Guide
Product Guide Shop-Vac Tools

Shop-Vac 5 Gallon Wet/Dry HEPA Filter

The Shop-Vac 5 Gallon Wet/Dry HEPA Filter transforms your standard shop vacuum into a fine dust control system that actually works. 99.97% efficient at 0.3 microns (HEPA certified) means it catches the particles that matter — drywall dust, wood sanding residue, and the allergens that standard filters miss entirely.

Most contractors discover this filter after fighting drywall dust clouds for years. The 90340 maintains airflow much better with fine particles compared to standard filters that clog within minutes. The difference is GORE CleanStream high-efficiency HEPA media combined with a Non-stick, PTFE-based surface resists clogging. That PTFE coating is the same technology as quality non-stick cookware — dust slides off instead of embedding permanently.

A Festool ETS EC 150/3 EQ orbital sander positioned on a light wood surface against a dark corrugated metal background

HEPA Performance That Handles Montana Construction

Drastic reduction in airborne dust while vacuuming according to contractors who’ve made the switch. The 99.97% efficient at 0.3 microns rating isn’t marketing fluff — it’s certified performance that captures pollen, dander, mold spores along with construction dust.

Fine dust control matters more in Montana’s low-humidity environment. Dust stays airborne longer here than in humid climates. Standard filters let those particles straight through, coating everything in your shop and triggering allergies. This filter stops them cold.

The real advantage shows up with Fine dust collection (drywall, wood, cement, cold ash). Excellent performance on drywall dust compared to standard filters makes this the go-to choice for interior renovation season. One filter handles Ultimate filtration for wet and dry pickup without filter changes — no swapping between foam sleeves and paper filters.

SpecificationValue
Filtration Efficiency99.97% efficient at 0.3 microns (HEPA certified)
Filter MediaGORE CleanStream high-efficiency HEPA media
Surface TechnologyNon-stick, PTFE-based surface resists clogging
Wet/Dry CapableYes
Washable/ReusableYes
WarrantyLimited Lifetime Home Use Warranty

Cost Analysis and Maintenance

Washable and reusable design saves money over time. Standard filters run through replacements constantly — this one keeps performing after a simple rinse. Clean by tapping or rinsing with water. Always let dry completely (up to 24 hours) before wet use or storage.

The Limited Lifetime Home Use Warranty covers manufacturing defects for the original purchaser. Covers manufacturer defects for the original purchaser only; non-transferable, but with proper care these filters outlast multiple standard filter purchases.

Installation takes minutes: Unplug vacuum and remove motor housing. Remove old filter and clean filter cage. Slide HEPA cartridge onto the cage. Secure with the standard retainer nut (ensure tight seal). Replace motor housing.

Fits most Shop-Vac brand wet/dry vacuums 5 gallons and above with specific exclusions: 5-gallon portable model H87S, 5-gallon HangUp models, 5-gallon Wall Mount models, 6-gallon long-life model P12S. Check your model number before ordering.

Specifically excludes lead paint remediation (EPA 40 CFR Part 745). This isn’t a RRP-compliant filter — it’s for regular construction dust, not lead abatement work.

Close-up view of a Festool SYS-AIR 10 HEPA dust extraction system with its characteristic black top case and white body featu Close-up detail shot of a black Festool power tool or case with the distinctive green Festool logo prominently displayed on t

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this filter really handle both wet and dry without changing? Yes. The GORE CleanStream high-efficiency HEPA media works for both applications. No foam sleeve needed for wet pickup, no paper filter swap for dry. Just ensure the filter is completely dry before storage to prevent mold growth.

How often should this filter be cleaned? Depends on use. Heavy drywall dust might need cleaning after each major job. General shop use could go weeks. When suction drops noticeably, tap it out or rinse it. The Non-stick, PTFE-based surface resists clogging makes cleaning easier than standard filters.

Will this fit older Shop-Vac models? Fits most Shop-Vac brand wet/dry vacuums 5 gallons and above. The excluded models are 5-gallon portable model H87S, 5-gallon HangUp models, 5-gallon Wall Mount models, 6-gallon long-life model P12S. If yours isn’t on that list and it’s 5+ gallons, you’re likely good.

Is the HEPA rating legitimate? 99.97% efficient at 0.3 microns (HEPA certified) means it meets actual HEPA standards, not “HEPA-like” or “HEPA-style” marketing terms. This certification matters for capturing the finest particles that cause respiratory issues.

What’s the actual difference versus Shop-Vac’s standard filter? Standard filters clog quickly with fine dust and are not HEPA certified. Fine dust filters are step above standard but lack the 99.97% @ 0.3 micron rating of HEPA and the non-stick GORE surface. The CleanStream technology maintains suction longer and captures particles the others miss entirely.

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