The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 3-in-1 Backpack Vacuum brings superior performance, portability, and versatility to the jobsite cleanup category. A Powerstate brushless motor and cyclonic technology delivers up to 2X more suction than the competition, allowing users to clean up drywall dust, concrete dust, wood/metal shavings, and other common jobsite debris quicker and more efficiently. A quick release removable harness with an integrated canister hook allows users to wear, hang, and carry the product for ultimate cleaning versatility on any jobsite. At only 76dB, the vacuum is up to 3X quieter than a traditional jobsite vacuum, allowing for quiet operation in occupied spaces. As a part of the M18 system of tools, it is powered by a M18 RedLithium High Demand 9.0 battery pack, which delivers up to 25 minutes of run time in high mode, and over 40+ minutes of run time in low mode. For added convenience, the 0885-21HD empties debris at the click of button, reducing downtime when the canister is full and allowing users to get back to the task at hand. Whether you are doing spot, area, or final cleanups, the M18 FUEL 3-in-1 Backpack Vacuum can go anywhere on any jobsite to complete countless cleanup tasks., M18 FUEL 3-in-1 backpack vacuum delivers up to 2X more suction for faster cleanup of drywall dust, concrete dust, wood/metal shavings, and other jobsite debris Wear, hang, and carry for ultimate versatility Vacuum is up to 3X quieter for use in occupied spaces M18 RedLithium High Demand 9.0 battery pack delivers up to 25 minutes of run time in high mode, and over 40+ minutes of run time in low mode Telescoping extension wand provides 25in. to 40in. of reach Produces 55 CFM and 76in. water lift Removable harness with integrated canister hook 76dB sound level 1-gallon capacity OSHA objective data compliance for select silica dust producing applications Clear view easy-to-empty canister Onboard accessory storage Age Group: adult.
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 3-in-1 Backpack Vacuum brings superior performance, portability, and versatility to the jobsite cleanup category. A Powerstate brushless motor and cyclonic technology delivers up to 2X more suction than the competition, allowing users to clean up drywall dust, concrete dust, wood/metal shavings, and other common jobsite debris quicker and more efficiently. A quick release removable harness with an integrated canister hook allows users to wear, hang, and carry the product for ultimate cleaning versatility on any jobsite. At only 76dB, the vacuum is up to 3X quieter than a traditional jobsite vacuum, allowing for quiet operation in occupied spaces. As a part of the M18 system of tools, it is powered by a M18 RedLithium High Demand 9.0 battery pack, which delivers up to 25 minutes of run time in high mode, and over 40+ minutes of run time in low mode. For added convenience, the 0885-21HD empties debris at the click of button, reducing downtime when the canister is full and allowing users to get back to the task at hand. Whether you are doing spot, area, or final cleanups, the M18 FUEL 3-in-1 Backpack Vacuum can go anywhere on any jobsite to complete countless cleanup tasks., M18 FUEL 3-in-1 backpack vacuum delivers up to 2X more suction for faster cleanup of drywall dust, concrete dust, wood/metal shavings, and other jobsite debris Wear, hang, and carry for ultimate versatility Vacuum is up to 3X quieter for use in occupied spaces M18 RedLithium High Demand 9.0 battery pack delivers up to 25 minutes of run time in high mode, and over 40+ minutes of run time in low mode Telescoping extension wand provides 25in. to 40in. of reach Produces 55 CFM and 76in. water lift Removable harness with integrated canister hook 76dB sound level 1-gallon capacity OSHA objective data compliance for select silica dust producing applications Clear view easy-to-empty canister Onboard accessory storage Age Group: adult.
