Ridgid LED Floodlight

The Ridgid R86902B LED Floodlight has quickly become an indispensable tool in my arsenal. As someone who often finds themselves working in varying lighting conditions, having a reliable, bright, and versatile light source is crucial. This floodlight certainly meets those expectations and more.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions of the Ridgid floodlight are positive. The unit feels robust and well-constructed, indicative of Ridgid's reputation for durable tools. The floodlight boasts a 265º pivoting head, which is incredibly useful for directing light exactly where you need it. Whether you're working under a vehicle, in an attic, or simply illuminating a workspace, the flexibility of the pivoting head is a standout feature.

The base of the floodlight is sturdy and doubles as a carry handle, making it easy to transport from job to job. Additionally, the light can be detached from the base, which is a game-changer for tight spaces. The base also features two hooks that can slide out, perfect for hanging the light on 2x4s or other structures. This makes it incredibly versatile, whether you're working on framing or need to light up an attic.

Brightness and Modes

One of the most impressive aspects of this floodlight is its brightness. The unit offers three brightness settings: low (800 lumens), medium (1,200 lumens), and high (1,500 lumens). This range of brightness levels allows you to adjust the light according to your needs, which is particularly useful when working in close quarters where too much light can be blinding.

On the high setting, the floodlight can illuminate a large area effectively. I found it especially useful when working on outdoor projects at night. The medium and low settings are perfect for more confined spaces or when you need to conserve battery life. Speaking of battery life, the floodlight is compatible with all RIDGID 18V batteries. While a 2.0Ah battery may drain quickly on the highest setting, opting for a larger capacity battery, such as a 4.0Ah, significantly extends the runtime.

Battery Life and Performance

Battery life is a critical factor for any cordless tool, and the Ridgid floodlight performs admirably in this regard. On the low setting, the light can run for up to 12 hours, which is more than sufficient for most tasks. However, on the highest setting, the battery drains faster, which is expected given the brightness output. During a recent project, I used a 4.0Ah battery, and it lasted over 2.5 hours on the highest setting, even in freezing temperatures. This performance is impressive and speaks to the efficiency of the light.

One minor gripe is that the floodlight can consume battery juice faster than some other Ridgid lights, especially when using a 2.0Ah battery. However, this is a small trade-off considering the brightness and versatility the floodlight offers. For extended projects, having a spare battery on hand is advisable.

Mounting Options and Versatility

Another standout feature of the Ridgid floodlight is its multiple mounting options. The base includes keyholes for wall mounting, and it can also be mounted on a tripod using the 1/4 in.-20 thread. This versatility allows you to set up the light in various configurations, depending on your needs. I found the tripod mounting option particularly useful for painting a room, as it provided stable and adjustable lighting.

The hooks on the base are a thoughtful addition, allowing you to hang the light from rafters or other structures. This feature is especially useful in construction settings or when working in an attic. The ability to hang the light frees up your hands and ensures the workspace is well-lit.

User Experience

Using the Ridgid floodlight is straightforward and intuitive. The dial to adjust the light intensity is easy to control, and switching between brightness settings is seamless. The light is bright and clear, providing excellent illumination for various tasks. The portability of the light, combined with the ability to detach it from the base, makes it incredibly versatile.

One minor drawback is the lack of a magnetic base, which would have added another layer of versatility. A magnetic base would allow the light to be attached to metal surfaces, such as under a vehicle hood or on a steel beam. While this feature is not present, the existing mounting options are still highly functional.

Durability and Longevity

The Ridgid floodlight is built to last. The housing is solid, and the overall construction feels durable. I accidentally dropped the light during a project, and it sustained only minor cosmetic damage. The light continued to function perfectly, which speaks to its robustness. However, one concern is the durability of the battery bumpers, which could affect the light's ability to withstand drops over time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ridgid R86902B LED Floodlight is an excellent addition to any toolkit. Its combination of brightness, versatility, and durability makes it a valuable asset for a wide range of tasks. Whether you're working in construction, need a reliable light source for outdoor projects, or require a versatile light for tight spaces, this floodlight delivers.

While it may drain smaller batteries quickly on the highest setting, the performance and features it offers far outweigh this minor drawback. The multiple mounting options, adjustable brightness, and robust build quality make it a standout tool. I highly recommend the Ridgid LED Floodlight for anyone in need of a reliable and versatile lighting solution.