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Getting to grips with vacuum oil extractors

How to use a vacuum oil extractor

The beauty of commercially available vacuum oil extractors is that the only tools you need are to remove the oil filter. Everything else you need comes with the extractor.

Most come with a spout to enable you to pour the used oil away, and a cap to keep the oil within the extractor as you transport it to a recycling centre.

Now it goes without saying that you should never change your oil without also changing the oil filter, and this is where you 'may' need a tool.

Screw-on oil filters should only ever be hand tight, so 'should' come off by hand (wearing a rubber, or silicone glove will give you more grip).

But if yours is stubborn you may need to use a filter wrench. If you have a cannister-type filter in a housing, the housing can be opened with a large socket.

How long does vacuum oil extraction take?

The act of syphoning out the oil from your car can take quite a while, certainly longer than draining it from below. Professional extractors are often pneumatically powered and can suck a sump dry in minutes.

However, DIY extractors tend to take a little longer as they rely on a vacuum within the body of the extractor, so expect it to take at least 20 minutes. Warm (not hot!) oil will speed up the process.

How much does a vacuum extractor cost?

The average vacuum extractor can be bought from between £30 and £60. Just check the reviews, as some of the cheaper ones may not be as effective.