Any budget ultrasonic cleaners that don't ****?

[JradM]

I'm wondering if any of the various "inexpensive" ultrasonic cleaners are worth a damn. I know ultrasonic cleaners have been discussed before, but there's new and updated models out so those previous threads didn't seem that helpful.

For context, I have a Grip-branded 2.5L Ultrasonic cleaner (identical to the one from Harbor Freight). I use it all the time, but it kind of *****.



The cleaning power is pretty wimpy. Don't get me wrong, by degassing the water, using detergents, heating it up, putting the object in a jar with solvent inside the tank, etc., I get things clean... eventually. It also cleans things I just can't do any other way.

However, with the tub full of water, a larger object or too much built-up grime , I can be waiting a LONG time. Plus it can only be set for 8 minutes max, the heater is slow, the unit overheats and shuts off if left on. Anyway, enough griping.

I'm willing to spend $200-250 Canadian for an upgrade. Maybe even $300 if there's cause. I see various options on Amazon in that range. I figure 10 to 15 liters is the sweet spot. Some of them purport to have extra features, multiple transducers, more power, larger heaters, etc. I want to know: am I going to be satisfied with one of those?

This Creeworks unit claims 240watts & degassing and gentle modes:


This SupRUCCI Ultrasonic Cleaner is also 240W but adds "High Power" to the description.


DK Sonic's version has knobs instead of buttons - I think that might be nice (faster to reset than multiple button presses).


Vevor's 15L isn't anymore expensive, and also claims 240w of power.



Are these basically all the same? Seems like the 10-15l versions have 4 transducers. My 2.5L only has one (I took it apart to JB weld it back on once, so I can attest to that). Is that just because there's more water to vibrate, or are they 4x as powerful?

Are my expectations too high? Do I need to spend $1500-$2500 for a commercial model to get results like I see on Youtube?

Any specific recommendations? If they're weak, I wish I could at least set them for an hour and not have to babysit it.

 

[Pinne]

All of those units are pretty much the same thing, just rebranded. I'd wait till one of them goes on sale. I've got one like those - works pretty well and has been fine for about 3 or 4 years now with frequent use.

 

[danielbuck]

I have a Vevor 30L that I use off and on, have had it for probably 3-4 years now, no problems. Start with hot water from the tap, and use the right type of chemical/cleaner for what you're wanting to clean, and it works just fine! I usually do the jars/bags trick when I'm cleaning small parts, but I've had larger parts in there and it works well on them as well. Starting from hot tap water is a lot faster than waiting for it to come up to temperature itself. Heat really helps, don't skip that.

 

[Old tool guy]

I have that HF model, and it is weak. I wonder if i could buy a second one, put both transducers on one tank, and bypass the timer for a simple on-off switch.

 

[Snip's]

I got the 10 liter generic import tank from the Bay 3 years ago...
I believe it has 6 transducers that produce the power... You can see the spot weld dimples in the tank floor...
Looking at the action through the liquid, I can tell they aren't all generating optimum output around each of the transducers...
Pay attention to how many transducers are in the unit you are thinking of getting...
But for what I use it for it does a pretty good job... Mainly cleaning / degreasing parts that fit in the tank...
Interestingly, I also use it when I do my nickel plating... It does a great job of knocking loose the hydrogen gas bubbles from the plating surface...
The gas bubbles on the surface interfere with the plating if they aren't dissipated... The tank heater also helps the plating process...
My plating solution is in a separate glass jar, sitting in the tank, surrounded with heated tap water...

My nickel plating setup...

 

[scooby074]

I have the same PA ultrasonic, and agree its kinda weak.

Ive also used high dollar Branson and other top brands that definitely have more juice.

Subscribed for the holy grail of a low cost / high power ultrasonic.

 

[GeoBruin]

Harbor freight also sells that model. I like mine.

15% off this weekend.

6 Liter Ultrasonic Parts Cleaner

Amazing deals on this 6 Liter Ultrasonic Parts Cleaner at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

 

[ecotec]

I got the 10 liter generic import tank from the Bay 3 years ago...
I believe it has 6 transducers that produce the power... You can see the spot weld dimples in the tank floor...
Looking at the action through the liquid, I can tell they aren't all generating optimum output around each of the transducers...
Pay attention to how many transducers are in the unit you are thinking of getting...
But for what I use it for it does a pretty good job... Mainly gleaning / degreasing parts that fit in the tank...
Interestingly, I also use it when I do my nickel plating... It does a great job of knocking loose the hydrogen gas bubbles from the plating surface...
The gas bubbles on the surface interfere with the plating if they aren't dissipated... The tank heater also helps the plating process...
My plating solution is in a separate glass jar, sitting in the tank, surrounded with heated tap water...

