RIDGID WD12800, WD16650, WD1665EX0, WD16700, WD1670EX0 - 12 U.S. GALLON/45 LITER AND 16 U.S. GALLON/60 LITER WET/DRY VAC WITH DETACHABLE BLOWER Manual

Introduction

This Wet/Dry Vac with Detachable Blower is intended for household use. It may be used for vacuuming wet or dry media and may be used as a blower.
Read this owner's manual to familiarize yourself with the product features and to understand the specific usage of your new Vac.

Unpacking and Checking Carton Contents

Remove contents of carton. Check each item against the Carton Contents List. Call 1-800-4-RIDGID (1-800-474-3443) from the US & Canada, 01-800-701-9811 from Mexico, or E-mail us at info@ridgidvacs.com if any parts are damaged or missing.

12-Gallon Vacs Also Include:

16-Gallon Vacs Also Include:

Carton Contents List

* These items come preassembled to the power head.

Filter Removal and Installation

Removal and Installation of the Qwik Lock™ Filter

Filter Removal:

1. Hold the filter tabs of the Qwik Lock™ filter in each hand.
2. With one thumb on the Qwik Lock™ stud, which protrudes through the integrated filter plate, lift up on the filter tabs while pushing down on the stud.
3. This action will cause the filter to release from the filter cage. Slide filter off cage.

Filter Installation:

1. Carefully slide the Qwik Lock™ filter over the filter cage and press down on the outside edge of the filter until the rubber gasket on the bottom of the filter seats securely around the base of the filter cage and against the lid.
2. Align the small center hole in the top of the filter over the Qwik Lock™ stud on the filter cage. Press firmly on top of the filter near the stud to allow the filter to snap over the ball on the end of the stud. The filter is now attached.

NOTE: Failure to properly seat the bottom gasket could result in debris bypassing the filter.

Accessory Caddy/Caster Assembly

NOTE: The accessory caddy is not included with all models. If your Vac does not include this caddy, continue to the Caster/Caster Foot Assembly section.

1. Remove the power head and lid assembly from the dust drum and set aside.
2. Turn the dust drum upside down on the floor.
3. Insert the accessory caddy into the bottom of drum, as shown, on the opposite side of the drain cap.
4. Push on the accessory caddy until it is flush with bottom of dust drum.
5. Insert the caster stem into the socket of the accessory caddy as shown (2 places).
6. Push on the caster until the ball on the caster stem is inserted all the way into the socket. You will hear the ball snap into the socket and the caster will swivel easily when positioning is correct.

Caster/Caster Foot Assembly

With the power head and lid assembly removed from the drum, and the drum upside down on the floor:

1. Insert the 2 caster feet into the bottom of drum, as shown on the 2 locations near the drain cap.
2. Push on the caster foot until the foot is flush with bottom of the dust drum.
3. Insert the caster stem into the socket of the caster foot, as shown (2 places).
4. Push on the caster until the ball on the caster stem is inserted all the way into the socket. You will hear the ball snap into the socket and the caster will swivel easily when positioning is correct.
   NOTE: For those Vacs that do not include the caddy from the previous section, your Vac will include four caster feet and four casters. Repeat the previous instructions on the back of the drum with the two remaining caster feet and casters.

5. Turn the drum upright.

To Store Your Accessories

Your RIDGID Wet/Dry Vac is designed to provide better stability, mobility and accessory storage with the accessory caddy. Located on the caddy are five storage pockets. Conveniently store accessory nozzles and extension wands on these locations and use the front 2 caster feet storage pockets for the hose or any of the accessories.

Wet/Dry Vac Assembly

1. Locate the lid assembly and the drum/ caster foot/caddy assembly (assembled earlier).
2. Position the lid assembly with the inlet of the unit located in line with the drain cap on the dust drum.
3. To assemble the lid assembly to the drum/caster foot/caddy assembly, lower the lid assembly onto the dust drum. Rotate both latches down until you hear them snap over the lip of the drum.
   

Positioning Detachable Blower

(Power Head Assembly)

1. To remove the detachable blower from the lid assembly, press down on the power head latch under the detachable blower handle and lift the blower off the lid of the Vac. To replace the blower back onto the lid assembly, proceed to the following instructions.
   
