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Cannister VAC DIY Record cleaning...?

I had a thought today of using my cannister VAC for record cleaning, and a couple of question occurred to me.

First, is there any reason that a small, hand-held type cannister VAC (Oreck) would not work for this purpose? Is there any problem with vacuuming the liquid into a home VAC? I wouldn't think there's enough fluid to be any concern.

Second, if I purchased Disk Doctor replacement pads used on the RD cleaning pads, and fit them onto one of the cannister VAC's hose attachments wouldn't this work effectively...and suction the lquid without harming the vinyl?

The reason I'm interested in a DIY solution is that I don't own enough records to warrant the purchase of a record cleaning machine, and I like the idea of keeping the clutter down in the house.

Thanks in advance.
128x128tvad

Showing 2 responses by dan_ed

dan_ed
2,451 posts
 
Hi Tvad!

First, something like an Oreck might work well. It comes done to having a practical attachment to reach the lp surface. Yes, a home VAC could work if it is practical (as far as attachments and convenient outlet goes) if there is sufficient suction. I agree that the amount of liquid volume should not be an issue.

However, more vacuum is always better with DIY RCMs. It's easier to relieve vacuum than create it.

Second, you could buy the pads but if you check out the local Lowes or Home Depot you should be able to find a crevice tool and if you check out the local WalMart you should be able to find some velvet material that you could use on this tool. It's only used for protecting the vinyl and velvet seems to not soak up the fluid. You would just want to change the velvet often enough to avoid cross-contamination.

Get the Mobile Fidelity brushes to use for the application of the fluid and light scrubbing. Soaking and vacuum will do most of the work.

Extra credit. Get some Magic Eraser for cleaning the stylus or go for some Zerogel stuff.

A good LP cleaning and cleaning the stylus after each lp side will greatly improve playback of all of your lps. Yeah. This simple regimen will improve and eliminate the rice crispies.
dan_ed
2,451 posts
 
Hdm is probably right. If you do have trouble with the house vac it might get you in trouble with the cleaning persons and cost you a lot to replace or repair. I've been using the motor and vacuum from an old Hoover upright for about 3 years now. However, if it ever is damaged by vacuuming up the liquid I'm not really out anything. From what I can see, the liquid is exhausted too quickly to reach the motor. That's probably due to the design of this model. The motor is horizontal with the vacuum chamber and the shaft from the motor is above the exhaust port. So in this case, there is not much chance that the liquid can reach the motor.
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