RIDGID WD16800, WD1680EX0 - 16 U.S. GALLON/ 60 LITER PROFESSIONAL WET/DRY Vacuum Cleaner 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.

Carton Contents List

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.

Drum/Caster Foot Assembly

If any parts are missing or damaged contact Customer Service.
Do not assemble until you have all the parts.

1. Insert the front and rear caster feet into the bottom of drum as shown. Light taps with a mallet or hammer may be needed to fully seat both caster feet.
   
2. Install (4) #10 x 1-3/4" screws into matching holes on both front and rear caster feet, securing them to the bottom of the drum. Tighten screws until just snug. Do not over tighten as this may tend to deform the caster feet.
   
3. Insert the caster stem into each of the caster feet, as shown.
4. Push on the caster until the ball on the caster stem is inserted all the way into the socket. You will be able to hear the ball snap into the socket and the caster will swivel easily when positioning is correct.
   

Accessory Storage Holder

Installing Accessory Storage Holder

1. Position rods of accessory storage holder directly over accessory rod receptacles in dust drum.
2. Slide accessory storage holder into accessory rod receptacles until fully seated with holder clips locked.

Removing Accessory Storage Holder
Push in both accessory storage holder clips and then pull straight up on rods of accessory storage holder.

Accessory Storage

Your accessory storage holder has been designed to hold all the accessories included with your vac. The accessories and hose should be stored as shown.
NOTE: Insert female end of extension wand into the holder sleeve as shown.

Cord Wrap
When vacuuming is complete, unplug the cord and wrap it around the detachable blower as shown.

Wet/Dry Vac Assembly

1. Locate the lid assembly and the drum assembly (assembled earlier).
2. Position the lid assembly with the detachable blower handle of the unit located above the vacuum inlet on the dust drum.
3. To assemble the lid assembly to the drum assembly, lower the lid assembly onto the dust drum. Rotate both latches down until you hear them snap over the drum latch catches of the

Positioning Detachable Blower (Power Head Assembly)

1. To remove the detachable blower from the lid assembly, press down on the detachable blower latch under the detachable blower handle and lift the blower off the lid of the Vac.
   
   

2. To replace the detachable blower onto the lid assembly, position detachable blower above the indented area of the lid assembly. Rotate the detachable blower down until the travel of the unit stops.

3. Lightly press down on the carry handle of the detachable blower until you hear the "snap" of the detachable blower latch engaging the detachable blower. The detachable blower is now latched to the lid assembly.
   
   

4. 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 sliding the switch from position "O" to position "l":

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.
Wet Nozzle - Used for wet pickup on smooth surfaces to pick up liquid and dry the surface in one stroke.
Blower Wand - Attaches directly to the power assembly concentrates the air for blowing applications.
Hose - Provides transfer of vacuum or blowing capability to work site. Provides the means of attaching extension wands and nozzles.
Accessory Storage Holder - 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 on the sides 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 handle above the inlet can 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 garage applications to blow dust 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 detachable blower latch under the handle of the detachable blower and lift by the handle to remove.
   

Using the Detachable Blower for "Blowing"

Two suggested methods of using the blower are:

1. Insert the round end of the blower wand into the blowing port of the detachable blower and turn clockwise to lock.
   
   
   - OR -
2. The Wet/Dry Vac may also be used for blowing using the seven-foot hose supplied with the Wet/Dry Vac. Install the push button end of the Vac hose in the blowing port of the detachable blower. For added control, an extension wand and/or car nozzle can be added to the opposite end of the hose. The unit is ready for blowing applications.
   
3. Turn the blower "ON" by sliding the switch in the handle of the blower to the "I" position.

Maintenance

Detachable 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 detachable blower.
4. Remove the foam pad and clean 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 by reversing steps1 thru 4.
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 or installing. 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 and run water over it to remove the dirt. Take care that water pressure does not damage the filter material.

Installation
Refer to "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 teaspoon chlorine 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 hooks on the side of the detachable blower. 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 and 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

16 Gallon Professional Wet/Dry Vac Model Number WD16800/WD1680EX0
RIDGID parts are available on-line at www.ridgidparts.com
Always order by Part Number - Not by Key Number

† These replacement parts may be available where you purchased your Vac.

SERVICING OF DOUBLE-INSULATED WET/DRY VAC

16 Gallon Professional Wet/Dry Vac Model Number WD16800/WD1680EX0
RIDGID parts are available on-line at www.ridgidparts.com

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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

To reduce the risk of injury, the user must read and understand the owner's manual before using this product.
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

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