Best Backpack Vacuum
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Top 15 Best Backpack Vacuum Cleaners Reviews 2024

Backpack vacuums are not as popular as upright vacuums, canister or even stick vacuums. I think the idea of a backpack vacuum has not yet caught on. Nonetheless, these machines are nothing short of marvelous.

Despite being excellent machines, finding the best backpack vacuum happens to be challenging. They are not popular in the residential vacuum market, and therefore there is little information about backpack vacuums.

Think about it, which is easier to come across; backpack vacuums or upright vacuums?

And while we are on the topic of getting the best backpack vacuum, consider this your lucky day. I put together a list with these machines, and a buying guide to help you make an informed decision. But first, here are some reasons to invest in a backpack vacuum.

5 Reasons Why You Should Consider a Backpack Vacuum

Backpack Vacuum

These are some benefits of backpack vacuums over other types of vacuums.

  • Long Power Cord – Backpack vacuums are made for the commercial vacuum market and as such have long cords making them easier to navigate. You can clean areas without having to change outlets. This though does not mean they cannot be used in the residential market. On the contrary, you will be benefiting from a cord that can allow you to clean an entire house with ease.
  • Easier to Use – One complaint most people have against upright is the strain they put on your arm. This will be a thing of the past with backpack vacuums as you carry the weight. Canister vacuums, on the other hand, though slightly better than uprights, are not as good as backpacks. You have to pull the unit around, especially around furniture and on shag carpets. Again, these challenges will be a thing of the past.
  • Reach and Portability – With upright and canister vacuums, you have to lift the unit above obstacles. And don’t get me started on carrying it up and down stairs. As for backpack vacuums, they are portable and don’t have these challenges. As for cleaning above-floor areas, it will be a walk in the park.
  • Durability – Seeing as they are designed for commercial use where they are subjected to abuse on almost a daily basis, you can expect them to be more durable.
  • Longevity – Internal wear and tear is often a result of moving parts. Canister and upright vacuums have many moving parts and wear out faster. Backpack vacuums have fewer moving parts and will last longer

Here are more benefits of backpack vacuums.

Watch video: Perfect BackPack Vacuum Tips & Tricks

Though backpack vacuums seem to have the edge over upright and canister vacuums, here are some few upright and canister vacuums that give them a run for their money.

Backpack Vacuum Cleaner Shops Near You

Other than knowing the best backpack vacuum cleaner, you should know where to get these appliances. Finding a good shop, preferably in your area, is crucial. The online space is one place where you can get reputable outlets, but you have to know what you are looking for.

The search terms you use will determine whether you find a reputable shop or not. Here are some few phrases to use:

  • Best backpack vacuum cleaner shops near me
  • Best backpack vacuum cleaner shops in my area
  • Best backpack vacuum cleaner shops in UK
  • Best backpack vacuum cleaner shop in US

Now let’s get into the meat of this article.

Best Backpack Vacuum Comparison Chart 2022

If you are pressed for time, here is a comparison guide to compare the devices side to side.