My nickel plating setup...

What do you nickel plate with that setup? Safety razors?

 

[ecotec]

Can you use Evaporust safely in a heated ultrasonic?

 

[Snip's]

What do you nickel plate with that setup? Safety razors?

Lots of little things...

 

[ecotec]

Lots of little things...

So… it’s a center for ants?

 

[Model A Fan]

I bought this one here:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRVDQSLH?tag=atomicindus08-20

Creworks Ultrasonic Cleaner

I got the 10L size as it was big enough to do some larger engine components in but not overly expensive. They have a $15 off coupon right now putting it even cheaper, and I can honestly say it does a good job cleaning. I threw a carburetor in for two cycles of 1hr each (gotta reset the timer each 30 minutes) and it came out quite nice. The gunk came off it and while its not shiny, the surface had been cleaned.

It is roughly 14" x 10" x 7" in interior size. It holds a little under 3 gallons of water.

It is LOUD, so don't think you'll do it in the house at night or even in a closed area, unless you have a door to close to keep the noise down. I did it on a work table in my driveway and I could hear it 200' away from my barn. Its a vibration noise, so the sound travels well. The dials are less likely to get worn out than the plastic coated buttons, but I doubt I'd ever use it enough to really worry. This is for cleaning engine parts as I'm getting stuff ready for a rebuild.

Overall I'd highly recommend it and say get the bigger one in case you need to clean big stuff down the line. The spigot on the side to drain it is really nice, as it isn't a light machine, so the weight of the water being dumped would have been quite awkward to empty without getting myself wet or dropping the thing carrying it to dump.

 

[M635_Guy]

Harbor freight also sells that model. I like mine.

15% this weekend.

6 Liter Ultrasonic Parts Cleaner

Amazing deals on this 6 Liter Ultrasonic Parts Cleaner at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

I have that one too. It seemed to work fine, though generally the stuff I'm working one isn't super-crusty/etc. I pre-heated the water for one of the batches of whatever I did and that seemed to help. I got mine when a coupon put it at $129.

Generally I prefer knobs over digital screens/buttons, but the wattage seemed pretty good and the price was right. I don't have anything to compare it to.

 

[Davefr]

Most of those no name ultrasonic cleaners are sourced from Beijing Ultrasonics.

Beijing Ultrasonic: World’s Leading Ultrasonic Equipment Manufacturer

With over 15 years experience in ultrasonic industry, Beijing Ultrasonic is now a global supplier of industrial ultrasonic technologies.

www.bjultrasonic.com

There's not much difference between them.

The one common denominator is that they have real wimpy tank heaters compared to pro grade units. For whatever reason the units with the dial controls seem to have slightly higher wattage heaters.

There's a big price difference if you want to go with professional grade units like Elma from Germany but you'll get much quicker tank heating, dual frequency and sweep mode which will provide uniform cleaning throughout the tank.

 

[GeoBruin]

I have that one too. It seemed to work fine, though generally the stuff I'm working one isn't super-crusty/etc. I pre-heated the water for one of the batches of whatever I did and that seemed to help. I got mine when a coupon put it at $129.

Generally I prefer knobs over digital screens/buttons, but the wattage seemed pretty good and the price was right. I don't have anything to compare it to.

The buttons on my are physical, but just barely. They don't have a great tactile feel, but I suppose that helps seal the face against liquid intrusion.

Similarly, I don't have a lot to compare it to, but after soaking some things in simple green in the cleaner for a while, especially with heat, it's like a miracle what a difference it makes.

 

[JradM]

Appreciate the input. I'm leaning Vevor - primarily for the warranty (1 year). I replaced my Princess Auto machine once (PA's return policy is excellent). I'd be very annoyed to do that with a more expensive machine.

Reading through the reviews, there are some people complaining that they quit working after a time.

The "upgraded" 15l Vevor has five 60w transducers, whereas the Creeworks has six. More is better right?

Still, Vevor works out almost $50 less and the warranty seems worthwhile.

 

[Model A Fan]

Appreciate the input. I'm leaning Vevor - primarily for the warranty (1 year). I replaced my Princess Auto machine once (PA's return policy is excellent). I'd be very annoyed to do that with a more expensive machine.

Reading through the reviews, there are some people complaining that they quit working after a time.

