Vacmaster VF408 4-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner Owner’s Manual

VF408 4-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner
Owner’s Manual

4 Gallon
Model No.
VF408 1101
FOR YOUR SAFETY
Read and understand this manual before use.
Keep this manual for future reference.

| Distributed By
Suzhou Cleva Electric Appliance Co., Ltd.
NO.8 Ting Rong Street
215122 Suzhou – China| Replacement Filters &
Accessories available at:
Vacmaster.com
---|---|---

Thank you for purchasing this Vacmaster® wet/dry vacuum cleaner. Feel confident that with® Vacmaster you are obtaining a high-quality product engineered for optimal performance.
This vacuum is capable of picking up liquids and dry materials.
FOR YOUR SAFETY: CAREFULLY READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS.

WARRANTY

We take pride in producing a high-quality, durable product. This Vacmaster® product carries a limited two (2) year warranty against defects in workmanship and materials from the date of purchase under normal household use. If the product is to be used for commercial, industrial, or rental use, a 90-day limited warranty will apply. Please keep your receipt as proof of purchase. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, which may vary from state to state. For product service call Customer Service at 1-866-384-8432.
Not Covered by Warranty:

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

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS & WARNINGS

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

SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
When using an electrical appliance, basic precautions should always be followed including the following:

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

• • Do not run vac unattended.
• Do not vacuum, or use this Wet/Dry Vac near flammable liquids, gases, or explosive vapors like gasoline or other fuels, lighter fluids, cleaners, oil-based paints, natural gas,  hydrogen, or explosive dust like coal dust, magnesium dust, grain dust, or gun powder. Sparks inside the motor can ignite flammable vapors or dust.
• Do not vacuum anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
• Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not expose to rain. Store indoors.
• Do not unplug by pulling on the cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
• Do not use with a damaged cord, plug, or other parts.
• If the appliance is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to a service center.
• Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as a handle, close a door on cord, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners.
• Do not run Wet/Dry Vac over cord.
• Do not handle the plug or the Wet/Dry Vac with wet hands.
• To reduce the risk of health hazards from vapors or dust, do not vacuum toxic materials.
• Do not use or store near hazardous materials.
• Do not use this Wet/Dry Vac with a torn filter or without the filter installed except when vacuuming liquids as described in the operation section of this manual.
• Do not allow 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 the power cord before changing or cleaning the filter.
• Do not leave the Wet/Dry Vac unattended when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
• Turn off the Wet/Dry Vac before unplugging.
• Do not put any object into ventilation openings. Do not vacuum with any ventilation openings blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair, or anything that may reduce airflow.
• Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all parts of the body away from openings and moving parts.
• To reduce the risk of falls, use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
• Unplug before connecting the hose.
• Use only as described in this manual. Use only the manufacturer’s recommended attachments.
• This appliance is provided with double insulation. Use only identical replacement parts. See
  “DOUBLE INSULATION INSTRUCTIONS”.

DOUBLE INSULATION INSTRUCTIONS

This Wet/Dry Vac is double-insulated, eliminating the need for a separate grounding system. Use only identical replacement parts. Read the instructions for Servicing Double- Insulated Wet/Dry Vacs before servicing. Use this Wet/Dry Vac as described in this manual. Observe the following warnings that appear on the motor housing of your  Wet/Dry Vac.
DOUBLE INSULATED – GROUNDING NOT REQUIRED – WHEN SERVICING USE ONLY IDENTICAL REPLACEMENT PARTS.

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE YOURSELF TO RAIN.
STORE INDOORS.
CAUTION:
Do not vacuum drywall dust or fireplace soot or ash with a standard Wet/Dry filter. This is very fine dust that will not be captured by the filter and may cause damage to motor. When vacuuming fine dust use a fine dust filter (sold separately).

WARNING: SERVICING OF DOUBLE-INSULATED WET/DRY VACUUM WITH A DOUBLE- INSULATED WET/DRY VACUUM, TWO SYSTEMS OF  INSULATION ARE PROVIDED INSTEAD OF GROUNDING. NO GROUNDING MEANS IS PROVIDED ON A DOUBLE-INSULATED APPLIANCE, NOR SHOULD A MEANS FOR GROUNDING BE ADDED.
SERVICING A DOUBLE INSULATED WET/DRY VACUUM REQUIRES EXTREME CARE AND KNOWLEDGE OF THE SYSTEM, AND SHOULD BE DONE  ONLY BY QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. REPLACEMENT PARTS FOR A DOUBLE-INSULATED WET/DRY VACUUM MUST BE IDENTICAL TO THE  PARTS THEY REPLACE. YOUR DOUBLE-INSULATED WET/DRY VAC IS MARKED WITH THE WORDS ‘DOUBLE INSULATED’ AND THE SYMBOL (SQUARE WITHIN A SQUARE) MAY ALSO BE MARKED ON THE APPLIANCE.