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 3-in-1 Backpack Vacuum brings superior performance, portability, and versatility to the jobsite cleanup category. A Powerstate brushless motor and cyclonic technology delivers up to 2X more suction than the competition, allowing users to clean up drywall dust, concrete dust, wood/metal shavings, and other common jobsite debris quicker and more efficiently. A quick release removable harness with an integrated canister hook allows users to wear, hang, and carry the product for ultimate cleaning versatility on any jobsite. At only 76dB, the vacuum is up to 3X quieter than a traditional jobsite vacuum, allowing for quiet operation in occupied spaces. As a part of the M18 system of tools, it is powered by a M18 RedLithium High Demand 9.0 battery pack, which delivers up to 25 minutes of run time in high mode, and over 40+ minutes of run time in low mode. For added convenience, the 0885-21HD empties debris at the click of button, reducing downtime when the canister is full and allowing users to get back to the task at hand. Whether you are doing spot, area, or final cleanups, the M18 FUEL 3-in-1 Backpack Vacuum can go anywhere on any jobsite to complete countless cleanup tasks., M18 FUEL 3-in-1 backpack vacuum delivers up to 2X more suction for faster cleanup of drywall dust, concrete dust, wood/metal shavings, and other jobsite debris Wear, hang, and carry for ultimate versatility Vacuum is up to 3X quieter for use in occupied spaces M18 RedLithium High Demand 9.0 battery pack delivers up to 25 minutes of run time in high mode, and over 40+ minutes of run time in low mode Telescoping extension wand provides 25in. to 40in. of reach Produces 55 CFM and 76in. water lift Removable harness with integrated canister hook 76dB sound level 1-gallon capacity OSHA objective data compliance for select silica dust producing applications Clear view easy-to-empty canister Onboard accessory storage Age Group: adult.
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 3-in-1 Backpack Vacuum brings superior performance, portability, and versatility to the jobsite cleanup category. A Powerstate brushless motor and cyclonic technology delivers up to 2X more suction than the competition, allowing users to clean up drywall dust, concrete dust, wood/metal shavings, and other common jobsite debris quicker and more efficiently. A quick release removable harness with an integrated canister hook allows users to wear, hang, and carry the product for ultimate cleaning versatility on any jobsite. At only 76dB, the vacuum is up to 3X quieter than a traditional jobsite vacuum, allowing for quiet operation in occupied spaces. As a part of the M18 system of tools, it is powered by a M18 RedLithium High Demand 9.0 battery pack, which delivers up to 25 minutes of run time in high mode, and over 40+ minutes of run time in low mode. For added convenience, the 0885-21HD empties debris at the click of button, reducing downtime when the canister is full and allowing users to get back to the task at hand. Whether you are doing spot, area, or final cleanups, the M18 FUEL 3-in-1 Backpack Vacuum can go anywhere on any jobsite to complete countless cleanup tasks., M18 FUEL 3-in-1 backpack vacuum delivers up to 2X more suction for faster cleanup of drywall dust, concrete dust, wood/metal shavings, and other jobsite debris Wear, hang, and carry for ultimate versatility Vacuum is up to 3X quieter for use in occupied spaces M18 RedLithium High Demand 9.0 battery pack delivers up to 25 minutes of run time in high mode, and over 40+ minutes of run time in low mode Telescoping extension wand provides 25in. to 40in. of reach Produces 55 CFM and 76in. water lift Removable harness with integrated canister hook 76dB sound level 1-gallon capacity OSHA objective data compliance for select silica dust producing applications Clear view easy-to-empty canister Onboard accessory storage Age Group: adult.
Last updated at 06/08/2026 14:00:55
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 3-in-1 Lightweight Backpack, Red Black
Free delivery between 17–19 June
Backpack Vacuum Cordless 18V 1 gal.
