ARMORALL AA256 Wet-Dry Vacuum User Manual

ARMORALL AA256 Wet-Dry Vacuum

Product Information

The Wet/Dry Vacuum is a versatile cleaning tool that can be used for both wet and dry cleaning. It has a tank size of 2.5 gallons or 9.4 liters and is identified by model number AA256. The peak horsepower of the motor is used for consumer comparison purposes and does not reflect the operational horsepower output of the vacuum. The vacuum is double-insulated and does not require a separate grounding system.

Usage Instructions

1. Read and understand all instructions and labels on the vacuum before operating.
2. Only use manufacturer-recommended accessories to reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to the vacuum.
3. When using an extension cord, refer to the table in the manual to determine the required A.W.G. wire size. Only use extension cords that are rated for outdoor use.
4. Do not run the vacuum unattended and do not pick up hot ashes or coals, toxic, flammable, or otherwise hazardous materials. Do not use explosive liquids or vapors.
5. When vacuuming fine dust, use a fine dust filter to prevent damage to the motor.
6. Store the vacuum indoors and do not expose it to rain.
7. Read and understand the instructions for servicing double-insulated wet/dry vacuums before servicing.

Following these usage instructions will help reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or serious injury. Keep the operator’s manual for future reference.

WARRANTY
We take pride in producing a high-quality, durable product. This vac carries a limited two (2) year warranty against defects in workmanship and materials from the date of purchase under normal household use. Please keep your receipt as proof of purchase. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights, which vary from state to state. For customer service please call 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.

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

• Do not run the 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 dusts 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 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 the 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 the cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
• Do not use a damaged cord or plug.
• Do not pull or carry by cord, use the cord as a handle, close a door on the cord, or pull the cord around sharp edges or corners.
• Keep the cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not run the vacuum over the cord.
• Do not handle the plug or vacuum with wet hands.
• Do not use without a dust bag and/or filters in place.
• Do not allow it 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 the manufacturer’s recommended attachments.
• This vacuum is provided with double insulation. Use only identical replacement parts. See DOUBLE INSULATION INSTRUCTIONS.

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY FROM MOVING PARTS- UNPLUG BEFORE SERVICING.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE TO RAIN. STORE INDOORS.

When using as a blower:

• Direct air discharge only at the 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.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK – DO NOT EXPOSE TO RAIN. STORE INDOORS.
WARNING: FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY, READ AND UNDERSTAND THE OPERATOR‟ S MANUAL. DO NOT RUN UNATTENDED. DO NOT PICK UP HOT ASHES OR COALS, OR TOXIC, FLAMMABLE, OR OTHERWISE HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. DO NOT USE AROUND EXPLOSIVE LIQUIDS OR VAPORS.
CAUTION: DO NOT VACUUM DRYWALL DUST, FIREPLACE SOOT, OR ASH WITH A 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.
WARNING: SERVICING OF DOUBLE-INSULATED WET/DRY VACUUM WITH A DOUBLE- INSULATED WET/DRY VACUUM, TWO SYSTEMS  INSULATION ARE PROVIDED INSTEAD OF GROUNDING. NOGROUNDING MEANS ARE 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 THE 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 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.

| Length of Extension Cord
---|---
120V| 25ft (7.62m)| 50ft (15.24m)| 100ft (30.48m)| 150ft (45.72m)
Ampere rating| A.W.G. Wire Size
More than| Not more than|
0| 6| 18| 16| 16| 14
6| 10| 18| 16| 14| 12
10| 12| 16| 16| 14| 12
12| 16| 14| 12| Not recommended

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 power head and take out any contents inside the collection tank. Check each item against the carton contents list.

Carton Contents List:

Key/Description/Qty

• A Vac Assembly 1
• B Hose 1
• C Crevice Tool 1
• D Foam Wet Filter 1
• E Reusable Cloth Filter 1
• F 2-in-1 Utility Nozzle 1
• G Deluxe Car Nozzle 1
• H Detail Kit (6 pc) 1
• I Storage Pouch 1
• J Operator’s Manual 1

NOTE: The hose and accessories for this vacuum are 1-1/4” (3.18 cm) in diameter.

GENERAL ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: 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 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 8 (Fig. 4).
5. Your vacuum comes ready for dry vacuum cleaning. If the reusable cloth filter is not installed, refer to page 14 for installation instructions (Fig. 5).
6. For wet vacuum cleaning, remove the reusable cloth filter, and install the supplied foam wet filter. See page 15 for the foam wet filter installation instructions (Fig. 6).
7. Place the power head back on the collection tank, align the top section with the latches, and snap it into place (Fig. 7 & 8).
8. Insert the larger end of the hose into the vacuum port on the power head (Fig. 9).
9. Choose the desired attachment and insert it onto the end of the hose (Fig. 10).

POLARIZED PLUG
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, this appliance has a double 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

DRY VACUUMING

WARNING: DO NOT PLUG THE POWER CORD INTO A POWER OUTLET. MAKE SURE THE PLUG IS DISCONNECTED BEFORE CHANGING THE FILTERS.
CAUTION: DO NOT VACUUM DRYWALL DUST, FIREPLACE SOOT, OR ASH WITH STANDARD WET/DRY FILTER. THIS IS AVERY 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.
WARNING: BE SURE TO READ, UNDERSTAND, AND APPLY INFORMATION, ENTITLED ‘IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS’. 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 INCLUDED 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, make sure the reusable cloth filter completely covers the filter cage against the power head. Your wet/dry vacuum comes with the reusable cloth filter pre-installed. For installation instructions, see page 14 (Fig. 2 & 3).
3. Place the power head back on the collection tank and secure it in place using the latches (Fig. 4). OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS: DRY VACUUMING
4. Insert the larger end of the hose into the vacuum port on the power head.
5. Push the required attachment onto the free end of the hose (Fig. 5).
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. 6).
7. Turn the motor on by flipping the switch to the ‘I’ ON position and begin vacuuming (Fig. 7).
8. 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 REUSABLE CLOTH FILTER FOR LIQUID VACUUMING.

