I use my shop vac to both vacuum my garage, as well as the hardwoods in my house. Works much better than a standard carpet vacuum for the hardwoods. When I would spend a long amount of time vacuuming, my back would get a bit sore due to having to the amount of bending of my back. This accessory helps keep my back a bit more upright and it's easier on the hands as well since it has the handle. The red ring can be turned, which exposes an open slot. This allows air in and reduces the amount of suction at the end of the hose. I have actually found this to be quite useful when vacuuming mats and other things that are not fastened to the floor. Use to be they would get sucked into the hose and then I would have to pull them free. Now I can reduce the suction and I don't have that problem any more. My only complaint about the ring is that it is very easliy moved and sometimes I will bump it and move it unintentionally, but that's a minor complaint and in no means would prevent me from recommending the product.