How can I blow insulation out of an attic using a shop vac

Question

How can I blow insulation out of an attic using a shop vac

Answer 1

the qustion is.....how to blow it out not in......why would u want to blow it out?

Answer 2

put the hose on the discharge side,  

Answer 3

If you buy cellulsoe insulation from home depot , at least 10 bags..(it is 9.39 a bag) they will give you the hopper to blow it with for free to use...This will be actually cheaper than trying to rent the machine independently..If you don't use the whole 10 bags..which most houses will use more....return the machine, then in a couple days take the left over unopened bags back for a refund..You rent a machine it is going to cost you 100.00 a day

Answer 4

I wouldn't. It will clog the vacuum. Get a leaf blower that vacuums as well, suck up the insulaton and the leaf blower will mulch it up and bag it for you.

Answer 5

Hello,

It depends on the design of your shop vac.

Some have a switch, that will reverse the flow.  Another option is to put the hose on the discharge side of your shop vac.

My shop vac has the switch, and is a nice feature.

Another option would be to use a leaf blower, and you will have similar results.

Why not just leave the insulation as is, and just put more insulation over the old stuff..?? With the price of natural gas, now a days, it may be worth leaving the old stuff in there, for an extra layer of insulation.

*** Be sure to wear a proper dust mask.  The last thing you want to do, is breathe in any of the fine particles.... It could lead to health issues.  

GOOD LUCK!

Answer 6

Home Depot has a blower specifically for insulation blowing.  I would call them and speak with someone at the tool rental desk.  It works very well, is pretty cheap to rent for a day, and you won't have to risk ruining your own shop vac.