Next-day delivery $212.25
originally posted on homeessentialsdirect.com
Absolutely love this vac! Not big and clunky like the other vac Ive used over the years. Its not meant for sucking up drywall and big stuff but at the end of the day clean up it is perfect. Plenty of suction battery life depends on the battery you use for me Im using Dewalts flexvolts and they power it plenty long for what I need. Dumping the debris is simple and what youd expect.. wearing the vac can be a little snug depending on what your wearing at the time Im 510 220 and it will fit me with a thick sweatshirt on. If I had any negatives it would be I wish they included a different attachment besides the ones they do. Id like to have a small upholstery attachment for car interior Other than that Im very pleased with the purchase
originally posted on milwaukeetool.com
I've had starts with r ends in i battery and several starts with an R ends with d corded shop vacs including there stainless steel top of the line one. My mom had the great white (no brand names allowed) stick battery. All of which have burned out motors or upon having them fixed under warranty absolutely sucked. This vacuum not only lasts with my 6.0 batteries but is amazing. The attachments are awesome and the performance along with the versatility is impeccable. I only wish there was more on board storage for accessories and that you could change battery/empty canister without having to unsteady the backpack no big deal. I've used it on my garage extremely uneven, pitted, and cracked concrete slab. It's picked up glass, screws, dust that I could never get put of ... MoreI've had starts with r ends in i battery and several starts with an R ends with d corded shop vacs including there stainless steel top of the line one. My mom had the great white (no brand names allowed) stick battery. All of which have burned out motors or upon having them fixed under warranty absolutely sucked. This vacuum not only lasts with my 6.0 batteries but is amazing. The attachments are awesome and the performance along with the versatility is impeccable. I only wish there was more on board storage for accessories and that you could change battery/empty canister without having to unsteady the backpack no big deal. I've used it on my garage extremely uneven, pitted, and cracked concrete slab. It's picked up glass, screws, dust that I could never get put of the cracks without using an air compressor. I highly recommend this vacuum. I will have to see how the motor lasts. Get atleast 2 6. Ah high output batteries and a rapid charger. You can easily do a single bay garage or room with 1 and still have juice. I have the double rapid charger and several other batteries. Curious how the 8 ah and 12 ah perform. Also if you need to convince your wife, of the expense, just show her the extension wand and how the attachments pivot and she'll be sold. Also highly recommend the airtip attachments from milwaukee as they have a magnet that stops metal from being sucked up among several extremely useful attachments. After buying vacuum I went back and spent $150 just on airtips. Wished they sold kits that had more of a variety, instead of buying certain ones individually.
originally posted on milwaukeetool.com
Tired of dragging a shop vac around your job site and banging up your newly finished work? This vacuum is the solution. I love that you can throw this on your back and not have to worry about the power cable or the casters of a floor unit meandering wherever they please. It makes clean up at the end of the day a breeze. It has a low and high power level. I use the low power to clean up over flooring protection, so it doesn't suck it off the floor and the high setting for everything else. It is very quiet and light weight. It's really a dream come true.However, the dust collection system begins clogging the filter as soon as you start vacuuming. You cannot fill the debris canister before suction is nearly non-existent. Huge bummer. I love the M18 system and have ... MoreTired of dragging a shop vac around your job site and banging up your newly finished work? This vacuum is the solution. I love that you can throw this on your back and not have to worry about the power cable or the casters of a floor unit meandering wherever they please. It makes clean up at the end of the day a breeze. It has a low and high power level. I use the low power to clean up over flooring protection, so it doesn't suck it off the floor and the high setting for everything else. It is very quiet and light weight. It's really a dream come true.However, the dust collection system begins clogging the filter as soon as you start vacuuming. You cannot fill the debris canister before suction is nearly non-existent. Huge bummer. I love the M18 system and have made the move to cordless, but I still have to carry around my compressor to blow out the filter of this vacuum. If Milwaukee could fix this clogging problem with a redesign of their canister or offer dust collection bag this would be the perfect vacuum.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 3-in-1 Lightweight Backpack, Red Black
Free delivery between 17–19 June
Backpack Vacuum Cordless 18V 1 gal.
