Credit to ChannelCreative on Youtube

Building your own vacuum cleaner can be surprisingly effective when using high-pressure PVC fittings and a powerful DC motor like the 775. Below is a step-by-step guide using 247Garden's SCH80 PVC fittings, commonly used for high-pressure systems but perfect for this compact vacuum project.

Parts & Materials Needed

From 247Garden:

  • 1x SCH80 2" Coupling (Main body housing)
  • 1x SCH80 2" Cap (Base cap for airflow and stability)
  • 1x SCH80 2" to 3/4" Reducing Coupling (Top reducer for nozzle)
  • 2x SCH80 3/4" 45-Degree Elbows (Nozzle tip and handle angle)
  • 1x SCH80 3/4" 90-Degree Elbow (Handle bend)
  • 1x SCH80 3/4" to 1/2" Reducing Coupling (Final nozzle tip reducer)

Electronics:

  • 1x 775 DC Motor (12V–24V) – brushed or brushless
  • 1x Fan/Impeller (matched to 775 motor shaft)
  • 1x Power switch (On/Off)
  • 1x Filter Bag or HEPA Filter
  • Wiring, heat shrink, and soldering tools
  • 12V DC Adapter for Motor

Assembly Instructions

1. Build the Vacuum Body (Center Housing)

  • Use the 2" SCH80 Coupling as the central chamber of the vacuum.
  • Attach the 2" SCH80 Cap at the bottom.
    • Important: Drill air intake/exhaust holes evenly around the cap to allow airflow out of the motor chamber.
  • Inside this coupling is where the motor, fan, and filter will be installed.

2. Create the Suction Nozzle

  • At the top of the 2" coupling, connect the 2" to 3/4" SCH80 Reducing Coupling.
  • Into that, insert a 3/4" 45-degree elbow, followed by the 3/4" to 1/2" reducing coupling to create a narrowed suction tip.
  • This angled design concentrates airflow for stronger suction and easier reach into corners.

3. Assemble the Handle

  • Use the second 3/4" 45-degree elbow and a 3/4" 90-degree elbow to make a comfortable L-shaped handle.
  • Optional: Insert a short section of 3/4" SCH80 pipe between fittings to extend the handle.
  • Secure the handle to the body using pipe glue or screws if needed.

4. Install the Motor and Fan

  • Mount the 775 motor inside the 2" coupling, positioned vertically. Ensure:
    • The fan blades face the suction tip.
    • The motor is cushioned or clamped inside with vibration dampeners or a 3D-printed sleeve.
  • Behind the fan, insert a filter bag or HEPA filter between the motor and base cap to catch dust before it reaches the motor.

5. Wiring the Power System

  • Wire the on/off switch to the motor and power supply.
  • You can mount the switch onto the handle or side of the vacuum body.
  • DC adapter or equivalent battery.
  • Tuck and secure wiring with heat shrink and zip ties.

6. Test and Optimize

  • Power it on and test for suction.
  • If airflow is weak:
    • Check for air leaks.
    • Ensure the fan is spinning in the correct direction.
    • Make sure the filter isn’t clogged.
  • For better results, refine the suction nozzle with a tighter seal or extended tapering.

Safety Tips

  • Always wear safety glasses when cutting or drilling PVC.
  • Ensure the motor doesn’t overheat; add ventilation or use a heat sink if necessary.
  • Never use for vacuuming liquids unless sealed and filtered appropriately.

Summary of Key Fittings Used

PVC FittingPurpose
2" SCH80 CouplingVacuum body
2" SCH80 CapBottom airflow base
2" to 3/4" SCH80 ReducerReduces body to nozzle
3/4" SCH80 45° ElbowTip angle & handle
3/4" SCH80 90° ElbowHandle joint
3/4" to 1/2" SCH80 ReducerFinal nozzle tip

Optional Upgrades

  • Add a dust chamber or removable canister.
  • Use a brush attachment for cleaning upholstery.
  • Mount the unit to a backpack frame for portability.

Want to get the exact fittings for this project? Check out 247Garden.com for Schedule 80 high-pressure PVC parts perfect for custom builds like this.

Let me know if you want a printable parts list or a wiring diagram!