shop vac SMK-SQ650 Workshop Assistant Wet and Dry Vacuum Owner’s Manual

: July 23, 2024
: shop vac

shop vac SMK-SQ650 Workshop Assistant Wet and Dry Vacuum

Product Specifications

Model: SMK-SQ650
Capacity: 14 US Gallons / 52.9 Liters
Peak HP: 6.5
Working Capacity: Varies based on use

Product Information

The Shop Vac SMK-SQ650 is a wet/dry vacuum cleaner designed to assist in household and workshop cleaning tasks. It comes with a variety of accessories for versatile cleaning options.

Product Usage Instructions

Assembly: No tools are required for assembly. Check the carton contents to ensure all parts are included.
Safety Precautions: Review all safety instructions before use. Never operate the unit in the presence of flammable materials or vapors. Always disconnect the plug before removing the tank cover.
Basic Precautions: Read all instructions before using the appliance. Do not leave the appliance plugged in when not in use. Unplug from the outlet before servicing.
Cleaning: Use appropriate filters and accessories based on the type of debris being collected. Do not pick up certain materials without the proper filters in place.
Grounding: Ensure proper grounding of the appliance to reduce the risk of electric shock. Follow all local codes and ordinances for grounding instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What should I do if the vacuum malfunctions?
If the vacuum malfunctions, contact Shop-Vac Corporation for assistance.
Can I leave the vacuum unattended when it is plugged in?
No, do not leave the vacuum unattended when it is plugged in and/or operating. Always unplug the unit when not in use.
How should I handle the appliance cord?
Do not pull or carry the appliance by the cord, use it as a handle, or run the appliance over the cord. Keep the cord away from heated surfaces and sharp edges.

CATALOG / MODEL NUMBERS

shop-vac-SMK-SQ650-Workshop-Assistant-Wet-and-Dry-Vacuum-
fig-21

NO TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY!
WARNING: REVIEW IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE.

CARTON CONTENTS

Check to make sure you have the following:

shop-vac-SMK-SQ650-Workshop-Assistant-Wet-and-Dry-Vacuum-
fig-2

QUESTIONS?

U.S. Customers call 888-822-4644 or visit www.shopvac.com.

WARNING: 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. 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:

Do not leave appliance when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing. Connect to a properly grounded outlet only. See Grounding Instructions.
Do not expose to rain – store indoors.
Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
Use only as described in this manual. Use only Manufacturer’s recommended attachments.
Do not use with damaged cord or plug. If appliance is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors or dropped into water, contact Shop-Vac Corporation for assistance.
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.
Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug; not the cord.
Do not handle plug or appliance with wet hands.
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.
Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.
Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches or hot ashes.
Do not use without dust bag and/or filters in place.
Turn off all controls before unplugging.
Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids such as gasoline or use in areas where they may be present.
Do not use your cleaner as a sprayer of flammable liquids such as oil base paints, lacquers, household cleaners, etc.
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.
Do not pick up soot, cement, plaster or drywall dust without 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.
Do not leave the cord lying on the floor once you have finished the cleaning job. It can become a tripping hazard.
Use special care when emptying heavily loaded tanks.
To avoid spontaneous combustion, empty tank after each use.
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 vacuum.
STAY ALERT. Watch what you are doing and use common sense. Do not use vacuum cleaner when you are tired, distracted or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication causing diminished control.
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.
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 breakdown, 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 A.W.G. wire size required. To determine ampere rating of your vacuum, refer to nameplate located on hose rail. Before using appliance, inspect 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.

Volts| Total length of cord in feet|
---|---|---
120V| 25| 50| 100| 150|
Ampere Rating More Not More

Than Than

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

UNPACKING

Pull lid latches in an outward motion and remove tank cover. Remove any items that may have been packed in the vacuum tank.

TOOL HOLDER

Accessories will be shipped in the tool holder on the rear of the unit. Gently push down on top of holder and pull outward. FIGURE 1. Tool holder can also be removed to carry with you. Tools can also be stored on the front cut outs on the dolly. FIGURE 2. and FIGURE 3.

shop-vac-SMK-SQ650-Workshop-Assistant-Wet-and-Dry-Vacuum-
fig-5

GENERAL SET UP

Before replacing tank cover, refer to Dry Pick Up or Wet Pick Up Operation in user manual to ensure you have the proper filters installed for your cleaning operation.
Wand Clip Installation: Remove tank cover, slide tab of the clip into cut out on tank. FIGURE 4. Replace tank cover, put wand into cut out on dolly and snap into the clip to hold wand in place. FIGURE 5.
Replace tank cover, and apply pressure with thumb to each latch until it snaps tightly into place. Make certain all lid latches are clamped securely.
Insert machine hose end with locking-nut into inlet of tank. Turn locking nut to tighten. Do not over-tighten.
Attach the extension wands to the accessory end of the hose. Twist slightly to tighten the connection. FIGURE 6.
Attach one of the cleaning accessories (depending on your cleaning requirements) on the extension wands. Twist slightly to tighten the connection. FIGURE 6.
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 LOWE’S STORE, LOWES.COM OR SHOP-VAC.COM.

