shop-vac SC16 Household and Workshop Use Vacuum Cleaner User Manual

shop-vac SC16 Household and Workshop Use Vacuum Cleaner User Manual

ATTENTION!

Read all safety rules carefully before attempting to operate. Retain for future reference.

DANGER!

Never operate this unit when flammable materials or vapors are present because electrical devices produce arcs or sparks that can cause a fire or explosion. NEVEROPERATE UNATTENDED!

For your records, please record the following information and store this user manual in a safe location.

TOOLS NEEDED

• Safety glasses

• Flathead Screwdriver
  

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

When using an electrical appliance, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS APPLIANCE.
WARNING –TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK OR INJURY:

• Do not leave appliance when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing. Connect to a properly grounded outlet only. See Grounding Instructions.
• Do not expose to rain – store indoors.
• Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
• Use only as described in this manual. Use only Manufacturer’s recommended attachments.
• Do not use with damaged cord or plug. If appliance is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors or dropped into water, contact Shop-Vac for assistance.
• 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. Do not run appliance over cord. Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug; not the cord.
• Do not handle plug or appliance with wet hands.
• Do not put any object into openings. Do not use with any openings 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.
• Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches or hot ashes.
• Do not use without dust bag and/or filters in place.
• Turn off all controls before unplugging.
• Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
• Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids such as gasoline or use in areas where they may be present.
•  Do not use your cleaner as a sprayer of flammable liquids such as oil base paints, lacquers, household cleaners, etc.
• Do not vacuum toxic, carcinogenic, combustible or other hazardous materials such as asbestos, arsenic, barium, beryllium, lead, pesticides or other health endangering materials. Specially designed units are available for these purposes.
• Do not pick up soot, cement, plaster or drywall dust without cartridge filter and collection filter bag in place. These are very fine particles that may pass through the foam and affect the performance of the motor or be exhausted back into the air. Additional collection filter bags are available.
• Do not leave the cord lying on the floor once you have finished the cleaning job. It can become a tripping hazard.
• Use special care when emptying heavily loaded tanks.
• To avoid spontaneous combustion, empty tank after each use.
• The operation of a utility vac can result in foreign objects being blown into eyes, which can result in eye damage. Always wear safety goggles when operating vacuum.
• STAY ALERT. Watch what you are doing and use common sense. Do not use vacuum cleaner when you are tired, distracted or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication causing diminished control.
• WARNING! Do NOT use this vacuum cleaner to vacuum lead pain debris because this may disperse fine lead particles into the air. This vacuum cleaner is not intended for use under EPA Regulation 40 CFR Part 745 for lead paint material cleanup.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING – DO NOT LEAVE VACUUM UNATTENDED WHEN IT IS PLUGGED IN AND/OR OPERATING. UNPLUG UNIT WHEN NOT IN USE.

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

This appliance must be grounded. If it should malfunction or breakdown, grounding provides a path of least resistance for electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock. This appliance is equipped with a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and grounding plug. The plug must be inserted into an appropriate outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.

WARNING – IMPROPER CONNECTION OF THE EQUIPMENT-GROUNDING CONDUCTOR CAN RESULT IN A RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. CHECK WITH A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN OR SERVICE PERSON IF YOU ARE IN DOUBT AS TO WHETHER THE OUTLET IS PROPERLY GROUNDED. DO NOT MODIFY THE PLUG PROVIDED WITH THE APPLIANCE – IF IT WILL NOT FIT THE OUTLET, HAVE A PROPER OUTLET INSTALLED BY A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN.

This appliance is for use on a nominal 120-volt circuit, and has a grounded plug that looks like the plug illustrated in sketch A. A temporary adaptor that looks like the adaptor illustrated in sketches B and C may be used to connect this plug to a 2-pole receptacle as shown in sketch B if a properly grounded outlet is not available. The temporary adaptor should be used only until a properly grounded outlet (sketch A) can be installed by a qualified electrician. The green colored rigid ear, lug or the like extending from the adaptor must be connected to a permanent ground such as a properly grounded outlet box cover. Whenever the adaptor is used, it must be held in place by a metal screw.

IN CANADA, THE USE OF A TEMPORARY ADAPTOR IS NOT PERMITTED BY THE CANADIAN ELECTRICAL CODE. Make sure that the appliance is connected to an outlet having the same configuration as the plug. No adaptor should be used with this appliance.

