Ridgid 5 Gallon Stor-N-Go Wet/Dry Vac

The Ridgid 5 Gallon Stor-N-Go Wet/Dry Vac (Model WD5500) has quickly become an essential part of my tool collection. As someone who frequents both a woodworking shop and a garage, space is always at a premium. This wall-mounted vacuum has proven to be a practical solution, offering both power and convenience without taking up valuable floor space.

Design and Assembly

One of the first things that struck me about the Ridgid Stor-N-Go is its compact, wall-mountable design. The mounting system was straightforward to install, taking only a few minutes to securely attach to a wall stud in my workshop. The vacuum easily detaches from the mount, making it portable when needed, and the included storage caddy for hoses and accessories is a thoughtful addition. This design is not just space-saving but also ensures that all components are within arm's reach.

Performance and Features

With a 5 peak horsepower motor, the suction power is impressive for its size. It handled everything from sawdust and wood chips in my shop to debris in my garage with ease. The 20-foot power cord and combined 21 feet of hose length offer extensive reach, which is particularly useful when cleaning larger areas or my car. I appreciated the array of included accessories—two wands, a utility nozzle, a car nozzle, a crevice tool, and a dusting brush—making this vacuum versatile for various tasks.

Usability

Despite its power, the vacuum is relatively lightweight, making it easy to detach from the wall and carry around. The top-carry handle enhances its portability, and while it doesn't have casters, its design compensates for that by being easy to maneuver. The vacuum's noise level is significant, but manageable, especially if you're already accustomed to wearing ear protection.

However, there are a few drawbacks. The exhaust port is located on the front, and even with an adjustable deflector, it sometimes directs air towards me, blowing around lighter debris. The hoses also have room for improvement. The longer 14-foot hose is stiff and can be difficult to manage, often making it cumbersome during use. The shorter flexible hose, while easier to handle, does not attach as securely to the longer hose as I would like, sometimes disconnecting with a slight tug.

Durability and Maintenance

Over several months of usage, I found the vacuum to be durable, though the hoses are a weak point. The retractable hose, in particular, showed signs of wear earlier than expected and eventually split, which was disappointing. Ridgid's decision to exclude accessories from their warranty is a downside, as these components are vital to the vacuum’s overall functionality.

Emptying the vacuum is straightforward. It detaches from the wall easily, and the process of emptying the drum is simple. However, the lack of a built-in drain means you have to lift and tip the unit to empty liquids, which can be cumbersome.

Versatility

One of the standout features is the blowing port, which I used to clear leaves and debris from my driveway. This dual functionality enhances the vacuum's utility, making it more than just a shop vac. The accessory storage is also a big plus, keeping everything organized and reducing the clutter in my workspace.

Recommendations and Improvements

For those who are considering this vacuum, I highly recommend investing in a more flexible aftermarket hose if the stiffness of the current one bothers you. Additionally, the vacuum could benefit from relocating the exhaust port or redesigning it to mitigate the blowing of debris. An included wet filter would also be a welcome addition, especially for those using it frequently for liquid clean-ups.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ridgid 5 Gallon Stor-N-Go Wet/Dry Vac is an excellent choice for anyone needing a powerful, space-saving vacuum solution. Its wall-mounted design is perfect for workshops and garages where floor space is at a premium. The strong suction power, extensive reach with the long hoses, and the array of included accessories make it versatile for various tasks.

However, the stiffness of the hose and the positioning of the exhaust port are notable drawbacks. Despite these issues, I would still recommend this vacuum for its overall performance and convenience. For anyone looking to keep their workspace clean without sacrificing valuable space, the Ridgid Stor-N-Go is a solid investment. Just be prepared to make a few modifications to optimize its usability.