Recommend a good shop vac?

[Evil Ron]

My old shop vac (Sears Craftsman brand about 12 years old) just died. I need to replace it and I was wondering if anyone had a recommendation? The old vac was really LOUD! and the suction seemed kind of so-so in relation to the sound. Who makes a good one that's reasonably priced (around $100)?

 

[Drew99GT]

I don't have a recomendation for ya except Hoover (that's what I got). The most important thing to maintain airflow is replace the filter, not just knock the dust out. The difference in mine was like 1000 Lb. feet of thrust it felt like!

 

[JayhawkRoy]

Still own Craftsman (16 gal), Ridgid (12 gal), and a ShopVac brand small (3 gal?) one. All perform well. Bought them based on price and availability when I had a pressing need for one. All of them seem to be equally loud, so don't know if any of these vacs are quieter.

 

[Matt_S]

I have a 16 gal. Shop Vac. The suction is quite impressive, but it is loud. I don't think any vaccuum worth it's salt these days will be quiet. It also has a washable filter that doesn't have to be replaced all the time.

 

[Curious Kid]

I think the price is really going to be a factor when it comes to finding a good functional vac that's also relatively quiet. I've seen some shop vacs at a few shop tool stores were asking $200-$300 for them...and they really don't seem to be all that big either.

Some time ago when I was referbishing my first vehicle, I went out and bought a ShopVac brand unit for $80 - I think it was a ten gallon unit. Having been use to the regular house vacs power, I was really surprised. What a value I felt. But yes it was loud. You can however purchase an exhaust muffler or make one yourself - I did using PVC pieces and works on the principle of baffle and sound absorbtion. Until then I just put in some ear plugs and went to work.

I know use this same vac with a cleanable filter for cleaning up the shop, on the portible table saw, and other chores. I only wish it had a larger dia. hose to help reduce lodging of debri.

I think I've owned this unit for some 10-12 years now.