GROUNDING METHODS

EXTENSION CORDS

When using the appliance at a distance where an extension cord becomes necessary, a 3-conductor grounding cord of adequate size must be used for safety, and to prevent loss of power and overheating. Use Table A to determine A.W.G. wire size required. To determine ampere rating of your vacuum, refer to nameplate located on motor housing. Before using appliance, inspect power cord for loose or exposed wires and damaged insulation. Make any needed repairs or replacements before using your appliance. Use only three- wire outdoor extension cords which have three-prong grounding-type plugs and three-pole receptacles which accept the extension cord’s plug. When vacuuming liquids, be sure the extension cord connection does not come in contact with the liquid.
NOTE: STATIC SHOCKS ARE COMMON IN DRY AREAS OR WHEN THE RELATIVE HUMIDITY OF THE AIR IS LOW. THIS IS ONLY TEMPORARY AND DOES NOT AFFECT THE USE OF THE APPLIANCE. TO REDUCE THE FREQUENCY OF STATIC SHOCKS IN YOUR HOME, THE BEST REMEDY IS TO ADD MOISTURE TO THE AIR WITH A CONSOLE OR INSTALLED HUMIDIFIER.

TABLE A

Ampere Rating More Not More
Than Than| AWG
0 – 6
0 – 10
10 – 12| 18
18
18| 16
16
16| 16
14
14| 14
12
12

UNPACKING

Pull lid latches in an outward motion, remove tank cover and any accessories that may have been shipped in the tank. Refer to the assembly section before replacing the tank cover.

ASSEMBLY

CASTER SYSTEM
(Not standard with all models)
Follow the instructions for the caster system that came with your vacuum.

CASTER SYSTEM ASSEMBLY
You will find four casters, four caster feet and four screws with your wet/dry vacuum.

1. With cord disconnected from receptacle and tank cover removed, turn tank upside down so that bottom is facing up.
2. With tank drain facing you, take caster feet marked with the lettter A and place in slots on left front and right rear of tank also marked with the letter A. Secure with screws provided.
3. Take caster feet marked with the letter B and place in slots on right front and left rear of tank also marked with the letter B. Secure with screws provided.
4. If flat washers are included in hardware package place flat washer over stem of caster before installing casters into feet. NOTE: Flat washers are not required with all units.
5. Insert casters into feet by placing stem of caster into holes provided. Apply pressure and twisting motion until casters snap into place. Return tank to upright position.

PLASTIC TANK WITH REAR CASTER DOLLY

You will find four casters, two caster feet, one dolly and four screws with your wet/dry vacuum.
Assemble as follows:

1. With cord disconnected from receptacle and tank cover removed, turn tank upside down so that the bottom is facing up.
   

2. Take rear caster dolly and place into slots (on rear of tank, opposite of inlet) and secure with screws provided.
   

3. If flat washers are included in hardware package place flat washer over stem of caster before installing casters into feet and dolly. NOTE: Flat washers are not required with all units.

4. Insert casters into bottom of rear caster dolly by placing stem of caster into holes provided. Apply pressure and twisting motion until casters snap into place.

5. With tank drain facing you, take caster foot marked with the letter A and place in slot on left side of tank also marked with the letter A and secure with screw provided.
   

6. Take caster foot marked with the letter B and place in slot on right side of tank also marked with the letter B and secure with screw provided.
   

7. If flat washers are included in hardware pack place flat washer over stem of caster before installing casters into feet. NOTE: Flat washers are not required with all units.

8. Insert casters into feet by placing stem of caster into holes provided. Apply pressure and twisting motion until casters snap into place. Return tank to upright position.
   

REAR WHEEL DOLLY/TOOL HOLDER AND FRONT CASTER FEET ASSEMBLY

(Not standard with all models)
You will find two casters, two large rear wheels, one axle, rear dolly/basket, two caster feet, four screws, two washers, two hair pin clips.

Assemble as follows:

1. With cord disconnected from receptacle and tank cover removed, turn tank upside down so that the bottom is facing up.
   

2. Place one hair pin clip in one end of axle. Slide one washer down the length of the axle to rest on the hair pin clip. Slide wheel onto axle next to washer. Be sure flat side of wheel hub is facing outward.
   

