WORKSHOP Qwik Lock Filter Wet Dry Vacuum, 16-Gallon

Last updated: May 31, 2023

WORKSHOP Qwik Lock Filter Wet Dry Vacuum, 16-Gallon
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We looked at the top Wet Dry Vacuums and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Wet Dry Vacuum you should buy.

Overall Take

This is a serious wet/dry vac for serious messes. Its extra-wide, flexible hose sucks up everything in sight, and its massive storage capacity makes it perfect for large jobs. It's also compatible with HEPA filters, and the extension nozzles are a snap to switch out.

In our analysis of 57 expert reviews, the WORKSHOP Qwik Lock Filter Wet Dry Vacuum, 16-Gallon placed 12th when we looked at the top 18 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

This no nonsense 16 Gallon wet dry vacuum cleaner has the power, durability and collection capacity to be the jobsite workhorse. Includes: 6. 5 peak HP shop vacuum cleaner, 7-foot locking hose; 2-1/2-inch accessories utility nozzle, car nozzle, wet nozzle, 2 extension wands, WS21200F standard Qwik Lock vacuum filter, owner’s manual. Also compatible with WS22200F Fine Dust Filter and WS23200F HEPA Media Cartridge Filters, and for wet pick-up, the WS24200F Wet Filter. At WORKSHOP, we use real-life wet and dry messes in our testing, and design our vacuums to strike the best balance between airflow and sealed suction. Airflow measures CFM (cubic feet per minute) or volume of air moved, which is important when picking up dry messes. Sealed Suction (inches) measures the raw strength of suction when picking up liquids. The measurement that best captures both aspects of suction is Max Air Watts tested to ASTM standard, and the WS1600VA has among the highest in its class. All the included accessories can store away neatly on the vacuum’s caster feet or lid surface with integrated storage wells. The 20-foot power cord can be wrapped around the vacuum head. Wet spill? No Problem! Wet cleanup is easy with the drainage port at the bottom of the vacuum to empty out any liquids. Plus, the extra-large 16-gallon drum has enough capacity to accommodate large cleaning tasks. This vacuum also includes an integrated blowing port for added versatility. There is nothing more annoying than a hose that constantly pulls loose during use. When a hose detaches, suction is lost and work grinds to a halt. WORKSHOP hoses feature locking adapters that keep the hose securely connected to the Vac during use. The hose design also saves you time by allowing you to quickly attach and detach the hose when desired, instead of twisting and screwing the hose in place like competitive product – just click and go!

Expert Reviews


What experts liked

A flexible hose featuring 2.5-inch diameter not only allows quickly and efficiently sucking up liquids and larger debris but also will enhance the output power and when using a blower feature
Compatable w/various HEPA filters.
Professionals will appreciate the large storage capacity and plethora of attachments that make this vacuum versatile around the shop or worksite.
This vacuum will suck up everything in sight through its 7-foot hose—wet debris, mud, cut board ends, and tile scraps were all pulled up with no problem.
he Dual-Flex hose that can flex 180 degrees on each end of the hose makes getting into small areas easier than with other hoses and should provide better longevity.
It comes with extension nozzles and a Qwik Lock fastening design that makes switching filters quick and easy.

What experts didn't like

The unit operation is a bit noisy
Filter clogs quickly in dusty situations
Large form factor; high price point.
As with most units designed for pure power, this wet/dry vac is a touch loud.

Our Expert Consultant

Vicki Liston 
Home Improvement Expert

Vicki Liston writes, produces, and narrates “On The Fly…DIY,” an award-winning home improvement and DIY show of unique project tutorials for the casual DIY’er.

Home improvement and all things DIY have been Liston’s passion since she bought her first house in 2007 and she started making video blogs in 2014. She’s performed hundreds of DIY projects, from small ones to major, wall-smashing renovations and can teach you how to make a trendy DIY barn door for cheap. The proceeds earned from “On The Fly…DIY” are donated to no-kill animal shelters and rescue organizations.

View our Wet Dry Vacuum buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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