A remodeler test-drives five wet/dry vacs priced under $200 that'll help you clean up on your next job.
12 MIN READ
Specs are provided by each manufacturer and are not verified by Tools of the Trade.
Craftsman
Tank size
Amps
Cord/hose length
Filter type
CFM
Decibel level
17017
16 gals.
11.4
15 ft./ 7 ft.
Pleated paper
170
83
No Image Available
StoryID
501015
ToolNumber
1
ComponentId
tcm:78-1626585
Tester Comments This vac’s low center of gravity and locking hose make it easy to tug, but its single top handle makes it hard to lift heavy loads. The hose is difficult to manage. The top of the motor comes off and doubles as an electric blower that’s better for leaves than heavy debris. The housing is made of thin plastic. This tool doesn’t come with filter bags. It’s got plenty of noise to go with its ample power.
Tester Comments This vac’s high-quality attachments, mobility, and quiet, powerful motor make it the one to have. Its two hose diameters let you suck up bulk debris or connect the vac to tools for fine dust pick-up. Its five undermounted wheels make it nimble and the rubber bumper keeps your millwork safe. This vac’s stout shape and pliable, locking hose make it easy to store and to transport.
Tester Comments Love-Less Ash’s three-stage filter design enabled it to suck drywall dust longer than the other vacs I tested. It picks up the most debris and cleans out easily when you use all three filters. For everyday pick-up, the filter system is hard to clean. The flexible, non-locking hose doubles for a drain hose to empty the canister through the drain. This vac is rather quiet and has good power, but sometimes chokes on the big stuff. This is a great drywaller’s vac.
Tester Comments Ridgid’s powerful vac handles big, tough jobs. Its two tank handles make it easy to haul a full tank; a noise-reduction accessory doubles as an exhaust deflector. The motor pops off the housing to operate as a separate blower. The hose is stiff and the accessories?except for the squeegee?are basic. The filter cleans easily. This vac has the most power and pulls in the biggest dirt chunks, nails, wire, and pieces of rock, but it’s also pretty loud.
Tester Comments This vac’s 18-gallon capacity and convenient on/off switch placement make it a great pick for the shop. Its narrow wheelbase and high center of gravity make it trickier to use in the field. The tool ships with 2 1/2- and 1 1/2-inch hoses to connect it to everything. The unit doesn’t come with filter bags. It has great power and volume to match; it sucks in all the nasty stuff with no problems.
