Vacmaster VF408 Wet or Dry Shop Vacuum Cleaner Owner’s Manual

Vacmaster VF408 Wet or Dry Shop Vacuum Cleaner Owner’s Manual

WARRANTY

We take pride in producing a high quality, durable product. This Vacmaster® product carries a limited two (2) year warranty against defects in workmanship and materials from date of purchase under normal household use. If product is to be used for commercial, industria

l, or rental use, a 90 day limited warranty will apply. Please keep your receipt as proof of purchase. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, which may vary from state to state. For product service call Customer Service at 1-866-384-8432.

Not Covered by Warranty:

• Any part that has become inoperative due to misuse, negligence, direct/indirect abuse, accidents, improper maintenance, repairs, or alterations;
• Consumables such as filters and accessories;
• Normal wear and tear of parts and attachments, such as hose, nozzles, or casters;
• Normal deterioration of the exterior finish due to use or exposure;
• Any product where serial number/data label is tampered with or removed;
• Any product purchased from an unauthorized retailer.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS & WARNINGS

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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

SAVE THIS MANUAL WARNING: FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

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

• Do not run vac unattended.
• Do not vacuum, or use this Wet/Dry Vac near flammable liquids, gases, or explosive vapors like gasoline or other fuels, lighter fluids, cleaners, oil-based paints, natural gas, hydrogen, or explosive dusts like coal dust, magnesium dust, grain dust, or gun powder. Sparks inside the motor can ignite flammable vapors or dust.
• Do not vacuum anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
• Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not expose to rain. Store indoors.
• 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 appliance is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to a service center.
• 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 Wet/Dry Vac over cord.
• Do not handle plug or the Wet/Dry Vac with wet hands.
• To reduce the risk of health hazards from vapors or dusts, do not vacuum toxic materials.
• Do not use or store near hazardous materials.
• Do not use this Wet/Dry Vac with a torn filter or without the filter installed except when vacuuming liquids as described in the operation section of this manual.
• 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 Wet/Dry Vac unattended when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
• Turn off Wet/Dry Vac before unplugging.
• 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.
• Unplug before connecting hose.
• Use only as described in this manual. Use only manufacturer’s recommended attachments.
• This appliance is provided with double insulation. Use only identical replacement parts. See
  “DOUBLE INSULATION INSTRUCTIONS”.

DOUBLE INSULATION INSTRUCTIONS

This Wet/Dry Vac is double-insulated, eliminating the need for a separate grounding system. Use only identical replacements parts. Read the instructions for Servicing Double Insulated Wet/Dry Vacs before servicing. Use this Wet/Dry Vac as described in this manual. Observe the following warnings that appear on the motor housing of your Wet/Dry Vac.

CAUTION:
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 (sold separately).

WARNING:
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.

EXTENSION CORDS

When using an extension cord with your Wet/Dry Vac refer to the following table to determine the required A.W.G. wire size. Before using the vacuum 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.

| Length of Extension Cord
---|---
110V-120V| 25 Feet7.5 Meters| 50 Feet15.25 Meters| 100 Feet30.5 Meters| 150 Feet45.7 Meters
Amps| A.W.G. Wire Size
0-6| 18| 16| 16| 14
7-10| 18| 16| 14| 12
11-12| 16| 16| 14| 12
13-16| 14| 12| Not recommended

UNPACKING & CHECKING CARTON CONTENTS

A Description……………………………………..
B Vac Assembly………………………………….
C Hose………………………………………………
D 2-in-1 Utility Nozzle………………………….
E Round Dust Brush……………………………
F Crevice Tool…………………………………….
G Multi-Surface Floor Nozzle………………..
H Cartridge Filter…………………………………
I Filter Retainer………………………………….
J Foam Wet Filter……………………………….
K Accessory Storage Caddy…………………
L Extension Wand………………………………
M Hose Storage Rack………………………….
N HEPA Filter Door……………………………..
O HEPA Filter……………………………………..
P Casters…………………………………………..
Q Rear Wheels……………………………………
R Handle……………………………………………
S 4 Screws (Bag)………………………………..
S Operator’s Manual……………………………

NOTE: The hose and accessories for this vacuum are 1.25” (3.2 cm) diameter.

