RIDGID MOB1200 Vacuum Cleaner Owner’s Manual

: June 5, 2024
: RIDGID

MOB1200 Vacuum Cleaner

SP7010 MOB12000.qxp_SP7010 11/22/16 12:08 PM Page 1
OWNER’S MANUAL
12 U.S. GALLON / 45 LITER WET/DRY VAC
MOB12000

FOR QUESTIONS OR INFORMATION CONTACT US AT
1-800-4-RIDGID (1-800-474-3443) from the US and Canada 01-800-701-9811 from Mexico
www.RIDGIDvacs.com

! WARNING:

To reduce the risk of injury, the user must read and understand the owner’s manual before using this product.

Thank you for buying a RIDGID product.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Safety is a combination of using common sense, staying alert, and knowing how your Wet/Dry vacuum cleaner (“Vac”) works.

Safety Signal Words

DANGER: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

When using your Vac, always follow basic safety precautions including the following:

WARNING

– To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury:

Read and understand this manual and all labels on the Vac before operating.
Use only as described in this manual.
Do not leave Vac running while unattended – you may fail to notice important signs indicating abnormal operation such as loss of suction, debris/liquid exiting exhaust, or
abnormal motor noises. Immediately stop using Vac if you notice these signs.
Do not leave Vac when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
Electric shock hazard – do not place and operate vacuum in standing water.
Sparks inside the motor can ignite flammable vapors or dust. To reduce the risk of fire or explosion, do not use near combustible liquids, gases, or dusts, such as gasoline or other fuels, lighter fluid, cleaners, oil-based paints, natural gas, coal dust, magnesium dust, grain dust, aluminum dust, or gun powder.
Do not vacuum anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
Do not vacuum drywall dust, cold fireplace ash, or other fine dusts with standard filter. These may pass through the filter and be exhausted back into the air. Use a fine dust filter instead.
To reduce the risk of inhaling toxic vapors, do not vacuum or use near toxic or hazardous materials.
To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not expose to rain or allow liquid to enter motor compartment. Store indoors.
This Wet/Dry Vac is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the Vac by a person responsible for their safety.
Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
Do not use with a torn filter or without filter installed except when vacuuming liquids as described in this manual. Dry debris ingested by the impeller may damage the motor or be exhausted into the air.
Turn off Vac before unplugging.
To reduce the risk of injury from accidental starting, unplug power cord before changing or cleaning filter.
Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
Do not use with damaged cord, plug or other parts. If your Vac is not working as it should, has missing parts, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, call customer service.
Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as handle, close a door on cord, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners. Do not run Vac over cord. Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
Do not handle plug, switch, or the Vac with wet hands.
Do not use an extension cord with this Vac.
This 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.
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 air flow.
Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.
To reduce the risk of falls, use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
To reduce the risk of back injury or falls, do not lift a Vac that is heavy with liquid or debris. Partially empty by scooping debris or draining liquid.
To reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to Vac, use only RIDGID recommended accessories.
When using as a blower:
– Direct air discharge only at work area.
– Do not direct air at bystanders.
– Keep children away when blowing.
– Do not use blower for any job except blowing dirt and debris.
– Do not use as a sprayer.
To reduce the risk of eye injury, wear safety eyewear. The operation of any utility Vac or blower can result in foreign objects being blown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage.

CAUTION:

To reduce the risk of hearing damage, wear ear protectors when using for extended time or in a noisy area.
For dusty operations, wear dust mask.
Static shocks are common when the relative humidity of the air is low. Vacuuming fine debris with your Vac can deposit static charge on the hose or Vac. To reduce the frequency of static shocks in your home or when using this Vac, add moisture to the air with a humidifier.

Observe the following warnings that appear on the motor housing of your Vac:

DOUBLE INSULATED GROUNDING NOT REQUIRED.
WHEN SERVICING USE ONLY IDENTICAL REPLACEMENT PARTS.

WARNING: For your own safety, read and understand owner’s manual. Do not run unattended. Do not pick up hot ashes, coals, toxic, flammable or other hazardous materials. Do not use around explosive liquids or vapors.

WARNING: Electric shock hazard do not place and operate vacuum in standing water.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock – do not expose to rain – store indoors.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove, modify, or immerse this plug. Test before each use.

SAVE THIS MANUAL

Introduction

This Wet/Dry Vac is intended for household use. It may be used for vacuuming wet or dry media and may be used as a blower.

Read this owner’s manual to familiarize yourself with the product features and to understand the specific usage of your new Vac.

