There's been some really solid reviews on this 5.5-gallon vacuum and I can't contest with much of the criticisms. It's very loud, so wear some hearing protection or your favorite noise cancelling headset/buds. It could use some improvements in switch size, increased power cable length, and having a storage bag for its components (The onboard attachment points are ridiculously inadequate). I'd always like a longer hose, but whatever the size, it's nice if there's a way to coil it and contain it when not in use. I found only having only 2 extensions odd and too short for me - I'm 6'1\" and not crazy tall, but I was bending over to use the vacuum with the floor cleaning fitting. This kit should include 3 extensions and I'll just reuse an older extension I already have but it's a back breaker if you don't. I was thinking of replacing my 20-year-old stainless 10-gallon 6HP shop vacuum with this one, but it may just be an addition to my set. The motor produces exceptional suction. I used it to clean up all of the pine needles after taking down our Christmas tree -- worked like a champ and lesser vacuums don't do well in the tree cleanup. The crevice and floor ends did solid work on my office hardwood floor. I have zero complaints about the suction.. I really like this vacuum's power. The smaller size is easier to store and to be honest, the 10 gallons older unit I have is overkill for a DIY homeowner. 5.5 gallons is quite enough for small clean up tasks. The HEPA filter is certainly a plus -- I haven't yet really put this thing into a challenge like drywall dust or sawdust, but it will get there soon enough. The castors work well -- it certainly follows you around without issue or tipping -- unfortunately the power cable limits its travel -- you'll need to plan for an extension cord for doing any real work requiring movement, like floor cleaning a sizable room. I may look for a hose extension to be able to use it on my cars. With only a 6' hose, the base unit
pamela 
