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Shop-Vac 5989400 Review | 43 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£400
  • Suction pressure: 14.4 kPa
  • Capacity: 8 L
  • Power: ?
  • Noise level: ?
  • Weight: 8.85 kg

Shop-Vac 5989400 review. Compare 43 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category and whether it is worth buying.

6.9

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category, based on technical analysis and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference for identifying the best products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category.

Score components:

80.0%

6.5

Technical Score

20.0%

8.4

User score

Good
6.5

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of technical performance for products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category across these key areas: Performance, Battery, Design & Mobility, Filter & Accessories.

When it matters: When you want to compare products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category by technical performance, specifications, and available features.

Score components:

40.0%

6.0

Performance

22.0%

6.3

Design & Mobility

20.0%

7.5

Filter & Accessories

18.0%

6.5

Battery

Good
8.4

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews with the total review volume for products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category.

When it matters: When you want to know how products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category perform in everyday use and how reliable owners find them over time.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

7.5

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(282)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(288)

(Reviews last updated: August 2026)

Excellent
  • 4.9
    Car cleaning

    Score components:

    30.0%

    4.0

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.0

    Cordless

    25.0%

    4.5

    Suction pressure

    20.0%

    ?

    Noise level

  • 5.1
    Workshop & garage

    Score components:

    30.0%

    ?

    Rated motor power

    25.0%

    3.3

    Capacity

    25.0%

    4.0

    Power tool socket

    20.0%

    4.5

    Suction pressure

  • 5.2
    Professional use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    ?

    Rated motor power

    30.0%

    4.5

    Suction pressure

    25.0%

    3.3

    Capacity

    15.0%

    4.0

    Weight

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Shop-Vac 5989400 is an 8-gallon heavy-duty wet-dry vacuum powered by a robust 6.0 peak horsepower motor, delivering 75 CFM of airflow and 54 inches of sealed pressure at 120V. Its core characteristics include a durable stainless steel tank with an integrated liquid drain, a 3-in-1 multi-function design that supports wet/dry suction alongside a 145 CFM rear blower port, and a total cleaning reach of over 19 feet provided by a 12-foot power cord and a 7-foot by 1.25-inch secure-fit hose. Main advantages are its strong suction capability across multiple surfaces, a secure on-board tool holder, and highly mobile smooth-rolling casters with convenient top and side carry handles. However, notable drawbacks include a relatively thin, small-diameter hose that can occasionally clog, a short electrical cord, and a tendency for the accessory storage base to fit loosely or have attachments fall out.

Technical Specifications of wet-dry vacuum Shop-Vac 5989400

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of technical performance for products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category across these key areas: Performance, Battery, Design & Mobility, Filter & Accessories.

When it matters: When you want to compare products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category by technical performance, specifications, and available features.

Score components:

40.0%

6.0

Performance

22.0%

6.3

Design & Mobility

20.0%

7.5

Filter & Accessories

18.0%

6.5

Battery

6.5
Shop-Vac 5989400 has a technical score of 6.46 points, which is lower than 79.2% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews with the total review volume for products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category.

When it matters: When you want to know how products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category perform in everyday use and how reliable owners find them over time.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

7.5

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(282)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(288)

(Reviews last updated: August 2026)

8.4
Shop-Vac 5989400 has a user score of 8.42 points, which is higher than 61.9% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category.
When it matters: When you prefer products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category that have been chosen and reviewed by many other buyers.
7.5
Shop-Vac 5989400 has a popularity of 7.5 points, which is higher than 57.4% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the overall score of products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category with their prices.

When it matters: When you are comparing products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category and want a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.9

Overall score

40.0%

8.4

Price

7.3
Shop-Vac 5989400 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.3 points, which is lower than 86.6% of products in this category.
Power
What it is: The rated electrical input of the vacuum motor.
When it matters: Higher power can help sustain demanding wet and dry cleaning, although suction design also matters.

Importance: HIGH

?
Variable power
What it is: Whether the vacuum lets you adjust motor or suction power.
When it matters: Power adjustment helps match suction to delicate surfaces, heavy debris, and power-tool use.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Shop-Vac 5989400 has fixed suction power. 34.2% of wet-dry vacuums have adjustable suction power.
Capacity
What it is: The amount of liquid or debris the collection tank can hold.
When it matters: A larger tank reduces emptying interruptions during big spills and workshop cleanup.