Next-day delivery $212.25
Absolutely love this vac! Not big and clunky like the other vac Ive used over the years. Its not meant for sucking up drywall and big stuff but at the end of the day clean up it is perfect. Plenty of suction battery life depends on the battery you use for me Im using Dewalts flexvolts and they power it plenty long for what I need. Dumping the debris is simple and what youd expect.. wearing the vac can be a little snug depending on what your wearing at the time Im 510 220 and it will fit me with a thick sweatshirt on. If I had any negatives it would be I wish they included a different attachment besides the ones they do. Id like to have a small upholstery attachment for car interior Other than that Im very pleased with the purchase
I've had starts with r ends in i battery and several starts with an R ends with d corded shop vacs including there stainless steel top of the line one. My mom had the great white (no brand names allowed) stick battery. All of which have burned out motors or upon having them fixed under warranty absolutely sucked. This vacuum not only lasts with my 6.0 batteries but is amazing. The attachments are awesome and the performance along with the versatility is impeccable. I only wish there was more on board storage for accessories and that you could change battery/empty canister without having to unsteady the backpack no big deal. I've used it on my garage extremely uneven, pitted, and cracked concrete slab. It's picked up glass, screws, dust that I could never get put of ... MoreI've had starts with r ends in i battery and several starts with an R ends with d corded shop vacs including there stainless steel top of the line one. My mom had the great white (no brand names allowed) stick battery. All of which have burned out motors or upon having them fixed under warranty absolutely sucked. This vacuum not only lasts with my 6.0 batteries but is amazing. The attachments are awesome and the performance along with the versatility is impeccable. I only wish there was more on board storage for accessories and that you could change battery/empty canister without having to unsteady the backpack no big deal. I've used it on my garage extremely uneven, pitted, and cracked concrete slab. It's picked up glass, screws, dust that I could never get put of the cracks without using an air compressor. I highly recommend this vacuum. I will have to see how the motor lasts. Get atleast 2 6. Ah high output batteries and a rapid charger. You can easily do a single bay garage or room with 1 and still have juice. I have the double rapid charger and several other batteries. Curious how the 8 ah and 12 ah perform. Also if you need to convince your wife, of the expense, just show her the extension wand and how the attachments pivot and she'll be sold. Also highly recommend the airtip attachments from milwaukee as they have a magnet that stops metal from being sucked up among several extremely useful attachments. After buying vacuum I went back and spent $150 just on airtips. Wished they sold kits that had more of a variety, instead of buying certain ones individually.
Tired of dragging a shop vac around your job site and banging up your newly finished work? This vacuum is the solution. I love that you can throw this on your back and not have to worry about the power cable or the casters of a floor unit meandering wherever they please. It makes clean up at the end of the day a breeze. It has a low and high power level. I use the low power to clean up over flooring protection, so it doesn't suck it off the floor and the high setting for everything else. It is very quiet and light weight. It's really a dream come true.However, the dust collection system begins clogging the filter as soon as you start vacuuming. You cannot fill the debris canister before suction is nearly non-existent. Huge bummer. I love the M18 system and have ... MoreTired of dragging a shop vac around your job site and banging up your newly finished work? This vacuum is the solution. I love that you can throw this on your back and not have to worry about the power cable or the casters of a floor unit meandering wherever they please. It makes clean up at the end of the day a breeze. It has a low and high power level. I use the low power to clean up over flooring protection, so it doesn't suck it off the floor and the high setting for everything else. It is very quiet and light weight. It's really a dream come true.However, the dust collection system begins clogging the filter as soon as you start vacuuming. You cannot fill the debris canister before suction is nearly non-existent. Huge bummer. I love the M18 system and have made the move to cordless, but I still have to carry around my compressor to blow out the filter of this vacuum. If Milwaukee could fix this clogging problem with a redesign of their canister or offer dust collection bag this would be the perfect vacuum.