Unpacking and Checking Carton Contents

Tools Required

Phillips Screwdriver

Remove contents of carton. Check each
item against the Carton Contents List.
Call 1-800-4-RIDGID (1-800-474-3443)
from the US and Canada,
01-800-701-9811 from Mexico,
or E-mail us at [email protected]
if any parts are damaged or missing.

Carton Contents List
Key Description Qty
A Wet/Dry Vac Assembly 1
B* Qwik Lock™ Filter……………………1
C Muffler/Diffuser………………………..1
D Crevice Tool ……………………………1
E Utility Nozzle …………………………..1
F Car Nozzle ……………………………..1
G Wet Nozzle……………………………..1
H Accessory Holder…………………….1
I Standard Locking Hose ……………1
J Extension Wands …………………….2
K Owner’s Manual………………………1

The filter comes preassembled.

Refer to the assembly sketch for
positioning of parts.

Unpacking and Checking Carton Contents (Continued)

Bag of Loose Parts –
Containing the Following:
Key Description Qty
L 2” Casters……………………………….4
M Screws, Type AB #10 x 3/4……….4

Vacuum Assembly

Installing Casters

Remove lid from the drum/caddy by unlatching the two latches at the top of the Vac.
Turn drum upside down to expose the bottom of the drum/caddy for caster assembly.
Insert the caster stem into the socket of the power base as shown.
Push on the caster until the ball on the caster stem is inserted all the way into the socket. You will be able to hear the ball snap into the socket and the caster will swivel easily when positioning is correct.
Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the three remaining casters.
Rotate drum/caddy upright and reinstall the lid.

Installing Accessory Holder

Attach the flexible end of the accessory holder at the top of the Vac drum. The non-elastic end should be located at the bottom of the Vac drum.
Install accessory holder as shown with the 4 screws included.
Tighten screws so that there is a small clearance between the screw head and the grommet on the accessory holder.

Note: Leave a clearance between the screw head and grommet. If no clearance, the accessory holder will twist with the screws.

Vac Drum Removal/Installation

Removal
1. Remove the drum from the power base caddy by first sliding the drum lock from the right to the left. This lock is located on the front of the unit just above the power switch, between the lower portion of the drum and the power base.
2. Lift up on the drum, using the lift handle found on the lid of the drum. Allowing the front of the drum to come up first will cause the drum to smoothly and properly disengage from the power base.
3. With the drum sitting on the ground, pull up on the lid latch handles found on the left and right side of the drum. Rotate the latches away from the lid.
4. Remove the lid from the drum assembly and place it in a safe location.

Note: The filter has remained in the drum
and will remain there throughout the
emptying process keeping the collected
debris confined to the drum.

Installation

1. Position the lid on the drum/caddy
assembly as shown.
2. Rotate both latches up onto the lid
latch hooks
3. Press the latches down and inward
until latches are flush with the drum.
4. Using the lift handle, slide the drum
onto the power base caddy, engaging
the power base hook with the back of
the drum.

5. Lower the front of the drum onto the
power base caddy and slide drum lock
lever left to right to locked position to
secure.
Note: This will allow the drum and power
base to create and maintain the proper
seal once the drum lock on the front has
been moved to the locked position. If the
drum has not been seated properly on
the power base, this lock will not engage
properly and the power switch may not
operate. This lock is located on the front
of the unit just above the power switch,
between the lower portion of the drum
and the power base.

Insert Hose

1. Insert the push button end of the
Tug-A-Long Hose into the inlet of the
Vac. The hose should snap into place.
2. To remove the hose from the Vac,
press the release button in the hose
assembly and pull the hose out of the
Vac inlet, as shown.

Operation

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, explosion, or damage to Vac:

Do not leave Vac running while unattended – you may fail to notice important signs
indicating abnormal operation such as loss of suction, debris/liquid exiting the
exhaust, or abnormal motor noises. Immediately stop using Vac if you notice these
signs.
Do not leave Vac plugged in when not in use.
Do not continue running when float has cut off suction.
Sparks inside the motor can ignite airborne flammables. Do not operate Vac near
flammable liquids or in areas with flammable gases, vapors, or explosive/airborne
dust. Flammable liquids, gases, and vapors include: lighter fluid, solvent- type
cleaners, oil-based paints, gasoline, alcohol, and aerosol sprays. Explosive dusts
include: coal, magnesium, aluminum, grain, and gun powder.
Do not vacuum up explosive dusts, flammable liquids, or hot ashes.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock or injury:

Do not expose to rain or allow liquid to enter motor compartment. Store indoors.
Do not handle plug, switch, or Vac with wet hands.
Unplug Vac before servicing. If your Vac is not working as it should, has missing
parts, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to an
authorized service center or call customer service.
Do not use an extension cord with this vacuum.