Best Backpack Vacuum CleanersWeight in-lbs.Bin Size in QuartsCord LengthHEPADimensionsWarranty
ProTeam Super Coach Vac 10-Qt Commercial Backpack Vacuum - Best Overall111050-ftYes8.5 X 8.5 X 253
Hoover Commercial C2401 Vacuum - Best for Hard Floors9.26.448-ftYes13.2 X 13.2 X 302
ProTeam ProVac FS 6 Backpack Vacuum - Most Robust Backpack Vacuum11.6650-ftYes31.3 X 18.3 X 123
Atrix Ergo VACBP1 Backpack Vacuum Cleaner - Best for Versatility10.381.5-ftYes12 X 9 X 201
GV 10-Quart Backpack Vacuum - Best for Pets111050-ftYes9 X 9 X 262
Sanitaire EURSC412B Backpack Vacuum - Best Certified11.5650-ftYes21 X 10.5 X 10.52
Powr-Flite BP6S Backpack Vacuum - Best Quiet9650-ftYes-3
Prolux 2.0 Bagless Backpack Vacuum - Best Bagless Backpack Vacuum91.5835-ftYes27.3 X 15 X 125-yr Motor
Prolux 2.0 Cordless Bagless Vacuum - Best Cordless Backpack Vacuum111.581-hrYes11.5 X 13 X 24.85-yr - Motor
Rubbermaid Commercial Backpack Vacuum - Best Value for Money231040-ftYes31.2 X 13.9 X 13.61
ProTeam Mega Vac Backpack Vacuum - Best Heavy Duty Vacuum111050-ftYes31 X 15.4 X 12.13
Carpet Pro SCBP-1 Commercial Backpack Vacuum - Editor’s Pick10.5650-ftYes31 X 15.4 X 12.1-
Bissell Big Green BG 1006 Backpack Vacuum - Best for Tight Spots10650-ftYes22.5 X 14.6 X 101
Makita XCV05Z Cordless Vacuum - Best for Long Runtime9.4290-minYes12.6 X 19.3 X 9.83
Koblenz BP-1400 Commercial Grade Backpack Vacuum - Best for Light Duty Commercial Cleaning11650-ftYes31 X 16 X 126

Top 15 Best Backpack Vacuum Cleaners Reviews 2022

Here are ths complete reviews with pros and cons. As for my top pick, it had to be the ProTeam Super Coach Vac.

1. ProTeam Super Coach Vac 10-Qt Commercial Backpack Vacuum

(Best Overall)

ProTeam Super Coach Vac 10-Qt Commercial Backpack Vacuum

The ProTeam Super Coach Vac is head and shoulders above other backpack vacuums. It is a commercial unit and should only be used for such tasks. For residential settings try the ProTeam Super Coach Vac 6-quart.

The Super Coach Vac has some snazzy features that I believe you will love. First, it has a long cord at 50-ft; and don’t we all appreciate long cables. Second, it has a large dirt capacity at 10-quarts allowing you to clean large areas without having to empty the bin.

Another remarkable feature of the ProTeam Super Coach is the slew of accessories. Again it is better by a long shot in this area. It retails with several cleaning heads for carpets and hard floors. As for power, it packs quite a punch with 123CFM airflow and 81-inches of water lift when it comes to suction.

Finally, you will love that it is a comfortable unit. The harness distributes weight to the core and legs for comfort.

Pros

  • It has superior filtration with 4-levels of filtration
  • Other than the time associated with putting on the vac, it cuts cleaning time by 43%
  • It is light
  • It makes quick work of any dirt
  • It has a cord holder to hold the cord and keep it out of your way

Cons

  • It sticks to rugs owing to the high suction
Kevin’s Take: Given the size, the price, and the power, I recommend the ProTeam Super Coach Vac for commercial cleaning. Say convention centers and office buildings. By and large, it happens to be a marvelous device and an absolute pleasure to use.

The ProTeam Super Coach is remarkable. If you want to know why I consider it the best backpack vacuum, then go ahead and watch this review.

Watch video: Proteam Super CoachVac 10qt Vacuum Cleaner Review

2. Hoover Commercial C2401 Vacuum

(Best for Hard Floors)

Hoover Commercial C2401 Vacuum

Next on this list of the best backpack vacuums is the Hoover C4201. It is a lightweight device weighing about 9.2-pounds and seeing as it is a backpack unit, you can use it for hours without noticing it. Couple this with the chiropractor designed and approved harness, and the comfort is unmatched.

Another snazzy feature is that it is a quiet device. You can use it in office buildings without interfering with the activities going on. As for the reach, it has a 48-ft cord, which should be enough to clean large areas without having to change outlets.

You will also appreciate the 6.4-quart bin capacity, and though it is not as large as that of the ProTeam, it is enough for most cleaning tasks. The bag is reusable, reducing the cost of maintenance.

Finally, it has a HEPA filter for superior indoor air quality.