KICK STAND INSTRUCTIONS

Remove wands from wand clips, pull lid latches in an outward motion and remove tank cover. Place back of lid into cutout on back of tank, below cord. FIGURE 7. Lift kick stand from rim on inside of tank. FIGURE 8. and snap into notch in front of cartridge filter. FIGURE 9. To replace tank cover return kick stand to notch in tank, lift cover and align with tank rim. Apply pressure with thumb to each latch until it snaps tightly into place. Make certain all lid latches are clamped securely.

shop-vac-SMK-SQ650-Workshop-Assistant-Wet-and-Dry-Vacuum-
fig-8

FILTER INSTALLATION AND CLEANING DRY PICK UP OPERATION

NOTE: NEVER USE THE VACUUM FOR DRY PICK UP WITHOUT A DRY USE FILTER INSTALLED ON THE FILTER CAGE. USING THE VACUUM WITHOUT A FILTER WILL CAUSE DUST TO DISCHARGE FROM BLOWER PORT AND CAUSE DAMAGE TO MOTOR.
WARNING: ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE PLUG FROM THE WALL OUTLET BEFORE REMOVING THE TANK COVER.
NOTE: IF FOAM SLEEVE (NOT STANDARD WITH ALL MODELS) IS INSTALLED ON FILTER CAGE, REMOVE BEFORE INSTALLING THE 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 large quantities of water we recommend using a foam sleeve (not standard with all models) instead of the cartridge filter. When picking up fine dust or powders a high efficiency filter bag must be used with the cartridge filter.
NOTE: IF CARTRIDGE FILTER HAS BEEN USED FOR WET PICK UP, IT MUST BE CLEANED AND DRIED BEFORE USING IT FOR DRY PICK UP.
With the tank cover in an upside down position, slide the cartridge filter down over the filter cage, pushing until the filter seals against the cover. FIGURE 10.
Place filter retainer into the top of the cartridge filter. FIGURE 11.
Hold the tank cover with one hand, turn the handle on the filter retainer clockwise to tighten, locking the filter into place. FIGURE 12.
To remove the filter for cleaning, again hold the tank cover and turn the filter retainer counter-clockwise to loosen and remove. FIGURE 13.
Slide the cartridge filter off the filter cage. FIGURE 14.
To clean cartridge filter shake or brush off excess dirt. FIGURE 15.
Or rinse (from the inside of the filter) with water. FIGURE 16. Dry completely (approximately 24 hours).
Check the filter for tears or small holes. If none are found, reinstall the filter. To prevent damage to your vacuum, do not use a filter with a hole or a tear.
WARNING: KEEP FILTERS CLEAN. 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 DISPOSABLE FILTER BAG

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

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 fine dust or powders a high efficiency filter bag must be used.
NOTE: USE FOR DRY PICK UP ONLY.
With cord disconnected from the receptacle, pull latches in an outward motion and remove the tank cover.
Unscrew hose locking-nut and remove hose from inlet. FIGURE 17.
Remove the inlet defector from the deflector guide. NOTE: Hose must be removed before the inlet deflector can be taken out. FIGURE 18.
Position the inlet deflector with the opening facing the left or the right side of the filter bag. Slide the filter bag collar over the inlet deflector, matching the notches of the bag collar to the tabs on the inlet deflector. Bag will only fit properly one way. FIGURE 19.
Slide the inlet deflector with the filter bag attached into the deflector guide. FIGURE 20.
Reinsert hose into inlet and tighten the locking-nut. FIGURE 21.
When secured in place, expand the filter bag and position around the inside of the tank. Replace tank cover.

