Ridgid 14 Gallon 2-Stage Wet/Dry Vac

The Ridgid 14 Gallon 2-Stage Wet/Dry Vac, model RV2400A, is a unit that promises a lot on paper. With an 11.5 Amp motor, a 14-gallon capacity, and a range of features designed to enhance user experience, it certainly looks the part of a high-performance tool. But does it live up to its specifications and the expectations one might have for such a vacuum? After spending a considerable amount of time using it in both home and shop settings, I have some insights to share.

Build Quality and Design

The first thing that strikes you about this vacuum is its robust build. Constructed with durable polypropylene drum construction, it feels like it can take a beating. The design includes a cart with a sturdy push handle and large rear wheels, making it easy to maneuver across various surfaces, even on a gravel driveway. This is a significant improvement over smaller, more cumbersome vacuums that often require stooping or dragging by the hose.

One aspect I particularly appreciated is the accessory storage bag attached to the handle. It helps keep all the tools organized and readily accessible. The 25-foot power cord is another thoughtful inclusion, reducing the need for extension cords and making it easier to move around larger spaces without constantly searching for an outlet.

Performance and Suction Power

Performance is where the Ridgid 14 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac has its highs and lows. For general cleanup tasks, such as sucking up sawdust, wood chips, and even water, it performs admirably. The vacuum boasts a high lift suction and efficient airflow, which translates to good overall performance for most light to medium-duty tasks. I used it to clean wet carpet in my car, and it impressed me by extracting a significant amount of water.

However, when it comes to more demanding tasks, the vacuum's suction power leaves something to be desired. Despite the dual blower wheels designed to enhance suction performance, it struggled with finer particles embedded in cracks or larger debris like wood lathe shavings. This could be a deal-breaker for those relying on it for heavy-duty construction site cleanups or similar applications.

The unit comes with noise reduction technology, making it quieter than many other vacuums in its class. It’s not whisper-quiet, but you can have a conversation nearby without shouting, which is a definite plus for prolonged use.

Ease of Use and Maneuverability

Ease of use is another area where this vacuum shines. The handle and large wheels make it easy to move around, even in cluttered spaces. The locking hose and accessories are a thoughtful touch, preventing any disconnection during use, which can be incredibly frustrating with other models.

The large drain at the bottom of the drum makes disposing of water straightforward, eliminating the cumbersome task of tipping the entire unit to empty it. Assembling the vacuum is generally straightforward, although I did encounter some issues with the wheel axle caps. They required a lot more force than indicated in the instructions, which could be challenging for some users.

Accessories and Additional Features

Ridgid has included a decent set of accessories with the RV2400A. The hose locks onto the vacuum securely, and there's an air diffuser/muffler that can be inserted into the blower port to reduce the force of the expelled air. The filter is washable and reusable, which is economical in the long run.

However, the accessory storage could be improved. The current design does not accommodate the rigid vacuum tube/handle extensions well, and the cord wrap could be more user-friendly. During use, attachments sometimes popped out of the storage bag, which was frustrating.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

So, would I recommend the Ridgid 14 Gallon 2-Stage Wet/Dry Vac? The answer depends on your specific needs. If you’re looking for a vacuum that’s easy to maneuver, relatively quiet, and capable of handling general cleanup tasks, this model is a solid choice. Its durable build, thoughtful design features, and ease of use make it a valuable tool for home and light workshop use.

However, if you require a vacuum with strong suction power for heavy-duty or industrial-grade cleanups, you might want to look elsewhere. The RV2400A struggles with more demanding tasks, which could be a significant drawback for those in construction or similar fields.

Overall, the Ridgid 14 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac has a lot to offer but falls short in areas that matter most for heavy-duty work. For general cleaning tasks, it’s a reliable and user-friendly option, but don’t expect it to replace a more powerful, dedicated shop vacuum.