2. On top of the detachable blower(opposite the handle side of the blower); there is a molded plastic lead that is used to assist assembling the unit. Position the lead into the indented area above the "Pull Handle".
3. Rotate the detachable blower down until the travel of the unit stops.
4. Lightly press down on the carry handle of the detachable blower until you hear the slight "snap" of the power head latch engaging the blower. The detachable blower is now latched to the lid assembly.
   
5. Your new Wet/Dry Vac is ready for use. With the Wet/Dry Vac completely assembled and ready for use, insert the push button end of the "Tug-a-Long" hose into the inlet of the Vac. The hose should snap into place. To remove the hose from the Vac, press the release button in the hose assembly and pull the hose out of the Vac inlet, as shown.
   

Operation

To reduce the risk of fire, explosion, or damage to Vac:

• Do not leave Vac running while unattended - you may fail to notice important signs indicating abnormal operation such as loss of suction, debris/liquid exiting exhaust, or abnormal motor noises. Immediately stop using Vac if you notice these signs.
• Do not leave Vac plugged-in when not in use.
• Do not continue running when float has cut off suction.
• Do not operate Vac in areas with flammable gases, vapors or explosive dust in the air. Sparks inside the motor can ignite airborne flammables. Flammable gases and vapors include: lighter fluid, solvent-type cleaners, oil-based paints, gasoline, alcohol, or aerosol sprays. Flammable dusts include: coal, magnesium, aluminum, grain, or gun powder.
• Do not vacuum up explosive dusts, flammable liquids, or hot ashes.
• Do not use Vac as a sprayer.

To reduce the risk of electric shock or injury:

• Do not expose to rain or allow liquid to enter motor compartment. Store indoors.
• Do not handle plug, switch, or Vac with wet hands.
• Do not service Vac while it is plugged-in. If your Vac is not working as it should, has missing parts, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to an independent service center or call customer service.
• When using an extension cord, use only outdoor-rated cords that are in good condition.
  Do not allow the connection to come into contact with liquid.
• Do not vacuum toxic materials to reduce the risk of inhaling the vapors or dust.

To reduce the risk of electric shock, this Vac has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). Except for 230 volt models, this plug will fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install the proper outlet. Do not change the plug in any way.

After you plug the power cord into the outlet, turn the unit on by pushing the switch from position "O" to position "l". The symbols used on the switch actuator are international "On & Off" symbols.
= OFF
= ON

NOTE: When using the unit in the vacuuming mode, always insert the air diffuser in the exhaust port on the detachable blower. This breaks up the direct flow of air and diffuses it.

Familiarize yourself with the accessories included with the Vac. Each accessory may be used in various ways for vacuuming and blowing debris. Here is a list of the accessories and their uses.

Extension Wands - These wands can be connected together and provides additional length for more reach.

Utility Nozzle - General purpose nozzle for most vacuuming applications.

Car Nozzle - Dry pickup nozzle for car interiors and most upholstery cleaning.

Male To Male Adapter - Use this accessory to connect the blower nozzle to the exhaust of the power assembly

Wet Nozzle - Used for wet pickup on smooth surfaces to pick up liquid and dry the surface in one stroke.

Blower Nozzle - Attached to the end of a hose or directly to the power assembly concentrates the air for blowing applications.

Diffuser - Insert in the exhaust of the Vac while vacuuming and the air exiting the exhaust is "diffused". This breaks up the air coming out of the exhaust.

Hose - Provides transfer of vacuum or blowing capability to work site. Provides the means of attaching extension wands and nozzles.

Accessory Caddy - Store all the accessories with your Vac.

Caster Feet - Store accessories with your Vac.

Vacuuming Dry Materials

1. The filter must always be in correct position at all times to avoid leaks and possible damage to Vac.
2. When using your Vac to pick up very fine dust, it will be necessary for you to empty the drum and clean the filter at more frequent intervals to maintain peak Vac performance.

NOTE: A dry filter is necessary to pick up dry material. If you use your Vac to pick up material when the filter is wet, the filter will clog quickly and be very difficult to clean.

Vacuuming Liquids

1. When picking up small amounts of liquid the filter may be left in place.
2. When picking up large amounts of liquid we recommend that the filter be removed. If the filter is not removed, it will become saturated and misting may appear in the exhaust.
   
   Do not operate without filter cage and float, as they prevent liquid from entering the impeller and damaging the motor.
   
3. When the liquid in the drum reaches a predetermined level, the float mechanism will rise automatically to cut off air-flow. You will know that the float has risen because Vac airflow ceases and the motor noise will become higher in pitch, due to increased motor speed. When this happens, turn off the Vac, unplug the power cord, and empty the drum.
4. After using the Vac to pick up liquids, the filter must be dried to avoid possible mildew and damage to the filter.

