Ridgid 12 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac

As a frequent user of wet/dry vacuums in both professional and DIY settings, I was eager to test out the Ridgid 12 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac, model WD1270. This vacuum is touted as a versatile and powerful tool, and I was curious to see how it would stack up against other models I've used over the years.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Ridgid wet/dry vac impresses with its robust construction. The 12-gallon drum is a decent size for most tasks, providing a good balance between capacity and maneuverability. The vacuum is relatively lightweight at 16.5 pounds, which makes it easy to carry around, especially with the well-designed handle on top.

The unit comes with a variety of attachments, including a wet nozzle, utility nozzle, car nozzle, hose, and two extension wands. The built-in accessory and hose storage are very convenient, ensuring that you have everything you need right at hand and reducing the likelihood of misplacing any parts.

One minor hiccup during assembly was the caster wheels. The instructions suggest pushing them in until they snap, but I found this to be quite challenging. I had to resort to using a screwdriver and hammer to get them fully seated. While this ensures the wheels won’t come off easily, it did add an unexpected level of difficulty to the setup process.

Performance

The Ridgid vac is powered by a 5.0 Peak HP motor, which is more than adequate for most clean-up tasks. Whether dealing with sawdust, debris from a renovation project, or water spills, this vacuum handles it all with ease. The suction power is impressive, and it effectively picks up everything without clogging, thanks to the large 2.5-inch diameter hose.

One of the standout features is the Scroll Noise Reduction technology, which makes this vacuum quieter than many others I've used. While it’s not silent, the reduced noise level is a welcome improvement, especially when using it indoors.

Usability

The 15-foot power cord provides a decent range, but I often found myself needing an extension cord for larger areas. The Dual-Flex locking hose is a great feature, offering flexibility and durability. It’s less likely to kink or disconnect during use, which is a common issue with other vacuums.

Emptying the vacuum is straightforward, thanks to the built-in drain. This feature is particularly useful when dealing with wet messes, as it allows for easy and controlled water removal. However, I did find myself wishing the drain port was larger to speed up the process.

Versatility

This vacuum excels in both wet and dry clean-ups. For dry tasks, it’s compatible with dust collection bags, which makes disposal cleaner and easier. The standard pleated paper filter is suitable for everyday dirt, but if you’re dealing with finer dust or allergens, you might want to consider upgrading to a higher-grade filter.

The included car nozzle is a nice touch, especially for those who like to keep their vehicles clean. It’s similar to the ones you find at car washes but without the unpleasant smell. However, a narrow crevice tool would have been a useful addition for those hard-to-reach spots.

Durability

Durability is always a concern with tools that see heavy use, and the Ridgid wet/dry vac doesn’t disappoint. The overall build quality is solid, and it feels like it can withstand regular use in tough conditions. However, the motor did get noticeably hot during extended use, which is something to keep an eye on.

Areas for Improvement

While the Ridgid wet/dry vac performs admirably in many areas, there are a few aspects that could be improved. The accessory storage, while convenient, sometimes fails to keep attachments securely in place. This can be annoying when you’re moving the vacuum around and need to keep everything organized.

The locking mechanism for the hose is another area that could use some refinement. It works well most of the time, but the hose can occasionally pull off if you’re stretching it to its limits. A longer power cord would also be a significant improvement, reducing the need for extension cords in larger workspaces.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Ridgid 12 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac is a powerful and versatile tool that performs well in a variety of settings. Its strong suction, reduced noise level, and convenient features make it a reliable choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. While there are a few areas that could be improved, they are minor compared to the overall performance and build quality of the vacuum.

Recommendation

I would definitely recommend the Ridgid 12 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac to anyone in need of a reliable and powerful vacuum for both wet and dry clean-ups. Its balance of power, capacity, and convenience makes it a valuable addition to any workshop or home. The minor issues with the caster wheels and hose locking mechanism are outweighed by the vacuum’s overall performance and durability. If you’re looking for a vacuum that can handle a wide range of tasks and hold up under regular use, the Ridgid wet/dry vac is a solid choice.