PF51 Wet Dry Vac Review

[richy]

An auto detailer needs a wet vac that is powerful for both picking up dry debris as well as wetness from carpeting and upholstery.
In this review, the author will examine both the specifications of the unit as well as evaluating its performance in both dry and wet applications. The review will also include a 2 part video analysis as well showing the performance of the PF51 in both dry and wet applications.

Manufacturer description:

Powr-Flite’s Wet/Dry Vacuums feature a two stage filtration process with a washable permanent cloth filter bag which keeps dust from circulating back into the air and a super performance pleated paper cartridge filter for more efficient general cleaning filtration. All Powr-Flite Wet/Dry vacuums have the capacity and power for large water recovery jobs or dry debris pick-up in the shop or on the job site. They are perfect for hard floor maintenance jobs, recovering floor strippers and hard floor cleaners easily. The swivel hose connector allows 360° hose rotation, letting you move the vacuum without fear of disconnect.

(disclaimer) The above statement refers to a pleated paper filter. The PF51 model does not come with that filter.


Product Overview:

• Compact design with commercial duty construction and components
• 1.6 hp, 1200 watt heavy-duty commercial vacuum motor with 114 CFM and 100" waterlift for the toughest jobs
• Heavy-duty polyethylene tank provides years of service
• Built in non-marking wheels for easy maneuverability
• Comes complete with two-piece wand, hose, 11" carpet and squeegee tools, plus, crevice and dusting tools


Observtions:

The unit comes with a 1.25" diameter hose which allows the high water lift capacity.
The pistol grip end on the hose is great for controlling the end of the hose.
The crevice tool works very well to pick up small debris.
The hose snaps into place with a locking tab that prevents the hose from being pulled out from the cannister.
The unit rolls very easily too and can be pulled along effortlessly by the hose.
For such a powerful unit, the noise level seems very quiet in comparison. There is no published data from Powr Flite on the db rating for the PF51 however. Including that information would be very helpful to further compare the PF51 to its competition.
On the handle is a sliding plastic switch allowing for some suction to be bled off. This feature served no use to me and I will put black tape around it to abate some of the suction you can feel around the switch.
Plastic pieces are sturdy and the unit appears to have great build quality.


Video Review Part I:






Video Review Part II:






Conclusion:

Very powerful and quiet machine for the price. A lifetime guarantee like the RIGID has would be beneficial as well as having a few more attachments. The performance of this unit does not disappoint. Very strong suction for wet or dry applications.
I do recommend it based on my experience with the unit.

[john b]

excelent review-thanks

[Ted S.]

Nice review!I just got a Vacmaster and I wonder how it compares in performance.

[SeaJay's]

Very nice review Richy!

[richy]

Thanks guys. I think I'm really going to like using it!

[mdb917]

Excellent review!

[Pats300zx]

Great review Richy...

[Buddy]

Outstanding review richy...Way to go...

[richy]

Excellent review!

Great review Richy...

Outstanding review richy...Way to go...

Thank you Gentlemen.

[ziggo99]

Hmm. Just checking the specs between the Shop Vac and the PF51...the SV has 5 more HP, 81 more CFM, a quarter inch wider hose, yet is down almost 60 water uplift inches. Interesting...