RIDGID WD4522 4.5 Gallon Pro Pack Portable Wet/Dry Vacuum Owner’s Manual

: June 6, 2024
: RIDGID

RIDGID WD4522 4.5 Gallon Pro Pack Portable Wet/Dry Vacuum

FOR QUESTIONS ORTION CONTACT US AT CALL 1-800-4-RIDGID (1-800-474-3443) OR www.ridgidvacs.com

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

SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Safety is a combination of using common sense, staying alert, and knowing how your Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner (“Vac”) works.
WARNING:
– To reduce the risk of fire,electric shock, or injury:

Read and understand this manual and all labels on the Wet/Dry 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.
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.
To avoid the risk of self-ignition of drum debris, empty drum after each use. Combustible materials, such as rags or sawdust containing stain or urethane, can be sources of such overheating.
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 appliance 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.
Turn off Vac before unplugging.
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.
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.
Use only extension cords that are rated for outdoor use. Extension cords in poor condition or too small in wire size can pose fire and shock hazards. To reduce the risk of these hazards, be sure the cord is in good condition and that liquid does not contact the connection. Do not use an extension cord with conductors smaller than 1,3 mm2 (16 AWG).
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.
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 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.
Do not store or stack items on top of Vac.

CAUTION:

To reduce the risk of hearing damage, wear ear protectors when using for extended hours 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 INSULATE 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, flammable, combustible / self-igniting, toxic, or other hazardous materials.
Do not use around explosive liquids or vapors.
To reduce the risk of electric shock – do not expose to rain – store indoors.
50 lb. weight limit. Do not stand or sit on vac. Improper use may cause injury.
To reduce the risk of fire, do not store foreign objects in this compartment. Only store vac accessories.

INTRODUCTION

This PRO PACK Wet/Dry Vac is intended for house-hold 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.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR WET/DRY VAC

Familiarize yourself with the controls and features of your Vac before operating. 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.

Expandable Hose – Provides transfer of vacuum or blowing capability to work site. Provides the means of attaching extension wands and nozzles.
Utility Nozzle – General purpose nozzle for most vacuuming applications.
Dusting Brush – Use for sweeping up areas with fine dust or debris. Great for detailed cleaning.
Crevice Tool – Use to pick up debris in hard to reach locations.
Extension Wands – These wands can be connected together and provides additional length for more reach.

UNPACKING

This Product Requires Assembly. Check all parts from carton against the Carton Contents List.
If any parts are damaged or missing, contact 1-800-4-RIDGID (US and Canada) or by email at info@ridgidvacs.com.

CARTON CONTENTS LIST (Fig. 1)

Key Description

A* PRO PACK Powerhead Assembly………………………..1
B* Dust Drum Assembly…………………………………………1
C* Qwik Lock™ Filter………………………………………………1
D Extension Wand Clip (Left) …………………………………1
E Extension Wand Clip (Right)……………………………….1
F Extension Wand ………………………………………………..2
G Crevice Tool ………………………………………………………1
H Dusting Brush …………………………………………………..1
I Utility Nozzle ……………………………………………………..1
J Expandable Hose ………………………………………………1
K Owner’s Manual…………………………………………………1
These parts come preassembled

ASSEMBLY

EXTENSION WAND CLIPS INSTALLATION (Fig. 2)

NOTE: The Extension Wand Clips (D/E) are marked “L” and “R” and should be installed on the back of the PRO PACK unit.
NOTE: While viewing the unit from behind, the Clip marked “L” goes on the Left Side and the Clip marked “R” goes on the Right Side.

Hook the Tab on the bottom of the Extension Wand Clip (D/E) into the depression in the bottom of the Dust Drum (B).
Rotate the Clip (D/E) upwards until the Extension Wand Clip snaps into the slots in the Dust Drum (B).

