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RYOBI 18V ONE+ Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum PCL732

RYOBI 18V ONE+ Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum

3/5

Manufacturer: Ryobi
Model number: PCL732
Price: $60.00
Power source: 18 Volt
Weight: 4.25 lbs

When I review a cordless or corded vacuum, I’m looking to check off four boxes:

1. Does it have good suction? (CFM/Airflow, and water lift)
2. Does it have a comprehensive array of attachments?
3. Does it have a sturdy build quality?
4. Is it portable?

RYOBI Bucket Top Vacuum  | Overview

This new Ryobi cordless vacuum excels in handling both wet and dry cleanup tasks. It comes with a crevice nozzle but lacks a wider vacuuming head.

A notable feature is the convenient storage solution for all components, including the hose, on-board crevice tool, battery, and charger, fitting neatly inside the bucket. Noticeably missing was a 4″ or 6” floor sweep nozzle and a squeegee nozzle for water pick up.

While equipped with a blower port like many shop vacuums, its practical utility is questionable for most vacuum users.

The vacuum boasts a maximum airflow of 45 CFM. However, it’s important to note that the term “max” in marketing materials often suggests variable performance and may not be sustained throughout the battery charge. It’s rated to have 32 inches of water lift (IOW), a measure of static suction pressure at no net flow, indicating how many inches the vacuum will vertically lift 1 inch of water.

Weighing 4.25 lbs. and featuring a 4-foot by 1-1/4” diameter hose, this vacuum also includes a filter bag for dry vacuuming. The battery inserts on top of the unit alongside a rocker-style power switch. It has a decibel rating of 72.4 dB(A).

RYOBI Vacuum Specifications

• 4′ x 1-1/4″ hose
• Wet/dry capability
• Maximum airflow of 45 CFM
• 32 inches of water lift (IOW)
• Sound level as low as 72.4 dB(A)
• Weight: 4.25 lbs.
• Blower port
• Compatible with most 5-gallon buckets

Ryobi Vacuum | Run-time and Efficiency Testing

The vacuum was tested in a shop environment, primarily with sawdust and clean water. I will note that on two occasions I plugged the hose into the blower port and either blew dust or water all over the place. Ryobi should label the intake port better.

When paired with the 4.0 Ah battery, the vacuum can operate continuously for approximately 12 minutes.

I decided to test it’s water suction capability using clean water from a separate bucket and placing the hose directly into the water. Suction was great and I was able to suck up 3.62 gallons [bucket capacity] in 12 seconds [average time]

I repeatedly transferred the water back and forth until the vacuum lost suction, which occurred after 30 cycles. Impressively, it managed to remove a total of 108.60 gallons of water on a single 4.0 Ah battery charge. I was unable to test the vacuum with a wider squeegee sweeping nozzle.

For the sawdust and particulate pick up I used the crevice nozzle. The suction was decent, not great, and about what I expected from a $60 vacuum. I was unable to test the vac with a wider sweeping nozzle.

Ryobi Vacuum  | Suggested Improvements

While I love the innovative bucket top design, Ryobi could enhance it’s appeal to professionals and serious enthusiasts by improving durability, motor strength, airflow system.

I’d like to see some accessories offered such as a 4” sweeping and squeegee nozzle, and an efficiency filter capable of capturing particles down to 1 micron at 99% efficiency.

Lastly, offering a model that offers AC/DC functionality, with a 20-foot power cord would be amazing, especially when cleanup needs exceed the battery run-time.

I recognize that all the items I just described come with an associated increase in cost. While some may be hesitant to pay this premium, there are many who recognize and appreciate the value they bring.

Who knows, maybe HD will allow them to make a premium model?

Price

One of the most appealing aspects of this vacuum is its affordability, priced at $60 as a bare tool (PCL732B) and $119 for the kit, which includes the vacuum, a 4Ah battery, and a charger.

Conclusion

The bucket top design is a commendable idea, at the end of the day consumers looking for a cordless wet/dry vacuum still want.

• Good suction (CFM/Airflow, and water lift)
• A comprehensive array of attachments
• Sturdy build quality
• Portability

Ryobi comes real close to achieving this, but falls a little short. Despite its shortcomings, this vacuum sells for $60, and represents a commendable option for consumers seeking low cost, convenience and functionality.

With slight improvements in the areas I described, Ryobi holds the promise to emerge as the preferred choice for those seeking a versatile bucket top vacuum solution. Let’s hope Home Depot provides the platform for Ryobi to elevate to a premium vacuum and establish itself as a “new standard” in wet/dry vacuuming.

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RYOBI 18V ONE+ Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum | Video Review

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