shop-vac ESLSQ550 4 Gallon 5.5 HP SVX2 Wet Dry Vacuum User Manual

USER MANUAL
THE WORKSHOP
ASSISTANT WET/DRY VAC
4 U.S. GALLON 15 LITER
ESL SERIES
HOUSEHOLD AND
WORKSHOP USE

FOR YOUR SAFETY, READ
ALL INSTRUCTIONS
CAREFULLY BEFORE USE.
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR
FUTURE REFERENCE.

*Tank capacity refers to actual tank volume, and does not reflect capacity available during operation.

CATALOG / MODEL NUMBERS
Catalog No. 5914411
Model No. ESLSQ550
Date of Purchase:
For your records, please record your Date of Purchase and store this owner’s manual in a safe location for future reference.

CARTON CONTENTS

**WARNING:** REVIEW IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE.
Check to make sure you have the following:

1. Vacuum
2. Cartridge filter
3. Filter retainer
4. High efficiency filter bag
5. Foam sleeve
6. 12″ Deluxe nozzle
7. Crevice tool
8. Hose
9. Extension wands (2)
10. Accessory basket
11. Casters (2)
12. Screw (2)
13. Wheel plug (2)
14. Axle (2)
15. Wheel (2)
16. 5½” Utility nozzle
17. Round brush
18. Dual surface nozzle

TOOLS REQUIRED

Questions?
Visit www.shopvac.com 24 hours a day.

**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!

**WARNING!**
ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE PLUG FROM THE WALL OUTLET BEFORE REMOVING THE TANK COVER.

**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.

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 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 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 in areas where they may be present.
16. Do not use your cleaner as a sprayer of flammable liquids such as oil-based 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 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 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 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 adapter that looks like the adapter 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 adapter 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 adapter must be connected to a permanent ground such as a properly grounded outlet box cover. Whenever the adapter 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 adapter 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 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.

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

TABLE A

UNPACKING AND SET-UP

1. Pull lid latches in an outward motion and removes tank cover. Remove any accessories and literature which may have been shipped in the tank.

2. Attach rear wheels and front casters following the instructions and illustrations below.

3. Before replacing the tank cover, refer to Dry Pick Up or Wet Pick Up Operation in this manual to ensure you have the proper filters installed and inlet deflector is positioned correctly for your cleaning operation.

4. Replace tank cover and apply pressure with thumbs to each latch until it snaps tightly in place. Make sure both lid latches are clamped securely.

5. Insert long machine hose end with locking nut into the inlet of the tank and tighten. Do not over-tighten.

6. Attach the extension wands (not standard with all models) to the accessory end of the hose. Twist slightly to tighten the connection.
   FIGURE 1.

7. Attach one of the cleaning accessories (depending on your cleaning requirements) on the extension wands. Twist slightly to tighten the connection. FIGURE 1.

8. Plug the cord into the wall outlet. Your cleaner is ready for use.
   I = ON, O = OFF
   NOTE: MANY MORE USEFUL TOOLS ARE AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL DEALER OR SHOPVAC® WEBSITE.

You will find two casters.
FIGURE 2
Two axle housings.
FIGURE 3.
Two wheel plugs.
FIGURE 4.
Two wheels and two screws.
FIGURE 5.
Assemble as follows:

9. With the cord disconnected from the receptacle and the tank cover removed, turn the tank upside down so that the bottom is facing up with the inlet towards you.
   FIGURE 6.

10. Insert casters into bottom of the tank by placing the stem of casters into holes provided. Apply pressure and twisting motion until casters snap into place. FIGURE 7.

11. Insert axle housing into wheel, with the longer end of the housing facing up. FIGURE 8.

12. Insert wheel plug (with tab in upward position) through the wheel and axle housing aligning the tab on the plug with the slot in the axle housing. FIGURE 9.

13. Place the assembled wheel on a hard flat surface. Apply pressure to snap the assembly together. FIGURE 10.

14. Insert screw provided through the back of axle housing. FIGURE 11.

15. Slide axle housing into dovetail slot at the rear of tank: axle housing is tapered and should slide into dovetail slot without excessive force. FIGURE 12. Tighten screw.

16. Repeat steps 11 through 15 for another wheel assembly.

17. Return tank to an upright position.

ACCESSORY BASKET ASSEMBLY

(Not standard with all models)

18. With the rear of the tank facing you, take an accessory basket and position it with tabs facing the rear of the tank. FIGURE 13.

19. Insert tabs of the accessory basket into slots on the rear of the tank. FIGURE 14.

20. Press down until the basket is secured into place.
    (Not standard with all models)

21. Replace tank cover and apply pressure with thumbs to each latch until it snaps tightly in place. Make sure both lid latches are clamped securely.

22. With the rear of the unit facing you, take the tool holder and position it with the tabs facing the rear tank cover.
    FIGURE 15.

