Features To Examine In Shop Vacuums

The very best wet-dry shop vacuum models are available in all sorts of shapes, sizes, price points. Just about any store that sells tools also sells shop vacuums. You will find a number of differences from a portable jobsite dust extractor, though. They don’t typically come HEPA certified (though some do), you don’t normally get automatic filter cleaning, and also the motor is usually smaller, so there’s less power. Those aren’t every one of the differences, of course, but it’s a good beginning.

But the thing that makes a great wet-dry shop vacuum? It depends on your needs. It’s gonna be a balance of portability, air movement (CFM), suction power (water lift), and capacity typically. Add in included accessories, storage, and hose/cord management to take it full circle. The way you personally weight each of those categories is different from job to job and individual to individual.


Wet/Dry Vacuum Types

Wet/dry vacuums are relatively basic. So select one based upon your cleaning needs, your storage-and just how far you'll should move it. Listed here are the sorts of wet/dry vacuums to take into consideration.

Mini-Sized Wet/Dry Vacuums

These sacrifice by far the most performance and capacity for that least weight and easiest storage.

Small Wet/Dry Vacuums

Consider these if you're happy to sacrifice performance and capacity for easier portability.

Medium-Sized Wet/Dry Vacuums

These give you a good balance of performance and compactness.

Large Wet/Dry Vacuums

Powerful and finest equipped for challenging cleanups. They support the most debris, but may be heavy and bulky-especially when loaded with water.


Ridgid WD1451 14 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac


Filter

Look for a pleated cartridge filter, seen on most models. It's much easier to change and fewer at risk of dust leaks than the usual two-piece paper-and-foam filter. Remember, some odd-sized filters are hard to find past the manufacturer's website. Check up on filter availability before you buy a vacuum.

Dust Bag Throughout the Filter

A dust bag, about $3 to $8, keeps the within the vacuum cleaner, making the switch from dry to wet cleaning easier. It should also assist the $10 to $20 cartridge filter keep going longer and keep more suction. Some models include bags, and some make them a possibility. But think twice about pricey "high-performance" replacement bags. Our tests have revealed that standard bags can securely hold a pile of bolts, nails, screws, as well as other debris while still allowing a lot of suction.


Hose Size

Don’t forget to consider hose length. It’s a fragile balance - make sure you are capable to reach all of the places you want to clean, but in addition remember a lengthier hose reduces suction.

Large debris - Invest in a vac with a 2.5-inch-wide hose, with anything smaller, large debris will likely get stuck, and then you’ll lose suction

Medium debris - Invest in a vac using a 1.5- or 2.5-inch-wide hose

Fine debris - Invest in a vac using a 1.25- or 1.5-inch-wide hose


Attachments

Some attachments will likely be incorporated with your wet/dry vacuum, but others must be purchased separately. Useful attachments include:

Nozzles to help with cleanup in tight spots, car interiors, or when selecting up larger debris
Extension wands for hard-to-reach places
Upholstery brushes
Squeegees


Off-the-Wall Designs

Traditional wet/dry vacuums roll around and consume space on to the floor. Some models can clip onto a wall bracket or slide onto a shelf. However you pay for that convenience. Larger models typically hold more for approximately the same price but use up more space for storage.

Pump

Models with a drain spout often let you attach a pump and a garden hose to help you empty the vacuum without lifting it and carrying it around. Some vacuums feature a pump; others will accept an aftermarket pump.

Tool Storage

Most vacuums have convenient brackets for holding extensions and tools. One toolbox-shaped model has storage space inside.