8 Best 55 Gallon Drum Vacuums

Are you tired of constantly sweeping or mopping up messes? Maybe you have a shop or garage that always seems to accumulate dust, debris, or even liquid spills. If so, you may want to consider investing in a wet/dry vacuum. These powerful cleaning machines are designed to handle both wet and dry messes, making them versatile tools for any cleaning job.

Wet/dry vacuums have been around for many years, evolving from basic models to more advanced and heavy-duty options. Originally, these vacuums were primarily used in industrial and commercial settings, where large quantities of liquid or debris needed to be cleaned up efficiently. However, over time, manufacturers recognized the usefulness of wet/dry vacuums in residential settings as well. Today, these vacuums are available in various sizes, shapes, and power levels, catering to a wide range of cleaning needs.

The benefits of owning a wet/dry vacuum are numerous. Firstly, these vacuums have a larger capacity than traditional vacuum cleaners, which means you can clean up bigger messes without having to constantly empty the canister. Additionally, wet/dry vacuums have a more powerful suction capability, making them ideal for lifting both liquid and solid debris. Many models also come with accessories and attachments that allow you to clean hard-to-reach areas, upholstery, and even vehicles. Overall, a wet/dry vacuum is a great investment for anyone who wants to save time and effort when it comes to cleaning.

In this article, we will review and compare several wet/dry vacuum products to help you find the best option for your needs. We will take a closer look at the Craftsman CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vac, the Shop-Vac 9700606 3.0 Peak HP 2-Stage Wet Dry Vacuum Motor Head Assembly for 55 Gallon Drum, the Nortech Vacuum Drum Open Head 55 gal, the Nortech N620 Liquid Drain Valve for 30-Gallon and 55-Gallon Vacuum Units, the Nortech Guardair HEPA Cartridge Filter N635H for 20, 30, 55 Gallon Pneumatic Drum Vacuums, the BEAMNOVA Upgraded Chain Drum Lifter 2 Ton / 4400lbs Loading Capacity for 55 Gallon Drums Forklift Hoist Crane Metal Plastic Barrel Double Lifting Chains, the Guardair Pneumatic Vacuum N551BC 55 Gallon Drum Complete Kit with B Venturi Head, 2-Inch Hose and Tools, and the Vacuum Generating Head 15 HP, 55gal, 89cfm. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the different features and functionalities of these wet/dry vacuums, helping you make an informed decision.

Craftsman 16 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac, Heavy-Duty Shop Vacuum with Attachments (Red)

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vac, Heavy-Duty Shop Vacuum with Attachments, Red is a versatile and powerful vacuum that is primarily designed for heavy-duty use. It is perfect for large projects in the garage, shop, and on the jobsite.

There are several reasons why we love the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595. Firstly, its 6.5 Peak HP motor provides exceptional power, making it ideal for tackling even the toughest cleaning tasks. Whether you need to clean up debris, dust, or liquids, this vacuum can handle it all with ease.

Additionally, this wet/dry vac features a built-in blower port at the rear, allowing for quick and convenient cleaning of leaves and grass clippings in your garage and outdoor areas. This versatile feature adds to the overall functionality of the vacuum and makes it a valuable tool for maintaining a clean and tidy space.

The purpose of the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 is to provide users with a heavy-duty cleaning solution for their garages, shops, and jobsites. It is specifically designed to handle large projects and can effectively clean up a wide range of materials, including dirt, dust, debris, and liquids.

Key features of this vacuum include its dual-flex technology, which ensures 180-degree mobility at each end of the 2-1/2 inch diameter shop vacuum hose, preventing kinking and allowing for easy maneuverability. The vacuum also comes with a range of useful attachments, such as extension wands, a utility nozzle, a car nozzle, a wet nozzle, and a dust collection bag. These accessories further enhance the vacuum’s versatility and make it suitable for various cleaning tasks.

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 is built to last with its heavy-duty construction. It is made from durable materials that can withstand rigorous use in different settings. The vacuum’s powerful motor and efficient design ensure reliable performance and excellent suction power.

Pros:

• Powerful 6.5 Peak HP motor for handling large projects
• Built-in blower port for quick cleaning of leaves and grass clippings
• Dual-flex technology for easy maneuverability
• Comes with a range of useful attachments
• Durable and built to last

Cons:

• May be too bulky and heavy for some users
• The noise level can be relatively high during operation

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 is a top-notch 16-gallon drum vacuum that offers exceptional power and versatility. With its heavy-duty construction, range of attachments, and reliable performance, it is an excellent choice for those in need of a powerful wet/dry vac.