GENERAL ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

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 power head off the collection tank. (fig. 3)
   

4. Remove the contents from inside the collection tank; make sure you have all contents as listed on page 5. (fig. 4)
   

5. Turn the collection tank upside down and insert the two (2) casters into the slots on the front side of the collection tank. Apply downward pressure until the casters snap  into place. (fig. 5)
   

6. Slide the rear wheels into the slots making sure to match the wheel number to the corresponding number on the wheel slot and use screws to secure them. Do not over-tighten the screws. (fig. 6 & 7)
   
   

7. Your vacuum comes ready for dry vacuum cleaning. For installation instructions, see page 9.  (fig. 8 & 9)
   
   

8. For wet vacuum cleaning, install the supplied foam filter. (fig. 10) For installation instructions,
   

9. Place the power head back on the collection tank, aligning the top section with the latches, and  snap into place. (fig. 11)
   

10. Insert the handle into the slots located on the top of the power head and secure it with the screws provided. Do not over-tighten the screws. (fig. 12)
    

11. Hang the tool caddy onto the hooks on the back of the vacuum. (fig. 13)
    

12. Secure the large end of the hose onto the vacuum port on the collection tank and screw into place. (fig. 14)
    

13. Choose the desired accessories and push onto the hose. (fig. 15)
    

DRY VACUUM OPERATION

WARNING: BE SURE TO READ, UNDERSTAND, AND APPLY, INFORMATION ENTITLED ‘SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS & WARNINGS’. DO NOT VACUUM IN AREAS WITH FLAMMABLE GASES, VAPORS, OR EXPLOSIVE DUSTS 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 DUSTS 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.

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet. (fig.1)
   

2. In order to prepare your vacuum for dry vacuuming, verify that the cartridge filter is securely mounted. Make sure the filter is pushed in until it stops against the power head. (fig. 2) Your Wet/Dry Vac comes with the cartridge filter pre-installed. For installation instructions, see page 9.
   

3. Place filter retainer on top of cartridge filter and tighten by turning the retainer handle clockwise. (fig. 3)
   

4. Optional: For improved dust filtering, fit collection bag flange onto the inlet port, taking care not to damage the bag. Dust bag sold separately. (fig. 4)
   

5. Place the power head back on the collection tank, aligning the top section with the latches, and lock into place. (fig. 5)
   
   OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS: DRY VACUUMING

6. Insert the locking end of the hose into the vacuum port on the power head and screw in place. Push the desired extension wands or attachments onto the free end of the hose. (fig. 6)
   

7. Verify that the switch is in the ‘O’ OFF position before plugging the power cord into the outlet. (fig. 7 & 8)
   
   

8. Turn the motor on by flipping the switch to the ‘I’ ON position. (fig. 9)
   

9. Once you have completed vacuuming, flip the switch to the ‘O’ OFF position and unplug the power cord from the outlet. (fig. 10 & 11)
   
   

10. To rewind the cord, hold on to the plug and press the cord rewind button. Do not allow plug to whip when rewinding. (fig. 12)
    

LIQUID VACUUM OPERATION

WARNING: BE SURE TO READ, UNDERSTAND, AND APPLY, INFORMATION ENTITLED ‘SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS & WARNINGS’. DO NOT VACUUM IN AREAS WITHFLAMMABLE GASES, VAPORS, OR EXPLOSIVE DUSTS 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 DUSTS 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.

