DeWalt 9 Gallon Quiet Vacuum

Vacuuming is a chore that none of us particularly enjoy, but a good shop vacuum can certainly make the task more manageable. Recently, I had the opportunity to put the DeWalt 9 Gallon Quiet Vacuum (DXV09P-QTA) through its paces, and it’s fair to say that my experience was a mixed bag. This vacuum is designed for both wet and dry cleaning and promises quiet operation along with a durable tank. Here’s my detailed take on its performance and features.

Power and Performance

First and foremost, the suction power of this vacuum is impressive. The 5.0 Peak HP motor delivers strong suction and airflow, which is essential for heavy-duty cleaning tasks. Whether it was drywall dust from a recent renovation or sawdust from my woodworking projects, the vacuum handled it all with ease. The initial suction power was so robust that it could lift the carpet off the padding if I wasn’t careful. This kind of power is what you expect from a DeWalt product, and in that regard, the vacuum does not disappoint.

However, the suction power seemed to diminish rather quickly. After using it to clean half of my small apartment, I noticed a significant drop in performance. Even after emptying the canister and trying to clean the filter, the suction didn’t return to its initial strength. This was quite disappointing, especially since the vacuum is marketed as a heavy-duty tool.

Build Quality and Design

The vacuum is built with a 9-gallon durable poly tank, which includes a drain for easy emptying of liquids. The tank itself feels robust and capable of withstanding some rough use. The design also includes swivel casters that make it easy to maneuver around the workspace. However, I found that the vacuum is somewhat top-heavy. This means it tends to tip over when you try to pull it by the hose, especially if the hose gets caught on something or if you’re trying to navigate around obstacles.

One of the standout features is its quiet operation. The vacuum operates at less than 65 dBA, which is a blessing compared to other shop vacs that sound like jet engines. This makes it much more pleasant to use indoors without feeling like you’re disturbing the entire household.

Usability and Convenience

The vacuum comes with a contractor kit that includes various attachments, which are quite handy for different cleaning tasks. The hose management design is also a nice touch, making it easier to store the hose when the vacuum is not in use. The carrying handle doubles as a cord wrap, which is convenient for keeping everything tidy.

However, the length of the power cord is a significant drawback. At just 10 feet, it’s too short for most practical uses. I found myself constantly needing to use an extension cord, which is an added hassle. Similarly, the hose could be longer. While it’s flexible and can reach awkward areas, a longer hose would make it easier to use without having to move the vacuum around as much.

Maintenance and Durability

Changing the filter is a breeze thanks to the tool-free filter change system. This is a welcome feature, especially for those who use the vacuum frequently and need to change filters often. However, I encountered issues with the motor after a few months of use. The motor started making a horrible noise and eventually cut out. Upon inspection, I found that the screws holding the motor assembly were loose, causing the armature to shake and short out the windings. This kind of issue is unacceptable for a tool that is supposed to be durable and reliable.

Wet and Dry Functionality

While the vacuum is advertised as being effective for both wet and dry cleaning, it excels more in dry applications. The paper filter reaches far down into the bucket, so when vacuuming liquids, it doesn’t take long for the filter to become submerged. This limits the vacuum’s capacity for wet tasks, making it less useful for larger liquid spills. For small wet tasks, it performs adequately, but don’t expect it to handle a full 9 gallons of liquid without issues.

Final Thoughts

The DeWalt 9 Gallon Quiet Vacuum has several strong points, including powerful suction, quiet operation, and a robust build. However, it also has significant drawbacks such as a short power cord, reduced suction over time, and motor reliability issues. For those who need a vacuum for light to moderate use, this could be a good option, especially if noise levels are a concern. However, for heavy-duty or professional use, the reliability issues and limitations in wet vacuuming make it less appealing.

In conclusion, I would recommend this vacuum with reservations. It has the potential to be a great tool, but the issues I encountered suggest that quality control may be inconsistent. If you’re a DeWalt loyalist and need a quiet vacuum for light tasks, this might fit the bill. However, if you require a more reliable and versatile vacuum, you might want to explore other options.