3. Slide axle through holes provided in dolly/basket.

4. Slide remaining wheel then washer onto axle. Insert hair pin clip into remaining hole in axle to hold wheel in place.
   

5. Take rear dolly assembly and place into slots (on rear of tank opposite drain) and secure with screws provided.
   

6. With tank drain facing you, take caster foot marked with the  letter A and place in slot on left side of tank also marked with the letter A and secure with screw provided.
   

7. Take caster foot marked with the letter B and place in slot on right side of tank also marked with the letter B and secure with screw provided.
   

8. If flat washers are included in hardware pack place flat washer over stem of caster before installing casters into feet. NOTE: Flat washers are not required with all units.

9. Insert casters into feet by placing stem of caster into holes provided. Apply pressure and twisting motion until casters snap into place.
   

10. Return tank to upright position.

INSTALLING THE CARRIAGE HANDLE
(Not standard with all models)
Stand vacuum right side up. Place metal carriage handle outside of tank and under the side carrying handles. Be sure to spread the ends of the carriage handles when assembling to prevent damage to the tank. Align holes of carriage handle to holes in tank and fasten tightly with screws, washers, and nuts provided. The sealing washer and screw have a close fitting tolerance. Rubber side of sealing washer should fit against inside wall of tank. Failure to properly install rubber washer could result in water leakage or loss of performance. Replace the tank cover and clamp the lid latches securely.

HOSE HOLDER INSTALLATION
(Not standard with all models)
If not already installed, assemble as follows:

1. With rear of unit facing you, take hose holder and position it with tabs facing rear of unit.
   

2. Place “J” shaped tabs into the slots on cord wraps. Press down until tabs snap into place.
   

3. Press down on center of hose holder until tab latches on bottom of tank cover.
   

SET UP AND OPERATION

1. Refer to the filter installation and maintenance section to make sure the correct filters are installed for your cleaning operation.

2. Replace tank cover and apply pressure with thumb to each latch until it snaps tightly into place. Make sure each latch is clamped securely.

3. Insert machine hose end with locking-nut into inlet located on the front of the tank.
   Turn locking nut to tighten. Do not over-tighten.
   

4. Attach the extension wands to the accessory end of the hose. Twist the wands slightly at each connection to secure them into place. NOTE: If an elbow grip (not standard on all models) has been included with your vacuum, it can be placed between the accessory end of hose and the extension wands for a more comfortable hand grip.

5. Attach one of the cleaning accessories (depending on your cleaning requirements) onto the extension wands. Twist the accessory slightly to tighten the connection. NOTE: Many more useful tools are available at your local dealer or the Shop-Vac® website.

6. Plug the cord into the wall outlet. Your cleaner is ready for use. I = ON, O = OFF

FILTER INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE

DRY PICK UP OPERATION
NOTE: Never use the vacuum for dry pick up without a dry use filter installed. Using the vacuum without a filter will cause dust to discharge from the blower port and cause damage to the motor.

WARNING– ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE PLUG FROM THE WALL OUTLET BEFORE REMOVING THE TANK COVER.
Follow the instructions for the filter that came with your vacuum. Some filters mentioned do not come standard with all vacuums. Additional filters are available at your local dealer or the Shop-Vac® website.

CARTRIDGE FILTER
The cartridge filter can be used for dry pick up and small quantities of wet pick up. Installation is the same for both. When picking up fine dust or powders a high efficiency filter bag must be used with the cartridge filter.

1. If a foam sleeve is installed on the lid cage, remove it by sliding it off the lid cage. NOTE: If the cartridge filter has been used for wet pick up, it must be cleaned and dried before using it for dry pick up.

2. With the tank cover in an upside down position, slide the cartridge down over the lid cage, pushing until the filter seals against the cover.
   

3. Place the filter retainer into the top of the cartridge filter. Hold the tank cover with one hand, turn the handle on the filter retainer clockwise to lock the filter into place.
   

4. To remove the filter for cleaning, hold the tank cover and turn the filter retainer counter-clockwise to loosen and remove.
   

5. Slide the cartridge filter off the lid cage.

6. Clean the filter by shaking or gently brushing off excess dirt. Extremely dirty filters may be cleaned with water by rinsing from the inside of the filter. Dry completely (approximately 24 hours).
   

7. Check the filter for tears or small holes. If none are found, reinstall the filter. To prevent damage to your vacuum, do not use a filter with a hole or tear.