The "upgraded" 15l Vevor has five 60w transducers, whereas the Creeworks has six. More is better right?

Still, Vevor works out almost $50 less and the warranty seems worthwhile.

I see you're in Alberta, so your variety may vary. As others have stated, using HOT water to begin with will help your cleaner operate quicker because it will already be closer to temp. Pay attention to what temps are recommended for various things because my cleaner goes up to 170F (76C). I did 125-130F for my carb and various engine parts.

The Creworks is decent. Vevor through a site like Amazon is alright, I'm hesitant to order directly from Vevor. Anybody have any ideas on ordering directly from Vevor?

 

[jgeoffr]

If you are OK with used, I've had good luck with Bransonic's on Ebay.

 

[Sumboodie]

I had a little Harbor Freight and a 10 L Velvor like in post #5

Both sucked. Total waste of time and money.

 

[Rinspeed]

I would suggest a used industrial unit from someone like Branson, Crest, Blackstone or L&R. Should be able to get a good clean 5 Gal unit for around $500.

 

[Davefr]

I would suggest a used industrial unit from someone like Branson, Crest, Blackstone or L&R. Should be able to get a good clean 5 Gal unit for around $500.

Good advise but keep in mind that ultrasonic cleaners are electro-mechanical devices. The ultrasonic transducers degrade in performance with use and they are general not replaceable. They are also highly tuned oscillators so any change in the circuit parameters will reduce their effectiveness.

It is critical to perform an aluminum foil test on any used unit prior to purchase.

 

[Beerhippie]

I got the 10 liter generic import tank from the Bay 3 years ago...
I believe it has 6 transducers that produce the power... You can see the spot weld dimples in the tank floor...
Looking at the action through the liquid, I can tell they aren't all generating optimum output around each of the transducers...
Pay attention to how many transducers are in the unit you are thinking of getting...
But for what I use it for it does a pretty good job... Mainly cleaning / degreasing parts that fit in the tank...
Interestingly, I also use it when I do my nickel plating... It does a great job of knocking loose the hydrogen gas bubbles from the plating surface...
The gas bubbles on the surface interfere with the plating if they aren't dissipated... The tank heater also helps the plating process...
My plating solution is in a separate glass jar, sitting in the tank, surrounded with heated tap water...

My nickel plating setup...

I've been wondering about using the ultrasonic for just that. I usually just stir the solution, but it seems that the US would also prevent any loose deposits from forming.

 

[csp]

I will fill up our electric kettle and get it up to 160F and pour that water in the ultrasonic to give the heater an extra kick start.

 

[JradM]

Vevor through a site like Amazon is alright, I'm hesitant to order directly from Vevor. Anybody have any ideas on ordering directly from Vevor?

I've ordered from Vevor before. I actually prefer that to Amazon because Vevor offers a longer warranty period when ordered directly.

I like the look of the Creworks Ultrasonic cleaners better though. They have slightly better specs. I'm just hesitant because I know ultrasonic cleaners can break. If I only got as much runtime out of a $300 machine as I did from my current unit and didn't have a warranty, I'd be pretty disappointed.

As an update - I opened mine up yesterday because it seemed to be getting less "buzzy" when I ran it for long sessions. E.g. it would sound like normal for 4-5mins, then slowly become quieter and fuzzy sounding. I discovered that the transducer was becoming extremely hot. Way too hot to touch even 15 minutes after a cycle. Inspecting it closely I found a small crack, just on one side of the epoxy that holds the transducer to the bottom of the tank.

I presume that not transferring it's ultrasonic pulses into the tank efficiently and presumably vibrating against it was generating friction heat. I tried some lateral force to see if the crack would grow - it sure did. The transducer popped right off.

I could just return it to Princess Auto, but it's been almost two years since I bought the first one and they exchanged it once for me already. They have an incredibly generous return policy, but I think I'd be lying if I said I wasn't "satisfied" at this point. Instead I ordered a new transducer on Amazon for ~$20 and I'll just install it myself. The old one might still work if reattached, but after getting THAT hot, I doubt it's long for this world.

I will fill up our electric kettle and get it up to 160F and pour that water in the ultrasonic to give the heater an extra kick start.

I use hot water with my 2.5L unit too, but I doubt that's practical on a 10-15L unit. With that much water it would **** not to be able to just leave it full and degassed.

 

[JradM]

Well I'm re-thinking things yet again. With the early demise of my 2.5L cleaner (at least while I wait for parts), I kinda need an ultrasonic cleaner sooner than later. Problem is, Vevor.ca is currently sold out of the one I wanted to buy.

