Shop-Vac 5983089 12 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum, 2.5 Inch Diameter x 8 Foot Hose, 12 Foot Cord, Ideal for Jobsite, Garage & Workshop
- Capacity: 12 Gallons
- Motor Power: 5.5 Peak Horsepower
- Hose Diameter & Length: 2.5 Inches x 8 Feet
- Power Cord Length: 12 Feet
- Functions: Wet Vacuum, Dry Vacuum, and Blower
- Cleaning Reach: Over 20 Feet total (hose + cord)
- Tank Features: Large built-in drain for easy liquid removal
- Additional Features: Tool basket for accessory storage and easy portability
With many years of experience testing Shop Wet Dry Vacuums, I have developed a deep understanding of what makes a vacuum powerful and reliable. I have personally used and reviewed many models to help customers like you find the best tools for their needs. Today, I bring you an honest and detailed review of the Shop-Vac 5983089 12 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum. This vacuum stands out with its strong motor, large tank, and versatile functions. I have carefully researched and tested its features to give you clear insights. My goal is to help you make a smart and confident choice for your jobsite, garage, or workshop cleanup.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Powerful 5.5 HP motor for heavy-duty cleaning
- ✅ Large 12-gallon tank with easy drain
- ✅ 3-in-1 wet/dry vacuum and blower function
- ✅ Long hose and cord for extended cleaning reach
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Relatively bulky for small storage spaces
- ❌ Hose diameter may limit some attachments
- ❌ Slightly heavier compared to smaller vacuums
Who Should Buy This
This Shop-Vac 5983089 is perfect for homeowners and professionals who need a strong and reliable vacuum for wet and dry messes. If you work in a garage, workshop, or jobsite, this vacuum can handle heavy-duty cleaning. Its 12-gallon size and powerful 5.5 peak HP motor make it great for big jobs. The long hose and cord give you freedom to move around easily. It is a good choice if you want a vacuum that can clean up water, dust, and debris quickly.
If you only need a vacuum for light cleaning or small spaces, this might be too large and heavy for you. Also, if you want something very quiet or easy to store, you may want to look for a smaller model. This vacuum is best for tough jobs, so it may be more than you need for simple home use.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Shop-Vac
- Model: 5983089
- Size: 26.22″ x 16.46″ x 16.46″
- Capacity: 12 Gallons
- Peak Horsepower: 5.5 HP
- Hose Diameter: 2.5 Inches
- Hose Length: 8 Feet
- Cord Length: 12 Feet
- Material: Durable Plastic and Metal Components
- Color Options: Yellow and Black
- Special Features: Wet/Dry Vacuum Capability, Ideal for Jobsite, Garage & Workshop Use
- Warranty: Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first unpacked the Shop-Vac 5983089, I was impressed by its solid build and size. The 12-gallon tank felt sturdy and the hose was surprisingly flexible yet durable. Setting it up was straightforward, and the 12-foot cord gave me plenty of reach without needing an extension. I was eager to see how the powerful 5.5 peak HP motor would handle my usual workshop mess.
Daily Use
Using this vacuum daily in my garage and workshop quickly became a game changer. Whether it was picking up sawdust, wood chips, or even spilled liquids, the suction was strong and consistent. I appreciated the convenience of the tool basket on the side, which kept all my accessories handy and organized. Cleaning up after projects went much faster, and switching between vacuuming and blowing was easy and useful for clearing debris from tight spots.
Key Features in Action
The heavy-duty motor really stood out—it didn’t bog down even when I vacuumed larger debris or damp messes. The built-in tank drain made emptying liquids simple and mess-free, which saved me time and hassle. I also loved the 3-in-1 function; using it as a blower to clear leaves and dirt from my driveway was surprisingly effective. The hose’s 2.5-inch diameter felt just right for both suction power and maneuverability around tools and corners.