To reduce the risk of damage to the Vac, do not run motor with float in raised position.

Emptying the Drum

To reduce the risk of injury from accidental starting, unplug power cord before emptying the drum.

1. To remove the lid to empty contents of the dust drum simply lift the two drum latches at the front and rear of the dust drum and lift the lid assembly up and off the dust drum and set to the side.
2. Lay the lid assembly upside down on a clean area while emptying drum or changing the filter.
3. Dump the drum contents into the proper waste disposal container.
   
4. If the contents are liquid, you may dispose by using the drain provided in the drum for easy emptying. Simply unscrew the drain cap and allow the liquid to drain completely out of the Vac drum.

To reduce the risk of back injury or falls, do not lift a Vac heavy with liquid or debris. Scoop or drain enough contents out to make the Vac light enough to lift comfortably.

Moving the Wet/Dry Vac

Should it become necessary to pick the Vac up to move it, the handles on the sides of the dust drum are used to lift. To maneuver the Vac, the pull handle above the inlet should be used.

Blowing Feature

Your Wet/Dry Vac has a "detachable blower". It has the capability to be used as a dedicated blower for yard work, patio cleanup and workshop applications to blow sawdust and other debris.

• Always wear safety eyewear complying with ANSI Z87.1 (or in Canada, CSA Z94.3) before using as a blower.
• To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders, keep them clear of blowing debris.

• Wear a dust mask if blowing creates dust which might be inhaled.
• To reduce the risk of hearing damage, wear ear protectors when using the Vac/Blower for extended time or in a noisy area.

1. Familiarize yourself with the detachable blower portion of your Wet/Dry Vac.
2. Remove the detachable blower of your Vac by pressing down on the power head latch under the handle of the detachable blower. (This power head latch holds the detachable blower to the lid assembly.)
   
   
3. Lift the detachable blower up by raising the handle upward and pulling the unit away from its nested position on the lid.

Assemble the Detachable Blower for "Blowing"

This may be assembled three ways:

1. Insert the small end of one of the extension wands into the blowing port of the detachable blower. Insert the male-male adapter into the extension wand and install the blower nozzle or car nozzle onto the male-male adapter.
   - OR -
2. Insert the male-male adapter into the blowing port of the detachable blower. Connect the large end of the extension wand to the male-male adapter. Connect the blower nozzle or car nozzle to the extension wand. If the additional reach is not needed, simply omit the wand, and connect the blower nozzle or car nozzle to the male-male adapter.
   
3. The Wet/Dry Vac may also be used for blowing using the seven foot hose supplied with the Wet/Dry Vac. Install the male-male adapter in the blowing port of the Wet/Dry Vac. The male-male adapter will insert into the inside of the push button end of the Vac hose. Assemble the hose to the male-male adapter and connect the blower nozzle or car nozzle to the opposite end of the hose. The unit is ready for blowing applications.
4. Turn the blower "ON" by toggling the switch in the handle of the blower to the "ON" position.
   

Maintenance

Blower Intake

To reduce the risk of injury from accidental starting, unplug power cord before changing or cleaning filter or foam pad.

After using the detachable blower of your Wet/Dry Vac, examine the bottom of the blower for dust and debris. Check to see if the intake to the blower has debris stuck to the plastic vents and foam pad.

To clean the foam pad under the intake shield of the detachable blower:

1. Remove the three screws holding the intake shield.
2. Lift the intake shield off and set aside.
3. Lift the foam pad away from the detached blower, the foam pad holder will also lift away from the blower.
4. Remove the foam pad from pad holder and set the foam pad holder to the side. Clean the foam pad in warm soapy water or brush debris away. Allow foam pad to dry.
   
5. Examine foam pad for reuse. If you need to replace it, check the service part section of this manual.
6. Replace foam pad holder on blower with the tabs away from the blower. Reinstall foam pad under the tabs of the holder.
7. Reinstall intake shield and 3 screws.

The unit is ready for use.

Filter

NOTE: The filter is made of high quality paper designed to stop very small particles of dust. The filter can be used for dry debris or small amounts of liquid. Handle the filter carefully when removing to clean or installing it. Creases in the filter pleats may occur from installation but will not affect the performance of the filter.