Amazon has it - for $400 (whereas Vevor was sub $200).

If I can't get the Vevor warranty, I think I'm willing to consider a smaller and cheaper unit so it doesn't hurt so bad if I have to replace it again in the future. That leads me to three options, two big and two small, all from Creworks:

A. 10L - $200 buttons with a dial timer 240W (99 minute max) - but no external drain?

B. 15L - $225 Creeworks buttons 360w

C. 6L - $165 180W dials

The 99 minute timer, dial control and slight savings would convince me to choose the "medium" 10L size... but I'm side-eyeing that drain. There's no pictures on the Amazon page, nor details in the description. Obviously you can attach a hose to it, but how to you open it? I'm worried there's just a stopper on the inside.

Alternately I'm also thinking of going "cheap" and just grabbing a 6L unit that will be less expensive when it breaks - or I might just stick with the 15L size I planned to get,live with button controls and cross my fingers that it lasts.

Opinions?

 

[BORING HOP YARD]

This is the one I have https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09NVFNC84?tag=atomicindus08-20
I use this soap the majority of the time https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001VXU7OE?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[danielbuck]

Can you use Evaporust safely in a heated ultrasonic?

I have, I haven't filled the entire thing up with evaporust, but I've used it in jars to derust small parts. it seems to work quite well, speeds up the process. If you're purely going for de-rusting, I don't know that you need it to be heated, I don't know that there would be much advantage to it. I do it room temperature for evaporust. Doesn't seem worth the energy to heat up stuff for that.

I don't see why you couldn't use it in the entire container (if you needed that much), it's not flamable, and it's not toxic. I probably wouldn't stand over it and breath it in for an hour though.

 

[Davefr]

Well I'm re-thinking things yet again. With the early demise of my 2.5L cleaner (at least while I wait for parts), I kinda need an ultrasonic cleaner sooner than later. Problem is, Vevor.ca is currently sold out of the one I wanted to buy.

Amazon has it - for $400 (whereas Vevor was sub $200).

If I can't get the Vevor warranty, I think I'm willing to consider a smaller and cheaper unit so it doesn't hurt so bad if I have to replace it again in the future. That leads me to three options, two big and two small, all from Creworks:

A. 10L - $200 buttons with a dial timer 240W (99 minute max) - but no external drain?

B. 15L - $225 Creeworks buttons 360w

C. 6L - $165 180W dials

The 99 minute timer, dial control and slight savings would convince me to choose the "medium" 10L size... but I'm side-eyeing that drain. There's no pictures on the Amazon page, nor details in the description. Obviously you can attach a hose to it, but how to you open it? I'm worried there's just a stopper on the inside.

Alternately I'm also thinking of going "cheap" and just grabbing a 6L unit that will be less expensive when it breaks - or I might just stick with the 15L size I planned to get,live with button controls and cross my fingers that it lasts.

Opinions?

What size items do you plan to clean? Pick the tank size that will accommodate your items but allow for an extra 2" space around all sides and the bottom on the tank. Keep in mind that the larger the tank the slower it takes to get up to temp. (140F is the sweet spot for most cleaning jobs).

Make sure the unit comes with a basket.

 

[csp]

Evaporust does work faster when heated. I haven't used it in an ultrasonic cleaner, but I have heated it in an old stockpot full of rusty parts.

 

[Beerhippie]

Any chemical reaction will work faster when heated, and even faster when heated and subject to ultrasonics!

 

[alinc100]

Thanks Gentlemen, on Amazon I found a $15 coupon and used some stored Amazon reward points and got a 10L Creworks ordered for under $100 net. Looks like they have several models. This one appears to have dials(preferred) and a side drain . The trade off is a 30 minute cycle, which is probably fine for me.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRVDQSLH?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Rinspeed]

Good advise but keep in mind that ultrasonic cleaners are electro-mechanical devices. The ultrasonic transducers degrade in performance with use and they are general not replaceable. They are also highly tuned oscillators so any change in the circuit parameters will reduce their effectiveness.

It is critical to perform an aluminum foil test on any used unit prior to purchase.

For someone using one at home a high quality tank should last a lifetime. I've routinely seen ones last 8-10 years that were ran 18-20 hours a day. They usually die because the cavitation erosion chews away at the tank until it leaks and the transducers short out. When the generators finally give up the ghost it's almost always a $6 IGBT or two that needs replaced.