Milwaukee M18 SWITCH TANK 4-Gallon Backpack Water Supply Kit

Milwaukee's M18 SWITCH TANK 4-Gallon Backpack Water Supply Kit, model 2820-21WS, caught my attention because of its promise to simplify concrete cutting and coring applications with a battery-powered water supply. As a long-time user of Milwaukee tools, I had high expectations for this innovative product, especially given its integration with the M18 battery system.

The SWITCH TANK features an interchangeable tank design, an adjustable pressure regulator, and a wide mouth opening for easy filling. It also comes with a strainer to filter debris, which is essential for maintaining the tool's longevity. The adjustable pressure settings range from 20 to 60 PSI, giving users flexibility depending on their specific application needs. The overall build of the tank and harness seemed robust at first glance, which was promising.

Upon unboxing, I was impressed with the design and ergonomics of the backpack system. The harness was comfortable, distributing the weight evenly across my shoulders and hips, even when the tank was filled to its maximum 4-gallon capacity. This was a critical feature since the filled unit weighs over 18 pounds, and extended use could become cumbersome without proper weight distribution.

The wide mouth opening made filling the tank with water straightforward, and the strainer was a thoughtful addition to prevent debris from entering the tank. The battery system integration was seamless – I used the same M18 batteries that power my other Milwaukee tools, which was convenient and efficient.

My initial tests with just water were encouraging. The adjustable pressure settings worked well, providing a consistent and controlled water flow. The sprayer nozzle offered good control, and the overall operation was smooth. However, it wasn't long before some issues began to surface.

One of the primary concerns that became evident was the leaking tank. Despite Milwaukee's reputation for craftsmanship, the tank started leaking after only a few uses. The leaks were primarily from the bottom of the tank and around the pump assembly. This was particularly concerning when using chemicals, as it posed significant health risks and potential property damage.

Another issue was the durability of the tank. After a few uses, I noticed small cracks forming at the seams. These cracks led to further leaks and made the tank unreliable for professional use. The leaking was so severe at times that it rendered the sprayer almost unusable for any task involving chemicals.

Additionally, the wand and handle design, while initially appearing robust, also had their shortcomings. The handle started to leak, and the wand had a tendency to drip constantly. This not only wasted the product but also made it challenging to use the sprayer efficiently. The lack of an easy way to service or replace the wand components added to the frustration.

Despite these significant drawbacks, there were some aspects of the SWITCH TANK that I appreciated. The adjustable pressure regulator was a standout feature, allowing for precise control over the water flow. This was particularly useful for different applications, from light misting to more powerful sprays. The battery life was also impressive; a single M18 battery lasted through multiple tank refills, which was a testament to Milwaukee's efficient power management.

However, the weight of the unit was another factor to consider. At over 18 pounds when filled, it was noticeably heavier than some other battery-powered backpack sprayers on the market. While the harness did help distribute the weight, it became tiring to use over extended periods, especially for older or less physically strong users.

In conclusion, Milwaukee's M18 SWITCH TANK 4-Gallon Backpack Water Supply Kit has a lot of potential but falls short in several critical areas. The concept of an interchangeable tank system and battery-powered operation is excellent, and the adjustable pressure settings are very useful. However, the persistent issues with leaking, durability of the tank, and the reliability of the wand make it difficult to recommend this tool for professional use.

If Milwaukee addresses these design flaws and improves the overall build quality, the SWITCH TANK could become a valuable addition to any professional's toolkit. Until then, I would advise potential buyers to consider other options, especially if they require a reliable, leak-proof solution for chemical spraying tasks. For those who only need a water sprayer and can manage the occasional leaks, it might still be worth a try, but be prepared for some potential frustration along the way.