Familiarize yourself with the accessories
included with the Vac. Each accessory may
be used in various ways for vacuuming
and blowing debris. Here is a list of the
accessories and their uses.

Wet Nozzle – Used for wet pickup on
smooth surfaces to pick up liquid and dry
the surface in one stroke.

Crevice Tool – Use to pick up debris in
hard to reach locations.

Utility Nozzle – General purpose nozzle
for most vacuuming applications.

Car Nozzle – Dry pickup nozzle for car
interiors and most upholstery cleaning.

Muffler/Diffuser – Use to disperse
exhaust air stream while reducing noise.
Insert into blowing port.

Extension Wands – These wands can be
connected together and provides additional
length for more reach.

Hose – Provides transfer of vacuum or
blowing capability to work site. Provides
the means of attaching extension wands
and nozzles.

To reduce the risk of electric shock, this
Vac has an ALCI (Appliance Leakage
Current Interrupter) device with a
polarized plug (one blade is wider than
the other). The ALCI may need to be
reset if it detects current leakage or if
the test button is pressed on the device.
The polarized 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.

Note that the ALCI is a protective device
that may make the Vac temporarily
inoperable under some abnormal
conditions such as immersing the base
of the Vac in water. Before any use of
the Vac involving wet pickup, or if the
base has previously been placed in
standing water or on a wet floor,
the ALCI should be tested as follows:
1.With the ALCI plugged in, press the
test button.
2. The reset button will pop up. If not,
do not use Wet/Dry Vac.
3.Press reset button to restore power.

WARNING: Electric shock hazard do not place and operate vacuum in standing water.

After you plug the ALCI plug into the
outlet, turn the Wet/Dry Vac on by
pushing the foot pedal down, located
at the front bottom of drum/caddy base.

Vacuuming Dry Materials

1. The filter must always be in correct
position to reduce the risk of leaks
and possible damage to Vac.
2. Your Wet/Dry Vac comes with the
VF5000 Filter installed. When using
your Vac to pick up very fine dust,
it will be necessary for you to empty
the drum and clean the filter at more
frequent intervals to maintain peak
Vac performance.
NOTE: A dry filter is necessary to pick
up dry material. It is not recommended
to vacuum dust when the filter is wet,
the filter will clog quickly and be difficult
to clean. Allow filter to dry before storing.

Vacuuming Liquids

1. When picking up small amounts of
liquid (2-4 inches of liquid in the
bottom of the drum) the filter may be
left in place.
2. When picking up larger amounts of
liquid (more than 4″ of liquid in the
bottom of the drum) we recommend
that the filter be removed. If the filter is
not removed, it will become saturated
and misting may appear in the
exhaust.
3. After using the Vac to pick up liquids,
the filter must be dried to reduce the
risk of possible mildew and damage to
the filter.
4. When the liquid in the drum reaches a
predetermined level, the float
mechanism will rise automatically to cut
off air-flow. When this happens, turn off
the Vac, unplug the power cord, and
empty the drum. You will know that the
float has risen because Vac airflow
ceases and the motor noise will
become higher in pitch, due to
increased motor speed.
5. When vacuuming a large amount of
liquid containing debris, it is recommended
to use a wet application filter
(VF7000) in place of the supplied
pleated paper filter. The wet application
filter will prevent this debris from entering
the motor, thus protecting the motor from
possible damage.
IMPORTANT: To reduce the risk of
damage to the Vac, do not run motor
with float in raised position.

WARNING: Do not operate
without filter cage and float, as they
prevent liquid from entering the
impeller and damaging the motor.

Emptying the Drum

WARNING: To reduce the risk of
back injury or falls, do not lift a Vac
heavy with liquid or debris. Scoop
or drain enough contents out to
make the Vac light enough to lift
comfortably.

1. The Vac comes equipped with a drain
for easy emptying of liquids. Simply
unscrew the drain cap and lift the
opposite side slightly to empty the
drum.

2. Another option is to remove the drum
assembly, from the power base in
order to dispose of debris or liquids.
3. Follow the directions for drum removal
on page 7.
4. Dump the drum contents into the
proper waste disposal container.

Moving the Wet/Dry Vac

Should it become necessary to pick the
Vac up to move it, the lift handle on the
top of the lid is used to lift.

