shop-vac 8251205 12 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet and Dry Utility Vacuum with SVX2 Motor User Manual

Series:
SC14/SC16
USER MANUAL
Household and Workshop use
WET/DRY VACUUM

8251205 12 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet and Dry Utility Vacuum with SVX2 Motor

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. NEVER OPERATE UNATTENDED!
For your records, please record the following information and store this user manual in a safe location.
Catalog No……………………. (Located on the carton)
Model No……………………… (Located on the top portion of the vacuum)
Purchase Date:………………………
TOOLS NEEDED

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• 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:

1. Do not leave the appliance when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing. Connect to a properly grounded outlet only. See Grounding Instructions.
2. Do not expose to rain – store indoors.
3. Do not allow it to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
4. Use only as described in this manual. Use only the Manufacturer’s recommended attachments.
5. Do not use a damaged cord or plug. If the appliance is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors or dropped into water, contact Shop-Vac for assistance.
6. 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 the cord away from heated surfaces.
7. Do not unplug by pulling on the cord. To unplug, grasp the plug; not the cord.
8. Do not handle the plug or appliance with wet hands.
9. 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 airflow.
10. Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all parts of the body away from openings and moving parts.
11. Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches or hot ashes.
12. Do not use without a dust bag and/or filters in place.
13. Turn off all controls before unplugging.
14. Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
15. Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids such as gasoline or use it in areas where they may be present.
16. Do not use your cleaner as a sprayer of flammable liquids such as oil base paints, lacquers, household cleaners, etc.
17. 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.
18. Do not pick up soot, cement, plaster, or drywall dust without a 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.
19. Do not leave the cord lying on the floor once you have finished the cleaning job. It can become a tripping hazard.
20. Use special care when emptying heavily loaded tanks.
21. To avoid spontaneous combustion, empty the tank after each use.
22. The operation of a utility vac can result in foreign objects being blown into the eyes, which can result in eye damage. Always wear safety goggles when operating a vacuum.
23. STAY ALERT. Watch what you are doing and use common sense. Do not use a vacuum cleaner when you are tired, distracted, or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication causing diminished control.
24. 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 THE VACUUM UNATTENDED WHEN IT IS PLUGGED IN AND/OR OPERATING. UNPLUG THE UNIT WHEN NOT IN USE.

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

This appliance must be grounded. If it should malfunction or break down, 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 CONDUCTORS 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 the A.W.G. wire size required. To determine the ampere rating of your vacuum, refer to the nameplate located on the motor housing. Before using the appliance, inspect the 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

0 – 6
6 – 10
10 – 12| 18
18
18| 16
16
16| 16
14
14| 14
12
12

UNPACKING

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Insert casters into feet by placing the stem of the caster into the holes provided. Apply pressure and twisting motion until casters snap into place. Return tank to an 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, a rear dolly/basket, two caster feet, four screws, two washers, and two hairpin clips.
Assemble as follows:

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

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

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

4. Slide the remaining wheel and then the washer onto the axle. Insert a hairpin clip into the remaining hole in the axle to hold the wheel in place.

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

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

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

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

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

10. Return the tank to an upright position.
    

INSTALLING THE CARRIAGE HANDLE
(Not standard with all models)
Stand the vacuum right side up. Place metal carriage handles outside of the 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 the tank and fasten tightly with screws, washers, and nuts provided. The sealing washer and screw have a close-fitting tolerance. The rubber side of the sealing washer should fit against the inside wall of the tank. Failure to properly install the 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 the rear of the unit facing you, take the hose holder and position it with tabs facing the rear of the unit.

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

3. Press down on the center of the hose holder until the tab latches on the bottom of the 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 the tank cover and apply pressure with the 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 to lock 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 the hose and the extension wands for a more comfortable hand grip.

5. Attach one of the cleaning accessories (depending on your cleaning requirements) to 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 on top of the cartridge filter. Hold the tank cover with one hand, and 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. THE 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, the tank cover is removed and the hose is disconnected from the tank inlet.

2. Remove the inlet deflector from the deflector guide. NOTE: Hose must be removed before the 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 the filter bag collar over the deflector matching notches of the bag collar to tabs on
   the inlet deflector. The bag will only fit properly one way.

4. Slide deflector with filter bag attached into deflector guide.
   5. Reinsert the hose into the inlet and tighten the locking nut. When secured in place expand the bag and position it around the inside of the tank.
   6. NOTE: When removing the filter bag from the tank, remove the inlet deflector from the filter bag collar and reinstall it in the deflector guide. Inlet deflectors 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 highly efficient 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 it with another dry filter.
5. Turn the unit off immediately upon completing a wet pick-up job or when the 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 it 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 the 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 the foam sleeve under running water for a couple of 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 them 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 the blower port cover located on the back of the 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 the unit off immediately. Failure to turn the 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 the 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

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 the 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 the 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 an 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 the 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.

SHOP-VAC
2323 Reach Road
Williamsport, PA 17701
www.shopvac.com
Patents Issued and Pending.
©2021 Shop-Vac USA, LLC. All rights reserved.

Documents / Resources

| shop-vac 8251205 12 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet and Dry Utility Vacuum with SVX2 Motor [pdf] User Manual
8251205, 12 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet and Dry Utility Vacuum with SVX2 Motor, 8251205 12 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet and Dry Utility Vacuum with SVX2 Motor
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References

• Shop-Vac Store - Genuine Shop-Vac Products

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