• DO NOT use without filters in place.

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY FROM MOVING PARTS, UNPLUG BEFORE SERVICING.

EXTENSION CORDS

When using an extension cord with your Wet/Dry Vac refer to the following table to determine the required A.W.G. wire size. Before using the vacuum cleaner, make sure the power cord and extension cord are in good working condition. Make repairs or replacements before using the vacuum cleaner. Only use extension cords that are rated for outdoor use.

| Length of Extension Cord
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110V 120V| 25 Feet
7.5 Meters| 50 Feet
15.25 Meters| 100 Feet 30.5 Meters| 150 Feet
45.7 Meters
Amps| A.W.G. Wire Size
0-6| 18| 16| 16| 14
7-10| 18| 16| 14| 12
11-12| 16| 16| 14| 12
13-16| 14| 12| Not recommended

UNPACKING & CHECKING CARTONS 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:

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

GENERAL ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

A Philips head screwdriver is required.

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE YOURSELF TO RAIN.
MAKE SURE THE PLUG IS DISCONNECTED BEFORE ASSEMBLING THE WET/DRY VAC.

UNPACKING YOUR WET/DRY VACUUM & GENERAL ASSEMBLY

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet. (fig. 1)
2. Undo the latches. (fig. 2)
3. Lift the power head off the collection tank. (fig. 3)
4. Remove the contents from inside the collection tank; make sure you have all contents as listed on page 5. (fig. 4)
5. Turn the collection tank upside down and insert the two (2) casters into the slots on the front side of the collection tank. Apply downward pressure until the casters snap into place. (fig. 5)
6. Slide the rear wheels into the slots making sure to match the wheel number to the corresponding number on the wheel slot and use screws to secure them. Do not over-tighten the screws. (fig. 6 & 7)
7. Your vacuum comes ready for dry vacuum cleaning. For installation instructions, see page 9. (fig. 8 & 9)
8. For wet vacuum cleaning, install the supplied foam filter. (fig. 10) For installation instructions, see page 10.
9. Place the power head back on the collection tank, align the top section with the latches, and snap it into place. (fig. 11)
10. Insert the handle into the slots located on the top of the power head and secure it with the screws provided. Do not over-tighten the screws. (fig. 12)
11. Hang the tool caddy onto the hooks on the back of the vacuum. (fig. 13)
12. Secure the large end of the hose onto the vacuum port on the collection tank and screw it into place. (fig. 14)
13. Choose the desired accessories and push them onto the hose. (fig. 15)

POLARIZED PLUG
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, this appliance has a 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: BE SURE TO READ, UNDERSTAND, AND APPLY, THE INFORMATION ENTITLED ‘SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS & WARNINGS’. DO NOT VACUUM IN  AREAS WITH FLAMMABLE GASES, VAPORS, OR EXPLOSIVE DUST 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 DUST INCLUDES BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO: COAL, MAGNESIUM, GRAIN, OR GUN POWDER. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF HEALTH HAZARDS FROM VAPORS OR DUST,  DO NOT VACUUM TOXIC MATERIALS.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

O = OFF I = ON
DO NOT USE THE CARTRIDGE FILTER FOR LIQUID VACUUMING.
DO NOT USE A DUST BAG FOR LIQUID VACUUMING.

LIQUID VACUUM OPERATION

LIQUID VACUUMING
WARNING: BE SURE TO READ, UNDERSTAND, AND APPLY, THE INFORMATION ENTITLED ‘SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS & WARNINGS’. DO NOT VACUUM IN  AREAS WITH FLAMMABLE GASES, VAPORS, OR EXPLOSIVE DUST 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 DUST INCLUDES BUT IS 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 THE POWER OUTLET. MAKE SURE THE PLUG IS DISCONNECTED BEFORE CHANGING THE FILTERS.

