Stihl Enters the Cordless Vacuum Market with a Wet/Dry Model for Homeowners
Stihl may not be the first brand you think of when it comes to cleaning solutions, however, they offer several vacuums for both homeowner cleaning and jobsite applications. On the cordless side, Stihl’s roster of battery-powered vacuums is growing with the introduction of the SEA 60 wet/dry vacuum. I’m reading between the lines to see what makes this vacuum shine, and how it stands out from the rest of Stihl’s cleaning lineup.
Stihl Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum Performance
- Model: Stihl SEA 60
- Power source: Stihl AK System batteries
- Suction: 180 mbar
- Airflow: 63.5 CFM
- Two power modes
- Runtime: 25 min (w/ AK 20 battery)
- Brushless motor
- Auto shut-off
- Wet and dry functions
The Stihl SEA 60 is the brand’s first foray into the battery-powered wet/dry vacuum market on the AK battery system. The AK System lineup is ideal for homeowners and DIYers who don’t require the Pro-grade performance or bells and whistles we see in Stihl’s high-end AP battery system.
Using an AK 20 4.0Ah battery, this vacuum can run for up to 25 minutes. Two adjustable speed modes also let you choose between the highest suction and extended battery life.
Speaking of suction, the SEA 60 wet/dry vacuum reaches suction levels as high as 180 mbar (72 inches of water lift) and airflow levels topping out at 63.5 CFM. While these numbers aren’t among Stihl’s strongest when compared to their corded models, the trade-off here is the convenience of not being tethered to a cord and a lower price tag than the Pro-oriented SEA 100.
Looking at the power levels against other brands, it’s an interesting balance. Many cordless vacs give up some water lift to get a higher CFM rating. However, Stihl keeps the two in check, offering decent strength to get larger debris moving and reasonable airflow to keep it going.
Learn more about the relationship between vacuum CFM and water lift.
As mentioned, this vacuum takes care of both wet and dry messes. It’s equipped with an automatic shutoff mode, shutting down the power when the tank reaches a certain capacity and preventing fluids from overflowing into the motor.
Stihl Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum Design
- Weight: 12.7 lbs (bare); 15.4 lbs (w/ AK 20 battery)
- Container capacity: 3.2 gallons
- Hose length: 6 feet
- Front caster wheels
- Non-marring wheels
- Onboard storage
- IPX4 rating
- Washable, reusable PET filter element
The Stihl SEA 60 wet/dry vacuum weighs 15.4 pounds with an SK 20 battery. Most of that weight is offset onto the four wheels, making it easier to maneuver around your work area. There are two 360° casters on the front and two larger non-marring wheels in the back.
This tool features a 6-foot suction hose, which can connect to the included floor nozzle and crevice nozzle. It’s also compatible with a variety of vacuum attachments thanks to its universal nozzle attachment. There are onboard storage slots for the included nozzles and the flexible vacuum hose.
Being a wet/dry vacuum, it’s also handy that the SEA 60 is IPX4-rated, meaning it can withstand light water splashes. A water-resistant cover protects the battery, so there’s no danger to it when you’re vacuuming up wet messes.
Stihl SEA 100 Wet/Dry Vacuum
Also new to the Stihl battery-powered cleaning lineup is the SEA 100 cordless wet/dry vacuum. This model is part of the brand’s AP battery system, which is more suited for professional users. It achieves up to 200 mbar of suction and airflow levels maxing out at 116 CFM.
The main difference between this vacuum and the SP 60 is the performance boost, as well as a few small design changes, like a longer hose length (7.7 feet). Its price also reflects the Pro-grade performance, retailing for $289.99 for the bare tool.
Stihl Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum Price
The SEA 60 vacuum retails for $199 for the tool only. There are currently no kit options, so be sure to pick up a Stihl AK battery and charger if you’re not already on the system. Stihl backs your purchase with a 3-year warranty.
Should You Buy It?
Stihl’s AK System battery-powered tools are ideal for homeowner and DIY applications. This rings true for the SEA 60 cordless wet/dry vacuum, providing the power and runtime to tackle light- to medium-duty wet or dry cleaning jobs around your home and shop. While it doesn’t offer the top-of-the-line performance we see in professional models, this battery-powered vacuum is a good solution for those who value portability and cord-free convenience.
However, if you’re after more runtime, require a higher performance level, or want Stihl quality at a lower price, consider Stihl’s corded wet/dry vacuums.