ATTACHING AND REMOVING VACUUM HOSE (Fig. 3)

To Insert Hose: Insert the larger end of the Expandable Hose (J) into the Vac Inlet Port. Engage the Hose Locking Tab to the Lip of the Vac Inlet Port. The Locking Tab should lock in place.
To Remove the Hose from the Vac: Press the Hose Locking Tab and pull the Expandable Hose out of the Vac Inlet Port.

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.
Do not leave sawdust or rags with stain or polyurethane residue inside Vac. Empty drum after picking up these potentially self-heating materials.

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.
When using an extension cord, use only outdoor-rated cords that are in good condition. Do not allow the connection to come into contact with liquid.

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

POLARIZED PLUG / ON-OFF SWITCH (Fig. 4)

To reduce the risk of electric shock, this Vac has a Polarized Plug (one blade is 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.
With Power Cord plugged in, turn the Vac “ON” by pressing in on the “I” (top) on the Power Switch. To turn “OFF”, press the “O” (bottom) on the Power Switch. The symbols used on the Switch Actuator are international “ON & OFF” symbols.

When operating your vacuum with the Storage Lids closed, take care to make sure that the Power Cord is positioned through the Cover Cord Opening.
NOTE: When using the unit in the vacuuming mode, the accessory storage lid can be used as an air diffuser by closing this lid.

VACUUMING DRY MATERIALS

The Filter must always be in correct position at all times to avoid leaks and possible damage to Vac.
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. If you use your Vac to pick up dust when the Filter is wet, the Filter will clog quickly and be very difficult to clean.

VACUUMING LIQUIDS

Vacuuming up small amounts of liquid (less than 2” (5 cm) collected in Dust Drum) does not require Filter removal.
When larger amounts of liquid are to be picked up, remove all dry use only Paper Filter(s) and replace with a RIDGID wet application Foam Filter. Do Not remove the Filter Cage or Float. The Foam Filter is specifically designed for high volume liquid pick up. If the paper Filter is used and becomes saturated, you may see “mist” coming from the Blowing Port
When the Drum is “full” the Float will rise and cut off airflow. The motor sound will rise in pitch and its speed will increase indicating the Drum is “full”. Turn OFF the Vac and unplug the power cord before emptying the Drum.
Following use of Vac for wet pick up, allow Filter to dry completely to avoid mildew and Filter 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 DUST DRUM (Fig. 5)

WARNING:

To reduce the risk of injury from accidental starting, unplug power cord before emptying the drum.

Unplug Power Cord from power source.
To remove the Powerhead (A) to empty contents of the Dust Drum (B), simply lift the two Drum Latches on the front and rear of the Vac and lift the Powerhead up and off the Dust Drum and set to the side.
Set the Powerhead upright in a clean, dry area while emptying the Drum.
Dump the Drum contents into the proper waste disposal container.
The Dust Drum (B) should be emptied and cleaned before storing your Vac.

BLOWING FEATURE (Fig. 6)

Your Wet/Dry Vac has the capability to be used as a Blower for yard work, patio cleanup and workshop applications to blow sawdust and other debris.

Locate the Blowing Port at the rear of the Powerhead (A) of your Wet/Dry Vac under the Right Cover, next to the Accessory Storage Area.
Insert the larger end of the Expandable Hose (J) into the Blowing Port. Engage the Hose Locking Tab to the Lip of the Blowing Port. The Locking Tab should lock in place.
Turn Vac ON and you are ready to use your Vac as a Blower.
To Remove the Hose from the Vac: Turn Vac OFF. Press the Hose Locking Tab and pull the Expandable Hose (J) out of the Blowing Port.

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.

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.

STORAGE

When vacuuming is complete, your. RIDGID Wet/Dry Vac has convenient locations to store the Power Cord, Expandable Hose (J), and Accessories.

