Shop Vac

I am looking at getting a shop vac.

Basically to vacuum up saw dust and small debris in the garage as well as cleaning the interiors of my car/truck.

I am not planning on using for anything wet.

I might use it occasionally to suck dust. For example, if I use an angle grinder with a diamond blade to cut concrete blocks, I will have a buddy with a shop vac hose next to me to suck in the concrete dust.

What is the difference between a $30 one from Harbor Freight versus a $120 one from Ridgid?

Are shop vac parts generic? If I want to add a new attachment or a nozzle for whatever reason, are these parts interchangeable? or are they specific for each brand?

Any recommendation and anything I should watch out for?

 

Only recommendation I would have is that since they make 2 sizes of hoses, be sure you get the one with the larger diameter hose. (2 1/2", I think.) Getting one with an automatic switch and outlet on it is nice, because then you can plug a tool into that outlet and when you turn the tool on, it turns the shop vac on automatically.

 

I think you'll find the higher priced vacs probably are in fact better made. The $30 vac will probably do the job for light-duty occasional use, but will likely have a shorter life-span. You'll want to look at the motor rating.On the other hand, for $30 it might be worth a try. I agree with Sleeper on the hose, get one with a 2 1/2". Among other things there will be more generic accessories that can be used. Some of the vacs do have proprietary tools, but for the most part I think you can mix and match.

I did a quick browse on their website. The little 2 gallon job has only a 1.5hp motor and 30 day warranty. The 5 gallon one, for not much more money, had a 3 horse and 90 day warranty.

For about the same $ you can get a Craftsman with a 1 year warranty:

Sears: Online department store featuring appliances, tools, fitness equipment and more

And for a bit more money, but much less than $120, you can get a Ridgid with lifetime warranty and better motor:

RIDGID 12-Gallon Wet/Dry Vac - WD1250 at The Home Depot

 

Just another opinion. I use the Ridgid in my shop with the 2 1/2" hoses. I also use them on commercial LEEDS jobsites where a clean constant pick up is required. Never failed, yet. Then there is today, who knows. But I got a lifetime warranty.
Hey, TG, this is the 12 gallon I found at HD that was a display (holes drilled for screws in base to hold it on board). Got it for $25. Hot glued the screw holes. Figured I would have to buy hose and fittings.......everything was inside. Neat!

 

I'm with the other here - you get what you pay for.

Whatever you do, do not buy into the horsepower ratings of these things, they are completely bogus. Shop brand reputation, motor amp draw and volume(capacity).

Vacs are loud, be ready. You can get a 2-stage vac (not so loud) but that's big bucks.

For cement grind dust invest in a HEPA filter and clean it often.

 

So I think the consensus is craftmans and Ridgid. I do like the feature of one with switch and outlet, that sounds very handy. Thanks.

 

I confess I didn't know Ridgid was lifetime warranty until I checked. Have had my current Craftsman since before I ever heard of Ridgid.