23. Press tabs of the tool holder into the slots on mounting lugs on the rear of the tank cover. FIGURE 16.

24. Press down until tabs snap into place.
    NOTE  TOOL HOLDER NOT COMPATIBLE WITH ACCESSORY BASKET.
    FILTER INSTALLATION AND CLEANING
    

**DRY PICK-UP OPERATION

**

WARNING!
ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE PLUG FROM THE WALL OUTLET BEFORE REMOVING THE TANK COVER.
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.
INSTALLING FOAM SLEEVE AND REUSABLE DRY FILTER:
(Not standard with all models)
To pick up dust and dry material, you must install a foam sleeve and reusable dry filter to ensure proper filtration. If the vacuum has been used to pick up liquids, the foam sleeve must be cleaned and dried before installing for dry pick up.

25. With tank cover in an upside down position, slide foam sleeve down over lid cage pulling until foam sleeve completely covers lid cage.
    FIGURE 17.
    NOTE: The bottom of the foam sleeve must be positioned OUTSIDE of the groove around the lid cage for the reusable dry filter to fit properly.

26. Place the filter retainer onto the top of the foam sleeve. Hold the tank cover with one hand, and turn the handle on the filter retainer clockwise to lock the filter into place.

27. To clean the foam sleeve, hold the tank cover with one hand and turn the filter retainer counter-clockwise to loosen and remove. Slide the foam sleeve up and off the lid cage. Shake excess debris off of the foam sleeve with a rapid up and down movement.

28. 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.

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

30. Center the reusable dry filter on lid cage. FIGURE 18.

31. Slide mounting ring down over filter until ring is positioned against the ribs of the lid cage. FIGURE 19. The reusable dry filter should always be in position over the
    foam sleeve for dry pick up.

32. To remove the filter for cleaning, remove the mounting ring and filter from the lid cage. FIGURE 20. To clean the reusable dry filter, shake off excess dirt and dust or (depending on the condition of the filter) rinse with water. Allow the filter to dry completely and re-install. DO NOT MACHINE WASH OR D RY.
    IMPORTANT: BEFORE INSTALLING A REUSABLE FILTER BE SURE THAT THE FOAM SLEEVE IS OUTSIDE OF THE GROOVE AND AROUND THE LID CAGE.
    NOTE: ENSURE THAT THE MOUNTING RING IS COMPLETELY SECURE AND IN POSITION BY PRESSING DOWN FIRMLY AROUND THE RING IN
    SEVERAL PLACES. BE SURE THE REUSABLE DRY DISC FILTER COMPLETELY COVERS THE FOAM SLEEVE. CHECK TO ENSURE THAT ALL EDGES OF THE REUSABLE DRY FILTER ARE SECURE UNDER THE MOUNTING RING.
    INSTALLING THE CARTRIDGE FILTER:
    (Not standard with all models)

33.  The cartridge filter can be used for wet or dry pick-up; installation is the same for both.

34. With the tank cover in an upside-down position, slide the cartridge filter down over the lid cage, pushing until the filter seals against the cover.
    FIGURE 21.

35. 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 tighten, locking the filter into
    place. FIGURE 22, 23.

36. To remove the filter for cleaning, again hold the tank cover and turn the filter retainer counter-clockwise to loosen and remove, slide the cartridge filter off the lid cage. FIGURES 24, 25.

37. To clean the cartridge filter shake or brush off excess dirt or rinse (from the inside of the filter) with water, dry completely (approximately 24 hours) and re-install. FIGURE 26, 27. Note: If the filter has been used for wet pick up, it must be cleaned and dried before using for dry pick up.
    INSTALLING THE DISPOSABLE FILTER BAG:
    (Not standard with all models)

38. Use for dry pick-up only. Use in conjunction with cartridge filter for picking up soot, cement, plaster, or drywall dust.

39. With the cord disconnected from the receptacle, pull latches in an outward motion and remove the tank cover.

40. Unscrew the hose locking nut and remove the hose from the inlet.
    FIGURE 28.
    INSTRUCTIONS FOR UP AND DOWN DEFLECTOR:
    NOTE: Hose must be removed before the inlet deflector can be taken out.

41. Remove deflector from retainer guide. FIGURE 29.

42. Make sure the curve of the deflector is in a downward position, and slide the collector bag collar over the deflector matching notches of the collar to tabs on the deflector. FIGURE 30.

43. Slide deflector with collector bag attached into retainer guide.
    FIGURE 31.

44. When secured in place, expand the bag and position it around the inside of the tank.

45. Use for dry pickup only.
    INSTRUCTIONS FOR SIDE-TO-SIDE DEFLECTOR:
    NOTE: Hose must be removed before the inlet deflector can be taken out.

46. Remove inlet deflector from deflector guide. FIGURE 32.

47. 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. FIGURE 33.

