. Chronic lung diseases are very prevelant in the United States, and treatment costs several billion dollars. How much is your health worth to you?

What Kind of Dust Am I Breathing In?

Silica and asbestos dust are particularly hazardous and may cause cancer.
Poisonous or carcinogenic dust from lead, cadmium, vanadium or manganese not only damages your lungs, it also affects other organs like your liver and spleen. This kind of dust is created during welding work among other tasks.
Wood dust (such as oak and beech dust) can cause nasal cancer in the long term.
Allergenic dust has a plant or animal origin and occurs during cleaning work in or on buildings that are contaminated by bird droppings, for example. Mold spores or microorganisms can also cause allergic reactions.
Fibrogenic dust causes scar tissue to form and progressively changes the composition of your lung tissue after frequent exposure over longer periods. Pneumoconiosis, also know as black lung, caused by quartz and asbestos is one of the most prevalent recognized occupational diseases.

Person breathing construction dust from the air.

Prevention is Always Better Than a Cure

Dust that isn't created in the first place cannot endanger anyone. There are many different ways to prevent dust forming. And if we cannot prevent dust, we can still bind it, vacuum it or block it from entering our lungs with protective clothing and dust masks.

Preventing dust on construction sites using Kärcher wet/dry vacuum cleaners.

What Can I Do to Prevent Dust?

Vacuum dust as soon as it is formed. Many power tools have a port for connecting a vacuum cleaner. Vacuum cleaners with connector sockets turn on automatically when the connected power tool starts up. Always use a suitable filter.
Choose low-dust working methods, e.g. wet or damp operation.
Bind dust with water, e.g. during demolition work and grinding work outdoors.
Use low-dust products, e.g. mortar pellets, ready-mixed concrete and plaster.
Avoid stirring up dust unnecessarily. Instead of dry sweeping and using blowers, employ vacuum cleaners and vacuum sweepers.
Arrange and take advantage of occupational health screenings.
Regularly clean workstations, ventilate work rooms sufficiently, keep work clothes clean.
Remove waste immediately and without creating dust.
Check the vacuum cleaner's suction performance regularly. Clean or replace the filter as needed. Use vacuum cleaners with automatic filter cleaning for consistently high suction power.
Wear protective clothing and dust masks. While used as a matter of course for particularly dusty tasks, you should always wear a suitable dust mask at the very least, even when the dust impact is less severe.

Explore Other Commercial Vacuums

If you're looking for a different type of commercial vacuum, Kärcher offers a comprehensive selection of upright, canister, backpack, stand-on, autonomous, wet/dry, wide-area, and specialized CartVac vacuums. Discover powerful, ergonomic solutions tailored to fit your facility's layout and daily cleaning needs below:

An autonomous vacuum cleans library floors while workers take care of other cleaning tasks.

Robotic Vacuums

Commercial robotic vacuums are designed for autonomous cleaning. They deliver unmatched safety, consistency, and coverage.

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A worker vacuums carpets inside an office complex.

Upright Commercial Vacuums

Kärcher upright vacuums come in variety of sizes and filtration configurations. Available in single or dual motor configurations.

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A worker cleans a long corridor using a stand-on vacuum.

Chariot™ Stand-On Vacuums

Kärcher invented stand-on cleaning technology. Trust our innovative platform for unmatched performance and productivity.

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A worker uses a backpack vacuum to clean hotel rooms.

Commercial Backpack Vacs

These portable vacuums feature an ergonomic harness system. They are ideal for increasing daily efficiency and operator comfort.

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A worker cleans under desks using a canister vacuum.

Canister Vacuums

Developed for hotels, offices, and retail, these vacuums feature reduced noise levels. Each lightweight unit includes professional accessories.

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A worker uses a CartVac to clean corporate building offices.

CartVac Commercial Vacuums

This mobile solution integrates a vacuum with organized supply storage, providing a clean and professional appearance.

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A worker uses a wide-area vacuum to clean long hallway carpets.

Wide-Area Commercial Vacs

Designed to cover more ground quickly, these wide-path vacuums efficiently clean medium to large carpeted spaces.

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A worker cleans floors in a production facility using an industrial vacuum.

Industrial Vacuums

Built for manufacturing facilities, these robust machines safely remove heavy dust, boosting productivity and workplace safety.

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Local Wet/Dry Vacuum Support

When you need support for your wet/dry vacuum, a local dealer is ready to help. Our nationwide network of dealers provides everything from new machines and repairs to genuine parts and cleaning detergents.

Illustrated map of Denver showing multiple local Kärcher dealers and retailers.