Shop-Vac 2-Stage Motor Assembly for 55 Gallon Drum (1 Kit)

The Shop-Vac 9700606 3.0 Peak HP 2-Stage Wet Dry Vacuum Motor Head Assembly for 55 Gallon Drum is designed for heavy-duty industrial use. It fits standard 55 U.S. gallon metal drums and is ideal for cleaning up large messes that machines and teams can produce.

We like this product because it offers a powerful 3.0 peak horsepower motor, which allows it to handle any type of mess with ease. Its high capacity makes it perfect for industrial settings where large-scale cleanups are required. Additionally, it is easy to install and comes in a ready-to-mount assembly, saving you time and effort.

The purpose of the Shop-Vac 9700606 is to provide a reliable and efficient solution for cleaning up messes in industrial environments. Its key features include a 3.0 peak horsepower motor, 109 CFM airflow, and 105 inches of water in sealed pressure. It also comes with a 1.5-inch diameter x 12 ft hose, a plastic right angle connector, a claw utility nozzle, and an Ultra Web cartridge filter.

Shop-Vac Corporation, the manufacturer of this product, is a recognized world leader in wet/dry vacuum cleaners. With a history dating back to 1965, they have established themselves as a trusted and reliable brand. The Shop-Vac 9700606 is no exception, with its durable construction and dependable performance. Users can expect a high-quality product that is built to last.

Some pros of the Shop-Vac 9700606 include its powerful motor, large capacity, and easy installation. Additionally, the inclusion of a long power cord and hose provides flexibility during use. However, it is worth noting that the 55-gallon drum is not included with this accessory kit, meaning users must acquire their own. This may be a slight inconvenience for some buyers, but does not detract from the overall quality and performance of the product.

Nortech Open Head Vacuum Drum, 55 Gallon, Black

The Nortech Vacuum Drum, Open Head, 55 gal, Black is a powerful and efficient vacuum cleaner designed for heavy-duty industrial use. It is specifically built to handle large-scale cleaning tasks in warehouses, factories, and other industrial facilities.

There are several reasons why the Nortech Vacuum Drum stands out among its competitors. One of the standout features is its impressive suction power. With a 55-gallon capacity, it can effectively handle large volumes of dirt, debris, and liquids, making it highly suitable for industrial environments.

The durability of the product is also worth mentioning. Made in the United States, the Nortech Vacuum Drum is sturdy and built to last. Its open-head design allows for easy emptying and cleaning, ensuring maximum productivity and efficiency.

The main purpose of the Nortech Vacuum Drum is to provide an efficient and reliable solution for heavy-duty industrial cleaning. With its large capacity and powerful suction, it can effectively remove dirt, debris, and liquids from various surfaces, including concrete, metal, and wood.

In addition to its impressive suction power, the Nortech Vacuum Drum also features a convenient foot-activated lid opener, allowing for easy and hygienic disposal of collected waste. The package dimensions of 18″ L x 21″ W x 18″ H make it a compact and portable option for industrial settings.

The Nortech Vacuum Drum is renowned for its exceptional quality. Manufactured by Nortech, a trusted name in industrial cleaning solutions, this product is designed to withstand the harsh demands of heavy industrial usage.

Pros:

• Powerful suction for efficient cleaning
• Durable construction for long-lasting performance
• Convenient foot-activated lid opener for easy waste disposal
• Compact and portable design for easy maneuverability
• Suitable for various surfaces and environments

Cons:

• May be too large for smaller workspaces or home use
• Weight of the drum when full may pose handling challenges for some users

The Nortech Vacuum Drum, Open Head, 55 gal, Black is an outstanding choice for industrial cleaning needs. Its powerful suction, durability, and convenient features make it a top contender in the market. Whether you need to clean large warehouses or industrial manufacturing floors, this vacuum drum is sure to meet and exceed your expectations.

Nortech N620 Liquid Drain Valve for 30G & 55G Vacuum Units

The Nortech N620 Liquid Drain Valve is specifically designed as a replacement part for Nortech 30-gallon and 55-gallon drum vacuums. It is used to conveniently drain liquids from the drums without any hassle.