Importance: HIGH

8 L
Shop-Vac 5989400 has capacity of 8 L, which is worse than 64.2% of wet-dry vacuums and equal to 1.5% of wet-dry vacuums.
Noise level
What it is: The sound level produced while the vacuum is running.
When it matters: Lower noise is useful for longer cleaning sessions and work in occupied spaces.

Importance: HIGH

?
Suction pressure
What it is: The maximum pressure difference the vacuum can generate for suction.
When it matters: Higher suction pressure helps lift dense debris and extract liquid from difficult areas.

Importance: HIGH

14.4 kPa
Shop-Vac 5989400 has suction pressure of 14.4 kPa, which is worse than 83.2% of wet-dry vacuums and equal to 1.1% of wet-dry vacuums.
Show more
Cordless
What it is: Whether the vacuum can run without a mains power cable.
When it matters: Cordless operation improves mobility in cars, stairs, and areas without a nearby outlet.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Shop-Vac 5989400 requires a power cord. 29.6% of wet-dry vacuums support cordless operation.
Battery type
What it is: The battery chemistry used by a cordless vacuum.
When it matters: Battery chemistry affects weight, charging behavior, lifespan, and replacement options.

Importance: LOW

?
Battery runtime
What it is: How long the cordless vacuum can operate on one charge.
When it matters: Longer runtime lets you finish larger jobs without stopping to recharge.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Charging time
What it is: The time required to recharge the battery.
When it matters: Faster charging reduces downtime between cleaning sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Battery voltage
What it is: The nominal voltage of the vacuum battery system.
When it matters: Voltage helps describe the battery platform and its available power class.

Importance: LOW

?
Show more
Power cable length
What it is: The length of the vacuum's mains power cable.
When it matters: A longer cable increases reach and reduces how often you change outlets.

Importance: MEDIUM

3.658 m
Shop-Vac 5989400 has power cable length of 3.658 m, which is worse than 73.2% of wet-dry vacuums.
Operating radius
What it is: The total working reach provided by the cable, vacuum body, and hose.
When it matters: A larger radius lets you clean more space without moving the plug or machine.

Importance: MEDIUM

5.791 m
Shop-Vac 5989400 has operating radius of 5.791 m, which is worse than 69.1% of wet-dry vacuums and equal to 0.7% of wet-dry vacuums.
Bagless
What it is: Whether debris is collected directly in a reusable tank instead of a disposable bag.
When it matters: A bagless tank avoids replacement-bag costs and is convenient for wet pickup.

Importance: LOW

yes
Shop-Vac 5989400 uses a bagless collection system. This feature is present on 66.2% of wet-dry vacuums.
Tank material
What it is: The material used for the vacuum's collection tank.
When it matters: Tank material affects durability, corrosion resistance, weight, and ease of cleaning.

Importance: LOW

stainless steel
Shop-Vac 5989400 uses a more suitable tank material.
Power cable holder
What it is: Whether the vacuum has an integrated holder for the power cable.
When it matters: Onboard storage keeps the cable tidy and makes the vacuum easier to carry and store.

Importance: LOW

yes
Shop-Vac 5989400 has onboard power-cable storage. This feature is present on 86.9% of wet-dry vacuums.
Show more
N. of filters
What it is: The number of filtration elements supplied or used by the vacuum.
When it matters: Multiple filters can support different pickup modes or provide staged dust capture.

Importance: MEDIUM

3
Shop-Vac 5989400 has 3 filters, which is better than 81.3% of wet-dry vacuums and equal to 16.7% of wet-dry vacuums.
HEPA filter
What it is: Whether the vacuum includes a high-efficiency particulate air filter.
When it matters: HEPA filtration helps capture fine dust and allergens from the exhaust air.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Shop-Vac 5989400 does not have HEPA filtration. 53.4% of wet-dry vacuums have HEPA filtration.
A HEPA filter is explicitly not included.
Washable filter
What it is: Whether the filter can be cleaned with water and reused.
When it matters: A washable filter can reduce replacement costs and simplify maintenance.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Shop-Vac 5989400 has a washable filter. This feature is present on 96.6% of wet-dry vacuums.
A washable filter is explicitly included.
Automatic filter cleaning
What it is: Whether the vacuum cleans its filter automatically during operation.
When it matters: Automatic cleaning helps maintain suction during dusty work and reduces maintenance stops.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Shop-Vac 5989400 requires manual filter cleaning. 0.9% of wet-dry vacuums have automatic filter cleaning.
Automatic filter cleaning is explicitly not supported.
Flexible hose
What it is: Whether a flexible suction hose is included.
When it matters: A flexible hose improves reach and control around furniture, vehicles, and tools.