Pros

  • It has a long power cord
  • The performance on hard floors is impressive
  • The dust bag is reusable, reducing the cost of consumables
  • It has superior HEPA filtration

Cons

  • The performance on carpets is wanting
Kevin’s Take: The Hoover C4201 is for a niche market. It lacks the accessories provided with our top pick, but it makes up for that in the fact that it is cheaper, easier to maintain, and lighter. The harness is comfortable, and you can work with it for hours without noticing it. By and large, it is a remarkable device for hard floors.

If you want to more about this bad boy, I welcome you to watch this video. You will love the things they have added to this machine.

Watch video: Hoover C2401 Vacuum Cleaner Review

3. ProTeam ProVac FS 6 Backpack Vacuum

(Most Robust Backpack Vacuum)

ProTeam ProVac FS 6 Backpack Vacuum

Were it not for the fact that the FS 6 is pricey, and has a smaller bin capacity it would have been my pick for the best backpack vacuum thanks to the slew of features?

First, it has an adjustable harness that can fit tall and short people alike. You can adjust the upper harness attaching it to different holes other than the bottom-most. The belt is also redesigned increasing the comfort.

As for power, it trumps my top pick with a CFM of 159. Yes, this is a mighty machine. Despite the crazy high power, it still happens to be a quiet unit. At 65.8dB, you can use this to clean areas where silence is paramount.

Finally, you will love the superior filtration (it has a HEPA filter), and the long cord.

Pros

  • It has a long cord at 50-ft. It has an even longer reach once you add the hose and wand
  • It can clean both carpets and hard floors
  • It is powerful

Cons

  • It is pricey
  • The bin is smaller than our top pick
Kevin’s Take: ProTeam commercial vacuums are remarkable, and the FS 6 is no exception. The cleaning performance is unmatched thanks to the high suction power. The adjustable flexfit harness also happens to be a strong selling point for the FS 6. By and large, you will love it.

Other than knowing what to do with the vacuum, you should know of the maintenance required. Here is ProTeam’s routine maintenance recommendation.

Watch video: Backpack Vacuum Routine Maintenance

4. Atrix Ergo VACBP1 Backpack Vacuum Cleaner

(Best for Versatility)

Atrix Ergo VACBP1 Backpack Vacuum Cleaner

I have never come across a vacuum that can be used for pest control. Imagine my shock when I came across the Ergo. As such, it had to be on this best backpack vacuum list.

First, it is a compact device, and you will love how it sits on your back. However, it is bulky for such a small machine. Weighing 10.3-pounds it is a bit cumbersome. You will not feel the weight, but I expected it to be less than 10-pounds.

It packs quite a punch with the 106cfm. Therefore you can use it to clean tough messes.

My best feature of the Atrix Ergo though was the versatility. You can customize it for right and left-handed operation, and it has a blower adapter which converts it into a blower. It also has a slew of accessories for the three blower heads, to the turbo brush, and crevice tool.

Pros

  • It is aesthetically pleasing
  • It is versatile working as a vacuum and a blower
  • It has a HEPA filter
  • It is affordable

Cons

  • The attachment is plastic, and you need to be extra careful when using them
  • It has a short cord at 1.5-ft
Kevin’s Take: Given the price and the versatility, the Atrix Ergo is undoubtedly one of the best backpack vacuums. It is also aesthetically pleasing, which counts as a plus for me. The fact that it converts to a blower should have put it on top of this list. The attachments though are low quality, so I could not rank it higher.

5. GV 10-Quart Backpack Vacuum

(Best for Pets)

GV 10-Quart Backpack Vacuum

If you are on the hunt for a backpack vacuum to clean pet hair, I recommend the GV 10-Quart thanks to the powered pet tool. Cleaning pet hair off of upholstery will be a walk in the park.

First, you will appreciate that it is lightweight thanks to the aluminum build. At 11-pounds, you can use it without fatigue. It has adjustable straps, and you can fit it to your height.

As for power, it has an airflow above 145CFM, and suction of about 120-inches of water. However, the suction is adjustable thanks to the suction valve. Lowering it allows you to clean drapes and other light surfaces. Finally, I loved the upholstery tool as the bristles are removable for cleaning different surfaces. You can clean both delicate and hard areas with ease.