48. Slide deflector with filter bag attached into deflector guide. FIGURE 34.

49. When secured in place, expand the bag and position it around the inside of the tank.

50. Use for dry pickup only.
    WARNING!
    FOR FINE DUST POWDERS
    When vacuuming fine dust, or powders of any kind (ex. 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. These “large bag” filters connect to the air inlet fitting on the inside of the vacuum tank.
    WET PICK-UP OPERATION
    

51. Remove ALL dirt and debris found in the tank. The vacuum requires only a minimum of conversion when going from dry to wet pick up. Remove all dry use filters from the vacuum. A clean cartridge filter may be used for vacuuming small amounts of liquids. For best results when vacuuming large quantities of liquid, remove the cartridge filter. When vacuuming liquids containing debris, it is recommended to purchase a foam sleeve and install it over the filter cage; otherwise, a foam sleeve is not required for wet pick up. Foam sleeves and additional filters may be purchased by visiting our website at www.shopvac.com, contacting our customer service department, or purchasing at your local Shop-Vac ® distributor.

52. Misting in exhaust air may occur if the filter becomes saturated during wet pick-up. If misting occurs, remove the filter and allow to dry or, replace it with another dry filter to eliminate the misting and possible dripping of liquid around the lid. Turn the unit off immediately upon completing a wet pick-up job or when the tank is full and ready to be emptied. Raise the hose to drain any excess liquid into the tank. The interior of the tank should be periodically cleaned.

53. The foam sleeve should be cleaned periodically as described in the following steps:

54. Always disconnect the plug from the wall receptacle before removing the tank cover. Place tank cover in an upside-down position. Remove the foam sleeve by sliding it up and off the lid cage.

55. Hold foam sleeve under running water for a minute or two, rinsing from the inside. A water wash is not always required, depending on the condition of the foam sleeve.

56. Gently wring out excess water, blot foam sleeve with a clean towel, and allow to dry. The foam sleeve is now ready to be reinstalled on the lid cage.
    NOTE: 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.

BLOWER FEATURE

57. This vacuum can be used as a powerful blower. To use your unit as a blower unscrew the blower port cover located on the backside of the motor housing. FIGURE 35.
58. The blower port cover is equipped with a retaining strap to prevent loss of the port cover while the blower is in use. Clear hose of any obstructions before attaching to blower port. Insert hose end with locking-nut into blower port on the rear of the unit and tighten. Do not over-tighten. 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

59. Your Shop-Vac® Wet/ Dry may be emptied of liquid waste by removing the tank cover. To empty, stop the motor and remove the plug from the wall receptacle. Remove the tank cover and deposit the liquid waste contents in a suitable drain. After the tank is empty, return the cover to its original position. To continue use, plug the cord into the wall receptacle and start the motor.
    AUTOMATIC SUCTION SHUT OFF

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

LUBRICATION

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

62. Before storing your vacuum cleaner the tank should be emptied and cleaned. The power cord can be wrapped around the cord wraps on the side of the tank cover.
    FIGURE 36. Not standard with all models. If your vacuum does not include cord wraps, the power cord can be wound around the tank cover for your convenience.
    NOTE: THE CLEANER SHOULD BE STORED INDOORS.

TROUBLESHOOTING ****

BEFORE DOING ANY WORK ON YOUR VACUUM, TURN THE UNIT OFF AND DISCONNECT THE PLUG FROM THE WALL OUTLET.

filter. If the condition continues, change the filter.
Air leak| Check all fittings for a tight fit (nozzles, hose, etc.)
Check that the tank cover is sealed properly.
Obstruction in hose or nozzle| Check nozzle, hose, etc. for obstructions, and
remove if present.
Misitng in the exhaust air| Saturated filter| Replace saturated filter with a dry filter.

**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.

This product has a Limited Lifetime Warranty. For Warranty Policy and Vacuum Registration details go to:

|
---|---
https://www.shopvac.com/warranty| https://shopvac.com/register

Visit www.shopvac.com for your vacuum’s parts list schematic.
Shop-Vac Customer Service: www.shopvac.com/support
Contact Shop-Vac® Customer Service if any parts are missing or damaged.
SHOP-VAC
2323 Reach Road
Williamsport, PA 17701
www.shopvac.com
U.S. Patents Issued and Pending.
© 2022 Shop-Vac USA, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Documents / Resources

| shop-vac ESLSQ550 4 Gallon 5.5 HP SVX2 Wet Dry Vacuum [pdf] User Manual
ESLSQ550, 4 Gallon 5.5 HP SVX2 Wet Dry Vacuum, ESLSQ550 4 Gallon 5.5 HP SVX2 Wet Dry Vacuum
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References

• Shop-Vac Store - Genuine Shop-Vac Products
• Customer Service | Shop-Vac Store
• Register Your Shop-Vac® Product | Shop-Vac Store
• The Shop-Vac® Home Use Warranty | Shop-Vac Store

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