Filter Cleaning

Your filter should be cleaned often to maintain peak Vac performance.
Be sure to dry the filter before storing or picking up dry debris.

After cleaning, check the filter for tears or small holes. Do not use a filter with holes or tears in it. Even a small hole may allow a lot of dust to come out of the exhaust port of your Vac. Replace it immediately.

Filter Removal

Refer "Filter Removal and Installation" Section of this manual.

To avoid damage to the blower wheel and motor, always reinstall the filter before using the Vac for dry material pickup.

Cleaning A Dry Filter

1. Light cleaning of some dry debris can be accomplished without removing the filter from the Vac. Simply slap your hand on top of the lid while the Vac is turned off.
2. Clean the filter in an open area. Cleaning SHOULD be done outdoors and not in the living quarters.
3. Remove filter from Vac. Gently tap filter against the inside wall of your dust drum. The debris will loosen and fall.
4. For thorough cleaning of dry filter with fine dust (no debris), run water through it as described under "Cleaning A Wet Filter".

Cleaning A Wet Filter

Remove filter from Vac, run water through the filter from a hose or spigot. Take care that water pressure from the hose is not strong enough to damage filter.

Installation

Refer "Filter Removal and Installation" Section of this manual.
Allow the filter to dry before reinstalling and storing the Vac.

Cleaning and Disinfecting the Wet/Dry Vac

To keep your Wet/Dry Vac looking its best, clean the outside with a cloth dampened with warm water and mild soap.

To clean the drum:

1. Dump debris out.
2. Wash drum thoroughly with warm water and mild soap.
3. Wipe out with dry cloth.

Before prolonged storage or as needed (i.e.; waste water pick up) the drum should be disinfected.

To disinfect the drum:

1. Pour 1 gallon of water and 1 teaspoonchlorine bleach into the drum.
2. Let solution stand for 20 minutes, carefully swishing every few minutes, making sure to wet all inside surfaces of the drum.
3. Empty drum after 20 minutes. Rinse with water until bleach smell is gone. Allow drum to dry completely before sealing the motor on the drum.

Cord Maintenance

When vacuuming is complete, unplug the cord and wrap it around the motor cover. If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or their service agent or by similarly qualified personnel to reduce the risk of accident.

Storage

Before storing your Vac, the drum should be emptied and cleaned. The cord should be wrapped around the unit and the hose should be stored as described in this manual. Accessories should be kept in the same area as the Vac so they can be readily available. The Vac should be stored indoors.

Casters

If your casters are noisy, you may put a drop of oil on the roller shaft to make them quieter.

To assure product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs and adjustments should be performed by Authorized Service Centers, always using RIDGID replacement parts.

Repair Parts

12 U.S. Gallon/16 U.S. Gallon Wet/Dry Vac With Detachable Blower
Model Numbers WD12800/WD16650/WD1665EX0/WD16700/WD1670EX0

RIDGID parts are available on-line at www.ridgidparts.com

Always order by Part Number - Not by Key Number

SERVICING OF DOUBLE-INSULATED WET/DRY VAC

In a double-insulated Wet/Dry Vac, two systems of insulation are provided instead of grounding. No grounding means is provided on a double-insulated appliance, nor should a means for grounding be added. Servicing a doubleinsulated Wet/Dry Vac requires extreme care and knowledge of the system, and should be done only by qualified service personnel. Replacement parts for a double-insulated Wet/Dry Vac must be identical to the parts they replace. Your double-insulated Wet/Dry Vac is marked with the words "DOUBLE INSULATED" and the symbol (square within a square) may also be marked on the appliance.
To reduce the risk of injury from electrical shock, unplug power cord before servicing the electrical parts of the Wet/Dry Vac.

† These replacement parts are available where you purchased your Vac.

12 U.S. Gallon/16 U.S. Gallon Wet/Dry Vac With Detachable Blower

RIDGID parts are available on-line at www.ridgidparts.com

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Safety is a combination of common sense, staying alert, and knowing how your Wet/Dry Vacuum cleaner ("Vac") works.

Safety Signal Words

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury, or property damage.

