Ridgid Wet/Dry Vac

The Ridgid WD1851 Wet/Dry Vac has become an indispensable part of my workshop. This robust tool boasts a 16-gallon capacity, which is more than sufficient for most of my cleaning needs, whether I'm dealing with sawdust from my woodworking projects or a small flood in the basement. Its dual functionality for both wet and dry tasks means it’s versatile enough to handle a wide array of messes, making it a reliable companion for any serious DIY enthusiast or professional.

Right out of the box, the assembly was straightforward. The instructions were clear, and within minutes, I had it fully operational. One minor hiccup was the installation of the caster wheels. It required a bit more force than anticipated, and I had to use a screwdriver and hammer to snap them into place. While this was a bit of a hassle, the result is a stable unit that rolls easily across various surfaces.

The build quality of the Ridgid Wet/Dry Vac is impressive. It feels sturdy and well-constructed, capable of withstanding the rigors of a busy workshop. One of the standout features is the included cart, which greatly enhances the vacuum’s mobility. Moving around a 16-gallon vacuum can be cumbersome, but the cart makes it relatively easy to maneuver, even when the tank is full.

In terms of performance, this vacuum does not disappoint. The suction power is phenomenal. It effortlessly picks up debris of all sizes, from fine dust to larger chunks of material. I recently used it to clean up after a roof replacement project, and it handled the task with ease, sucking up everything without clogging. The vacuum is also surprisingly quiet for its size and power, which is a welcome relief in a noisy workshop environment.

The Ridgid Wet/Dry Vac comes with several attachments that enhance its functionality. The car attachment, similar to those found at car washes, is particularly useful for detailed cleaning inside vehicles. However, I did find that a narrow crevice tool was missing from the kit, which would have been helpful for getting into tighter spots. The onboard storage for these attachments is a nice touch, keeping everything organized and within easy reach.

One feature I found particularly useful is the bottom drain port. This makes emptying the tank of liquids much more manageable. However, it would be even better if the vacuum hose could be attached to the drain port to control the flow of water more precisely. This is a small improvement that would make a big difference in usability.

The power cord, while generally adequate, could be a bit longer. At 15 feet, it’s often necessary to use an extension cord for larger areas. This isn’t a significant drawback, but it’s something to consider if you have a large workspace. The hose, on the other hand, is of excellent quality. It’s durable and doesn’t kink easily, and the locking mechanism ensures that it stays securely attached during use.

Despite its many strengths, the Ridgid Wet/Dry Vac isn’t without its flaws. The locking clasps that connect the motorized top to the waste-collection tub could be better designed. They are positioned in a way that makes them a bit awkward to unlatch, especially when lifting the heavy motor. Additionally, the plastic construction of some parts, like the exhaust port, feels a bit flimsy compared to the rest of the unit.

Durability is always a concern with tools that see heavy use, and so far, the Ridgid Wet/Dry Vac has proven to be reliable. I’ve used it extensively over several months, and it has performed consistently well. The lifetime warranty provides additional peace of mind, though it’s crucial to keep the receipt safe, as you’ll need it for any warranty claims.

One of the most satisfying aspects of using this vacuum is seeing how thoroughly it cleans. Whether it’s sucking up water from a flooded basement or removing fine dust from my workshop floor, the Ridgid Wet/Dry Vac leaves the area spotless. It’s a powerful tool that makes quick work of even the toughest cleaning jobs, and its efficiency means I spend less time cleaning and more time working on my projects.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the Ridgid WD1851 Wet/Dry Vac. It’s a powerful, versatile, and well-built tool that excels in both wet and dry cleaning tasks. The minor issues, like the short power cord and the challenging caster wheel installation, are far outweighed by its performance and durability. If you need a reliable vacuum for your workshop, garage, or basement, the Ridgid Wet/Dry Vac is an excellent choice. Its combination of power, capacity, and ease of use makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit.