Milwaukee 2-Stage Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner

When I first got my hands on the Milwaukee 2-Stage Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner (model 8938-20), I was eager to see if it lived up to the brand's reputation for durability and performance. This vacuum is designed for both wet and dry applications, making it a versatile addition to any workshop or job site. With a 9-gallon capacity and a robust 7.4-amp motor, it promises to tackle tough cleaning jobs with ease. Here's my comprehensive take on its performance and features.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this vacuum was its sturdy build. The poly tank feels robust, and the heavy-duty casters allow for smooth movement across various surfaces. However, I did notice that the unit tends to fall backward easily when not carefully maneuvered, which can be a bit of a nuisance during prolonged use.

The vacuum comes with a range of accessories, including a conversion unit, hose, filter cartridge, filter bag, tool basket, and vac dolly. While this is a generous inclusion, I found that the tool caddy box doesn't fit as snugly as I would have liked. It tends to fall off if not properly secured, which can be frustrating when you're in the middle of a task.

Performance

When it comes to suction power, the Milwaukee 2-Stage Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner delivers a mixed bag. The motor is a 2-stage bypass type, which generally offers better performance and longevity compared to single-stage motors. With a maximum airflow of 102 CFM and a sealed suction of 84 inches in water, it should theoretically handle both large debris and fine dust effectively.

In practice, the suction power is adequate but not exceptional. It performs well for general clean-up tasks, but it doesn't quite have the heavy-duty suction I expected from a Milwaukee product. The smaller hose size also limits its ability to pick up larger debris, and I found that other tools don't fit the small hose, which restricts its versatility.

Wet Pick-Up

One of the standout features of this vacuum is its positive water shut-off, designed to protect the motor during wet pick-up. This is a crucial feature for anyone who needs to clean up liquid spills regularly. During my tests, the vacuum handled wet pick-up efficiently, and the rear drain plug made it easy to empty the tank afterward. This feature alone makes it a valuable tool for environments where liquid spills are common.

Filters and Maintenance

The vacuum comes with heavy-duty filters designed to handle large materials and fine dust. Changing the filters is straightforward, and the replacement filter part number is conveniently listed as 49-90-1830. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the vacuum performs optimally, and Milwaukee has made this relatively easy with accessible filter compartments and a simple design.

Portability and Convenience

Weighing in at 39.16 lbs, this vacuum is not the lightest on the market, but the heavy-duty casters and 35 ft. cord make it relatively easy to move around. The cord length is particularly useful for larger job sites where power outlets may be sparse. However, the unit's tendency to tip over can make it cumbersome to transport over uneven surfaces.

Durability

One area where the Milwaukee 2-Stage Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner truly shines is durability. The build quality, despite some design flaws, is solid. The vacuum feels like it can withstand years of rough treatment, which is a significant advantage for professionals who need reliable equipment.

Warranty

Milwaukee offers a 5-year warranty on this vacuum, which is a testament to their confidence in its durability and performance. This warranty provides peace of mind, knowing that any significant issues will be addressed by the manufacturer.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee 2-Stage Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner is a solid tool with a few notable drawbacks. Its build quality and durability are impressive, and it handles wet pick-up tasks exceptionally well. However, its suction power is only adequate, and the design could use some improvements, particularly in terms of stability and hose compatibility.

Would I recommend this vacuum? It depends on your specific needs. If you require a durable, reliable vacuum for wet pick-up tasks and general clean-up, this model is a good choice. The 5-year warranty adds significant value, making it a safe investment for long-term use. However, if you need a vacuum with heavy-duty suction power and more versatile hose compatibility, you might want to explore other options.

In summary, the Milwaukee 2-Stage Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner is a reliable workhorse with some room for improvement. It's a worthy addition to any workshop or job site, provided you're aware of its limitations and can work around them.