WARNING– KEEP FILTERS CLEAN. EFFICIENCY OF THE VACUUM IS LARGELY DEPENDENT ON THE FILTER. A CLOGGED FILTER CAN CAUSE OVERHEATING AND POSSIBLY DAMAGE THE CLEANER. CHECK THE FILTER PERIODICALLY AND REPLACE AS REQUIRED.

DISPOSABLE FILTER BAG
Use the disposable filter bag in conjunction with the cartridge filter for easy disposal of the debris. The bag is not required for normal dry pick up. When picking up fine dust or powders a high efficiency filter bag must be used. NOTE: For dry use only.

1. Make sure the cord is disconnected from the receptacle, tank cover is removed and the hose is disconnected from tank inlet.

2. Remove inlet deflector from deflector guide. NOTE: Hose must be removed before inlet deflector can be taken out.
   

3. With the opening of the inlet deflector facing the left or right side of the filter bag, slide filter bag collar over deflector matching notches of bag collar to tabs on inlet deflector. Bag will only fit properly one way.
   

4. Slide deflector with filter bag attached into deflector guide.
   

5. Reinsert hose into inlet and tighten locking-nut. When secured in place expand bag and position around inside of tank.

6. NOTE: When removing filter bag from tank, remove inlet deflector from filter bag collar and reinstall into deflector guide. Inlet deflector should always be in place for any type of cleaning.

WARNING– FOR FINE DUST AND POWDERS.
When vacuuming fine dust, or powders of any kind (plaster, drywall dust, cold ashes, concrete dust, etc.) a high efficiency drywall filter bag must be used. When vacuuming normal household dust and debris, standard household disposable filter bags may be used.

WET PICK UP OPERATION

1. Your vacuum can be used for wet pick up. Remove ALL dirt and debris found in the tank. Remove all dry use filters, including the filter bag, from the vacuum.
2. A clean cartridge filter may be used to pick up small quantities of liquid. To use the cartridge filter; follow the instructions under dry pick up.
3. For vacuuming large quantities of liquid use a foam sleeve. If a foam sleeve did not come standard with your unit, one may be purchased at your local dealer, the Shop-Vac® website or by contacting ShopVac® customer service. To use the foam sleeve; follow the instructions in this section.
4. Misting in the exhaust air or dripping of liquid around the tank cover may occur if the filter becomes saturated during wet pick up. If this occurs, remove the filter and allow to dry, or replace with another dry filter.
5. Turn the unit off immediately upon completing a wet pick up job or when tank is full and ready to be emptied. When the tank is full, suction will drastically reduce. Refer to the automatic suction shut off section for more information. Raise the hose to drain any excess liquid into the tank. Follow the instructions in the emptying liquid waste section.
6. Before storing the vacuum cleaner or using for dry pick up, clean and dry the interior of the tank and the underside of the tank cover. Clean and allow the filters to dry completely.
7. Wet pick up accessories should be washed periodically; especially after picking up wet, sticky kitchen accidents. This can be accomplished with a warm solution of soap and water.

FOAM SLEEVE

1. With the tank cover in an upside down position, slide the foam sleeve down over the lid cage, pulling until foam sleeve completely covers the lid cage.
   

2. To clean the foam sleeve, slide it up and off the lid cage. Shake excess debris off of the foam sleeve with a rapid up and down movement.

3. Hold foam sleeve under running water for a couple minutes, rinsing from the inside of the filter. A water wash is not always required, depending on the condition of the filter.

4. Check the filter for tears. If any are found, replace with a new filter.

BLOWER FEATURE

Your vacuum can be used as a powerful blower. To use the blower feature, clear the hose of any debris or obstructions. Unscrew blower port cover located on the back of tank cover. The port cover is equipped with a retaining strap to prevent loss of the cover. NOTE: For maximum performance when vacuuming, remove the blower port cover.

Insert machine hose end into blower port located on the back of the tank cover.

Twist the hose end slightly to tighten the connection. Caution should be used when using as a blower due to the powerful force of air when using certain attachments.

WARNING–ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION TO PREVENT ROCKS OR DEBRIS FROM BEING BLOWN OR RICOCHETING INTO THE EYES OR FACE WHICH CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.

EMPTYING LIQUID WASTE FROM THE TANK

To empty liquid waste from the tank, turn the vacuum off and remove the plug from the wall outlet. Remove the drain cap and deposit the liquid waste in a suitable drain. Use side carry handles for lifting vac when draining tank into drains that are located above floor level. After the tank is empty, return the drain cap to it’s original position.