NOTE: WHEN REMOVING FILTER BAG FROM TANK, REMOVE THE INLET DEFLECTOR FROM THE FILTER BAG COLLAR. REINSTALL INLET DEFLECTOR INTO DEFLECTOR GUIDE. INLET DEFLECTOR MUST BE IN PLACE FOR ANY TYPE OF CLEANING.
WARNING: FOR FINE DUST POWDERS. WHEN VACUUMING FINE DUST, OR POWDERS OF ANY KIND (PLASTER, DRYWALL DUST, COLD ASHES, CONCRETE DUCT, 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

Your vacuum can be used for wet pick up. Remove ALL dirt and debris found in the tank. Remove all dry use only filters, including the filter bag, from the vacuum.
A clean cartridge filter may be used to pick up small quantities of liquid. To use the cartridge filter; follow the cleaning and installation instructions under dry pick up.
For vacuuming large quantities of liquid use a foam sleeve (not standard with all models). A foam sleeve may be purchased at your local Shop-Vac® distributor, on the Shop-Vac® website, or by contacting Shop-Vac® customer service. To use the foam sleeve; follow the installation instructions in this section.
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 a dry filter.
Turn the unit off immediately upon completing a wet pick up job or when tank is full and ready to be emptied. When the tank is full, suction will drastically reduce. Refer to “automatic suction shut off” in this manual. Raise the hose to drain any excess liquid into the tank. Follow the “emptying liquid waste” section in this manual.
Before storing the vacuum cleaner or using 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.
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.

FOAM SLEEVE INSTALLATION AND CLEANING

(NOT STANDARD WITH ALL MODELS)

With tank cover in an upside down position, slide foam sleeve down over filter cage pulling until foam sleeve completely covers lid cage. FIGURE 22.
To clean the foam sleeve, disconnect the plug from the wall outlet. Remove the tank cover and place the cover in an upside-down position. Remove foam sleeve by sliding it up and off the filter cage.
Shake excess debris off of the foam sleeve with a rapid up and down movement.
Hold foam sleeve under running water for a minute or two, rinsing from the inside of the filter. A water wash is not always required, depending on the condition of the foam sleeve.
Check the filter for tears. If any are found, replace with a new filter.

BLOWER FEATURE

Your vacuum can be used as a powerful blower. To use your unit as a blower, unscrew blower port cover located on the backside of the tank cover. Clear hose of any obstructions or debris. Insert hose end with locking nut into blower port and tighten, FIGURE 23. do not over-tighten. Caution should be used when using as a blower due to the powerful force of air when using certain attachments.
NOTE: FOR MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE, WHEN VACUUMING, REMOVE BLOWER PORT 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.

EMPTYING LIQUID WASTE FROM THE TANK

To empty tank, turn unit off and remove plug from the wall receptacle. To empty liquid into floor drain the vacuum is equipped with easy flow drain. Twist drain cap until liquid starts to flow. Pull drain out keeping opening at the bottom. The further you pull out the faster the liquid will flow. After the tank is empty, return the drain cap to its original position. To continue use, plug the cord into the wall receptacle and turn the unit on. Use side carry handles for lifting vac when draining tank into drains that are located above floor level.

LOCKING CASTERS

To lock the caster, step gently or using your hand flip the metal on/off tab to the on position. FIGURE 24. This will lock the caster in place to prevent movement of the vacuum. To unlock, gently step or using your hand flip the metal on/off tab in opposite position. FIGURE 25.

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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

Before storing your vacuum cleaner the tank should be emptied and cleaned. The power cord can be wrapped around the cord wraps provided on the rear of hose rail. FIGURE 26.
Accessories may be stored in the accessory caddy. 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. FIGURE 27. The vacuum should be stored indoors. FIGURE 26 FIGURE 27

FILTER REPLACEMENT

LOCATED ON THE REAR OF YOUR VACUUM, YOU WILL FIND A FILTER REPLACEMENT CHART. THIS CHART WILL INDICATE BY “TYPE” WHICH FILTERS WILL FIT YOUR VACUUM CORRECTLY. FIGURE 28.
NOTE: NOT ALL FILTERS AVAILABLE FOR YOUR VACUUM ARE LISTED ON THIS CHART. FOR ADDITIONAL FILTERS VISIT SHOP-VAC® WEBSITE, LOWES.COM OR YOUR LOCAL LOWE’S STORE.

TROUBLESHOOTING

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

PROBLEM	CAUSE	SOLUTION

Loss of suction Clogged filter Clean filter, pages 6, 7 & 8.

wet pick up __

Full tank Empty tank, page 9.

5 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 five 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 product service 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.

ABOUT COMPANY

SHOP-VAC CORPORATION
- 2323 Reach Road, P.O. Box 3307, Williamsport, PA 17701-0307
- 570-326-3557
- www.shopvac.com
SHOP-VAC CANADA Ltd.
- 1770 Appleby Line, Burlington, ON L7L 5P8
- 905-335-9730
- www.shopvac.ca
  Patentes de Estados Unidos registradas y en trámite. Todos los derechos reservados. © 2015 Shop-Vac Corporation.