LIQUID VACUUM OPERATION

LIQUID VACUUMING

WARNING :BE SURE TO READ, UNDERSTAND, AND APPLY INFORMATION, ENTITLED “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS”. 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. WARNING:DO NOT PLUG THE POWER CORD INTO A POWER OUTLET. MAKE SURE 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 reusable cloth filter, then carefully install the foam wet filter over the filter cage and place the power head back on the collection tank. For foam wet filter installation instructions, see page 15 (Fig. 2).
   • DO NOT USE THE REUSABLE CLOTH FILTER FOR LIQUID VACUUMING.
   • OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS: WET VACUUMING
3. Insert the larger end of the hose into the vacuum port on the power head.
4. Push the required attachment onto the free end of the hose (Fig. 3).
5. 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).
6. Turn the motor on by flipping the switch to the ‘I’ ON position (Fig. 5).
7. Once you have completed vacuuming, flip the switch to the ‘O’ OFF position and unplug the power cord from the outlet.
8. After use, empty the collection tank, clean and dry the inside and outside before storage (Fig. 6).

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. To continue vacuuming, refit the power head 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 reusable cloth filter must be installed before dry vacuuming again.

BLOWER OPERATION

This Wet/Dry Vacuum has blowing capabilities. To use the blower feature, follow the instructions listed below.
WARNING: ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GOGGLES COMPLYING WITH ANSI Z87.1 (OR IN CANADA, CSAZ94.3) BEFORE USING THE BLOWER.
WARNING: WEAR A DUST MASK IF BLOWING CREATES DUST THAT MIGHT BE INHALED.
WARNING: KEEP BYSTANDERS CLEAR FROM BLOWING DEBRIS.

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 hose from the vacuum port.
4. Insert the larger end of the hose into the blower port on the back side of the power head (Fig. 2).
5. Choose the desired attachment and insert onto the end of the hose (Fig. 3).
6. Verify that the on/off switch is in the ‘O’ OFF position before plugging the power cord into the outlet. Plug the power cord into the outlet (Fig. 4).
7. Before turning on the vacuum, firmly hold the loose end of the hose. Turn the motor on by flipping the switch to the ‘I’ ON position (Fig. 5).
8. Once you have completed blowing, flip the on/off switch to the ‘O’ OFF position. Unplug the power cord from the outlet (Fig. 6).

MAINTENANCE

EMPTYING THE COLLECTION TANK
WARNING: ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE PLUG FROM THE POWER OUTLET BEFORE REMOVING THE POWER HEAD FROM THE 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 power head from the collection tank (Fig. 3). Place power head 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 (Fig. 5).
6. Check the hose, attachments, and power cord to verify that they have not been damaged.
7. Place the power head back on collection tank and secure latches.

IMPORTANT! Clean or change the filter regularly for best performance. ALWAYS USE THE
REUSABLE CLOTH FILTER FOR DRY VACUUMING. If the machine is used without the reusable cloth 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 reusable cloth filter should be used for dry pick-up only. A dry reusable cloth filter is necessary to pick up dust. If the reusable cloth filter is wet, it will clog quickly and be difficult to clean. Handle the filter carefully when removing it for cleaning and replacing. 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 in it; replace it immediately.
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 REUSABLE CLOTH FILTER

INSTALLING REUSABLE CLOTH FILTER

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet (Fig. 1).
2. Remove the power head and place in an upside-down position.
3. Install the reusable cloth filter over the filter cage making sure the cage is completely covered (Fig. 2 & 3).
4. Place the power head back onto the collection tank.

REMOVING & CLEANING REUSABLE CLOTH FILTER

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

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 power head and place in an upside-down position. Follow the instructions to remove the reusable cloth filter on page 14.
3. Carefully slide the foam wet filter 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 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 filter to air dry for 24 hours before installing it onto the filter cage.

TROUBLESHOOTING

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

The wet/dry vacuum will not operate.

| No power supply.| Check the power supply, cord, breakers, and fuses.

Faulty power cord.

| Unplug and check the power cord. If damaged, have it repaired by a professional.
Collection tank is full.| Empty the collection tank.
Switch in the wrong position.| Press the ON ‘I’ button on the power head.
The dust comes out from the motor cover.| The reusable cloth filter is

missing or damaged.

| Attach or replace the reusable

cloth filter.

Reduced efficiency and motor/

speed vibration.

| There are blockages in the nozzle, hose, or the collection tank inlets.| Unplug and check nozzle, hose and collection tank inlets for blockages.
The reusable cloth filter is clogged by fine dust.| Take off the filter and clean it or install a new reusable cloth filter.

EXPLODED VIEW

PARTS LIST

Replacement filters & accessories are available at: www.vacmaster.com/armorall.

FOR YOUR SAFETY
Read and understand this manual before use. Keep this manual for future reference.
Distributed by/ ©2022 Energizer Auto. Armor All is a trademark of Energizer Auto and is used under license by Cleva North America, Inc.

Thank you for purchasing this Armor All® wet/dry vacuum cleaner. Feel confident that with our Armor All® wet/dry vac you are obtaining a high- quality product engineered for optimal performance. This vacuum is capable of picking up liquids and dry materials.

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.

References

• Automotive

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