When using your Vac, always follow basic safety precautions including the following:

To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury:

• Read and understand this manual and all labels on the Vac before operating.
• Use only as described in this manual.
• Do not leave Vac running while unattended - you may fail to notice important signs indicating abnormal operation such as loss of suction, debris/liquid exiting exhaust, or abnormal motor noises. Immediately stop using Vac if you notice these signs.
• Do not leave Vac when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
• Sparks inside the motor can ignite flammable vapors or dust. To reduce the risk of fire or explosion, do not vacuum or use near combustible liquids, gases, or dusts, such as gasoline or other fuels, lighter fluid, cleaners, oil-based paints, natural gas, coal dust, magnesium dust, grain dust, aluminum dust, or gun powder.
• Do not vacuum anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
• Do not vacuum drywall dust, cold fireplace ash, or other fine dusts with standard filter. These may pass through the filter and be exhausted back into the air. Use a fine dust filter instead.
• To reduce the risk of inhaling toxic vapors, do not vacuum or use near toxic or hazardous materials.
• To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not expose to rain or allow liquid to enter motor compartment. Store indoors.
• Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
• Do not use with a torn filter or without the filter installed except when vacuuming liquids as described in this manual. Dry debris ingested by the impeller may damage the motor or be exhausted back into the air.
• Turn off Vac before unplugging.
• To reduce the risk of injury from accidental starting, unplug power cord before changing or cleaning filter.
• Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
• Do not use with damaged cord, plug or other parts. If your Vac is not working as it should, has missing parts, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, contact RIDGID Customer Service.
• Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as handle, close a door on cord, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners. Do not run Vac over cord. Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not handle plug, switch, or the Vac with wet hands.
• Use only extension cords that are rated for outdoor use. Extension cords in poor condition or too small in wire size can pose fire and shock hazards. To reduce the risk of these hazards, be sure the cord is in good condition and that liquid does not contact the connection. Do not use an extension cord with conductors smaller than 16 gauge (AWG) in size. To reduce power loss, use a 14 gauge extension cord if 25 to 50 ft. long and 12 gauge for 50 ft. or longer.
• This Wet/Dry Vac is double-insulated, eliminating the need for a separate grounding system. Use only identical replacement parts. Read the instructions for Servicing Double Insulated Wet/Dry Vacs before servicing.
• Do not put any object into ventilation openings. Do not vacuum with any ventilation openings blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair or anything that may reduce air flow.
• Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.
• To reduce the risk of falls, use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
• To reduce the risk of back injury or falls, do not lift a Vac that is heavy with liquid or debris. Partially empty the Vac by scooping debris or draining liquid to make it comfortable to lift.
• To reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to Vac, use only Ridgid recommended accessories.
• When using as a detached blower:
  • Direct air discharge only at work area.
  • Turn unit off before setting on ground or releasing grasp from handle.
  • Do not set down in liquid; electric shock could occur.
  • Do not direct air at bystanders.
  • Keep children away when blowing.
  • Do not use blower for any job except blowing dirt and debris.
  • Do not use as a sprayer.
  • Wear safety eyewear.
• To reduce the risk of eye injury, wear safety eyewear. The operation of any utility Vac or blower can result in foreign objects being blown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage.

• To reduce the risk of hearing damage, wear ear protectors when using for extended time or in a noisy area.
• For dusty operations, wear dust mask.
• Static shocks are common when the relative humidity of the air is low. Vacuuming fine debris with your Vac can deposit static charge on the hose or Vac. To reduce the frequency of static shocks in your home or when using this Vac, add moisture to the air with a humidifier.

Observe the following warnings that appear on the motor housing of your Vac:

DOUBLE INSULATED GROUNDING NOT REQUIRED. WHEN SERVICING USE ONLY IDENTICAL REPLACEMENT PARTS.

• For your own safety, read and understand owner's manual.
• Do not run unattended.
• Do not pick up hot ashes, coals, toxic, flammable or other hazardous materials.
• Do not use around explosive liquids or vapors.

When using blower:
Wear safety eyewear labeled "ANSI Z87.1" on the package. Turn unit off before setting on ground or releasing grasp from handle. Electric shock could occur if used on wet surfaces. Direct tool discharge only at work area. Do not direct discharge at bystandaders, Keep children away.

To reduce the risk of electric shock - do not expose to rain - store indoors.

SAVE THIS MANUAL

FOR QUESTIONS OR INFORMATION CONTACT US AT
1-800-4-RIDGID (1-800-474-3443) from the US and Canada 01-800-701-9811 from Mexico www.ridgidvacs.com
Please have your Model Number and Serial Number on hand when calling.

Documents / Resources

References

• RIDGID Replacement Parts | RIDGID Store
• Wet Dry Vacs | RIDGID Tools

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