When you think of vacuums there are a few manufacturers that always comes to mind. For both homeowners and professionals alike, Ridgid is on top of the game. Known for their incredible suction, long life, and a great value, Ridgid is one of the top names in the vacuum world. This model takes a spin on their classic vacuums and puts the motor on the bottom of the unit instead of being housed in the lid, does it work? Let’s take a look in the Ridgid 1650RV Vacuum Review.
Ridgid 1650RV Vacuum Review Overview
Ridgid has been making shop vacuums for a long time, and with a slew of options from compact, cordless, to wet/dry to HEPA vacuums and beyond. There is a lot to choose on based on what you need so if one thing is for sure, you will always find what you need with Ridgid.
So, why put the motor on the bottom? Well, this has a few benefits. If you’ve ever struggled to get a heavy motor off when emptying a vacuum only to have dust and debris fly everywhere you know dangerous dust and chemicals can be released into the air. This design has its drawbacks, but for the right user, it is a very interesting option that can provide a lot of benefits.
Ridgid 1650RV Vacuum Review Features
Ridgid packs a powerful 6.5 HP motor in this vacuum, Model 1650RV, for even better suction of wet and dry materials.
The heavy-duty drum construction provides extra protection and durability. Coupled with Ridgid’s warranty, you’re double protected. The unique design of this vacuum starts in the location of the motor. Instead of having a top motor, this one has the motor on the bottom, providing easier access for emptying and filter maintenance.
A fine dust filter is included for optimal dust removal and uses a Quick Lock Fastening System for simple installation and removal without additional tools.
The foot pedal on/off button allows for simple hands-free controls. As well, the lever above locks the drum in place for security.
Ridgid uses advanced sound reduction technology in their design for quieter operation and includes a sound muffler that can be attached for even less noise.
Ridgid included large rear wheels and front casters provide easy transport and use.
The durable handle provides simple grasp and solid maneuverability.
A Quick Access Door allows adding larger debris simple by a top access door.
Ridgid built in a large drain that is located on the very bottom of the drum providing more complete draining.
You have the option of also using this vacuum as a blower with a quick switch between outlets with the Qwik-lock hose.
The 8-foot locking hose allows secure attachment to the vacuum and also features a smooth interior for reduced clogging potential.
A cord hook is included to store the 20-foot power cord with an ALCI outlet.
An accessory caddy allows for easy storage of the included accessories.
Attachments include- a utility nozzle, a wet nozzle, a crevice tool, car nozzle, and a noise muffler.
Ridgid 1650RV Vacuum Review Performance
I genuinely loved this vacuum. When I requested to review this vacuum I did so because curiosity of the bottom motor won out. Is it perfect? Not quite, but its still pretty darn impressive.
Emptying vacuums like these are tough, no matter where the motor is located it is awkward and messy, which make even the best vacuums on the market a little tedious. With this Ridgid, you are able to remove the canister from the motor which means less weight when trying to empty the canister. While the handle can still be a little awkward when emptying, it much easier than trying to empty with the motor in place. The separation from the motor and the canister is a great convenience.
In the end, though, the solution is available in bags. Available separately, vacuum bags eliminate all the frustration I had on this front. For a long time, I opted to not use vacuum bags in my shop and to be honest, I am not sure why. No matter where the motor lies they provide a convenient option to empty a large capacity vacuum without all the mess.
I loved the top handle design as well, and while the wheels held some slight negatives in emptying the vacuum I felt they were comfortable and easy to pull around the shop and provided less sticking when going over small items like cords that commonly cause issues for most vacuum wheels. I love the bottom on/off switch which makes turning it on and off a hands-free operation.
The suction is amazing, nothing stood in its way in terms of pick up. Fine dust, small debris and the like all cleaned up easy. The hoses smooth interior did seem to prevent clogging and keep the hose cleaner, something all users will value. The attachments add a lot of functionality that I appreciated a lot. My favorite was definitely the floor tool. For all the vacuums I have reviewed and used, this one attachment had a rubber edge that allowed incredible pick up of fine dust particles. I have seen this feature before, but it performed better than others have in my experience.
Ridgid 1650RV Vacuum Review Value
This vacuum is priced competitively for a unit of its power. Running just under 200 dollars on Amazon, this vacuum is well worth its price. While it is slightly more expensive than traditionally designed models from Ridgid, it does have a longer lasting motor that is designed for more industrial applications. The price point is still less than comparable models from other brands. This vacuum has incredible power, suction and unique features some users will see a lot of value in.
Ridgid 1650 RV Vacuum Review Final Thoughts
The Ridgid Bottom Motor Vacuum is an excellent option for a wide range of users. While this vacuum leans more towards what a professional will require, for a heavy user, homeowners will like the performance and features as well. Quieter than most, excellent accessories and easy to maneuver wheel design all stand out as exceptional features. Ridgid has always been known for their well-performing vacuums, and this one is no exception to that reputation.