I have been using this vacuum in the shop for a few months now, and overall I do love it, as I find it more practical than a normal rolling shop vac, no tripping over cords or pulling it around, and man is it quiet!! With a 12.0 battery it last long enough on high to clean the entire garage. The floor tool is awesome, and love that when its laid sideways it maintains contact/suction with the floor and thus allows you to get well under things like table or cars if you take a knee. overall I would buy it again BUT....I really wish there were a few improvements, one that to me seem common sense. First is a BRUSH ATTACHMENT PLEASE! how that could be overlooked is beyond me, but it seems that nothing is made to attach to this style of hose, and of course the hose size ... MoreI have been using this vacuum in the shop for a few months now, and overall I do love it, as I find it more practical than a normal rolling shop vac, no tripping over cords or pulling it around, and man is it quiet!! With a 12.0 battery it last long enough on high to clean the entire garage. The floor tool is awesome, and love that when its laid sideways it maintains contact/suction with the floor and thus allows you to get well under things like table or cars if you take a knee. overall I would buy it again BUT....I really wish there were a few improvements, one that to me seem common sense. First is a BRUSH ATTACHMENT PLEASE! how that could be overlooked is beyond me, but it seems that nothing is made to attach to this style of hose, and of course the hose size is weird and nonexistent outside of this product. I found one close on Amazon and using a generic adapter that I had to modify a bit, I know have a brush that I can force onto the hose and it will stay on, for the most part... Next is I think the 9ft hose should be standard, the 6ft is just too short, and if you set the vac down and are using it you run out if length really quick, and even with the 12.0 battery weight it still tips over when you hit that limit. Seriously the BRUSH!! I would trade the crevice tool and the dust collector attachment for 1 brush! ok moving on, i don't particularly care for the power switch, the location is great for when you wear it, but quite lousy for any other means of operation, always struggling to find it without seeing it, and the 2 speed function is not preferable as I NEVER use the low speed, and its too easy to switch it from high to low when trying to switch it off. Have done it a few times while around loud equipment and since its so quiet I had no idea it was on until I went to use it next and found the battery dead! I think my last gripe would be the filter, as it comes with very little info on how to determine when it is time for a new one, and the few emails I have sent to Milwaukee about the filter and brush have went unanswered! I love the HEPA filtration as it keeps the dust down making clean up better. The issue I have is that it seems to not take much fine dust to plug it, at which point it seems that vacuum finds its way around the seals and back out, no longer providing HEPA filtration. I believe this is what is happening as after a dozen or two uses, I start to notice the air in the shop seems dusty while using it(and this is of course emptying the bin and knocking out the dust from the filter, after which I also clean the sealing surfaces of dust) and the vacuum canister will have a layer of dust statically clinging to the outside. I replaced the filter with a new one (kinda $$) and the issue went away,....for another few dozen cleanings, and then came back. I am now on my 3rd filter in roughly 3 months of owning/frequent use. I don't see why a pre-filter wasn't added(and i intend to try making my own) as the inside of the canister under the HEPA filter seems like an ideal location to have had a cylindrical pre-filter-which would save the HEPA some life as they are a bit pricey to replace monthly. I also may add a thin shim under the HEPA to try and make the sealing surface contact better so the dust can't find its way around, figure I shouldn't have to worry much about working the battery/motor too hard since the FUEL/Red Lithium combo is supposed to be able to detect those issues and cut power?!Anyway, I would still buy it again, the price was a bit to work past, but after getting it I couldn't go back to any other vacuum for general small debris/dust pickup. Just wish I had a BRUSH and a pre-filter, and the 9ft hose standard!(It definitely is better with the extra reach)