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

2. Remove the cartridge filter and the dust collection bag, then carefully install the foam wet filter over the filter cage and place the power head back on the collection tank. (fig. 2)  For installation instructions, see page 10.
   DO NOT USE THE CARTRIDGE FILTER FOR LIQUID VACUUMING.
   OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS: WET VACUUMING

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

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

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

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

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

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

IMPORTANT! When vacuuming large quantities of liquids, do not immerse the nozzle completely in the liquid; leave a gap at the tip of the nozzle opening to allow air inflow.  The machine is fitted with a float valve that stops the suction action when the collection tank reaches its maximum capacity. You will notice an increase in motor speed. When this happens, turn off the machine, disconnect from the power supply, and drain the liquid into a suitable receptacle or drain. After wet vacuuming, turn the machine off and remove the plug from the power supply. Empty the collection tank, and clean and dry the inside and outside before storage. REMEMBER! The foam wet filter must be removed after wet vacuuming, and a cartridge filter must be installed before dry vacuuming again.

MAINTENANCE

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet. (fig.1)
2. Disconnect the hose from the vacuum. (fig. 2)
3. Undo the latches and remove the power head from the collection tank. (fig. 3)
4. Clear all dirt or debris from the collection tank and hose. (fig. 4)
5. Clean the foam filter by washing it with water and mild soap. (fig. 5)
6. Check the hose, attachments, and power cord to verify that they have not been damaged.
7. Place power head on collection tank and secure latches.

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

WARNING! ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE PLUG FROM THE POWER OUTLET BEFORE REMOVING THE POWER HEAD FROM THE COLLECTION TANK.

INSTALLING & CLEANING CARTRIDGE FILTER

Installing Cartridge Filter

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet. (fig. 1)
2. Remove power head and place in upside down position.
3. Install the cartridge filter over the filter cage and carefully push the filter in until it stops against the power head. (fig. 2 & 3)
4. Place filter retainer on top of cartridge filter and tighten down by turning retainer clockwise. (fig. 4 & 5)

Removing and Cleaning Cartridge Filter

1. Unlock and remove the filter retainer by turning the retainer handle counterclockwise.
2. Carefully hold and pull the cartridge filter up for removal. (fig. 6)
3. Clean the cartridge filter by gently tapping or brushing dirt off. Cleaning should not be done indoors in living areas. For optimal performance, a new filter is recommended.
4. Install cleaned or new filter as instructed above in steps 1 – 4 of Installing Cartridge Filter.
5. Wet filters should be removed and allowed to air dry for 24 hours before installing them onto the filter cage.

Installing and Cleaning HEPA Filter

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet. (fig. 1)
2. Unlock the filter door by lifting the lock tab UP to the unlocked position and pulling the door out. (fig. 2 & 3)
3. Remove the HEPA filter cartridge from the vacuum. (fig. 4)
4. Clean filter by brushing dirt off. For optimal performance, a new filter is recommended. (fig. 5)
5. Install the cleaned or new filter. (fig. 6)
6. Insert the filter door tabs into the upper slots and lock the filter door into place. (fig. 7 & 8)

Installing Foam Wet Filter

1. Verify that the power cord is disconnected from the outlet. (fig. 1)
2. Remove power head and place in upside down position. Follow instructions to remove the cartridge filter.
3. Carefully slide the foam wet filter down over the filter cage making sure the cage is completely covered. (fig. 2 & 3)
4. Place the power head onto the collection tank.

Cleaning Foam Wet Filter

1. With the removed power head in an upside-down position, carefully remove the foam wet filter. (fig. 4)
2. Use a mild soap and water solution to wash foam wet filter and rinse with clean water. (fig. 5)
3. Allow filter to air dry before installing and using again.

TROUBLESHOOTING

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

breakers, fuses.
2) Faulty power cord.| 2)Unplug and check the power cord. If damaged, have it repaired by a professional.
3)Collection tank full.| 3) Empty collection tank.
Dust comes from the motor cover.| 1) The dust filter is missing or damaged.|

1. Attach or replace the dust filter.
   Reduced efficiency and motor/ speed vibration.| 1) There is a blockage in the nozzle or hose or the collection tank inlet. Or dust filter blocked by fine dust.| 1) Check nozzle, hose, and collection tank inlets for blockage. Take off the filter and clean it or install a new filter.

EXPLODED VIEW

PARTS LIST

References

• Vacmaster

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