Ridgid 3 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac

The Ridgid 3 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac is a versatile and compact addition to any workshop or garage, particularly for those who value portability and ease of use. As someone who's frequently working on various projects, the cordless design immediately caught my attention. Powered by an 18V Lithium-Ion battery, this vacuum eliminates the hassle of dealing with cords, which is a significant advantage when moving around different work areas.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things that stand out about this vacuum is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing in at just 11.5 pounds, it's easy to carry around, even for extended periods. The vacuum also features a robust build that feels durable enough to withstand the rigors of a busy workshop environment. The included 4.0 Ah battery and charger ensure that you can get started right out of the box.

The onboard accessory storage is another thoughtful addition. All the attachments, including the crevice tool and dusting brush, are stored neatly inside a compartment on the vacuum. This makes it easy to switch between tasks without having to rummage through a toolbox to find the right accessory. The 6-foot collapsible rubberized hose offers a decent reach, and it conveniently snaps back into place when not in use.

Performance

In terms of suction power, the Ridgid 3 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac performs admirably for its size. It's not quite as powerful as some of the larger, corded models, but it holds its own in most scenarios. Whether you're cleaning up sawdust, drywall debris, or even spilled liquids, this vacuum handles it effectively. The suction-powered dustpan feature is particularly useful for quick cleanups. You can either sweep debris directly into it or use a broom to guide the mess into the vacuum.

One of the standout features is the vacuum's quiet operation. Compared to other shop vacs I've used, this model produces significantly less noise, making it less disruptive in a busy workshop. This is a subtle but appreciated feature, especially during extended use.

Battery Life

Battery life is where the Ridgid 3 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac shows some limitations. On a full charge, the 4.0 Ah battery provides around 15 minutes of runtime. While this is sufficient for quick cleanups, it may not be enough for more extended tasks. I found myself frequently checking the battery indicator and planning my cleaning tasks to ensure the vacuum wouldn't run out of juice mid-job. Having a spare battery on hand or bringing the charger along for more extended projects is advisable.

Ease of Use

The vacuum is straightforward to use and requires minimal assembly. The latches that secure the collection drum are easy to open and close, making it simple to empty the contents. However, the battery compartment can be somewhat tricky to open, which may be a minor inconvenience when swapping batteries frequently.

The blower feature adds another layer of versatility to this vacuum. It's particularly useful for clearing out leaves or other light debris from outdoor areas. The exhaust is cleverly designed to be in a covered compartment, which disperses the air more evenly and reduces the chances of blowing dust back into the workspace.

Additional Features

One feature that sets this vacuum apart is the "sweeper" function. By connecting the hose to a hole in the base of the unit, you can slide the vacuum across the floor to pick up debris. This is particularly useful for cleaning floors without having to bend down or move the unit around too much. While it may not be the most ergonomic solution for everyone, it's a unique and handy feature.

The filter system is efficient, capturing fine dust particles effectively. However, the filter does take up a significant portion of the internal capacity, which means you might need to empty the vacuum more frequently during heavy use. The filter is easy to remove and clean, although attaching it back can be a bit cumbersome due to its snug fit.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Ridgid 3 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac is a well-rounded tool that brings a lot of convenience and functionality to the table. Its cordless design, compact size, and versatile features make it a valuable addition to any workshop or garage. The suction power is adequate for most tasks, and the quiet operation is a pleasant surprise.

However, the short battery life is a notable drawback. For quick cleanups and smaller projects, it's more than sufficient, but for extended use, you'll likely need a spare battery or frequent recharges. The slightly cumbersome battery and filter compartments could use some design improvements, but these are minor issues in the grand scheme of things.

Would I recommend the Ridgid 3 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac? Absolutely, especially if you value portability and ease of use. Its compact design, onboard storage, and versatile features make it a practical choice for a variety of cleaning tasks. The battery life is a limitation, but it's a trade-off for the convenience of cordless operation. For those who already own other Ridgid 18V tools, the compatibility with existing batteries is an added bonus. Overall, it's a solid investment for anyone looking to add a reliable and portable vacuum to their toolkit.