Importance: LOW

yes
Shop-Vac 5989400 has a flexible suction hose. This feature is present on 78.6% of wet-dry vacuums.
A flexible suction hose is explicitly included.
Show more

Shop-Vac 5989400 vs the average wet-dry vacuum

  • 1 more filters
    2 more filters: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 3, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 2.
    What it is: The number of filtration elements supplied or used by the vacuum.
    When it matters: Multiple filters can support different pickup modes or provide staged dust capture.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    2 more filters: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 3, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 2.3 vs 2
  • More durable tank material
    Shop-Vac 5989400 uses a more suitable tank material than the average wet-dry vacuum.
    What it is: The material used for the vacuum's collection tank.
    When it matters: Tank material affects durability, corrosion resistance, weight, and ease of cleaning.

    Importance: LOW

    Shop-Vac 5989400 uses a more suitable tank material than the average wet-dry vacuum.stainless steel vs plastic
  • Tank drain
    Shop-Vac 5989400 has a tank drain, while the average wet-dry vacuum does not.
    A tank drain outlet or plug is explicitly provided.
    What it is: Whether the tank has a drain for releasing collected liquid.
    When it matters: A drain makes it easier to empty a heavy tank without lifting the whole vacuum.

    Importance: LOW

    Shop-Vac 5989400 has a tank drain, while the average wet-dry vacuum does not.
  • 5.3% higher user score
    Shop-Vac 5989400 has a higher user score than the average wet-dry vacuum (8.42 vs 8).
    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews with the total review volume for products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category.
    When it matters: When you want to know how products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category perform in everyday use and how reliable owners find them over time.
    Shop-Vac 5989400 has a higher user score than the average wet-dry vacuum (8.42 vs 8).8.42 vs 8
  • 45.2 mm less height
    2 mm less height: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 539.8 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 585 mm.
    What it is: The overall height of the vacuum.
    When it matters: A lower body may fit under shelves and be easier to store or transport.

    Importance: LOW

    2 mm less height: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 539.8 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 585 mm.539.8 mm vs 585 mm
  • 28.5% more popular
    Shop-Vac 5989400 is more popular than the average wet-dry vacuum (7.53 vs 5.863).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category.
    When it matters: When you prefer products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category that have been chosen and reviewed by many other buyers.
    Shop-Vac 5989400 is more popular than the average wet-dry vacuum (7.53 vs 5.863).7.53 vs 5.86
  • More durable tank material
    Shop-Vac 5989400 uses a more suitable tank material than the average wet-dry vacuum.
  • 45.2 mm less height
    2 mm less height: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 539.8 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 585 mm.
  • 1 more filters
    2 more filters: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 3, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 2.
  • Tank drain
    Shop-Vac 5989400 has a tank drain, while the average wet-dry vacuum does not.

Total
Overall
Design & Mobility
Filter & Accessories
  • 3.6 kPa less suction pressure
    2 kPa less suction pressure: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 14.4 kPa, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 18 kPa.
  • 7 L less tank capacity
    2 L less tank capacity: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 8 L, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 15 L.
  • 7.1 L/s less airflow
    2 L/s less airflow: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 35.4 L/s, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 42.5 L/s.
  • 3.18 kg more weight
    2 kg more weight: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 8.9 kg, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 5.67 kg.
  • 1.34 m less cable length
    2 m less cable length: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 3.7 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 5 m.
  • 1.22 m less operating radius
    2 m less operating radius: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 5.8 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 7.01 m.
  • 3.25 mm less hose diameter
    2 mm less hose diameter: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 31.8 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 35 mm.
  • No HEPA filter
    Shop-Vac 5989400 does not have HEPA filtration, while the average wet-dry vacuum has HEPA filtration.
    A HEPA filter is explicitly not included.
  • No HEPA filter
    Shop-Vac 5989400 does not have HEPA filtration, while the average wet-dry vacuum has HEPA filtration.
    A HEPA filter is explicitly not included.
    What it is: Whether the vacuum includes a high-efficiency particulate air filter.
    When it matters: HEPA filtration helps capture fine dust and allergens from the exhaust air.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Shop-Vac 5989400 does not have HEPA filtration, while the average wet-dry vacuum has HEPA filtration.
  • 3.18 kg more weight
    2 kg more weight: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 8.9 kg, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 5.67 kg.
    What it is: The total mass of the vacuum.
    When it matters: Lower weight makes carrying, stair cleaning, and transport easier.

