Vacmaster VFB511H 0201 - 5 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum Manual

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

GALLONS
"Tank Size" refers to the actual tank volume and does not reflect capacity available during operation.

PEAK HP
"Peak Horsepower" is a term used in the wet-dry vac industry for consumer comparison purposes. It does not denote the operational horsepower output of a wet-dry vac, but rather the horsepower output of a motor, including the motor's inertial contribution, achieved in laboratory testing. In actual use, motors do not operate at the peak horsepower shown.

FOR YOUR SAFETY: CAREFULLY READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS.

EXTENSION CORDS

When using an extension cord with your Wet/Dry Vacuum refer to the following table to determine the required A.W.G. wire size. Before using the cleaner make sure the power cord and extension cord are in good working condition. Make repairs or replacements before using the vacuum cleaner. Only use extension cords that are rated for outdoor use.

SYMBOLS

The following signal words and meanings are intended to explain the levels of risk associated with this product.
SYMBOL	SIGNAL	MEANING
	DANGER	Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
	WARNING	Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
	CAUTION	Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
	NOTICE	(Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates a situation that may result in property damage.

UNPACKING & CHECKING CARTON CONTENTS

Remove all contents from the box. Remove the powerhead and take out any contents inside the collection tank. Check each item against the carton contents list.

NOTE: The hose and accessories for this vacuum are 1-7/8" (47.6mm) diameter.

GENERAL ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

A Phillips head screw driver is required.

DO NOT PLUG THE POWER CORD INTO A POWER OUTLET. MAKE SURE THE PLUG IS DISCONNECTED BEFORE ASSEMBLING THE WET/DRY VACUUM. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE TO RAIN.

UNPACKING YOUR WET/DRY VACUUM & GENERAL ASSEMBLY

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet (Fig. 1).
   
2. Undo the latches (Fig. 2).
   
3. Lift the powerhead off the collection tank (Fig. 3).
   
4. Remove the contents from inside the collection tank; make sure you have all contents as listed in section above (Fig. 4).
   
5. Turn the collection tank upside down and insert the four casters into the sockets on the bottom of the base. Press casters down until they snap into place (Fig. 5).
   
6. Insert the handle into the slots located on the top of the powerhead and secure it with the screws provided. Do not over-tighten the screws (Fig. 6).
   
7. Your vacuum comes ready for dry vacuum cleaning. If the cartridge filter is not installed, refer to "Installing & Cleaning Cartridge Filter" section for installation instructions (Fig. 7 & 8).
   
8. Optional: For improved dust filtering, fit the collection bag flange onto the inlet port, taking care not to damage the bag. For installation instructions, see "Installing Dust Collection Bag" (Fig. 9).
   NOTE: The dust collection bag is for dry pick-up only.
   
9. For wet vacuum cleaning, remove the cartridge filter, and install the supplied foam wet filter.
   See "Installing & Cleaning Foam Wet Filter" for the foam wet filter installation instructions (Fig. 10).
   
10. Place the powerhead back on the collection tank (Fig. 11).
    
11. Position the hose storage rack as illustrated. Insert one side of the rack into the channel making sure it is secured in place. Squeeze in the other end and insert it into the corresponding channel making sure it is secured (Fig. 12 & 13).
    
    
12. Align the top section with the latches, and snap into place (Fig. 14).
    
13. Insert the locking end of the hose into the vacuum port on the collection tank and turn clockwise to lock into place (Fig. 15).
    
14. Choose the desired accessory and insert onto the free end of the hose or extension wand (Fig. 16).
    

NOISE DIFFUSER
For quiet operation, install the noise diffuser into the blower port by inserting the locking end of the diffuser into the blower port and turning clockwise to lock into place.

POLARIZED PLUG
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, this appliance has a polarized plug (one blade 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. Double insulation eliminates the need for the three wire grounded power cord and grounded power supply system.

DRY VACUUM OPERATION

BE SURE TO READ, UNDERSTAND, AND APPLY INFORMATION ENTITLED "IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS". DO NOT VACUUM IN AREAS WITH FLAMMABLE GASES, VAPORS, OR EXPLOSIVE DUST IN THE AIR.
FLAMMABLE GASES OR VAPORS INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO: LIGHTER FLUID, SOLVENT TYPE CLEANERS, OIL-BASED PAINTS, GASOLINE, ALCOHOL, OR AEROSOL SPRAYS. EXPLOSIVE DUST INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO: COAL, MAGNESIUM, GRAIN, OR GUN POWDER. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF HEALTH HAZARDS FROM VAPORS OR DUST, DO NOT VACUUM TOXIC MATERIALS.

