RIDGID WD7000 - 11 U.S. GALLONS/41 LITERS SMARTCART WET/DRY Vacuum Cleaner Manual

Introduction

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

Unpacking and Checking Carton Contents

Tools Required

Refer to the assembly sketch for positioning of parts.
Remove contents of carton. Check each item against the Carton Contents List. Call 1-800-4-RIDGID (1-800-474-3443) or E-mail us at info@ridgid.com if any parts are damaged or missing.

Carton Contents List

* These items may come preassembled. If they are not present in the carton, check inside the drum to see if they are preassembled.

Removing/Installing/Storing The Metal Handle

Your metal handle comes packaged in the dust drum. You must remove the metal handle from the dust drum and install the handle in the correct direction, bent area facing away from the back of the Vac, before continuing. (Also remove the 8" wheel and set aside for installation).

Installing Handle
Press and hold release buttons while installing handle into handle receptacles in drum (See illustration).
NOTE: An audible snap of release buttons indicates successful engagement of handle.

Lowering Handle for Storage
To store Wet/Dry Vac, press and hold release buttons while firmly sliding handle down.

Removing Handle
Press and hold release buttons, as shown. While firmly pushing in release buttons, pull handle upwards to remove.

Filter Removal and Installation

NOTE: The filter is accessed by unlatching and removing the dust drum. The filter support assembly can be removed by grasping the filter support as shown in the illustrations below.


For your own safety, never connect plug to power source outlet until all assembly steps are complete and you have read and understood the safety and operation instructions. Do not operate Vac with any parts damaged or missing.

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.

Wet/Dry Vac Assembly

Dust Drum Assembly

1. Slide the dust drum into the front of the wet/dry Vac unit when filter assembly is complete. Position the dust drum wheels into the drum area slots and glide into place.
   NOTE: When reinstalling the dust drum and filter support assembly, ensure that the front of the dust drum is flush with the lid and motor cover assembly. The dust drum should fit snugly into place. There are two pins in the Wet/Dry Vac unit that must fit into the slots in the drum. This ensures proper alignment. The dust drum must be installed properly to ensure the Wet/Dry Vac functions correctly.
2. Pull the two latches on the front of the dust drum up and over the latch holders and press down firmly until they snap in place. If the pins from the lid and motor cover assembly are not aligned, the latches will not lock.

To avoid ingesting debris or water in the impeller and damaging Vac, never operate without filter support assembly in place.

Insert Hose

Insert the push button end of the hose assembly 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.

Wheel Assembly

If any parts are missing or damage, contact customer service. Do not attempt to assemble unit until you have all the parts.

1. Pull the dust drum clear of the Wet/Dry Vac. Locate the two 8" diameter wheels and the two bag assemblies.
2. Prop a 2 x 4 wood block approximately 12" long, under the rear of the Vac.
3. Place one flat washer onto the 3/8"bolt and install into the hole in rear panel. Push the bolt all the way through wheel hub.
4. Place one flat washer and one lock washer onto the bolt.
5. Screw on one jam nut and tighten with a 9/16" wrench. You will need to hold the head of the bolt with the 9/16" socket to securely tighten the jam nut.
6. Insert the wheel hub adapter onto the 8" wheel. Make sure that the slots on the wheel adapter fits snugly into the ribs of the wheel. Place adapter and wheel onto bolt.
7. Insert one spacer on the bolt and push through the wheel opening.
8. Install one flat washer and one lock nut. Tighten lock nut securely.
9. Using a rubber mallet, gently tap the wheel caps onto each wheel. This is required on both the left and right sides.
10. Lock the rear wheels by stepping down on the wheel locks to secure unit. Tilt Vac back to expose the front wheel area.

11. Push the caster on until the ball on the caster stem is inserted all the way onto the socket. You will hear the ball snap into the socket and the caster will swivel easily when positioned correctly.

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 the 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.
• Sparks inside the motor can ignite airborne flammables. Do not operate Vac near flammable liquids or in areas with flammable gases, vapors, or explosive/airborne dust. Flammable liquids, gases, and vapors include: lighter fluid, solvent-type cleaners, oil-based paints, gasoline, alcohol, and aerosol sprays. Explosive dusts include: coal, magnesium, aluminum, grain, and gun powder.
• Do not vacuum up explosive dusts, flammable liquids, or hot ashes.

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.
• Unplug Vac before servicing. 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.

To reduce the risk of electric shock, this appliance has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). 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.

