Craftsman Wet/Dry Vac

When you think of a wet/dry vacuum, versatility and ease of use are the two main factors that come to mind. The Craftsman CMXEVBE17584 certainly aims to deliver on both fronts. As a 6-gallon wet/dry vacuum, it promises to be a handy companion for various home and garage cleaning tasks. After spending some time with this model, I have gathered a comprehensive view of its performance, strengths, and limitations.

First Impressions and Setup

Straight out of the box, the Craftsman wet/dry vac is relatively easy to set up. The assembly involves attaching the wheels and the handle, a task that doesn’t require advanced DIY skills—just a bit of muscle to snap everything into place. The compact design is a welcome feature, making it easier to store in tight spaces. Despite its smaller size compared to industrial shop vacs, it doesn’t skimp on essential features.

Performance and Power

The 3.5 peak horsepower motor is more than adequate for a variety of cleaning tasks. In my experience, it handled everything from sawdust in the garage to minor water spills in the basement with ease. The suction power is impressive for a unit of this size, although it’s essential to manage expectations. It’s not an industrial-grade vacuum, but for small to medium cleanup projects, it performs admirably.

One of the standout features is the quick and easy filter replacement system. Being able to switch between dry and wet vacuuming without hassle is a significant advantage, especially when dealing with different types of debris in one cleaning session. The inclusion of both a general-purpose filter and a fine dust filter also adds to its versatility.

Mobility and Usability

The swivel casters are a thoughtful addition, allowing for smooth movement across uneven surfaces. This makes the vacuum particularly useful in a garage setting where you might be navigating around tools and equipment. The 10-foot cord is somewhat limiting, but an extension cord easily remedies this issue.

However, the hose leaves something to be desired. At 1.875 inches in diameter and 7 feet long, it’s quite stiff and can be awkward to maneuver. This rigidity can make it challenging to vacuum tight spaces effectively. The attachments, including a large crevice tool and a 7-inch wide tool for flat surfaces, are functional but could be more versatile.

Build Quality and Durability

The overall build quality of the Craftsman wet/dry vac is robust. The plastic components feel durable, and the wheels, once snapped on correctly, stay firmly in place. However, there have been instances where the hose attachment felt less secure. Ensuring the hose is properly connected is crucial to maintain suction and prevent it from slipping out during use.

Noise Level

Like most shop vacs, this model is not quiet. The noise level is typical for a vacuum of this type and power, which means it’s not something you’d want to use late at night. However, the noise is a small trade-off for the performance it delivers.

Practical Applications

During my usage, the Craftsman wet/dry vac excelled in several scenarios. It was particularly effective in the garage, handling wood chips and sawdust from woodworking projects. The wet vacuum feature was a lifesaver during a minor plumbing issue, efficiently sucking up water to prevent further damage.

For household tasks, it’s a great tool for cleaning up after kids and pets. Spilled cereal, pet hair, and even small craft messes were no match for this vacuum. The lightweight design made it easy to carry from room to room, and the onboard storage for attachments ensured everything was within reach.

Areas for Improvement

While the Craftsman wet/dry vac is a solid performer, there are areas where it could improve. The hose’s stiffness is a significant drawback, making it less flexible for tight spaces. A more flexible hose would enhance its usability considerably.

Additionally, the cord length could be longer. While an extension cord solves this problem, it would be more convenient to have a longer reach built-in. Lastly, including a wet nozzle in the standard package would be beneficial, as it’s an essential attachment for a wet/dry vacuum.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Craftsman CMXEVBE17584 wet/dry vac is a reliable and versatile tool for home and garage use. Its compact size, powerful motor, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any household. While it has some limitations, particularly with the hose flexibility and cord length, these are minor issues in the grand scheme of its performance and utility.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, especially for those who need a practical, easy-to-store vacuum for small to medium tasks. It’s not an industrial powerhouse, but it doesn’t claim to be. For everyday messes and occasional heavy-duty cleanups, the Craftsman wet/dry vac is a solid choice that delivers on its promises.