Pros

  • It has a powered tool for pets
  • It has a decent 2-yr warranty
  • The tools are easy to use
  • The hose is crush-proof
  • It has a large bin

Cons

  • The accessories are friction fit. They might break under pressure or fall off when cleaning
  • Not the best for carpets
Kevin’s Take: The GV 10-quart is nothing short of remarkable. Rarely do you come across a backpack vacuum that has a pet tool. If that is not enough reason to purchase this, what about the large bin, and power it packs? By and large, it is one of the best backpack vacuums.

Seeing is believing. Well here is a video to give you a feel of what to expect with the GV 10-Quart.

Watch video: GV 10 Quart BackPack Vacuum Review

6. Sanitaire EURSC412B Backpack Vacuum

(Best Certified)

Sanitaire EURSC412B Backpack Vacuum

If you prefer having a certified vacuum over the rest, then get the Sanitaire SC412B. It has met L.E.E.D (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) requirements, and it is CRI approved.

Yes, it is a marvelous machine.

It is backed by an 11.5 amp motor that will get deeply embedded dirt. Cleaning will be like passing a hot knife through butter. Despite it being a robust device, it is quiet. Like really quiet. I believe you will love the cleaning experience.

But what about the cleaning performance? Well, it is precisely what you would expect in a backpack vacuum. It is a beast. It also retails with enough accessories for different tasks. It has a crevice tool, an extension wand, two cleaner heads, and a dusting brush. Like I said, enough for most jobs. There is also onboard storage. It is truly one of the best backpack vacuums.

Pros

  • It has a long cord
  • The on/off switch is on the belt on the hip for easy access
  • It has a double bend wand
  • It has consistent suction

Cons

  • Attaching the accessories is difficult
  • The quality seems lower compared to previous Sanitaire vacuums
Kevin’s Take: Sanitaire has had some remarkable devices, and this too is a fantastic little machine. However, this lacks durability compared to previous models. If you are looking for an in-house cleaning appliance, this should be enough. Nevertheless, I would not recommend it for commercial use.

If you want to know the longevity of the Sanitaire SC412B, I welcome you to watch the review below.

Watch video: Sanitaire Backpack Vacuum Review

7. Powr-Flite BP6S Backpack Vacuum

(Best Quiet)

Powr-Flite BP6S Backpack Vacuum

At 62db, the Powr-Flite is a quiet machine. But isn’t that what we all look for in vacuums? You can use it in any office or around pets. It has a long-50-cord, and you can get to any point in the building without changing the outlet. Okay not any, but you get the point. It is long.

It happens to be a commercial vacuum, and as such, the quality is high to withstand the abuse. Speaking of quality, I loved the harness the most. It is a Deuter harness, and as such has ergonomic shoulders for comfort. Furthermore, it tries and transfers all the weight to your legs and core removing it from your back.

As for tools, I found this aspect liberating as it retails with a slew of accessories. It has a premium and standard tool kit. I prefer the premium kit, but the standard kit should be enough.

Pros

  • It has a slew of attachments
  • It has a long cord
  • It is tranquil
  • It has a crazy high CFM at 120
  • It ensures that the indoor air quality

Cons

  • The bin is a tad small at 6-quarts
Kevin’s Take: The Powr-Flite BP6S has received positive reviews from most users. I love that it is a quiet machine and that the filtration is above average. However, what stood out for me most is that you can get a standard or premium tool kit for different tasks. You will pay more for the premium tool kit, but it’s just incredible.

I was curious about what the Powr-Flite had to offer, and I came across this review. I will spare you the details and let you watch it for yourself. You should know why I consider it one of the best backpack vacuums after.

Watch video: PowrFlite Comfort Pro Backpack Vacuum

8. Prolux 2.0 Bagless Backpack Vacuum

(Best Bagless Backpack Vacuum)

Prolux 2.0 Bagless Backpack Vacuum

Prolux has produced several models of the Prolux 2.0, and I believe you will love every one of these devices.

