In this review of the Shop-Vac model 5986000 wet and dry vacuum cleaner, we’ll look at the pros and cons of this model. We’ll also address issues that aren’t clear pros or cons that potential buyers would want to know about.
Pros of the Shop Vac Model 5986000
If someone says, “oh, no, the dishwasher has a clog, we need to empty the filthy water to get to the drain,” the first thing that comes to mind should be the Shop Vac model 5986000. Not only can this vacuum cleaner handle liquid messes, it can handle the large volume messes that many other wet and dry vacuum cleaner cannot. It takes on the large jobs beyond spilled soup on the floor or a leaking washing machine. It has a whopping five gallon capacity.
The vacuum has a rear blower port that lets you use the vacuum as an efficient blower for blowing up air mattresses and other items. It isn’t as effective as an air pump designed to do the job. Another use of the blower port is to try to blow dry damp items which you may need to do after cleaning up a wet mess.
The four wheel configuration is more stable than some of its rivals that only have three wheels. This thing isn’t going to tip over unless you are pulling on the hose to pull it along.
It has decent suction. It can pick up pet fur though not specifically designed for pets. It is one of the few vacuums that can handle biological messes like vomit, but you’ll want to wash or replace the filter bag after doing so in order to prevent the unit from stinking up. Note that the hose attachment will not clean your carpets as well as an upright vacuum, so you’ll need something else to pull blood, soaked in urine and other liquids out of carpet.
If the unit tips over, the air flow is turned off. You have to unplug it and plug it back in to reset the sensors and be able to turn it on. This isn’t adequately explained in the instructions.
Cons of the Shop Vac Model 5986000
The six foot power cord is frustratingly short, though you can use it with an extension cord. The tool holders don’t make it easy to store an extension cord on the vacuum cleaner.
The unit doesn’t come with clear instructions on how to install the filter bags correctly.
The hose has a tendency to kink up. And hose attachments don’t always stay on during use.
Observations about This Shop Vac Model
The vacuum is not as durable as some of its more expensive siblings, but you’re also getting it for a great price. The metal body is prone to dings and dents on impact.
It can pick up sawdust and dirt, but the strong exhaust can make cleaning a large area more of a hassle unless you start in one corner and only let the exhaust blow toward the area you’ve already cleared. There is no cover or diffuser for the exhaust port.
The hose that comes with the vacuum is smaller than that which comes with most Shop Vacs, and large items can get stuck in it. However, the port is a standard size for Shop Vac, so you can swap out to other Shop Vac brand hoses.
Summary
If you need an affordable multi-purpose wet and dry vacuum cleaner, the Shop-Vac model 5986000 vacuum cleaner is a great choice. Know that it won’t replace your upright vacuum cleaner and its limitations, and you won’t have any problems.