DO NOT PLUG THE POWER CORD INTO A POWER OUTLET. MAKE SURE THE PLUG IS DISCONNECTED BEFORE CHANGING THE FILTERS.

DO NOT VACUUM DRYWALL DUST OR FIREPLACE SOOT OR ASH WITH STANDARD WET/DRY FILTER. THIS IS A VERY FINE DUST WHICH WILL NOT BE CAPTURED BY THE FILTER AND MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO MOTOR. WHEN VACUUMING FINE DUST USE A FINE DUST FILTER.

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet (Fig. 1).
   
2. In order to prepare your vacuum for dry vacuuming, make sure the cartridge filter completely covers the filter cage against the powerhead. Your wet/dry vacuum comes with the cartridge filter pre-installed. For installation instructions, see "Installing & Cleaning Cartridge Filter" (Fig. 2 & 3).
   
3. Place the filter retainer on the top of the cartridge filter and tighten down by turning the retainer handle clockwise (Fig. 4).
   
4. Optional: For improved dust filtering, fit the collection bag flange onto the inlet port, taking care not to damage the bag. For installation instructions, see "Installing Dust Collection Bag" (Fig. 5).
   NOTE: The dust collection bag is for dry pick-up only.
   
5. Place the powerhead back on the collection tank and secure it in place using the latches (Fig. 6).
   
6. Insert the locking end of the hose into the vacuum port on the collection tank and turn clockwise to lock into place.
7. Push the required accessory onto the free end of the hose or extension wand (Fig. 7).
   
8. Verify that the switch is in the 'O' OFF position before plugging the power cord into the power outlet. Plug the powerhead into the outlet (Fig. 8 & 9).
   
9. Turn the vacuum on by flipping the switch to the 'I' ON position and begin vacuuming (Fig. 10).
   
10. Once you have completed vacuuming, flip the switch to the 'O' OFF position and unplug the power cord from the outlet.

O = OFF
I = ON

DO NOT USE THE CARTRIDGE FILTER FOR LIQUID VACUUMING.
DO NOT USE THE COLLECTION BAG FOR LIQUID VACUUMING.

LIQUID VACUUM OPERATION

BE SURE TO READ, UNDERSTAND, AND APPLY INFORMATION ENTITLED "IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS". DO NOT VACUUM IN AREAS WITH FLAMMABLE GASES, VAPORS, OR EXPLOSIVE DUST IN THE AIR.
FLAMMABLE GASES OR VAPORS INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO: LIGHTER FLUID, SOLVENT TYPE CLEANERS, OIL-BASED PAINTS, GASOLINE, ALCOHOL, OR AEROSOL SPRAYS. EXPLOSIVE DUST INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO: COAL, MAGNESIUM, GRAIN, OR GUN POWDER. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF HEALTH HAZARDS FROM VAPORS OR DUST, DO NOT VACUUM TOXIC MATERIALS.

DO NOT PLUG THE POWER CORD INTO THE POWER OUTLET. MAKE SURE THE PLUG IS DISCONNECTED BEFORE CHANGING THE FILTERS.

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet. Make sure that the collection tank is clean and free of dust and dirt (Fig. 1).
   
2. Remove the cartridge filter, then carefully install the foam wet filter over the filter cage and place the powerhead back on the collection tank. For foam wet filter installation instructions, see "Installing & Cleaning Foam Wet Filter" (Fig. 2).
   

DO NOT USE THE CARTRIDGE FILTER OR DUST COLLECTION BAG FOR LIQUID VACUUMING.

3. Push the required accessory onto the free end of the hose or extension wand (Fig. 3).
   
4. Verify that the switch is in the 'O' OFF position before plugging the power cord into the power outlet. Plug the power cord into the outlet (Fig. 4 & 5).
   
5. Turn the vacuum on by flipping the switch to the 'I' ON position and begin vacuuming (Fig. 6).
   
6. Once you have completed vacuuming, flip the switch to the 'O' OFF position and unplug the power cord from the outlet.
7. After use, empty the collection tank, clean and dry the inside and outside before storage (Fig. 7).
   

When vacuuming large quantities of liquids, do not immerse the nozzle completely in the liquid; leave a gap at the tip of the nozzle opening to allow air inflow. The machine is fitted with a float valve that stops the suction action when the collection tank reaches its maximum capacity. You will notice an increase in motor speed. When this happens, turn off the machine, disconnect from power supply, and drain the liquid into a suitable receptacle or drain. To continue vacuuming, refit the powerhead to the collection tank. After wet vacuuming, turn the machine off and remove plug from power supply. Empty the collection tank, clean, and dry the inside and outside before storage.