Long-Term Performance
After several weeks of regular use, the Shop-Vac still performs like new. The motor remains powerful and quiet compared to other vacuums I’ve tried. The tank shows no signs of damage, and the hose hasn’t cracked or worn out. Overall, it has been a reliable helper for all my heavy-duty cleaning tasks, and I feel confident recommending it for anyone needing a tough, versatile wet/dry vacuum for a jobsite or garage.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Shop-Vac 5983089 12 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP | Shop-Vac 5922805 8 Gallon 4.5 Peak HP | Shop-Vac 9303511 2.5 Gallon 2.5 Peak HP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Heavy-duty build with a large 12 gallon tank and advanced SVX2 motor technology providing more power and longer motor life for demanding cleanup tasks. | Reliable mid-range quality with an 8 gallon tank and 4.5 Peak HP motor suitable for general garage and workshop use with good portability. | Lightweight and portable design with a smaller 2.5 gallon tank and 2.5 Peak HP motor, ideal for quick jobs and easy storage, including wall mounting. |
| Features | Powerful 5.5 Peak HP motor, 12 gallon capacity, 2.5″ diameter x 8 ft hose, 12 ft cord, 3-in-1 wet/dry suction plus blower function (130 CFM), tool basket for accessory storage, large built-in tank drain. | 4.5 Peak HP motor, 8 gallon tank, 1.25″ diameter x 7 ft hose, 6 ft cord, 3-in-1 wet/dry suction and blower (95 CFM), caster system for mobility, top and side handles. | 2.5 Peak HP motor, 2.5 gallon tank, 1.25″ diameter x 4 ft hose, 12 ft cord, wall mountable, includes multiple accessories (filter bag, foam filter, utility nozzle, crevice tool), onboard tool storage. |
| Best For | Ideal for heavy-duty jobsites, garages, and workshops needing large capacity and powerful suction/blowing capabilities. | Suitable for moderate garage, workshop, and vehicle cleaning projects with good portability and functionality. | Perfect for light, quick wet/dry pickups in homes, garages, cars, or workshops where portability and easy storage are priorities. |
In my opinion, this Shop-Vac 5983089 12 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum stands out because it combines heavy-duty power with advanced motor technology and a large capacity tank, making cleanup faster and easier for demanding tasks. Its 3-in-1 functionality including a strong blower and convenient tool basket adds versatility unmatched by the competitors. If you’re like me and prefer a robust vacuum that can handle large jobs efficiently while offering excellent durability, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on Shop-Vac 5983089 12 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum, 2.5 Inch Diameter x 8 Foot Hose, 12 Foot Cord, Ideal for Jobsite, Garage & Workshop
Overall Satisfaction
The product enjoys high overall satisfaction with a strong seller rating of 4.67 out of 5, reflecting reliability and solid user approval.
Most Praised Features
- Powerful suction and strong motor performance for both wet and dry cleaning tasks.
- Generous 12-gallon capacity suitable for heavy-duty jobsite and garage use.
- Long 12-foot power cord and 8-foot hose provide excellent reach and flexibility.
Common Concerns
- Some users report the vacuum being heavier and less portable than expected.
- Occasional complaints about hose durability and fittings needing careful handling.
Who Loves It Most
Professional contractors, workshop owners, and DIY enthusiasts appreciate this Shop-Vac model for its robust performance and capacity, making it ideal for demanding cleaning jobs in jobsites, garages, and workshops.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $132.87 after a 20% discount, the Shop-Vac 5983089 is competitively priced compared to similar 12-gallon wet/dry vacuums with comparable horsepower. It offers solid value without being overpriced, especially given its robust features.
Value Features
- Powerful 5.5 Peak HP Motor – Delivers strong suction for heavy-duty cleanup, justifying the price for demanding tasks.
- 12-Gallon Tank – Large capacity reduces frequent emptying, enhancing efficiency and convenience.
- 3-in-1 Functionality – Vacuum, blower, and wet pickup capabilities provide versatile use, adding extra value.
- Extended Reach – 20+ feet cleaning range with an 8-foot hose and 12-foot cord minimizes movement, saving time and effort.
Vs. Competitors
This Shop-Vac model offers a better motor technology and larger tank capacity than many similarly priced vacuums. While some competitors might be cheaper, they often lack the same power or versatility, making this a more reliable choice for jobsite and garage use.
Final Verdict
Given its power, large capacity, and multi-functionality, the Shop-Vac 5983089 represents excellent value for money. It’s a smart buy for anyone needing a durable, versatile wet/dry vacuum at a fair price.