First, there is the power nozzle that retails with the powered brush. The brush has a rotating beater bar, and it is excellent for cleaning carpets. The second model is the “Pro model” which is built to last. It is made tougher and has commercial-grade attachments increasing the durability.

Finally, there is the standard model which is made for household use. It has some commercial tools such as the 1.5-inch tool for faster cleaning. The cord is 35-ft long, and it will allow for better reach. Another fantastic feature of this device is the new vortex chamber that forces the HEPA to clean itself — consequently reducing clogs.

Pros

  • The attachments are easy to connect
  • The vortex chamber is insulated, reducing the noise
  • It is a bagless vacuum and thus easier to maintain
  • It has clips on the side to hold the cord

Cons

  • It is best for short people. Tall people are at a disadvantage
Kevin’s Take: If you are on the hunt for an easy to maintain backpack vacuum, I recommend the Prolux 2.0 bagless. You don’t have to clean the filter thanks to the self-cleaning tech, and you don’t have to replace bags. It is a bagless machine, after all. The Standard model happens to be exceptional for household use, and it is one I recommend if you want to use it around houses.

9. Prolux 2.0 Cordless Bagless Vacuum

(Best Cordless Backpack Vacuum)

Prolux 2.0 Cordless Bagless Vacuum

Though most backpack vacuums have long cords, you can only go so far, as you are still tethered to an outlet. With the Prolux 2.0 cordless this is a thing of the past.

You get 1-hr runtime which should be enough for most cleaning tasks. However, I feel like 1-hr is not enough for commercial cleaning. You can have it as a backup to clean areas without outlets, and even then I think getting an extension cord will be better and save you a fortune.

For cleaning households though, I think it is a fantastic device. Similar to all other Prolux 2.0 it has the new Vortex chamber that forces the HEPA filter to clean itself, and it is a bagless vacuum.

Pros

  • It is maneuverable
  • It has a slew of accessories for dust removal
  • As a bagless unit, it is easy to maintain and convenient
  • It is perfect for hard floors
  • It has a lengthy 5-yr warranty on the motor

Cons

  • It is pricey, and the one-month ownership is not enough to ascertain the durability
Kevin’s Take: The Prolux 2.0 is nothing short of remarkable. Nothing comes close to the pleasure of using a bagless vacuum of this caliber. It is powerful, and you can clean areas without outlets with ease. However, you have to be willing to pay something of a small fortune to get this unit.

Prolux has four new models in this series. I believe this review will help you settle on the best device for you.

Watch video: Prolux 2.0 Bagless Vacuum Review

10. Rubbermaid Commercial Backpack Vacuum

(Best Value for Money)

Rubbermaid Commercial Backpack Vacuum

Following on this list of the best backpack vacuums is the Rubbermaid Commercial backpack vacuum. It works with an 8-amp motor, and though this might not sound as powerful as the other units, you will love the hight CFM at 120 and the high suction of 100-inches of water lift.

There are two models of the Rubbermaid backpack vacuum. The 6-quart, and the 10-quart vacuum. Both retail with HEPA bags, but only the 10-quart vac has a HEPA filter.

One shortcoming of the Rubbermaid though is that it is a weighty unit. At 23-pounds, I bet you will feel it. Working with it for a few hours will lead to fatigue. As for the accessories, you get an aluminum wand increasing the reach, an upholstery tool for office furniture, a dusting brush, crevice tool, and sealed vacuuming bags.

Pros

  • It is a quiet vacuum, and you can use it virtually anywhere
  • The controls are conveniently located and easy to reach
  • The harness is customizable for comfort
  • It has a substantial 40-ft cord

Cons

  • I felt that it is too bulky. You might not feel it at first as the weight is transferred to your core and legs, but you will feel after a few hours of use
Kevin’s Take: Rubbermaid is a remarkable company, and their devices are exceptional. This backpack vacuum only falls short as it is bulky. Otherwise, it is one I recommend for professional and household use.

