I will add my 2-cents about using a shop vac as a water extractor when cleaning fabric or carpets: DON`T DO IT! While many shop vacs are indeed wet/dry and can be used to suck up water, it is better if you use a dedicated extractor, even if it an inexpensive (AKA, cheap) one like the Bissel Little Green Machine.
I have a 10-year-old (Wow, time flies) Sear`s Craftsmen 6 Peak Horsepower- 16 gallon shop vac with a 2-1/2" hose and various attachments that works well for me as a hobbyist. I liked Craftsmen because they were (past tense) a good value (not overly-expensive) and readily available. However, with Sears/Kmart demise as a viable retailer store (both have closed in the Green Bay area, sad to say) and the selling of its Craftsmen name to Stanley Tool, I can still find filters and hose attachments at retailers like Lowe`s or Ace Hardware (albeit at hardware store prices).
So when this one gives out, the suggestions I see in this thread will need to be given some thought and consideration.
A good (or great) vacuum is an essential tool in detailing, and it is one of those frequently asked question in this forum, "What is the best shop vac for my needs?" It also goes without saying, "What can you afford?" and "You get what you pay for."
Also, if you power any shop vac with an extension cord, make sure it is the 12-gauge wire type and not some a light 16 or 20 gauge (AWG), especially if it is 50 feet long! They really put a crimp on electric motor`s life expectancy if used for an extended time, like 2-hours of continuous use in warm weather.
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