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: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bf1SLY8UP-Q Video Review Part II: YouTube - Powr Flite PF51 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.
Awesome review Rich, thank you! I think the paper filter that it doesn't come with is intended to make the vacuum have a two stage filtration. Like you said though, I don't think that will be an issue. It looks like you couldn't adapt normal smaller tools that are available at the local Home Depot or Lowe's, is that true? I have the Ridgid car accessories kit and would love to be able to use my love crevise tool with this unit if I purchased it. Another question is that does the motor housing have seals where it attaches to the body? One thing I noticed on my Fein is that is has a rubber seal where it mates with the base, something that my Ridgid does not have. I wonder if small things like that help to create a proper seal and really increase that water lift.
Danny, no it does not. Yes there is. It also clamps down pretty tight. You're right, I'm sure it contributes to an increase in suction. BTW, one thing I had read, yet never tested, is that a wet vac has better suction if there is some water in the bottom of it.
Interesting find Rich on the water comment, I might give that a try with my current vacuum. Sent from my HTC Vision using Tapatalk
I have not tried it with the PF51 but I did have water in the bottom of the Shop Vac when I did the comparison. It might have made it perform a little better than normal...who knows?
Danny, I'm sorry. Yes it does. There is an attachment for the hose to become a blower on the other side of the unit. I completely forgot about that...sorry.
I was looking around on the site where I can order the PF51 and I cannot seem to find any information to whether or not you can add hoses to this unit. I sorta like my long hose for my current Ridgid that I have. I like being able to keep the unit away from the vehicle as I'm vacuuming it. This might be a deal breaker for me and force me to buy the Metro Vac n Blo with its 6' hoses that are available. Thanks for any input into this Richy.
Thank you. Matt, no idea on this. Call them at 1-800-880-2913. Other than what's listed, I don't know what's possible. They deal with a lot of bigger, commercial units so I'm sure they have different options available. As do little hands....
