Ryobi Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum Kit

The Ryobi Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum Kit (PCL732K) represents an innovative approach to tackling small to medium cleaning tasks with ease and convenience. As a DIY enthusiast and frequent cleaner of both my workshop and vehicles, I had the opportunity to test this compact and versatile vacuum. Here’s my take on its performance, design, and overall utility.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Ryobi vacuum impressed me with its thoughtful design. Weighing in at just 4.25 lbs, it’s incredibly portable and easy to handle. The vacuum is designed to fit most 5-gallon buckets, which is a clever way of utilizing commonly available containers for its canister. This not only saves space but also makes the vacuum highly adaptable for various tasks.

The integrated storage for the hose and crevice tool is a practical touch. It keeps all the components together, reducing the risk of losing parts and ensuring that everything you need is at hand. The build quality is solid, with robust materials that promise durability. Even the hose, which is often a point of weakness in many vacuums, feels well-constructed and flexible, owing to its rubber-jointed design.

Performance

When it comes to suction power, the Ryobi vacuum delivers a commendable performance for its size. With an air flow of up to 45 CFM and sealed suction of up to 32 IOW, it handles small debris and dust efficiently. It’s important to note that this vacuum isn’t meant to replace a full-sized shop vac for heavy-duty tasks. Instead, it excels in more manageable cleaning jobs, such as vacuuming out vehicles, tidying up workshop spaces, and handling minor spills.

The cordless operation is a significant advantage, offering the freedom to move around without being tethered to an outlet. This is particularly useful when cleaning cars or working in areas without easy access to power. The battery life is satisfactory, providing enough juice for multiple small cleanup jobs before needing a recharge. However, for more extended use, you might find yourself swapping batteries or waiting for a recharge.

Usability and Convenience

One of the standout features of this vacuum is its portability. The ability to convert any 5-gallon bucket into a vacuum canister is ingenious, making it incredibly easy to transport and store. The 4-foot hose offers decent reach, but there were moments when I wished it were a bit longer, especially when trying to clean larger areas or reaching into tight spaces.

The included crevice tool is handy for getting into nooks and crannies, but a flat tool for carpets would have been a welcome addition. This small omission is a bit of a letdown, as it limits the vacuum’s versatility slightly. Nonetheless, the existing tools do a good job for most purposes.

The vacuum also features a blower port, adding an extra layer of functionality. This can be useful for clearing out dust from corners or even for inflating items. The noise level is relatively moderate at 72.4 dB(A), which is acceptable for a vacuum of this type. It’s loud enough to remind you it’s working but not so loud that it becomes a nuisance.

Limitations and Areas for Improvement

While the Ryobi vacuum has a lot going for it, there are a few areas where it could improve. The suction, while good, isn’t as powerful as some might expect, especially if you’re accustomed to corded shop vacs. For most small jobs, it’s more than adequate, but don’t expect it to handle heavy-duty debris or large volumes of liquid effortlessly.

Another point of contention is the hose design. The male end of the hose doesn’t have the same taper angle as standard 1 1/4" tools, which can make it challenging to keep attachments securely in place. This was a minor annoyance that could potentially be addressed in future iterations of the product.

Finally, the price point has seen some fluctuation, which might deter some potential buyers. While the vacuum offers good value for its functionality and convenience, a significant price hike could make it less attractive compared to other options on the market.

Conclusion

The Ryobi Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum Kit is a versatile, portable, and convenient tool that excels in handling small to medium cleaning tasks. Its clever design, decent suction power, and cordless operation make it a valuable addition to any DIY enthusiast’s toolkit. It’s particularly well-suited for vacuuming cars, small workshop cleanups, and minor spills.

While it has a few limitations, such as the hose design and moderate suction power, these are relatively minor issues that don’t detract significantly from its overall utility. If you’re looking for a compact, easy-to-use vacuum for everyday cleanup tasks, the Ryobi vacuum is definitely worth considering.

In summary, I would recommend the Ryobi Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum Kit for anyone in need of a portable and efficient cleaning solution for smaller jobs. Its innovative design and practical features make it a standout choice in the realm of cordless vacuums.