REMEMBER! The foam wet filter must be removed after wet vacuuming and the cartridge filter must be installed before dry vacuuming again.

BLOWER OPERATION

This Wet/Dry Vac has blowing capabilities. To use the blower feature, follow the instructions listed below.

ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GOGGLES COMPLYING WITH ANSI Z87.1 (OR IN CANADA, CSAZ94.3) BEFORE USING BLOWER.

KEEP BYSTANDERS CLEAR FROM BLOWING DEBRIS.

WEAR A DUST MASK IF BLOWING CREATES DUST THAT MIGHT BE INHALED.

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet (Fig. 1).
   
2. Make sure the collection tank is empty before using as a blower. Clear all dirt and debris from the hose and collection tank.
3. Remove the hose from the vacuum port. Remove the noise diffuser from the blower port.
4. Insert the locking end of the hose into the blower port on the back of the powerhead and lock into place (Fig. 2).
   
5. Choose the desired accessory and insert onto the end of the hose (Fig. 3).
   
6. Verify that the switch is in the 'O' OFF position before plugging the power cord into the power outlet. Plug the power cord into the outlet (Fig. 4 & 5).
   
7. Before turning on the vacuum, firmly hold the loose end of the hose. Turn the vacuum on by flipping the switch to the 'I' ON position (Fig. 6).
   
8. The unit will now blow through the vacuum hose and can be used to clear obstructions within the hose (Fig. 7).
   
9. Once you have completed blowing, flip the on/off switch to the 'O' OFF position and unplug the power cord from the outlet (Fig. 8).
   

MAINTENANCE

EMPTYING THE COLLECTION TANK

ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE PLUG FROM THE POWER OUTLET BEFORE REMOVING THE POWERHEAD FROM COLLECTION TANK.

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet (Fig. 1).
   
2. Disconnect the hose from the vacuum (Fig. 2).
   
3. Undo the latches and remove the powerhead from the collection tank (Fig. 3). Place powerhead on a soft, clean surface upside down.
   
4. Clear all dirt or debris from the collection tank and hose into a proper waste container (Fig. 4).
   
5. Clean or replace the filters.
6. Check the hose, accessories, and power cord to ensure that they have not been damaged.
7. Place the powerhead back onto the collection tank and secure latches.

Clean or change the filter regularly for best performance. ALWAYS USE THE CARTRIDGE FILTER FOR DRY VACUUMING. If the machine is used without the cartridge filter, the motor will burn out and the warranty will be voided. Always keep spare filters on hand.

NOTICE! The filters included are made of high-quality materials designed to stop small dust particles. The cartridge filter should be used for dry pick-up only. A dry cartridge filter is necessary to pick up dust. If the cartridge filter is wet, it will clog quickly and be very difficult to clean. Handle the filter carefully when removing it for cleaning and replacing it. Check the filters for tears or small holes. A small hole can let dust pass through and out of the filter. Do not use a filter with holes or tears; replace it immediately.

CORD STORAGE

1. When unpacking your new Wet/Dry Vacuum, the cord storage hooks will be turned inward.
2. To use the cord storage, rotate both hooks outward until they click into place (Fig. 1 & 2).
   
3. When you are ready to use your vacuum, simply rotate one of the hooks inward to quickly release the cord (Fig. 3).
   

STORAGE

Before storing your vacuum, the collection tank should be emptied and cleaned. The accessories should be cleaned and stored so they can be readily available when needed. Store the wet/dry vacuum indoors.

REPAIRS

Repairs for this wet/dry vacuum should be performed only by qualified service personnel using only identical replacement parts.

INSTALLING & CLEANING CARTRIDGE FILTER

INSTALLING CARTRIDGE FILTER

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet (Fig. 1).
   
2. Remove the powerhead and place in an upside-down position.
3. Install the cartridge filter over the filter cage making sure the cage is completely covered (Fig. 2 & 3).
   
4. Place the filter retainer on the top of the cartridge filter over the raised lip and tighten down by turning the retainer clockwise; do not over-tighten (Fig. 4 & 5).
   
5. Place the powerhead back onto the collection tank.

REMOVING & CLEANING CARTRIDGE FILTER

1. Unlock and remove the filter retainer by turning the retainer handle counterclockwise.
2. With the removed powerhead in an upside-down position, carefully remove the cartridge filter from the filter cage (Fig. 6).
   
3. Clean the cartridge filter by gently tapping or brushing dirt off. Cleaning should not be done indoors in living areas. For optimal performance, a new filter is recommended.
4. Install cleaned or new filters as above in steps 2-4 of Installing Cartridge Filter.

INSTALLING DUST COLLECTION BAG

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet (Fig. 1).
   