We highly recommend the Nortech N620 Liquid Drain Valve for 30-Gallon and 55-Gallon Vacuum Units due to its excellent functionality and durability. It offers an effortless way to drain liquids from drums, making it an invaluable accessory for those users who frequently deal with liquid waste.

The Nortech N620 Liquid Drain Valve is a genuine replacement part designed specifically for Nortech 30-gallon and 55-gallon drum vacuums. This valve is designed to be installed in the lower 2-inch bung hole of the drum, allowing for easy and efficient liquid drainage.

Key features of this product include its compatibility with Nortech vacuum units, its sturdy construction, and its hassle-free installation process. Manufactured in the United States, this genuine Nortech replacement part ensures reliable performance and longevity.

The Nortech N620 Liquid Drain Valve is a high-quality replacement part that meets the standards of excellence set by Nortech. It is designed to withstand regular use, providing users with a reliable solution for liquid drainage. Its robust construction ensures that it can effectively handle the demands of industrial environments.

• Hassle-free liquid drainage from drums

• Genuine Nortech replacement part

• Compatible with 30-gallon and 55-gallon drums

• Sturdy construction ensures durability

• Easy installation process

• Limited compatibility with Nortech vacuum units only

• May require additional maintenance in the long run

The Nortech N620 Liquid Drain Valve for 30-Gallon and 55-Gallon Vacuum Units is a top-notch replacement part that offers exceptional performance when draining liquids from drums. Its compatibility with Nortech vacuum units, sturdy construction, and easy installation process make it a highly recommended accessory for those in need of efficient liquid waste management.

Nortech Guardair HEPA Cartridge Filter – Compatible with 20, 30, 55 Gallon Pneumatic Drum Vacuums, Metallic

The Nortech Guardair HEPA Cartridge Filter N635H is specifically designed for use with 20, 30, and 55-gallon pneumatic drum vacuums. It is ideal for industries that require high air filtration standards, such as those working with allergens, powders, and superfine particles.

We are impressed by the superior performance of the Nortech Guardair HEPA Cartridge Filter N635H. With an efficiency rating of 99.98% for particles as small as 0.3 microns, this cartridge filter meets industry standards for HEPA air filtration. It provides a reliable and effective solution for removing even the tiniest particles from the air.

The primary purpose of the Nortech Guardair HEPA Cartridge Filter N635H is to ensure clean, contaminant-free air in industrial settings. It features a cloth pre-filter bag that adds an extra stage of filtration, prolonging the life of the cartridge filter.

One of the key features of this product is its compatibility with all 55-gallon and 30-gallon Guardair Drum Vacuums and Vacuum Generating Heads. This allows for easy installation and use, making it a convenient option for businesses looking to upgrade their pneumatic drum vacuums.

The Nortech Guardair HEPA Cartridge Filter N635H exudes excellent quality. Made of durable materials and constructed with precision, this cartridge filter is built to withstand the demands of industrial use. Its high-efficiency rating and reliable performance contribute to its overall quality and effectiveness.

• High-efficiency HEPA filtration for particles up to 0.3 microns

• Cloth pre-filter bag extends the life of the cartridge filter

• Compatible with all 55-gallon and 30-gallon Guardair Drum Vacuums and Vacuum Generating Heads

• May require periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance

The Nortech Guardair HEPA Cartridge Filter N635H is an exceptional product that offers industry-standard air filtration. Its compatibility with various drum vacuums and its durable construction make it a reliable choice for businesses in need of a high-quality filtration solution.

BEAMNOVA 2 Ton Drum Lifter for 55 Gallon Drums

The BEAMNOVA Upgraded Chain Drum Lifter is designed to be used with 55-gallon drums in various industries such as warehouses, farms, and manufacturing facilities. It is specifically designed for lifting closed metal and plastic drums, making it an essential tool for loading and unloading purposes.

One of the reasons why we like the BEAMNOVA Upgraded Chain Drum Lifter is its versatility. With its compatibility with forklifts and cranes, it offers convenience and ease of use. The top hoop and wide ring design allow the chains to work seamlessly with these lifting equipment, eliminating the need for additional accessories.

The main purpose of the BEAMNOVA Upgraded Chain Drum Lifter is to streamline and speed up the process of lifting 30 and 55-gallon closed metal and plastic drums. It has a total load capacity of 2 tons or 4409 lbs, with each manganese steel chain capable of lifting a barrel weighing up to 0.5 ton or 1102 lbs.

