Ridgid WD1450 Review

Ridgid WD1450 Review

Rigid is a brand that has come on strong in recent years due to their high-quality tools and low prices. They have made plenty of fans across their power tool lineup, but are also responsible for everything from pipe threading tools to pressure washers and shop vacs.

While they have several great models to choose from, our favorite is the Rigid WD1450. It’s one of their professional models, and a tool we think you will appreciate if you need a powerful vacuum.

Tech Specs

  • 6 Peak HP motor
  • 20-foot cord
  • 14 gallon 2-piece drum
  • Blowing feature
  • 26 pounds

Who is it for?

Simply put, this shop vac is great for anyone.

While it will be overkill if you need a light-duty solution, the Ridgid WD1450 can suck up anything. It is powerful enough to remove a heavy pile of drywall dust or blow leaves into a giant pile. Professionals, homeowners, and handymen will all like what this shop vac brings to the table.

Power

The Ridgid WD1450 gets its power from a 6 HP motor which is top of the line. It is built with noise-reduction tech as well, so it is quieter than other vacuums at this price point. You will still hear it, but will definitely notice a difference if you have owned a shop vacuum before.

Like most shop vacs, this one can blow although it’s not nearly as portable as something like the Shop-Vac 9633400. It may not transform into a blower, but you will not be disappointed by its overall power in either mode.

Construction

Construction is another area where the Ridgid WD1450 shines. It’s made from thick, durable plastic but the collection tub sports a two-piece design.

That’s not something you will find on many other models outside of the Pro class, and a great feature to have. The collection drum is massive as well at 14 gallons so it’s not one you will have to empty often. Up top is a handle which makes it easy to carry while a rock on the back holds all of your accessories.

This one sports caster wheels like all the best shop vacs and has large roomy housings over each wheel to keep them free from damage.

Ease of Use

Despite its size at 26 pounds, the wheels make the Ridgid WD1450 easy to lug around on most types of surfaces. The controls are kept to a minimum as there’s one simple switch and we’ve already told you about the fancy 2-piece tank.

A drainage port at the bottom allows you to let liquid out; something we always look for in a good shop vac. You won’t have to fight the cord on this one either as it can wrap under the handle when the shop vac is not in use.

Filters

As this is a wet/dry vac, it works with a variety of filters including the classic canister model and foam filters for liquids and water.

The replacements for this model are VF3502, VF5000, VF6000, and VF7000. The VF5000 and 6000 are layered with different levels of protection against particles and allergens. On the flipside, the 7000 is a sponge model, and the VF3502 are bags.

Ridgid has made sure you can use any type of filter with this shop vac, which is another feather in its cap as it is a versatile machine.

The cost of replacement filters is par for the course, so you won’t overpay, but they certainly aren’t what we would call cheap.

Accessories

The Ridgid WD1450 comes with five attachments that can be stored on the machine when not in use. They include two extension poles, a general utility nozzle, and a wet nozzle for liquids. Last but not least is a car nozzle for when you need to detail your vehicle, motorhome or boat.

While not an accessory in the traditional sense, we feel the need to point out the hose on this model as well.

The company uses something called a dual-flex locking system which ensures the hose stays put but provides you with plenty of flexibility. You will get 180-degrees at both ends of the 7-foot hose which is thick enough to keep from collapsing.

Also included is a 3-layer fine dust filter which can handle those dust bunnies lurking in the garage along with things like drywall dust.

Any downsides

One of the biggest issues with this machine is also one of the most obvious.

While it is a blower as well as a vacuum, you can’t detach the top and take it on the go. That is a downer compared to models that offer up more mobility, and you can say the same of the output hole.

Every shop vac has an output hole, and this one tends to blow with a lot of force. That’s a good thing, but the placement of the hole could be better for this shop vac. It’s been known to kick up some dust, so keep that in mind when working indoors.

Conclusion

It’s still not a full-fledged industrial model, but the Ridgid WD1450 is pretty darned close.

We were impressed by the overall durability of this unit, and love the 2-part design on the collection tub. Even the ports and handles are sturdy, so it’s not the type of tool you will have to replace a few years down the line.

The cord wrap is also a nice touch considering you are getting 20 feet of cable. You shouldn’t need an extension cord with this model, and we think you will be thrilled by the amount of bang it provides for your buck.

If you do want something a little more industrial and easier to lug around on the job site, the company has an upgraded version of this one in the 50348RID. It’s a bit more expensive but comes in a wheeled cart which makes it ideal for locations where you need to traverse unsteady ground.

You can check our other reviews for Vacmaster or Craftsman vacs and find the right one for you.

Click here to read user reviews on Amazon.