2. Remove the powerhead and place in an upside-down position.
3. Slide the cardboard dust bag flange onto inlet port until it stops (Fig. 2).
   
4. Unfold the dust bag so that it is evenly distributed around the inside of the tank (Fig. 3).
   
5. Place the powerhead back onto the collection tank.

INSTALLING & CLEANING FOAM WET FILTER

INSTALLING FOAM WET FILTER

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet (Fig.1).
   
2. Remove the powerhead and place in an upside-down position. Follow instructions to remove the cartridge filter in section above.
3. Carefully slide the foam wet filter down over the filter cage making sure the cage is completely covered (Fig. 2 & 3).
   
4. Place the powerhead onto the collection tank.

CLEANING FOAM WET FILTER

1. With the removed powerhead in an upside-down position, carefully remove the foam wet filter (Fig. 4).
   
2. Use a mild soap and water solution to wash the foam wet filter and rinse with clean water (Fig. 5).
   
3. Allow the wet filter to air dry for 24 hours before storing or installing onto the filter cage.

TROUBLESHOOTING

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, UNPLUG BEFORE TROUBLESHOOTING.

EXPLODED VIEW

PARTS LIST

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS VACUUM.
Read and understand this operator's manual and all labels on the vacuum cleaner before operating. Safety is a combination of common sense, staying alert and knowing how your vacuum works. Use this vacuum only as described in this manual. To reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to your vacuum, use only manufacturer recommended accessories.

SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

When using a vacuum, basic precautions should always be followed including the following. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in explosion, fire and/or serious injury.

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY:

• Do not run vacuum unattended.
• Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids, such as gasoline, or use in areas where they may be present.
• Do not vacuum, or use this vacuum near flammable liquids, gases, or explosive vapors like gasoline or other fuels, lighter fluids, cleaners, oil-based paints, natural gas, hydrogen, or explosive dust like coal dust, magnesium dust, grain dust, or gun powder. Sparks inside the motor can ignite flammable vapors or dust.
• To reduce the risk of health hazards from vapors or dust, do not vacuum toxic materials.
• Do not use or store near hazardous materials.
• Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
• Do not expose to rain. Store indoors.
• If vacuum is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to a service center.
• Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
• Do not use with damaged cord or plug.
• Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as a handle, close a door on cord, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners.
• Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not run the vacuum over cord.
• Do not handle plug or vacuum with wet hands.
• Do not use without dust bag and/or filters in place.
• Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
• To reduce the risk of injury from accidental starting, unplug power cord before changing or cleaning filter.
• Do not leave vacuum when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
• Turn off all controls before unplugging.
• Unplug before connecting or disconnecting hose, or any other accessories.
• Do not put any object into openings. Do not use with any opening blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair, and anything that may reduce air flow.
• Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.
• Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
• Use only as described in this manual. Use only manufacturer's recommended attachments.
• This vacuum is provided with double insulation. Use only identical replacement parts. See DOUBLE INSULATION INSTRUCTIONS.

To reduce the risk of injury from moving parts - Unplug before servicing.

To reduce the risk of electric shock - Unplug before cleaning or servicing.

When using as blower:

• Direct air discharge only at work area.
• Do not use Wet/Dry Vacuum as a sprayer.
• Do not direct air at bystanders.
• Keep children away when blowing.
• Wear safety goggles.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
For Household Use Only

DOUBLE INSULATION INSTRUCTIONS

This Wet/Dry Vacuum 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 Vacuums before servicing. Use this vacuum as described in this manual.

Observe the following warnings that appear on the motor housing of your vacuum.

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

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK - DO NOT EXPOSE TO RAIN. STORE INDOORS.

FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY, READ AND UNDERSTAND THE OPERATOR'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.

DO NOT VACUUM DRYWALL DUST OR FIREPLACE SOOT OR ASH WITH STANDARD WET/DRY FILTER. THIS TYPE OF DUST IS VERY FINE WHICH MAY NOT BE CAPTURED BY THE FILTER AND CAUSE DAMAGE TO MOTOR. WHEN VACUUMING FINE DUST USE A FINE DUST FILTER.

SERVICING OF DOUBLE-INSULATED WET/DRY VACUUMS WITH A DOUBLE-INSULATED WET/DRY VACUUM, 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 DOUBLE-INSULATED WET/DRY VACUUM 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 VACUUM 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.

WARRANTY

For product service call Customer Service at 1-866-384-8432.

Distributed by:
Cleva North America, Inc.
601 Regent Park Court, Greenville, SC 29607

Replacement Filters & Accessories available at:
Vacmaster.com

Documents / Resources

References

• Vacmaster

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