Features to Consider in Shop Vacuums
The best wet-dry shop vacuum models can be found in a variety of shapes, sizes, price points. Just about any store that sells tools also sells shop vacuums. There are actually quite a few differences coming 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 the motor is generally smaller, so there’s less power. Those aren’t all of the differences, needless to say, but it’s a good start.
But exactly what makes a great wet-dry shop vacuum? This will depend on your own needs. It’s gonna be an equilibrium of portability, air-flow (CFM), suction power (water lift), and capacity in most cases. Add in included accessories, storage, and hose/cord management to take it full circle. The way you personally weight every one of those categories is different from job to job and one individual to another.
Size, Capacity and Power
Wet/dry vacs are classified by capacity (measured in gallons) and peak horsepower (hp). They are available in a wide range of types and sizes from portable and handheld units to large 18-gallon professional vacs.
Tip: Small units with a high horsepower and low capacity work efficiently in demanding environments with restrictive space requirements.
Small capacity (2 – 6 gallons):
1 – 4.5 hp
Available as corded or cordless
Can be handheld or caster mounted
Quiet operation
Suitable for smaller tasks around the house, car or boat
Medium capacity (6 – 14 gallons):
5 – 6 hp
Has blower conversion capability
Are designed for anything from fine dust to large debris
Ideal for most indoor/outdoor cleaning tasks around the home or shop, including wet basement cleanup to standard home and garden tasks.
Large capacity (14 – 18 gallons):
6+ hp
Are designed for from fine dust to large debris
Suitable for heavy-duty and commercial use where maximum horsepower is required.
Filter
Make use of the wrong filter and you can have dust or water blowing into the air. The filter you want is often based on the type of debris you might be getting.
Large debris – Purchase a filter using a general household filtration level or better
Medium debris – Invest in a filter with a medium filtration level or better
Fine debris – Purchase a filter using a fine filtration level
Wet debris – We recommend investing in a foam sleeve for the filter
If you or someone you live with has allergies, we propose by using a HEPA cartridge filter or HEPA collection bag, regardless of the sort of debris you anticipate cleaning up normally.
Hose Size
Don’t forget to take into consideration hose length. It’s a delicate balance – ensure you are in a position to reach each of the places you need to clean, but also 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 probably get stuck, then you’ll lose suction
Medium debris – Get a vac with a 1.5- or 2.5-inch-wide hose
Fine debris – Purchase a vac using a 1.25- or 1.5-inch-wide hose
Cleanup Tools
Most models include a utility nozzle, for bulky debris, along with a crevice nozzle for tight spots. Some also have a special nozzle for car interiors and an insert for the dusting brush. A squeegee attachment is great for spills. Usually the one-piece version on some vacuums is a lot more convenient in comparison to the insert on others.
Extension Wands
Long ones reduce the necessity for stooping and kneeling.
Features
Pick a wet/dry vac that features on-board tool storage, storage or quiet operation to further improve your capabilities.
New motor technologies provide quieter operation without having to sacrifice airflow and suction.
On-board or built-in tool storage holds all your nozzles and cleaning accessories down the side in the vacuum.
For easy storage, some vacuums feature wall-mounting capabilities to save space.
Built-in spouts or drains that will make emptying liquid content simple and easy for hassle-free cleanup.