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.
Utility Nozzle - General purpose nozzle for most vacuuming applications.
Wet Nozzle - Used for wet pickup on smooth surfaces to pick up liquid and dry the surface in one stroke.
Claw Nozzle - Used for wet or dry pickup.
Dusting Brush - Dry pickup of dust and dirt debris.
Car Nozzle (not provided) - Dry pickup nozzle for car interiors and most upholstery cleaning.
Extension Handles - These handles can be connected together and provides additional length for more reach.
Hose - Provides transfer of vacuum or blowing capability to work site. Provides the means of attaching extension handles and nozzles.
Crevice Tool - Use to pick up debris in hard to reach locations.

To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not run Vac unattended.

Vacuuming Dry Materials

1. The filter must always be in correct position to reduce the risk of leaks and possible damage to Vac.
2. Your Wet/Dry Vac comes with the VF5000 Filter installed. 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 dust 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.
3. When the liquid in the drum reaches a predetermined level, the float mechanism will rise automatically to cut off air-flow. When this happens, turn off the Vac, unplug the power cord, and empty the drum. 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.
4. After using the Vac to pick up liquids, allow the filter to dry to reduce the risk of mildew and damage to the filter.

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

Do not operate with the float removed. It prevents liquid from entering the impeller and damaging the motor.

Emptying the Drum

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

1. The Vac comes equipped with a drain for easy emptying of liquids. Simply unscrew the drain cap and lift the opposite side slightly to empty the drum.
2. Another option is to remove the drum from the Vac.
3. Pull the drum out from the Vac by pulling down and sliding the drum on the axle support under the drum.
4. Dump the drum contents into the proper waste disposal container.
   
5. Replace the drum by reinserting into the cavity and push until it snaps into place.
   

Moving the Wet/Dry Vac

To maneuver the Vac, the metal handle in the rear of the unit should be positioned in the upright position for ease of movement. Be sure to unlock the back wheels by pulling up on the wheel locks before moving the Vac.

Blowing Feature

Your Vac features a blowing port. It can blow sawdust and other debris. Follow the steps below to use your Vac as a blower.

1. Locate blowing port of your Vac.
   
   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 hours or when using in a noisy area.
   

2. Insert the locking end of the hose assembly into the blowing port 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.
3. (Optional) Attach extension handle to opposite end of hose, then place the crevice tool on the wand.
4. Turn Vac on and you are ready to use your Vac as a blower.

Storage

Hose Storage

The hose may be stored by placing in the top removable tray. You may also open the hinged top to access the hose storage.

Accessory Storage

Your wet/dry Vac accessories may be stored in the removable lower tray. Cleaning supplies may be stored in the storage area on the back of the unit between the wheels. The extension handles snap into place at the the back of the Vac in the extension handle storage areas.

Cord Wrap

When vacuuming is complete, unplug the cord and wrap it around the cord wrap area located on the back of the unit.

Handle Storage

When storing the Wet/Dry Vac, press and hold release buttons while firmly sliding handle down.

Maintenance

Filter

Filter Cleaning
Your filter should be cleaned often to maintain peak Vac performance.
Be sure the filter is dry 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 can cause a lot of dust to come out of your Vac. Replace it immediately.

Filter Removal
Refer to "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 pick-up.

Cleaning A Dry Filter

1. Some removal of dry debris can be accomplished without removing the filter from the Vac. Slap your hand on top of the lid while the Vac is turned off.
2. For best cleaning results due to accumulated dust, clean the filter in an open area. Cleaning SHOULD be done outdoors and not in the living quarters.
3. After filter removal from Vac, remove the dry debris by gently tapping 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
After filter is removed, 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 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.; after 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.

Casters and Wheels

Should your cart squeak or become hard to roll, you should place two or three drops of general purpose oil on each wheel at the axle. If your casters are noisy, you may put a drop of oil on the roller shaft to make them quieter.

Frame and Handles

Your metal handle is painted to prevent rust, however, liquids and corrosive debris should be wiped off with a soft cloth should they come in contact with the handle.

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

Repair Parts

11 Gallon SMARTCART Wet/Dry Vac Model Number WD70000
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 may be available where you purchased your Vac.

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

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

To reduce the risk of injury, the user must read and understand the owner's manual before using this product.

FOR QUESTIONS OR INFORMATION CONTACT US AT CALL 1-800-4-RIDGID (1-800-474-3443) OR www.ridgidvacs.com