11. ProTeam Mega Vac Backpack Vacuum

(Best Heavy Duty Vacuum)

ProTeam Mega Vac Backpack Vacuum

The next best backpack vacuum is the ProTeam Mega Vac. For high traffic areas that require a robust unit. I recommend you invest in this. Yes, it is slightly pricey, but I believe it is worth it.

First, it has a 10-quart bin and can clean large areas without having to swap bags. As for the filtration, the device has a 4-level filtration meaning the air in your house will ever be clean. Finally, there is a diffuser where the air exits the unit. The diffuser is great for reducing noise, and to prevent the air from blowing dust around.

Another exciting feature of the Mega Vac is that it works as a blower as well. Well, for a 2-in-1 device, I believe it is worth the high price.

Finally, the 50-ft cord allows you to clean substantial areas without worrying about outlets. Moreover, it is a non-marking cord and will protect your surfaces.

Pros

  • It has superior filtration
  • It is a quiet device, and you can use it anywhere
  • The on/off power button is easy to access

Cons

  • There are complaints about it missing the blower tool
Kevin’s Take: The Mega Vac is only for commercial purposes. Don’t think of getting this for households. I loved the diffuser as it is a simple but intuitive addition. The filtration is superb, and the performance is marvelous. However, there are complaints of it not retailing with the blower tool. And that is quite a bummer.

Putting on a backpack vacuum, and learning how to use it is a challenge. Well, that will be a thing of the past with this tutorial.

Watch video: Pro Team MegaVac Industrial Vacuum Review

12. Carpet Pro SCBP-1 Commercial Backpack Vacuum

(Editor’s Pick)

Carpet Pro SCBP-1 Commercial Backpack Vacuum

The Carpet Pro SCBP-1 is not as popular as other vacuums on this guide. However, it is a unit I deem to be one of the best backpack vacuum cleaners.

Starting with the size of the bin, you will love that it can hold 6-quarts of dirt. The 50-ft cord allows you to clean large areas with ease. Moreover, the cable is yellow and non-marking, and you can use it around delicate surfaces.

The Carpet Pro also happens to be a tank. With 120-CFM airflow, there are few areas you cannot clean. It is lightweight too at 10.5-pounds. It allows you to work long hours and you can work for long before you feel that weight on your back.

As for accessories, it has several cleaner heads that are ideal for hard floors. You will also love the crevice tool and the dusting brush. Finally, it has a wide cleaning path enabling you to clean large areas with ease.

Pros

  • It has a HEPA filter which ensures that the air in your house is clean
  • It is comfortable
  • It saves you time when cleaning

Cons

  • It might not be enough for commercial use as the bags are slightly small
Kevin’s Take: The Carpet Pro backpack vacuum is not as popular as other appliances on this list, but its performance is almost on the same level. I especially loved the HEPA filter and the broad cleaning path. The former assures you of clean air, while the latter reduces your cleaning time.

Here is the Carpet Pro SCBO-1 with all the attachments. Though this does not explain the pros and cons of the device, I believe you will know what you are investing in.

Watch video: Carpet Pro Commercial Backpack Vacuum Review

13. Bissell Big Green BG 1006 Backpack Vacuum

(Best for Tight Spots)

Bissell Big Green BG 1006 Backpack Vacuum

Bissell has been making floor cleaning machines for well over a century now. The company has vast experience in this niche, something they have applied to the BG 1006. The Bissell BG 1006 as such, had to be one of the best backpack vacuum cleaners.

The device has a 6-quart capacity, which though is not large, is enough for cleaning most households. The slim design allows you to clean with a reduced risk of knocking over expensive china.

I believe you will love that it has a HEPA filter as then the air quality will be unrivaled. Other than the HEPA filter, the bags are also superb as are the other filters. The plastic 4-ft hose and the metallic wand allows for better versatility.

As for power, it has 120CFM of airflow, which is crazy high. Finally, the hose is crush-proof, and it rarely clogs.

