Milwaukee Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner

I recently got my hands on the Milwaukee Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner, model 8955, and I’ve had ample time to put it through its paces. This vacuum is engineered for those who require versatility and durability in their cleaning arsenal, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the brand’s reputation for quality and reliability.

Build Quality and Design

First off, the build quality is immediately apparent. The 8955 feels robust and ready to tackle a variety of challenges. Weighing in at 20 lbs, it strikes a fine balance between being sturdy enough to handle heavy-duty tasks and light enough to remain portable. The design is practical with an 8-gallon recovery capacity, which is more than adequate for most applications, whether you’re working in a garage, workshop, or even on a construction site.

One of the standout features is the one-stage bypass motor, which is specifically designed to handle both wet and dry operations. This makes the transition between different cleaning tasks seamless and ensures that the motor is protected during wet applications thanks to the positive water shut-off feature.

Performance and Power

Powered by an 8.0 amp motor, the 8955 generates a maximum air flow of 143 CFM (cubic feet per minute), which is impressive. In practice, this translates to strong suction power, capable of picking up large debris and fine dust with relative ease. While it’s not the most powerful vacuum I’ve ever used, it certainly holds its own in a crowded field of competitors.

What I appreciate most about this vacuum is its reliability. The motor runs smoothly and isn’t excessively loud, a notable improvement over some other models I’ve used in the past. The vacuum has a certain finesse to it — the kind of performance you’d expect from a high-quality tool. However, I did notice some minor air leaks, which made me wonder if addressing these could further enhance its suction power.

Versatility and Usability

The ability to switch between vacuum and blower functions adds a layer of versatility that shouldn’t be overlooked. This feature is particularly useful for those who need to clear leaves or other debris from outdoor areas. The blower function performed admirably during my tests, providing ample power to quickly clear a space.

Another feature that deserves mention is the heavy-duty filters. These are designed to handle significant amounts of debris, and they performed as advertised during my usage. Replacement filters are easily available (part number 49-90-1830), which is a relief for long-term maintenance.

Usability and User Experience

The vacuum’s design is user-friendly. The corded power source ensures consistent power without the hassle of recharging batteries, which can be a limiting factor in cordless models. The dimensions of the vacuum (16-3/4" in width) make it relatively compact, and it’s easy to store when not in use. Handling the vacuum is straightforward, with intuitive controls that make switching between wet and dry modes a breeze.

In practical terms, I found the vacuum to be highly effective for light garage and shop cleanup, as well as for vacuuming cars. Its suction power is sufficient for these tasks, and the build quality gives confidence that it will last for years with regular use. It’s certainly a step above cheaper models that often fail to deliver long-term reliability.

Comparison with Other Models

If I were to compare the Milwaukee 8955 to other models in its class, it holds up quite well. While it may not have the sheer suction power of some larger 14-gallon models, it more than makes up for this with its durability and overall build quality. The bypass motor design is a significant advantage, providing a level of reliability that is hard to find in cheaper vacuums.

Recommendations

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner 8955? Absolutely, but with some caveats. If you’re in the market for a high-quality, reliable wet/dry vacuum that can handle a variety of tasks, this model is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those who need a vacuum for light to medium-duty tasks and value long-term durability over raw power.

However, if you require the most powerful suction available and are willing to compromise on build quality, there are other models out there that might better meet your needs. But for most users, the 8955 strikes a great balance between performance, versatility, and reliability.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 8955 is a well-rounded tool that delivers solid performance and should provide years of faithful service. Its design and features make it a valuable addition to any workshop or garage, and its build quality ensures it can handle a variety of tasks with ease. If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile wet/dry vacuum, this model is definitely worth considering.