Blowing Feature

Your Vac features a blowing port (located
at the back of the Vac). It can blow
sawdust and other debris. Follow the
steps below to use your Vac as a blower.
1. Locate blowing port of your Vac.
2. Insert the locking end of the “Tug-ALong
Hose into the blowing port of the
Vac. The hose should snap into place.
3. Turn Vac on and you are ready to use
your Vac as a blower.
4. To remove the hose from the Vac,
press the release button on the hose
assembly and pull the hose out of the
Vac blowing port inlet.

**** CAUTION: Wear a dust mask if
blowing creates dust which might
be inhaled.

**** CAUTION: To reduce the risk of
hearing damage, wear ear protectors
when using the Vac/Blower for
extended time or in a noisy area.

**** WARNING: Do not leave vacuum
plugged in when not in use.

Note: When used as a vacuum, the
muffler/diffuser should be installed into
the blower port as shown. Use of the
muffler/diffuser will help disperse the
exhaust air stream.

**** WARNING: Always wear safety
eyewear complying with ANSI Z87.1
(or in Canada, CSA Z94.3) before
using as a blower.

**** WARNING: To reduce the risk of
injury to bystanders, keep them
clear of blowing debris.

Accessory and Hose Storage

Accessory Storage
Your accessories may be stored in the
accessory holder located on the rear of the
drum, or in the foot storage on the power
base caddy.
Place the extension wands into the two foot
storage located on the back of the power
base caddy

Hose Storage

The hose may be stored by wrapping it
around the top of the Vac.

Cord Wrap Storage

When vacuuming is complete, unplug the
cord and wrap it around the plastic cord
storage area at the back of the Vac,
as shown.

Maintenance

Filter

WARNING: To reduce the risk of
injury from accidental starting,
unplug power cord before changing
or cleaning filter.

RIDGID’s Qwik Lock™ Fine Dust Filter.
Replacement Qwik Lock™ Filters are
available where you purchased your Vac.
Ask for the RIDGID Qwik Lock™ Fine
Dust Filter VF5000.
NOTE: The filter is made of high quality
paper designed to stop very small
particles of dust. The filter can be used
for wet or dry pick up. Handle the filter
carefully when removing to clean or
installing it. Creases in the filter pleats
may occur from installation but not affect
the performance of the filter.

Filter Removal and Installation

Filter Removal:

1. Hold the filter tabs of the Qwik Lock™
filter in each hand.
2. With one thumb on the Qwik Lock™
stud, which protrudes through the
integrated filter plate, lift up on the
filter tabs while pushing down on
the stud.
3. This action will cause the filter to
release from the filter cage.
Slide the filter off cage.

Filter Installation:
1. Carefully slide the Qwik Lock™ filter
over the filter cage and press down on
the outside edge of the filter until the
rubber gasket on the bottom of the
filter seats securely around the base
of the filter cage and against the
bottom of the drum.

2. Align the small center hole in the top
of the filter over the Qwik Lock™ stud
on the filter cage. Press firmly on top
of the filter near the stud to allow the
filter to snap over the ball on the end
of the stud. The filter is now attached.
NOTE: Failure to properly seat the
bottom gasket could result in debris
bypassing the filter.
IMPORTANT: To avoid damage to the
blower wheel and motor, always reinstall
the filter before using the Vac for dry
material pick-up.

Cleaning a Dry Filter

NOTE: For best cleaning results due to
accumulated dust, clean the filter in an
open area. Cleaning SHOULD be done
outdoors and not in the living quarters.
1. Remove filter from Vac. Gently tap filter
against the inside wall of your dust
drum. The debris will loosen and fall.
2. For thorough cleaning of dry filter
with fine dust (no debris), run water
through it as described under
“Cleaning a Wet Filter”.

Cleaning a Wet Filter

After filter is removed, run water through
the filter from a hose or spigot. Take care
that water pressure is not strong enough
to damage filter. Allow filter to dry out
before re-installing in the vacuum.
IMPORTANT: After cleaning, check the filter
for tears or small holes. Do not use a filter
with holes or tears in it. Even a small hole
can cause a lot of dust to come out of your
Vac. If your filter is worn or damaged,
replace it immediately.
Allow the filter to dry before reinstalling
and storing the Vac.
Cleaning and Disinfecting the
Wet/Dry Vac
To keep your Wet/Dry Vac looking its
best, clean the outside with a cloth
dampened with warm water and mild
soap.

To clean the drum:

1. Dump debris out.
2. Wash drum thoroughly with warm
water and mild soap.
3. Wipe out with dry cloth.
Before prolonged storage or as needed
(i.e.; waste water pick up), the drum
should be disinfected.

