Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How high does SpaceVac reach?

We have a number of products available within the SpaceVac range that are designed to provide a solution to operators at a range of different price points and within a range of business sectors. Our entry level Lite systems are capable of reaching up to 15 feet in height while our Ultra pole systems can reach up to 50ft

Can I use my SpaceVac in different areas?

While some SpaceVacs can be utilised in different areas it is important to ensure you are using the correct equipment in the correct environment. For instance - our external system can be used inside by use of a 2” to 1.5” adaptor and utilising the correct internal heads. Our standard Internal system however is not safe to be used in combustible areas where using the incorrect equipment can lead to combustion, damage to property and even loss of life.

How do SpaceVac’s poles stay connected?

All of our poles, heads, tools and brushes make use of our unique safety locking mechanism. This unique push button locking mechanism ensures that our system is not able to separate and fall during use. This is a much safer way to attach poles compared to the push fit or external clamping style methods found on other systems on the market.

What are SpaceVacs poles made out of?

Our Internal and External cleaning poles are constructed from lightweight, durable Carbon Fibre. Our Div2 poles are able to offer completely conductive operation by utilising a 100% carbon material. There are however some variances in the different carbon weaving techniques utilised to create the different poles within the SpaceVac range however and you can find more information on these techniques here.

Can I add extra tools and brushes to my SpaceVac?

Yes we offer a wide range of tools and accessories to add on to your SpaceVac including tools for working in specialist environments such as galleries or museums and even tools for safely removing water and condensation at height. Find out more by visiting our accessories section.

What vacuum should I use with my SpaceVac?

SpaceVac has designed to fit and work with most popular lines of vacuum cleaner in the marketplace including Proteam, Nilfisk, Karcher and even our own line of Mercury branded SpaceVac vacs. Please talk to us to discuss the suitability of your existing vac and to ensure that correct cuffs and attachments are provided.

Do your Classic / Pro / Ultra systems feature different tools and accessories?

No, where different varieties of SpaceVac are available - ie Pro / Ultra / Classic - then there will be some differences in the inventory included in the box. Lite and Pioneer systems feature less options due to them being entry level systems for small businesses and new users. The Classic, Pro and Ultra systems however feature the same tools and accessories - the differences in the systems is found in the different sorts of poles included in the box. The only exception to this rule is our 2” Div2 cleaning system which offers a unique, heavy duty selection of cleaning tools.

How does the Spacesuit work?

The spacesuit works by spreading the weight of the spacevac pole system across users entire back and shoulders. The result of this is that the operating weight of the pole system is reduced to practically nothing - light enough to be lifted with one finger. As a result long cleaning projects become significantly easier and less tiring for operators. Meanwhile the prismatic glasses that come with the set enable users to clean without needing to look upwards - reducing neck strain for operators.

How does the Camera and Monitor system work?

Our classic cameras operate by way of a small bluetooth transmitter that transmits data from the top of the cleaning system where the camera is located, to the base of the system where the user is located in front of the monitor. The system allow for near seamless streaming in real time. Our next generation camera systems (launcing later in 2020) will however be capable of syncing with your existing mobile phone for ease of use and sharing.

What are the alternative methods of cleaning high-level areas without a SpaceVac?

Traditionally SpaceVac is introduced to premises as an alternative to high-level access equipment which is usually required to allow cleaners to access high-level areas for cleaning. These traditional access methods include ladders, scaffolding, hydraulic lifts and even abseil services. Removing the need for this additional component makes Spacevac significantly cheaper and quicker compared to traditional cleaning methods as well

Whats the difference between the various sorts of poles?

The SpaceVac range features a number of different sorts of pole system of varying length, diameter and construction. While all of these poles are made of either glass fibre, carbon fibre or 100% carbon, there are differences in the manufacturing techniques and capabilities of each system that make them unique to their stated purpose. You can find information on the different sorts of carbon engineering used in our poles and the advantages that they offer our clients here (link)

Which SpaceVac is right for me?

Thats a difficult question to answer! The SpaceVac range has been designed to suit a wide range of operating environments but it is crucial to ensure you have the right equipment for the job at hand. Please contact us to discuss your requirements with us in full to make sure we can help you find the perfect SpaceVac for you.

How is the Div2 system different to the standard internal systems?

The poles in our Div2 system are made from 100% carbon rather than a carbon fibre blend as found on our various internal cleaning poles. The result of using a full carbon material is that the poles and heads are all completely conductive meaning they can be safely used in Divison 2 rated combustible environments with no risk of sparks or static build up.

Will I need a specialist Vac to use the Div2 poles?

Yes to ensure total safety - its important that our Division2 cleaning poles and tools are deployed correctly with an appropriately rated vacuum.