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet. Verify that the collection tank is clean and free of dust and dirt. (fig. 1)

2. Remove cartridge filter and the dust collection bag, then carefully install the foam wet filter over the filter cage and place the power head back on the collection tank. (fig. 2) For installation instructions,
   
   DO NOT USE THE CARTRIDGE FILTER FOR LIQUID VACUUMING.
   OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS: WET VACUUMING

3. Fit the desired extension wands or nozzle to the vacuum hose. (fig. 3)
   

4. Verify that the switch is in the ‘O’ OFF position before plugging the power cord into the outlet. (fig. 4 & 5)
   
   

5. Turn the motor on by flipping the switch to the ‘I’ ON position. (fig. 6)
   

6. After use, flip the switch to the ‘O’ OFF position and unplug the power cord from the outlet. (fig. 7 & 8)
   
   

7. Empty the collection tank into a suitable receptacle or drain. (fig. 9)
   

8. To rewind the cord, hold on to the plug and press the cord rewind button. Do not allow plug to whip when rewinding. (fig. 10)
   

IMPORTANT! 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. 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 a cartridge filter must be installed before dry vacuuming again.

MAINTENANCE

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 power head from the collection tank. (fig. 3)
   

4. Clear all dirt or debris from the collection tank and hose. (fig. 4)
   

5. Clean the foam filter by washing it with water and mild soap. (fig. 5)
   

6. Check the hose, attachments, and power cord to verify that they have not been damaged.

7. Place power head on collection tank and secure latches.

INSTALLING & CLEANING CARTRIDGE FILTER

Installing Cartridge Filter

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet. (fig. 1)
   

2. Remove power head and place in upside down position.

3. Install the cartridge filter over the filter cage and carefully push filter in until it stops against the power head. (fig. 2 & 3)
   
   

4. Place filter retainer on top of cartridge filter and tighten down by turning retainer clockwise. (fig. 4 & 5)
   
   

Removing and Cleaning Cartridge Filter

1. Unlock and remove the filter retainer by turning retainer handle counter clockwise.

2. Carefully hold and pull the cartridge filter up for removal. (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 filter as instructed above in steps 1 – 4 of Installing Cartridge Filter.

5. Wet filters should be removed and allowed to air dry for 24 hours before installing onto the filter cage.

Installing and Cleaning HEPA Filter

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet. (fig. 1)
   

2. Unlock the filter door by lifting the lock tab UP to the unlocked position and pull the door out. (fig. 2 & 3)
   
   

3. Remove the HEPA filter cartridge from the vacuum. (fig. 4)
   

4. Clean filter by brushing dirt off. For optimal performance a new filter is recommended. (fig. 5)
   

5. Install the cleaned or new filter. (fig. 6)
   

6. Insert the filter door tabs into the upper slots and lock the filter door into place (fig. 7 & 8)
   
   

INSTALLING & CLEANING FOAM WET FILTER

Installing Foam Wet Filter

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet. (fig. 1)
   

2. Remove power head and place in upside down position. Follow instructions to remove cartridge filter.

3. Carefully slide foam wet filter down over the filter cage making sure the cage is completely covered. (fig. 2 & 3)
   
   

4. Place the power head onto the collection tank.

Cleaning Foam Wet Filter

1. With the removed power head in an upside down position, carefully remove foam wet filter. (fig. 4)
   

2. Use a mild soap and water solution to wash foam wet filter and rinse with clean water. (fig. 5)
   

3. Allow filter to air dry before installing and using again.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Vacuum will not operate.

| 1) No power supply.| 1) Check power supply – cord, breakers, fuses.
2) Faulty power cord.| 2) Unplug and check the power cord. If damaged, have it repaired by a professional.
3) Collection tank full.| 3) Empty collection tank.
Dust comes from motor cover.| 1) The dust filter is missing ordamaged.| 1) Attach or replace dust filter.
Reduced efficiency and motor/speed vibration.| 1) There is a blockage in the nozzle or hose, or the collection tank inlet. Or dust filter blocked by fine dust.| 1) Check nozzle, hose and collection tank inlets for blockage. Take off the filter and clean it or install a new filter.

EXPLODED VIEW

References

• Vacmaster
• Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum Comprehensive Search, Reviews & Buying Guide
• Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum Comprehensive Search, Reviews & Buying Guide

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