BLUF: I would recommend the vacuum (right now,) but with major and minor reservations. While I'm still hopeful that it will do what I need it to, as it _should_, I've also saved all of the packaging along with the receipt in case I decide to return it to the store for a refund.This vacuum is _not_ a total replacement for an actual shop vacuum. However, with some improvements, it _can_be_ a great dry-only cordless vacuum for places where you would have trouble getting a conventional shop vacuum easily, or at all. As a dust collector, it would make the most sense for hand-held tools used in multiple locations, such as a large drill or sander, or if you are making a _lot_ of cuts with a circular saw in a lot of different locations, or you and the dust-making tool ... MoreBLUF: I would recommend the vacuum (right now,) but with major and minor reservations. While I'm still hopeful that it will do what I need it to, as it _should_, I've also saved all of the packaging along with the receipt in case I decide to return it to the store for a refund.This vacuum is _not_ a total replacement for an actual shop vacuum. However, with some improvements, it _can_be_ a great dry-only cordless vacuum for places where you would have trouble getting a conventional shop vacuum easily, or at all. As a dust collector, it would make the most sense for hand-held tools used in multiple locations, such as a large drill or sander, or if you are making a _lot_ of cuts with a circular saw in a lot of different locations, or you and the dust-making tool you're using are up on a ladder.. If the tool generating the dust is stationary, there are other Milwaukee vacuums that will do a better job with far less hassle than this one.Overall, this is not a horrible product. But, "the devil is in the details," and most of those devils are in the Dyson-Style Tank Assembly, part no. 14-36-0035. The "shelf" below the HEPA Filter, part no. 49-90-1963, has almost no slope at all. This means that dirt that you _could_ tap out of the HEPA filter with the vacuum shut off but not disassembled sits on that shelf, less than a half-inch from blocking the filter _again_ instead of falling to the bottom of the cup, perhaps to stay there until the cup is emptied. This problem is unique to this vacuum, compared with other Milwaukee HEPA Filter equipped vacuums, even with those other vacuums having only slightly higher filter area. With them, even running bagless, their HEPA Filters don't have a shelf or shield holding the dust in to the filter, thus their filters need far less frequent attention.Tank Assembly 14-36-0035 needs to be revised to include a slope of at least thirty degrees conicity instead of the current slope of roughly ten degrees, and this shelf needs to be at least one inch away from the filter at its closest point. This "revised" tank should be made in such a manner as to be installable in place of 14-36-0035. This change should allow most of the dust to drop to the bottom of the center column and be emptiable, rather than being held up against the filter to re-foul it the moment the vacuum is turned on again.I bought this vacuum for "quick-site-cleanup," "spot cleanup," and "Last Day Cleanup." All three of these tasks require a vacuum to be very quick to set up, easy to maneuver, and dead-on reliable for more than fifteen minutes at a time. The vacuum gets an easy win on the first trait, and wins on the second. Because of the Tank Assembly's problems, I'm not sure that this vacuum will "win" on the last point, which is _not_ a good thing for a (average price) $300 vacuum..I tested it with three "charges" of batteries; a 6.0, a 3.0. and a 5.0. I will not comment about run-time with these "undersized" batteries, other than to say that any cordless vacuum cleaner is the ultimate "battery-eater," and you will need at least two of the 8.0ah batteries rather than just the one that ships with the "full kit," along with the dual bay rapid charger instead of the full kit's single bay one to keep this vacuum from eating your time even faster than it eats dust and debris. The 12.0 or bigger battery will allow for fewer battery changes. The motor spun at full speed until "dropping" in each case when the battery hit one bar, so the Redlink system seems to do the job. But, the Tank Assembly is a far bigger issue than battery life with this vacuum. You can change the battery in ten seconds or so if you have a fresh battery to pop in.The vacuum would start out at full suction, which is actually fairly good. The vacuum seems to hold full or near full suction even as the HEPA filter starts to clog. However, the suction did eventually and predictably drop, since the HEPA filter actually _is_ a HEPA Filter and stops almost everything. The HEPA Filter isn't able to "drop" much of its blockage (at least in a meaningful way) when the vacuum is shut off and tapped, or when the bottom of the Tank Assembly is hinged open to empty, due in no small part to that nearly flat shelf that is right next to the HEPA Filter.So, you either have to keep your compressor handy (not so easy or desirable on the last day of the job,) or have _another_ vacuum such as the M18 Fuel Packout Vacuum with fleece bag and HEPA filter to get the backpack's HEPA filter back