Ridgid 12 Gallon Motor-On-Bottom Wet/Dry Vac

Owning a wet/dry vacuum is almost a necessity for anyone who takes their shop or home maintenance seriously. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the Ridgid 12 Gallon Motor-On-Bottom Wet/Dry Vac (model MOB1200), and here’s my detailed account of its performance, features, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this vacuum was its design. Having the motor located on the bottom is a unique and clever touch that adds stability and makes the unit less top-heavy. This design choice also facilitates easier access to the filter and drum, making maintenance straightforward. The build quality feels robust, typical of Ridgid tools, which are known for their durability. The vacuum's orange and black color scheme is eye-catching, and the overall aesthetic is solid and professional.

Assembly and Initial Setup

Assembling the vacuum was a breeze. The instructions were clear, and all parts fit together without a hitch—except for one minor hiccup. The caster wheels were a bit challenging to snap into place. I ended up using a screwdriver and a bit of elbow grease to get them in securely. While this was a bit annoying, the stability they offer once in place is worth the effort.

Power and Performance

This unit boasts a 6.5 peak horsepower motor, and it does not disappoint. The suction power is impressive, easily handling both wet and dry messes. I tested it on a variety of surfaces, including my garage floor, a basement with some water spillage, and even my car’s interior. The vacuum performed admirably in all scenarios.

The 2.5-inch diameter hose is excellent for preventing clogs, and the locking accessories are a thoughtful feature. They stayed securely attached even during vigorous cleaning sessions. The 7-foot hose provides decent reach, although an extension might be necessary for larger areas.

Noise Level

One of the pleasant surprises of this vacuum was its relatively low noise level. While it’s not whisper-quiet, it’s noticeably quieter than some other shop vacs I’ve used in the past. This makes it more tolerable to use for extended periods, especially in enclosed spaces.

Usability

The vacuum is equipped with a foot-activated switch, allowing for hands-free operation, which I found incredibly convenient. The 20-foot power cord provides ample reach, reducing the need for extension cords in most situations. However, for really large areas, you might still need one.

Accessories and Storage

The MOB1200 comes with a variety of useful attachments, including utility and wet nozzles, a crevice tool, a car nozzle, and a muffler/diffuser. There’s also onboard storage for these accessories, although I found that they didn't always stay put when moving the vacuum around.

One minor inconvenience was the absence of a narrow crevice tool, which would have been useful for those hard-to-reach areas between car seats and tight corners. However, the included car nozzle is quite effective for most automotive cleaning tasks.

Filter and Maintenance

The vacuum comes with a VF5000 Fine Dust Filter, ideal for capturing fine particles. Accessing the filter and drum is easy, thanks to the motor-on-bottom design. This made emptying the drum and cleaning the filter straightforward. For wet cleaning, switching to a wet filter (sold separately) is recommended to protect the motor.

Emptying and Drainage

Another standout feature is the easy-to-access drain port at the bottom of the tank. This allows for quick and controlled emptying of liquids, although it would be even better if the vacuum hose could be attached to the drain port to direct the flow more precisely. Currently, the port is either fully open or closed, which can cause a sudden rush of water.

Portability and Maneuverability

At 30 pounds, the vacuum is relatively lightweight for its size and power. The handle on top makes it easy to lift and carry over obstacles. The vacuum rolls smoothly on its wheels, although larger wheels would have made it even more maneuverable, especially on uneven surfaces.

Longevity and Reliability

While I haven't had the vacuum long enough to comment on its long-term durability, Ridgid’s reputation and the lifetime warranty offer some peace of mind. However, I did note that some users experienced issues with the motor burning out after extended use. This makes me cautious but optimistic, given my positive initial experiences.

Conclusion

After spending ample time with the Ridgid 12 Gallon Motor-On-Bottom Wet/Dry Vac, I can confidently say it’s a solid choice for both professional and home use. Its powerful suction, ease of maintenance, and thoughtful features make it a valuable addition to any cleaning arsenal.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, especially if you’re looking for a reliable, powerful, and versatile wet/dry vacuum. The minor issues, like the challenging caster wheel installation and the lack of a narrow crevice tool, are overshadowed by the vacuum’s overall performance and convenience. Its design innovations, such as the motor-on-bottom and foot-activated switch, add significant value, making it a worthy investment for tackling a wide range of cleaning tasks.