shop vac SM12 Wet Dry Vacuum User Manual

USER MANUAL
Household and Workshop use
WET/DRY VACUUM
Series: SM12/SM14/SM16

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:……………………….

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 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 with 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 Corporation 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 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 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 air flow.
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 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 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 tank after each use.
22. 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 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 paint 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 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.

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 lug. 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

AWG

0 – 6
6 – 10
10 – 12
12 – 16| 18
18
16
14| 16
16
16
12| 16
14
14| 14
12
12
Not recommended

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
Follow the instructions for the caster system that came with your vacuum.
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 lat washers are included in the hardware package place lat washers 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 rear caster dolly by placing the stem of the 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 the slot on the left side of the tank also marked with the letter A and secure with the screw provided.

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

7. Insert casters into feet by placing the 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 BASKET
You will find two casters, two caster feet, two rear wheels, one axle, two cap nuts, one basket, and four screws with your vacuum. Assemble as follows:

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. Stand axle upright on a hard surface and hammer on one cap nut.

3. Place one wheel on the axle and slide down to the cap nut. Be sure the lat side of the wheel hub is facing outward.

4. Slide axle through holes provided in the basket.

5. Slide remaining wheel onto the axle. Make sure wheels are positioned correctly. Hammer on second cap nut.

6. With the front of the tank facing you, take the basket assembly and place it into slots on the back of the tank. Secure with screws provided.

7. Take caster foot marked with the letter A and place in the slot on the left front of tank also marked with the letter A. Secure with screws provided.

8. Take caster foot marked with the letter B and place in the slot on the right front of the tank is also marked with the letter B. Secure with screws provided.

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

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

CARRIAGE HANDLE

If your vacuum comes with a carrying handle, assemble as follows:

1. Stand the tank in the upright position. Spread ends of carriage handle (to prevent damage to tank) while placing them under the side tank handles.
2. Align holes in the carriage handle with holes in the tank. Fasten tightly with screws, washers, and nuts provided. The rubber side of the washers must be placed against the
   inside wall of the tank to prevent leakage or loss of performance.

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.

AIRFLOW INDICATOR ASSEMBLY (PERFORMANCE GAUGE)
If your unit came with an airflow indicator, assemble as follows:

1. Set tank cover onto the tank. Position with the back of tank cover facing you.
2. Take filter indicator and position with side, containing the wording, facing down.
3. Locate the slot, below the blower port, on the back of the tank cover. Push the flat end of the indicator into the slot. Give a slight tug on the end of the indicator to make sure it is secure.
4. Push the post, located on the unsecured end of the indicator, into the round hole on the blower port 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 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.

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

AIRFLOW INDICATOR (PERFORMANCE GAUGE)
(Not standard with all models)
The performance of the vacuum is largely dependent on the air flowing through the unit. The airflow indicator can help you monitor the airflow.
NOTE: It is important to check your filters periodically even if
the airflow indicator does not register that there is a problem. If your filter is not installed properly, missing the filter retainer, or has a hole, the airflow will not reduce and register on the indicator. These issues could damage the vacuum motor or cause dust to discharge from the exhaust. To use the indicator, make sure it is installed on the blower port cover. Remove any accessories from the hose and position the hose end so it is open to the air. Turn the unit on and look to see where the bar on the filter indicator is positioned. If the end of the bar is in the green, continue your cleaning operation. If it is in yellow, consider reviewing the chart in this section to improve the vacuum’s performance. If it is in the red, turn the unit off and review the chart in this section. It is normal for the bar to move during the cleaning process due to the accessory or hose being moved across a surface.

upright position.
2. Empty the tank.
3. Remove the filter from lid cage and make sure the float is located at the bottom of the cage.
Air Leak| 1.If the vac has a tank drain, make sure the drain cap is installed.
2. Tighten the hose connection. If this doesn’t improve airflow, remove the hose from the inlet and retest. If the airflow is improved, replace the hose.
Obstruction in hose| 1. Remove obstruction or replace the hose.
The hose end isn’t open to the air| 1. Position the hose end away from the floor, wall, etc., and retest.
Filter indicator not attached to blower port cover| 1. Install indicator onto blower port cover.
Vacuum motor not running| 1. Make sure the power cord is plugged into the outlet and there is the power to the outlet. If the motor still won’t run, contact Shop-Vac® customer service.

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 ine 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 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 an 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 IT 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 in 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 inlet deflector from 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 an inlet and tighten the locking nut. When secured in place expand the bag and position around 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 into the 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 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 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. Follow the instructions that pertain to your vacuum.
WITHOUT TANK DRAIN
Remove the tank cover 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 tank is empty, return the tank cover to its original position.
WITH TANK DRAIN
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 the back of the tank cover.

3. The hose may be stored in the hose holder. 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. The accessories may be stored in the tool storage, that came with your vacuum. Some models come with a rear tool rack or basket. Other models come with slots in the hose holder and in the back of the tank cover. 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 the 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 the filter to dry or replace with
a 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 the cord into an outlet
2. Plug the 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.

FOUR-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 four years from date of purchase. Should this product be used for commercial or rental use, a 90-day limited warranty will apply. Shop-Vac Corporation 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.
Customers in the United States: for products, and services contact Shop- Vac Corporation, Customer Service, at 570-326-3557 or go to www.shopvac.com/support. Visit www.shopvac.com for your vacuum’s parts list schematic.
Customers in Canada: for product service return the complete unit, (transportation prepaid), to the Authorized Shop-Vac ® Service Centre nearest you. Visit www.shopvac.ca for a complete list of authorized service centers in your area.
Customers in Mexico: for product service see the paperwork that came with your unit.

SHOP-VAC CORPORATION
2323 Reach Road, P.O. Box 3307
Williamsport, PA 17701-0307
570-326-3557
www.shopvac.com| SHOP-VAC CANADA
1770 Appleby Line
Burlington, Ontario L7L 5P8
905-335-9730
www.shopvac.ca| Shop Vac-Mexico, S.A. de C.V.
Paseo de los Adobes 1081-3
Fraccionamiento Guadalajara Technology Park
Zapopan, Jalisco, México C.P. 45019
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Patents Issued and Pending.
© 2015 Shop-Vac Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

References

• OTHAYOTH - Website Under Construction
• Shop-Vac Store - Genuine Shop-Vac Products
• Customer Service | Shop-Vac Store
• TCPDF

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