AUTOMATIC SUCTION SHUT OFF

The vacuum is equipped with an automatic suction shut-off that operates when picking up liquids. As the level of the liquid rises in the tank, an internal float rises until it seats itself against a seal at the intake of the motor, shutting off suction. When this happens, the motor will develop a higher than normal pitch noise and the suction is drastically reduced. If this occurs, turn unit off immediately. Failure to turn unit off after float rises and shuts off suction will result in extensive damage to the motor. To continue use, empty the liquid waste from the tank as outlined in the previous section.

NOTE : IF ACCIDENTALLY TIPPED OVER, THE VACUUM COULD LOSE SUCTION, IF THIS OCCURS, TURN UNIT OFF AND PLACE VAC IN UPRIGHT POSITION. THIS WILL ALLOW THE FLOAT TO RETURN TO ITS NORMAL POSITION AND YOU WILL BE ABLE TO CONTINUE OPERATION.

LUBRICATION

No lubrication is necessary as the motor is equipped with lifetime lubricated bearings.

STORAGE

1. Before storing your vacuum the tank should be emptied and cleaned.

2. The power cord can be wrapped around the cord wraps provided on back of the tank cover.
   

3. The hose may be stored in the hose holder. (Not standard with all models). To do this place one end of the hose between the hose holder posts and the tank cover. Wrap the hose around the tank cover keeping the hose tucked between the posts and the cover.
   

4. Accessories may be stored in the accessory caddy. (Not standard with all models).
   The vacuum should be stored indoors.
   
   

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM

| POSSIBLE CAUSES|

SOLUTION

---|---|---
Loss of suction or cleaner runs hot|

1. Clogged filter
2. Full tank
3. Air Leak
4. Hole in hose
5. Obstruction in hose or accessory

|

1. Clean or replace filter
2. Empty tank
3. Tighten hose and accessory connections
4. Replace hose
5. Remove obstruction

Dust discharging from tank cover|

1. Filter not properly installed
2. Filter damaged
3. Dust too fine for filter

|

1. Properly install filter
2. Replace filter
3. Add a high efficiency disposable filter bag

Mist discharging from tank cover|

1. Saturated filter
2. Full tank

|

1. Allow filter to dry or replace with dry filter
2. Empty Tank

Will not start|

1. Power cord not plugged into outlet
2. No power at the outlet
3. Defective switch or motor

|

1. Plug cord into outlet
2. Plug cord into another outlet 3. Contact Shop-Vac® customer service

WARNING – IF ANY OF THE MOTOR HOUSING PARTS SHOULD BECOME DETACHED OR BROKEN, EXPOSING THE MOTOR OR ANY OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS, OPERATION SHOULD BE DISCONTINUED IMMEDIATELY TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR FURTHER DAMAGE TO THE VACUUM. REPAIRS SHOULD BE MADE BEFORE REUSING THE VACUUM.

FIVE YEAR HOME USE WARRANTY

Your Shop-Vac® vacuum cleaner is warranted for normal household use, in accordance with the User Manual, against original defects in material and workmanship for a period of five years from date of purchase. Should this product be used for commercial or rental use, a 90 day limited warranty will apply. Shop-Vac warrants placing this vacuum cleaner in correct operating condition, by repair or parts replacement, during the warranty period, without charge. This warranty does not cover accessories. Use of non-recommended filters and/or accessories may void the manufacturer’s warranty. Shop-Vac® assumes no responsibility for damage or faulty performance caused by misuse, careless handling, and where repairs or modifications have been made. Do not attempt to service your vacuum beyond that described in the User Manual. Proof of purchase date is required. The warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights which vary from state to state or province to province. This warranty is void outside of the United States and Canada.

Visit www.shopvac.com for your vacuum’s parts list schematic.
Contact Shop-Vac® Customer Service if any parts are missing or damaged.
www.shopvac.com 24 hours a day.

www.shopvac.com
Patents Issued and Pending.
©2021 Shop-Vac USA, LLC. All rights reserved.

References

• Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum Comprehensive Search, Reviews & Buying Guide
• Shop-Vac Store - Genuine Shop-Vac Products
• Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum Comprehensive Search, Reviews & Buying Guide

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)  >>

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>