Abstract: A large capacity filter cartridge assembly for a vacuum cleaner that includes a main housing having an inlet and an outlet. The filter cartridge attaches to a vacuum motor cover unit. A motor provides a vacuum on the outlet of the filter cartridge thus drawing air from the inlet to the outlet, and at least a first filter is arranged between the inlet and the outlet for filtering the air. The air must pass through one, two, three, or more additional filter layers before exiting to the air pump apparatus. The described filter cartridge functions as the base for said vacuum.