Can you help me identify a suitable vacuum for use in my facility?

Yes our team of technical experts and cleaning professionals will be more than happy to help you identify and locate an approbate vacuum for you to use in conjunction with your new SpaceVac purchase.

What is ATEX?   

An acronym of  “Atmospheres Explosibles”, ATEX derives its name from the French title of the 94/9/EC directive: Appareils destinés à être utilisés en ATmosphères EXplosibles. There are two directives, one for the protection of workers potentially at risk from explosive atmospheres and the second concerning equipment and protective systems for use in these areas and with combustible dust.

So what does SpaceVac have to do with that?!

Much the same as any area in a factory or processing facility becomes dirty over time, explosive atmospheres and/or those producing combustible dust require cleaning just as rigorously if not more so in order to eliminate the risk of the dust being disturbed and dispersed into a cloud, creating the potential for ignition and deflagration (explosion caused by heat transfer) and as such need specialist ATEX approved cleaning equipment. This equipment is rigorously tested to ensure that it will not spark and cause a risk of an explosion. The SpaceVac high-level cleaning system was tested and approved for ATEX use in 2015 and we remain the only system in the world of its kind approved for such use. (The system is currently protected by a worldwide pending patent)

So what makes it safe to use in ATEX areas? 

When developing our regular high-level system for use in ATEX areas, we made a number of changes. To begin with, we replaced the vacuum itself with an ATEX certified, spark-free vacuum cleaner. We then completely updated the rest of the system; everything from new lightweight poles, to anti-static brushes and accessories, to provide a completely conductive system.

But I’ve seen other systems that say they are ATEX approved? 

That is true… sort of… Yes there are many vacuum units in the world ATEX certified. We are also aware of other individual tools and components that have been certified as safe for use but its important to note that distinction; components. While an individual component – a pole for the sake of argument – might be safe for use, if its attached to a brush that isn’t – then the equipment is compromised. Also when two individually certified COMPONENTS are connected together, this forms a ‘SYSTEM’ which requires completely new examination and certification before it can be used.  The SpaceVac system was tested and certified as a complete system not a disparate set of accessories and we did that very deliberately – to ensure our customers total peace of mind when investing in these systems.

What ATEX zones is SpaceVac safe to use in? 

Our system is certified as safe for use in M class and H class dust environments. As well as ATEX zone classifications 1,2,21 and 22. There is a whole range of really useful information on ATEX, the various classifications and regulations over on the HSE website.

I don’t think I have an ATEX area – do I still need an ATEX system? 

Actually sometimes yes! If you are creating dust waste involving a combustible material (examples: Foods, Metals, Plastics, Chemicals, Wood, Paper etc.), then the equipment you use to remove this dust should be ATEX approved, otherwise you will be creating a potentially explosive atmosphere inside the vacuum cleaner itself! To explain a little further (Science alert!!):

In order to produce fire, there are three elements required, Oxygen, Fuel (in this case dust!) and a heat source (ignition) this is known as the fire triangle. However, when we introduce two other elements – Dispersion of the dust into a cloud, and confinement, we turn a fire or flashover into an energetic and potentially fatal explosion. This is known as the dust explosion pentagon

What colours can I purchase the Food Safe system in?

Our food safe system is colour coded for use in different parts of Food & Drink production facilities. At present, we are able to provide the silicon bands and cleaning tools in blue, yellow, green, red or white.

What is different about the Fine Art Vacuum compared to the regular vac?

The Mercury vac that comes with the Fine Art is specially modified for use in environments where vacuuming is required to remove dust but where the materials being vacuumed are particularly old or delicate - such as paintings or tapestries. Here the vac is able to turn the power down to almost nothing to enable users to clean even the most delicate objects with their new SpaceVac system.

What is the Safety Locking Mechanism?

The safety locking mechanism is a unique part of the SpaceVac system that is found as standard on all of our cleaning poles, heads, tools and brushes. The mechanism is made up a push button to help keep everything firmly locked into place while the system is in use, but easy to separate when you need to put the equipment away.

Our Atex / Div 2 systems feature a double button for additional safety in explosive atmposheres where continuous connection through the system is crucial

What is the difference between the new Explorer Camera and the Classic Camera system?

There are many differences in the two camera systems available to work with SpaceVac. These include the specs and resolutions of the cameras, the storage capacities and how the stream is monitored. (Class cameras come with a dedicated monitor while the new Explorer Camera can sync to any mobile device of even stream online). You can find out more about the various options in our camera and monitoring line here (link)

I am looking to hire a SpaceVac rather than purchase one - is this a service you offer?

Yes! please check the rentals page for information on our nationwide rental programme courtesy of Sunbelt Rentals.