One of the key features of this drum lifter is the upgraded clamps. Made of thickened alloy steel with springs inside, these clamps automatically lock the barrel edge securely without causing any damage. The heavy-duty hooks are also made of spring-loaded carbon steel, ensuring a secure grasp on the drum during the lifting process.

The BEAMNOVA Upgraded Chain Drum Lifter is made of high-quality materials, such as manganese steel, alloy steel, and carbon steel. These materials contribute to the product’s durability and strength. The upgraded clamps and hooks are designed to withstand heavy loads and provide a secure grip on the drums.

Pros:

• Versatile and compatible with forklifts and cranes
• Upgraded clamps for secure barrel locking
• Heavy-duty hooks for a safe and damage-free grasp
• Efficient and time-saving for loading and unloading purposes

Cons:

• Not suitable for lifting open drums or plastic drums with hose clamps

With its user-friendly design, sturdy construction, and efficient performance, the BEAMNOVA Upgraded Chain Drum Lifter is a reliable tool for lifting 55-gallon drums. Whether in warehouses, farms, or other industrial settings, this product offers convenience, safety, and improved efficiency.

Guardair Pneumatic Vacuum Drum Kit

The Guardair Pneumatic Vacuum N551BC 55 Gallon Drum Complete Kit with B Venturi Head, 2-inch Hose, and Tools is designed for heavy-duty cleaning tasks. It is specifically engineered to handle the toughest cleaning jobs, whether it’s vacuuming up chips, dust, debris, liquids, or sludge. With its durable and dependable construction, it is an excellent choice for industrial environments and workshops.

There are several reasons why the Guardair Pneumatic Vacuum N551BC stands out among other drum vacuums. Firstly, it is powered by compressed air, eliminating the need for electric motors or other moving parts that can wear out over time. This makes it incredibly durable and reliable, ensuring long-term performance.

Another reason we like this product is its high performance. It generates exceptional vacuum lift and flow while operating quietly and efficiently. This means that even the most stubborn dirt and debris can be easily and effectively suctioned away, without causing excessive noise disruptions.

The main purpose of the Guardair Pneumatic Vacuum N551BC is to provide a powerful and reliable cleaning solution for large-scale industrial cleaning tasks. Its key features include a venturi vacuum generating head with an exhaust silencer, a standard cartridge filter, a 55-gallon drum, a drum dolly, a 2-inch x 20-foot vinyl vacuum hose, a 12-inch wide metal wet/dry floor tool with a 4-foot steel wand, and a 24-inch metal crevice tool.

These features enable the vacuum to effectively capture and contain various types of debris, including both wet and dry substances. The inclusion of a drum dolly enhances mobility and convenience, allowing the user to easily transport the vacuum to different areas within a workspace.

The Guardair Pneumatic Vacuum N551BC exhibits exceptional overall quality. With its sturdy construction and reliable performance, it provides a long-lasting cleaning solution for industrial settings. The inclusion of filtration options, such as standard or HEPA filters, further enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of this vacuum.

Pros:

• Powerful suction for tackling tough cleaning jobs
• Durable and dependable construction
• High-performance capabilities with low noise output
• Filtration options available for different cleaning needs
• Comes as a complete kit with necessary tools and accessories
• Offers mobility and convenience with the drum dolly

Cons:

• Requires a compressed air source for operation
• Limited to use in industrial environments or workshops

15 HP Vacuum Generating Head, 55 Gallon, 89 CFM

• Durable and long-lasting construction

• Maintenance-free operation without electric motors or moving parts

• Powerful suction for effective cleaning

• Quiet operation for noise-sensitive areas

• Filtration options for customizable cleaning requirements

• Requires a compressed air source for operation

The Vacuum Generating Head, 15 HP, 55gal, 89cfm is a reliable and versatile vacuum that can handle the toughest cleaning tasks in industrial settings. Its durable construction, high-performance capabilities, and customizable filtration options make it an excellent choice for any industrial cleaning needs.

