Vaccuum Cleaner With Hepa Filter

[Kazal]

My vaccuum cleaner has a hepa filter. The manual states 'just run it under a tap to remove the dust'. Has anyone tried doing this? The dust solidifies in between the veins of the filter and sets solid. If I try brushing the dust out first both me and the garden are covered in very fine dust (and if it's windy you can imagine). I have tried brushing it in a carrier bag held inside the dustbin, but the dust is so fine it just blows out and everywhere is covered.They are quite expensive to buy (about £18 for an electrolux). Can anyone recommend a good cleaner that does not cover me in dust when I clean the filter?

[DrFilth]

could you not borrow next doors vac to suck the dust of your hepa filter

[Kazal]

I don't think they would be too pleased as the filter needs cleaning about once a month

[Tilly2]

Leave it in soak in some hot water. The dust flosts out and makes a horrible mess of the washing up bowl, though. Mind you, that's easy enough to clean.

[Old_Geezer]

You are probably using the wrong type of water.

[woofgang]

I put a few drops of washing up liquid in the water which breaks down the surface tension of the dust and gets it to soak out of the filter more easily. Rinse well in clear water till clean then dry in the airing cupboard.