To disinfect the drum:

1. Pour 1 gallon of water and 1 teaspoon
chlorine bleach into the drum.
2. Let solution stand for 20 minutes,
carefully swishing every few minutes,
making sure to wet all inside surfaces
of the drum.
3. Empty drum after 20 minutes. Rinse
with water until bleach smell is gone.
Allow drum to dry completely before
sealing the motor on the drum.

Cord Maintenance

When vacuuming is complete, unplug the
cord and wrap it around the motor cover.
If the power cord is damaged, it must be
replaced by the manufacturer or their
service agent or by similarly qualified
personnel to reduce the risk of accident.
If the ALCI is preventing the vacuum
from operating, then the Vac should be
returned to a service center for
examination and repair.

Storage

Before storing your Vac, the drum should
be emptied and cleaned. The cord should
be wrapped around the unit and the hose
should be stored as described in this
manual. Accessories should be kept in
the same area as the Vac so they can be
readily available. The Vac should be
stored indoors.

Casters and Wheels

Should your cart squeak or become hard
to roll, you should place two or three
drops of general purpose oil on each
wheel at the axle. If your casters are
noisy, you may put a drop of oil on the
roller shaft to make them quieter.

**** WARNING: To assure product
SAFETY and RELIABILITY, any other
maintenance, repairs, or adjustments
should be performed by Authorized
Service Centers, always using RIDGID
replacement parts.

Repair Parts

12 U.S. Gallon / 45 Liter Wet/Dry Vac
Model Number MOB12000
RIDGID parts are available on-line at www.RIDGIDparts.com
Always order by Part Number – Not by Key Number

WARNING
SERVICING OF DOUBLE-INSULATED WET/DRY VAC
In a double-insulated Wet/Dry Vac, 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 doubleinsulated
Wet/Dry Vac 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 Vac 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.
To reduce the risk of injury from electrical shock, unplug power cord before
servicing the electrical parts of the Wet/Dry Vac.

Key
No. Part No. Description
1 510409 Lid Assembly (Includes carry handle)
2 510312 Drum Latch Assembly
3 510408 Drum Assembly Complete
(Includes Latches, Inlet, Label and Drain Cap)
4 510364 Accessory Holder and Hardware
5 835951 ALCI Power Cord/Plug
6 835655 Actuator, Switch
7 835665 Electrical Switch (Not Shown)
8 510331 Power Base Assembly
9 73102 2” Caster (Single Caster)
10 VF5000 Filter
11 835648 Filter Cage
12 510365 Float Tube Assembly
13 830675-2 Muffler/Diffuser
14 VT2502 Crevice Tool
15 VT2509 Utility Nozzle
16 VT2503 Car Nozzle
17 VT2510 Wet Nozzle
18 VT2508 Extension Wand
19 VT2520 Standard Locking Hose
20 SP7010 Owner’s Manual

What is covered RIDGID® Wet/Dry Vacs are warranted to be free of defects in workmanship and material.
How long coverage lasts This warranty lasts for the lifetime of the RIDGID® Wet/Dry Vac.
How to obtain service To obtain the benefit of this warranty, deliver via prepaid transportation the complete product to RIDGE TOOL COMPANY, Elyria, Ohio, or any authorized RIDGID® INDEPENDENT SERVICE CENTER. Pipe wrenches and other hand tools should be returned to the place of purchase.
What we will do to correct problems
Warranted Wet/Dry Vacs will be repaired or replaced, at Ridge Tool Company’s option, and returned at no charge; or, if after three attempts to repair or replace during the warranty period the Wet/Dry Vac is still defective, you can elect to receive a full refund of your purchase price.
What is not covered Failures due to misuse, abuse or normal wear and tear are not covered by this warranty. RIDGE TOOL COMPANY SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
How local laws relate to the warranty Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state, province to province, or country to country.
No other express warranty applies This FULL LIFETIME WARRANTY is the sole and exclusive warranty for RIDGID® Wet/Dry Vacs. No employee, agent, dealer, or other person is authorized to alter this warranty or make any other warranty on behalf of Ridge Tool Company.

Stock No. MOB1200
Model No. MOB12000
Model and serial number may be found on the back of power base assembly.
You should record both model and serial numbers in a safe place for future use.

FOR QUESTIONS OR INFORMATION CONTACT US AT
1-800-4-RIDGID (1-800-474-3443) from the US and Canada
01-800-701-9811 from Mexico
www.RIDGIDvacs.com
Please have your Model Number and Serial Number on hand when calling.