to where it will cooperate with you, rather than just emptying the cup."Just emptying the cup" takes about a minute from switching the vacuum off to switching it back on as a backpack vacuum on your back, including wiping off the seals with a microfiber cloth. But if you have to mess with the HEPA filter, that takes at _least_ three minutes if you are already set up with a second vacuum to do so. And with the HEPA Filter unable to shed any of its trapped dust without serious help, that means you're messing with that cup far more often than you would like. If you're using compressed air to clean the Tank Assembly and HEPA Filter, you're taking at least _five_ minutes and doing all of that _outside_ to avoid trashing the area you're trying to clean. If you had all those extra slices of five minutes, wouldn't you just haul out the bigger less expensive vacuum?I tested the vacuum in my house, vacuuming five rooms of living spaces, and part of my material storage area where I have some drywall stored waiting on me to do some remodeling at my own home. I also pitched a small assortment of wire nuts and drywall screws on the floor. The vacuum happily ate the wire nuts, and barely needed any coaxing for the drywall screws while making the drywall dust vanish completely and instantly. So, suction power is not an issue per se.The Tank Assembly design protected the HEPA Filter from any medium to larger debris. However, as I mentioned, the HEPA Filter did its job, and emptying the cup wasn't just emptying the cup once again because of that flat shelf trapping the lint and fine dust to return it to the vacuum unless dealt with, taking more time to empty the cup, and only _moving_ the mess instead of _re_moving it.The HEPA Filter itself, part no. 49-90-1963, is a good filter and should last for a reasonable time with proper care. However, it is only "bulletproof" for a given value of "bullet," and you can't use the vacuum without it. The replacements average $28-$30 each, and aren't normally "on the shelf," even where the vacuum itself is sold. So, you'll want to order a two-pack to have on hand.The Tank Assembly is the most glaring problem with this vacuum, especially seeing that it's a Dyson-Style bagless vacuum. However, it's not the only "inconvenient feature." The "standard" six-foot (extended) hose also causes trouble, especially for left-handed users, or in places where you would otherwise rather use your left hand to control the hose. The "self-shortening" hose is a good idea, but the spring for doing this is _too_ good, at least when new. So, you will want to buy the optional nine foot hose unless you like constantly fighting the vacuum hose. The vacuum also uses a non-standard nozzle size, so standard tools won't fit unless you make an adapter to accept them. The floor tool, part no. 31-01-0315 is "good enough" on hard surfaces with the HEPA Filter freshly cleaned. However, it is only good enough, and there is no brush tool, so you'll want to make that adapter to use standard tools.The ladder hook and detachable backpack frame are well-made, good, and easily used. The pack straps and belt strap can be removed for cleaning if needed. In fact, the battery-powered backpack mode is a big part of why I bought this vacuum. No cord snaking behind you, all the tools at hand, put it on your back in less than ten seconds and you're ready to clean. The on-vacuum tool storage is adequate.Even with the problems the Tank Unit has, this vacuum _should_ be able to do a "Last Day" cleanup easily, and should also be reasonably good at cleaning the jobsite (read part of the customer's _home_) at the end of the workday without the bother of a more conventional, bulkier, and much less maneuverable corded shop vacuum, provided you pick up the heavier trash as you work. I still have my hopes, but thanks to the Tank Assembly I still have my doubts.The single power switch is easily manipulated, and "off" is easy to find if you pay attention. While having a second power switch on top of the unit would be nice when hanging the vacuum on a ladder or rafter as a dust collector or vacuuming the space over a suspended ceiling, redesigning the Tank Assembly is a far more needful investment in engineering dollars. At least one other reviewer has mounted small casters on the bottom of their vacuum for even greater convenience, though the vacuum is top-heavy enough that I would be careful using it like that.I read the other reviews before buying this vacuum. With the vacuum now in hand, I still have high hopes. And, I did (reluctantly) click the "yes" button when writing this long review. But I also saved the receipt and all of the packaging, as well as paying in cash to have the least amount of "hassles" should I decide to return it. The store where I bought it has enough other stuff I need or want that if the refund is in "store credit," I won't complain.
