Vac power - Amps vs HP?

[imported_NHBFAN]

I presently have a 3.0 hp/3 gal Wet/Dry Craftsman Vac, but am looking for more power.



I looked at the 5.0 hp/4 gallon Rigid model at Home Depot today, also I seen a 5.0 hp/12 gallon model. The 4 gal model was rated at 9 amps while the 12 gallon model was rated at 12 amps.



Which is more important in determining Vac strenght, HP or Amps?

[BoxsterCharlie]

Does anyone rate their vacuums in terms of vacuum? Seems for car detailing we want suction, not a big air sucking capacity. And that would have more to do with the design of the impellers, not as much the strength of the motor.

[togwt]

~One man’s opinion / observations ~



I guess manufacturers rate their vacuums by amps for Joe public, “WG lift wouldn’t mean much to them (unless you’re an Engineer or maybe a dumb Architect)



The Metropolitan ‘Suc ‘n blo’ vacuum has a 4HP motor and 95�WG lift



~Hope this helps~



Experience unshared; is knowledge wasted…/



justadumbarchitect *so I question everything*

[Bobby G]

Amperage is a measure of power draw (current/voltage), whereas HP is a measure of work. In the case of a vacuum, these measurements really don`t tell the capability of the machine. It is pounds of lift that tell you the strength of a vacuum.

[imported_NHBFAN]

So, for example ... there`s no way to compare a 6.5hp Rigid to a 6.5hp Craftsman?