LEFT COVER STORAGE (Fig. 7)

Under the Left Cover of your Wet/Dry Vac (as shown) is a storage location meant to hold the Expandable Hose (J), Crevice Tool (G) and Power Cord.
Fold the Expandable Hose (J) as shown and place in the Storage Bin to the far left.
Place the Crevice Tool (G) standing up into the rectangular feature in the bottom of the bin, tapered side down.
Fold or wrap the Cord in approximately 1-foot lengths until you get within a foot of the Storage Bin. The folded Cord should now fit neatly into the far right side of the Storage Bin.

RIGHT COVER STORAGE (Fig. 8)

Under the Right Cover of your Wet/Dry Vac is a storage location for the Dusting Brush (H) and Utility Nozzle (I).
Place each nozzle onto the specific locations molded into the housing as shown. Only these two specific nozzles should be stored in this location.
Also located inside this compartment is the Blowing Port. Please see the “BLOWING FEATURE” under Operation Section for blowing directions.

EXTENSION WAND STORAGE (Fig. 9)

Refer to “EXTENSION WAND CLIPS INSTALLATION” under Assembly Section if Clips have not been installed yet.
Snap each Extension Wand (F) into the Extension Wand Clips (D/E) on the back of the unit as shown.

CAUTION: Do not operate vacuum while the hose is still wrapped and stored in the storage bin.

WARNING: 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.

MAINTENANCE

FILTER

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

NOTE: The Filter (C) is made of high quality paper designed to stop small particles of dust. The Filter can be used for dry pick up or small amounts of liquid. Handle the Filter carefully when removing or installing it. Creases in the Filter Pleats may occur from installation but will not affect the performance of the Filter.

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION OF THE QWIK LOCK™ FILTER (Fig. 10)

To Remove Filter: Place fingers under the Two Filter Tabs.
While pressing down with one thumb on the Qwik Lock™ Stud, that protrudes through the center of the Filter Plate, lift up on the Tabs until Filter releases.
Slide Filter off Filter Cage. Filter Cage and Float should not be removed.
IMPORTANT: To avoid Blower Wheel and Motor Damage always reinstall Filter before using Vac for dry pickup.
To Install Filter: Slide the Qwik Lock™ Filter (C) over the Filter Cage while aligning the Qwik Lock™ Stud on the Filter Cage with the center hole in the Qwik Lock™ Integrated Filter Plate.
Make sure the Rubber Gasket at the bottom of the Qwik Lock™ Filter (C) seats around the base of the Filter Cage.
Firmly press the Qwik Lock™ Integrated Filter Plate down around the Qwik Lock™ Stud until it snaps into place.

NOTE: Failure to properly seat the bottom Gasket and Integrated Filter Plate to the Filter Cage could result in debris bypassing the Filter.
Your Filter should be cleaned often to maintain peak Vac performance.

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

CLEANING A DRY FILTER

Some removal of dry debris can be accomplished without removing the Filter from the Vac. Slap your hand on top of the Lid while the Vac is turned OFF.
For best cleaning results due to accumulated dust, clean the Filter outdoors in an open area.
After Filter removal from Vac, remove the dry debris by gently tapping Filter against the inside wall of your Dust Drum. The debris will loosen and fall.
For thorough cleaning of Dry Filter with fine dust (no debris), run water through Filter 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 from the hose is not strong enough to damage Filter.

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 allow dust to come out of your Vac. Replace it immediately.
Allow the Filter to dry completely before reinstalling and storing the Vac or picking up dry debris.

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

REPAIR PARTS

4 U.S. Gallon (15 Liter) PRO PACK Wet/Dry Vac
Model Number WD45500
Electrical Ratings: 120 V 9 A 60 Hz
RIDGID parts are available online at store.ridgid.com/wetdry
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 double-insulated 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.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury from electrical shock, unplug power cord before servicing the electrical parts of the Wet/Dry Vac.
WARNING: All disassembly and repairs should be performed by qualified personnel.

This product has a 90 day Satisfaction Guarantee Policy as well as a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
For Warranty and Policy details go to RIDGID.com/VacWarranty or call 1-800-4-RIDGID.
www.RIDGID.com
© 2021 Emerson Part No. SP6734