Pros

  • It automatically shuts off when it detects that the bin is full
  • The bin is easy to empty thanks to the twist-off lid
  • The harness transfers the weight to the legs and core

Cons

  • The warranty is short at 1-yr
  • The filters are expensive
  • It retails with only one bag
Kevin’s Take: I recommend Bissell given that they are a large company and have a reputation to protect. Therefore you are sure they will honor the warranty, and the quality of this BG 1006 is high. By and large, it is a quality unit offered by a renowned company.

14. Makita XCV05Z Cordless Vacuum

(Best for Long Runtime)

Makita XCV05Z Cordless Vacuum

Another cordless backpack vacuum is the Makita XCV05Z. It has a 90-minute runtime, and as such, it had to be on this list of the best backpack vacuum cleaners. The 90-min runtime allows you to clean large areas without having to recharge the unit.

As for the weight, it weighs about 9.9-pounds, and I doubt you will feel that weight when coupled with the harness. The device also happens to be compact, and you can use it in houses without worrying about knocking over any expensive china.

The Makita XCV05Z is not as powerful as most units on this list. The airflow is a fraction of that of other appliances at 53 CFM, and the suction is a low 28.5-inches of water lift. I recommend it for houses over commercial use.

Pros

  • It has a long flexible hose for hard to reach spots
  • It has a long runtime
  • The batteries are removable so you can have several of these to reduce downtime

Cons

  • It has a small bin, and you have to empty it frequently
  • It is not as powerful as other devices on this list
Kevin’s Take: If you are on the hunt for a backpack vacuum that you can use around the house, I think the Makita XCV05Z is an excellent pick. It is not quite robust, but it will handle most cleaning tasks.

15. Koblenz BP-1400 Commercial Grade Backpack Vacuum

(Best for Light Duty Commercial Cleaning)

Koblenz BP-1400 Commercial Grade Backpack Vacuum

At 11-pounds, the Koblenz BP-1400 is within reasonable weight range. It is not bulky to be tiring, but that does not put it among lightweight vacuums. You can work with it for a reasonable length of time before you have to put it down.

The cord is long enough at 50-ft, so you need not worry about the reach. However, I loved the hose more. The Koblenz has a longer tube than the competition. At 5-ft, you have a more extended range. I also have to consider the power of the unit. With 120CFM airflow and 90-inches of water lift, vacuuming will be a breeze.

Back to the cord, I loved that it is detachable, allowing you to store it separately. I also considered the filtration. With 4-stage filtration, you can be confident that the air will ever be clean. Finally, the bin at 6-quarts should be enough for standard cleanups.

Pros

  • It is powerful
  • The shoulders are padded increasing comfort
  • It is a quiet unit and great for pet owners
  • It is easy to move around

Cons

  • There are some concerns with the durability, and one of the cleaner heads scratches the surface
Kevin’s Take: If you are looking for a hard floor and low pile carpet vacuum, get the Koblenz BP 1400. The suction will pull any dirt off the carpet, but it cannot deep clean as it lacks an agitating brush. Despite that, it is nothing short of remarkable.

3 Shortcomings of Backpack Vacuum Cleaners

Yes, these machines are remarkable, but they do have some cons that I could not ignore.

  • Carpet Cleaning – First, most of these units lack a motorized cleaner head to deep clean carpets. Most backpack vacuums excel at hard floor cleaning but fall short when it comes to carpet cleaning.
  • Harness – Backpack vacuums are only as good as the harness. There are tons of complaints from people saying that they hurt their backs. Moreover, they will only fit if the harness is customizable.
  • You have to take into consideration the space around you as you might end up knocking over items.

Backpack Vacuum Buying Guide

I hope you found a unit that meets your needs in this best backpack vacuum guide. However, if that’s not the case, here is a buying guide that I believe will come in handy.

