Craftsman Electric 4 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum (9 gal)

The Craftsman Electric 4 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum (9 gal) has carved out a niche for itself in the crowded market of shop vacuums, promising durability, powerful suction, and versatility with its wet/dry functionality. Having put this vacuum through its paces, I’ll share my experience and why it might—or might not—deserve a spot in your workshop or garage.

Build Quality and Design

Out of the box, the Craftsman Wet/Dry Vacuum strikes a balance between ruggedness and portability. The polypropylene tank ensures that it can handle a fair share of abuse without cracking, which is a significant plus for a tool meant to tackle tough jobs. At 15.7 pounds, it’s not the lightest wet/dry vac out there, but the weight is justified by its sturdy construction.

One notable feature is the wide-set casters and top handle, designed to make transport easier. However, attaching the casters proved to be a bit of a challenge. The pre-drilled holes were tight, requiring considerable effort to snap the wheels into place. Once assembled, though, the unit feels stable and doesn’t easily tip over, which is essential for a vacuum of this size.

Performance and Suction Power

Powered by a 4 Peak HP motor, the Craftsman Wet/Dry Vacuum promises high-output performance, and it largely delivers on this front. For dry debris, it’s particularly effective. I tested it in a garage setting, where it made quick work of sawdust, small wood chips, and general dirt. The suction is robust, and the included attachments—such as the utility nozzle and floor brush—are versatile enough for various cleaning tasks.

When it comes to wet vacuuming, the performance is decent but not without its hiccups. The vacuum is equipped with an extra-large drain port, which makes disposing of collected liquids straightforward. However, during a basement flood clean-up, the suction power seemed to wane slightly when dealing with larger volumes of water. It’s competent for smaller spills but might struggle with more extensive flooding scenarios.

Versatility and Attachments

One of the standout features of this vacuum is its ability to convert into a blower. This adds a layer of versatility, especially useful for tasks like clearing leaves or debris from your driveway. The transition from vacuum to blower is seamless and doesn’t require any complicated adjustments.

The vacuum comes with a 7 ft. x 1-7/8 in. hose, which provides a decent reach. The included extension wands are a welcome addition, allowing for extended reach in more challenging areas. However, I did find the hose diameter to be slightly limiting. If you have existing attachments from previous vacuums, make sure they’re compatible, as the 1-7/8 in. hose size isn’t universal.

Ease of Use

Operating the Craftsman Wet/Dry Vacuum is straightforward, thanks to an accessible on/off switch. The unit also has built-in storage for attachments and a 10 ft. power cord, which is ample for most indoor tasks. However, for more extensive outdoor work, an extension cord might be necessary.

Assembly was a mixed bag. While the main components snap together relatively easily, I noticed some missing screws for the handle, which was frustrating. It’s worth double-checking the box for all parts before you start assembling to avoid similar issues.

Noise Level

As with many high-powered vacuums, noise is inevitable. The Craftsman isn’t the quietest model I’ve used, but it’s not excessively loud either. It’s a tolerable level of noise for the power it delivers. If you’re working in a residential area or noise-sensitive environment, ear protection might be a good idea.

Maintenance and Durability

Maintenance is where the Craftsman Wet/Dry Vacuum shows its practical side. The vacuum includes both a cartridge filter and a foam wet filter, which are easy to install and replace. The addition of a bag for dry debris is a thoughtful touch, especially for those dealing with fine dust, as it helps keep the mess contained and makes disposal cleaner.

Durability-wise, the vacuum feels solid and well-built. The polypropylene tank, in particular, should hold up well over time. However, the motor’s longevity is a concern for some users. While my unit has performed reliably so far, I’ve heard mixed reports about the motor giving out after prolonged use, particularly under heavy wet conditions.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

The Craftsman Electric 4 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum (9 gal) is a versatile tool that performs admirably in most scenarios. Its strong suction power, robust build, and added blower functionality make it a valuable addition to any workshop or garage. The assortment of attachments and the thoughtful design touches, like the extra-large drain port and built-in storage, add to its appeal.

However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The assembly process can be cumbersome, particularly when attaching the casters. The hose size might not be compatible with all existing attachments, and there have been isolated reports of motor issues under heavy wet conditions.

Despite these concerns, I would still recommend the Craftsman Wet/Dry Vacuum for most users. Its strengths outweigh its weaknesses, especially if you’re looking for a reliable, multi-purpose vacuum for both wet and dry tasks. Just be prepared for a bit of elbow grease during assembly and, ideally, keep it for medium-duty tasks to ensure longevity. For those in need of a robust and versatile vacuum, the Craftsman is a solid choice that should serve well in a variety of cleaning scenarios.