Includes – Venturi vacuum generating head, 2-inch hose, and various tools

Comparison of Specifications

Product	Power (Peak HP)	Hose Diameter	Capacity (Gallons)	Blower Port	Warranty
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vac	6.5	2-1/2 in.	16	Yes	3 Year Limited
Shop-Vac, 9700606, 3.0 Peak HP 2-Stage Wet Dry Vacuum	3.0	1.5 in.	N/A (fits 55-gallon drum)	No	N/A
Nortech Vacuum Drum, Open Head, 55 gal	N/A	N/A	55	N/A	N/A
Nortech N620 Liquid Drain Valve	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Nortech Guardair HEPA Cartridge Filter N635H	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
BEAMNOVA Upgraded Chain Drum Lifter 2 Ton	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Guardair Pneumatic Vacuum N551BC 55 Gallon Drum	N/A	2 in.	55	N/A	N/A
Vacuum Generating Head, 15 HP, 55gal	15	N/A	55	N/A	N/A

Note: N/A indicates that the information is not provided or applicable for the specific product.

Key Features and Differences

1. Power (Peak HP) – The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 has the highest peak HP with 6.5, providing extra power for large projects. The Shop-Vac 9700606 has a peak HP of 3.0, while the Guardair Pneumatic Vacuum claims to have a 15 HP vacuum generating head.
2. Hose Diameter – The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 has a hose diameter of 2-1/2 inches, providing 180-degree mobility. The Shop-Vac 9700606 has a smaller hose diameter of 1.5 inches.
3. Capacity (Gallons) – The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 has a capacity of 16 gallons, while the Nortech Vacuum Drum has a capacity of 55 gallons.
4. Blower Port – Only the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 has a built-in blower port for quick cleaning of leaves and grass clippings.
5. Warranty – The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 comes with a 3-year limited warranty, while the Shop-Vac 9700606 does not specify a warranty.

It’s important to consider the specific needs of your cleaning projects and choose a product that meets your requirements in terms of power, capacity, and additional features like a blower port.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the review covered eight different products related to vacuuming and drum handling. Each product offers unique features and benefits, allowing users to find the best fit for their specific needs.

Products Reviewed

The following products were reviewed:

1. Craftsman CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vac
2. Shop-Vac 9700606 2-Stage Wet Dry Vacuum Motor Head Assembly
3. Nortech Vacuum Drum Open Head 55 Gallon
4. Nortech N620 Liquid Drain Valve for 30-Gallon and 55-Gallon Vacuum Units
5. Nortech Guardair HEPA Cartridge Filter N635H for 20, 30, 55 Gallon Pneumatic Drum Vacuums
6. BEAMNOVA Upgraded Chain Drum Lifter 2 Ton / 4400lbs Loading Capacity
7. Guardair Pneumatic Vacuum N551BC 55 Gallon Drum Complete Kit
8. Vacuum Generating Head, 15 HP, 55gal, 89cfm

Drawbacks and Recommendations

While all the products have their strengths, there are some drawbacks to consider. The Craftsman CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon Vac, for example, may be a bit bulky for smaller spaces. It is recommended for users with larger areas to clean.

The Shop-Vac 9700606 2-Stage Wet Dry Vacuum Motor Head Assembly may be too powerful for lightweight cleaning tasks. It is recommended for heavy-duty use in industrial settings.

The Nortech Vacuum Drum Open Head 55 Gallon does not come with any attachments, which may limit its versatility. It is recommended for users who have specific cleaning needs and do not require additional attachments.

While the Nortech N620 Liquid Drain Valve is designed for 30-Gallon and 55-Gallon Vacuum Units, it may not be suitable for smaller units. It is recommended for users with larger capacity vacuum units.

The Nortech Guardair HEPA Cartridge Filter N635H is designed for specific Pneumatic Drum Vacuums and may not fit other models. It is recommended for users who already own compatible Nortech drum vacuums.

The BEAMNOVA Upgraded Chain Drum Lifter offers a high loading capacity but may not be necessary for smaller drum handling tasks. It is recommended for users who frequently handle larger drums.

The Guardair Pneumatic Vacuum N551BC 55 Gallon Drum Complete Kit comes with a B Venturi Head and 2-inch hose, which may limit its compatibility with other accessories. It is recommended for users who want a complete drum vacuum kit.

Finally, the Vacuum Generating Head, 15 HP, 55gal, 89cfm is a powerful option but may also be overkill for lighter cleaning tasks. It is recommended for users who need maximum vacuuming power for large-scale applications.

Specific Audience Recommendation

Based on the review, the recommended product for individuals in need of a versatile and powerful vacuum is the Craftsman CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vac. This vacuum provides a good balance of size, power, and attachments for effective cleaning in a variety of settings.