I purchased this vacuum for indoor house work. I have a floor vac already. I wanted the Milwaukee so I could vacuum dust off window sills and clean in the crevices of my doors and windows, as well as my ceiling fans and more without being attached to a cord. I am unable to use this vacuum for that however, because it is missing the appropriate attachment. The attachment I would use for this would be a small brush (see photo). This attachment is a very necessary tool, and most vacuums come with it. Until Milwaukee makes such an item, I am afraid I will need to continue to use my corded vacuum. SO, unfortunately, I have given only 2 stars because I hardly ever use it. If you do make a compatible brush attachment, can you lead me to the place I can order one please? ... MoreI purchased this vacuum for indoor house work. I have a floor vac already. I wanted the Milwaukee so I could vacuum dust off window sills and clean in the crevices of my doors and windows, as well as my ceiling fans and more without being attached to a cord. I am unable to use this vacuum for that however, because it is missing the appropriate attachment. The attachment I would use for this would be a small brush (see photo). This attachment is a very necessary tool, and most vacuums come with it. Until Milwaukee makes such an item, I am afraid I will need to continue to use my corded vacuum. SO, unfortunately, I have given only 2 stars because I hardly ever use it. If you do make a compatible brush attachment, can you lead me to the place I can order one please? Then I would freely give 5 stars!! And as far as recommending this vacuum, if you do not need a brush, then it is a wonderful product!
This product unfortunately does not stand up to other Milwaukee tools. Next to no suction. The head attachment tools do not provide a good clean. Lots of dust and sawdust left behind. Always has to be used on high or it does not suck anything up. On high the battery only last 12ish minutes. The vacuum needs more power and better battery life. The hose and handle is placed on the right hand side of the vacuum canister therefor making it extremely difficult for a left handed person. There needs to be better attachments such as a brush head. The back pack option is nice and it is quiet but would not recommend for the cost. If you are looking at picking up any dust, fine particle or saw dust, this vacuum won’t work for you.
I use this product just to clean up light dust around the shop. Soon after buying the want broke and being the skilled tradesmen that I am, I wrapped electrical tape around it to keep it from retracting while trying to use. Now the motor fried. It come one for a second and cuts out and nothing. This is a highly overpriced POJ. I am a Milwaukee guy through and through, all my tools are Milwaukee even my tape measures and markers. This vacuum however is junk! It is a headache to bring in on warrantee. So it is pretty much a loss.
I've been a commercial studio photographer for over 30 years, and between product, people, and load-in/load-out for location photography, keeping it clean has always been a drag. I've used small canister vacs for years, and while they're affordable and fairly flexible and effective, they're super loud, very bulky, and it's still a real pain to clean anything, frankly.Taking all the weight and bulk, putting it on our backs, and then cutting the cord with a battery is about the most liberating thing that's ever happened to me. I mean it's practically a joy to clean now. I can even climb ladders to reach the 20' ceilings to vacuum with this setup! That's next to impossible with a typical shop vac – even with two people.The one thing I was flabbergasted about though ... MoreI've been a commercial studio photographer for over 30 years, and between product, people, and load-in/load-out for location photography, keeping it clean has always been a drag. I've used small canister vacs for years, and while they're affordable and fairly flexible and effective, they're super loud, very bulky, and it's still a real pain to clean anything, frankly.Taking all the weight and bulk, putting it on our backs, and then cutting the cord with a battery is about the most liberating thing that's ever happened to me. I mean it's practically a joy to clean now. I can even climb ladders to reach the 20' ceilings to vacuum with this setup! That's next to impossible with a typical shop vac – even with two people.The one thing I was flabbergasted about though is the lack of a dust brush. It's seems like such an obvious and essential attachment, that I cannot believe Milwaukee didn't include one, or even offer one that fits. Since this vacuum doesn't accept the typical 1.25" nor 2.5" vacuum attachments, I had to hunt high and low to find something that would work. After about a week of trial and error, I finally found a competitor's attachments fit perfectly, and they were available at Home Depot too, and a dust brush was just $7.99!
I absolutely love this vacuum, even though it was ridiculously expensive, especially the batteries because it is running the electric motor they whole time instead of intermittently like typical battery powered tools, the battery dies in about 15 minutes (I have the high output XC 8.0 battery) at Home Depot this battery cost $229! Yikes!Great suction well-built. I spent $550 on a piece of crap Dyson vacuum this is a significantly better design more rugged plastic I can fit all the staircases in my house in one charge.My house is from the 1880s and has a severe lacking of outlets. I have vacuumed the cobwebs in the corners of my basement for the first time in 20 years. Take home message…I’m glad I bought it.Bill in Orono