Backpack Vacuums
  • Corded vs. Cordless – First, you have to choose between corded and cordless machines. For commercial purposes, I recommend a corded backpack vacuum as it has no downtime. Yes, you are tethered to an outlet, but you can get an extension cord to extend the reach. Cordless backpack vacuums, on the other hand, are perfect for cleaning houses. A 1-hr or 90-min runtime should be enough to cover all the ground.
  • Bagged vs. Bagless – Again, you will have to choose between bagged and bagless backpack vacuums. However, there is not much of a choice here as bagged units outnumber bagless vacuums.
  • Harness – A backpack vacuum is only as good as the harness. It is not unheard off for people to use these devices as canisters due to poor harness design. For commercial purposes, ensure that the shoulders are padded to keep them from tearing into your shoulders. Moreover, it should transfer the weight to your legs and core. Finally, it should be adjustable for comfort.
  • Weight – This is self-explanatory. You will be using this device for a couple of hours a day if you are a cleaning business, and you want to avoid the strain, get a lightweight machine for comfort.
  • Cord Length and Runtime – If you want to invest in a corded vacuum, ensure the cord is at least 50-ft long. You want the added reach to save time looking for an outlet. If it is not that long, ensure you get an extension cord. As for cordless backpack vacuums, the runtime should be at least 1-hr.
  • Surfaces you Will be Cleaning – Finally, you should stop and consider the areas you will be vacuuming. Backpack vacuums are designed for hard floors. Therefore, you have to be extra keen when on the hunt for an appliance that can clean carpets. I suggest the Prolux 2.0 as it has a powered brush.

You should also know how to put on a backpack vacuum safely. Here is a video with the required info.

Watch video: Workplace Safety Training

FAQs

Thank you for coming this far. We are almost at the endgame of this article, but first, some frequently asked backpack vacuum cleaner questions.

What are Backpack Vacuum Cleaners?

These are canister vacuums designed to sit on your back like backpacks. They are intended to remove the weight from the hands to your legs and core. Moreover, they are supposed to increase ease of use and mobility.

Do backpack vacuums work on carpets?

Most of these machines are not ideal for carpets, especially deep pile carpets. They are best for hard floors. This shortcoming though is not due to lack of power but rather lack of the appropriate accessories. They lack vacuum powered vacuum cleaner heads.

Why?

Well, backpack vacuum cleaners are designed for commercial and industrial use, and rarely do you come across carpets, especially deep-pile rugs in industrial settings.

However, there are some few backpack vacuums with powered cleaner heads that I recommend for carpet cleaning.

Which is the Best Backpack Vacuum?

That has to be the ProTeam Super Coach vac. It has a large bin, it has a slew of accessories, it is robust with a crazy high suction and airflow, and it is light. Few units come close to that.

How do you Maintain a Backpack Vacuum?

First, check the filters. You should change them or clean them frequently. Clean filters increase the life of the motor. Should you choose to clean the filter, ensure you, air dry thoroughly.
Check that the seals are working correctly and that there are no clogs in the hose. You should also keep an eye on all connections to catch problems early on.

My Top Pick

Though backpack vacuums are gaining popularity, they still cannot compete with uprights, stick, or even canister vacuums. However, they are unrivaled in commercial and in commercial and industrial cleaning.

The best happens to the ProTeam Super Coach Vacuum. There are other units for specific tasks. The Prolux 2.0 is excellent for carpets, and the Atrix Ergo is surprisingly versatile. By and large, there is a little bit of something for everyone.

Best Backpack Vacuum

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Kevin Jones

Kevin Jones

Home Cleaning Specialist

Expertise: In-depth Knowledge of Cleaning Agents and Their Uses, Advanced Home Sanitization, Techniques Expertise in Cleaning and Maintaining, Various Floor Types, Innovations in Home Cleaning Tools

School: American College of Home Economics


Kevin Jones is a seasoned home cleaning specialist with over a decade of experience in the industry. A stickler for cleanliness and organization, Kevin brings a systematic and innovative approach to home maintenance. His expertise ranges from traditional methods to modern cleaning technology, ensuring homes are not just clean but healthy environments too.

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2 Comments

    1. Dear Thomas,

      First of all thanks for contacting me.

      Yes, that could work too, but it really depends on its power. I suggest you give it a try before purchasing anything else.

      Let me know the result.

      Kind regards,
      Kevin