    Importance: HIGH

    2 kg more weight: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 8.9 kg, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 5.67 kg.8.85 kg vs 5.67 kg
  • 3.6 kPa less suction pressure
    2 kPa less suction pressure: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 14.4 kPa, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 18 kPa.
    What it is: The maximum pressure difference the vacuum can generate for suction.
    When it matters: Higher suction pressure helps lift dense debris and extract liquid from difficult areas.

    Importance: HIGH

    2 kPa less suction pressure: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 14.4 kPa, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 18 kPa.14.4 kPa vs 18 kPa
  • 1.34 m less cable length
    2 m less cable length: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 3.7 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 5 m.
    What it is: The length of the vacuum's mains power cable.
    When it matters: A longer cable increases reach and reduces how often you change outlets.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    2 m less cable length: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 3.7 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 5 m.3.658 m vs 5 m
  • 7 L less tank capacity
    2 L less tank capacity: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 8 L, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 15 L.
    What it is: The amount of liquid or debris the collection tank can hold.
    When it matters: A larger tank reduces emptying interruptions during big spills and workshop cleanup.

    Importance: HIGH

    2 L less tank capacity: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 8 L, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 15 L.8 L vs 15 L
  • 7.1 L/s less airflow
    2 L/s less airflow: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 35.4 L/s, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 42.5 L/s.
    What it is: The volume of air the vacuum moves through the hose each second.
    When it matters: Higher airflow helps collect light, bulky debris and clear larger surfaces quickly.

    Importance: HIGH

    2 L/s less airflow: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 35.4 L/s, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 42.5 L/s.35.4 L/s vs 42.5 L/s
  • 1.22 m less operating radius
    2 m less operating radius: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 5.8 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 7.01 m.
    What it is: The total working reach provided by the cable, vacuum body, and hose.
    When it matters: A larger radius lets you clean more space without moving the plug or machine.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    2 m less operating radius: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 5.8 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 7.01 m.5.791 m vs 7.01 m
  • 3.25 mm less hose diameter
    2 mm less hose diameter: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 31.8 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 35 mm.
    What it is: The internal diameter of the suction hose.
    When it matters: A wider hose is less likely to clog on leaves, shavings, and large debris.

    Importance: LOW

    2 mm less hose diameter: Shop-Vac 5989400 has 31.8 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 35 mm.31.75 mm vs 35 mm
Total
Overall
Performance
Design & Mobility
Filter & Accessories

Graphic comparison of Shop-Vac 5989400 and other products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category

Attribute category
Attribute
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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
282 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
288 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: August 2026)

What customers like about Shop-Vac 5989400?

  • Powerful 6.0 Peak HP suction performance
  • Versatile 3-in-1 multi-functionality including a built-in blower port
  • Sturdy and durable stainless steel tank construction
  • Large integrated tank drain makes emptying liquids effortless
  • Lightweight and highly portable with its smooth-rolling caster dolly system
  • Affordable replacement dust bags compared to competing brands
  • Excellent cleaning performance on hard floors like tile and hardwood

What customers dislike about Shop-Vac 5989400?

  • Short 12-foot electrical power cord requires the frequent use of an extension cord
  • The included on-board tool storage hanger is flimsy and detaches too easily
  • Unclear assembly instructions lack a detailed printed manual
  • Narrower 1.25-inch hose diameter can occasionally restrict airflow with heavy debris
  • Loud operating noise level, though expected for a high-performance shop vacuum
  • Occasional minority reports of premature motor failure or burning smells under heavy use

Expert reviews

S
solidsmack.com
18/04/2020
Summary of the review
Shop-Vac 8 Gallon 6.0 Peak HP Stainless Steel Wet Dry Vacuum 5989400 Customer Reviews

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