This document is an owner's manual for the Sears Craftsman 5 Gallon Clean 'N Carry Wet/Dry Vac, Model No. 113.179255. It provides comprehensive instructions for the safe operation, assembly, maintenance, and repair of the wet/dry vacuum cleaner.
Function Description:
The Craftsman 5 Gallon Clean 'N Carry Wet/Dry Vac is designed for household use, capable of both wet and dry material pickup. Its primary function is to clean various types of debris, including dry dust and liquids, from different surfaces. The vac also features a blower function, allowing it to be used for clearing debris by blowing air. The "Clean 'N Carry" designation suggests portability and ease of transport, likely aided by its compact design and integrated storage features. The double-insulated design eliminates the need for a separate grounding system, enhancing user safety.
Usage Features:
The manual emphasizes safety as a paramount concern, starting with a "SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE" directive and a "IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" section that includes safety signal words (DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION) to highlight potential hazards. Users are instructed to read and understand the entire manual before operation.
Key usage features include:
- Wet/Dry Vacuuming: The vac is capable of picking up both dry materials and liquids. For dry vacuuming, a filter must always be in place to prevent leaks and damage. For very fine dust, frequent emptying of the canister and cleaning of the filter are recommended. If the filter is wet but dry material needs to be picked up, the filter can be dried by running the vac without the hose for about 10 minutes. For liquid pickup, the filter can remain in place for small amounts, but for large amounts, it's recommended to remove the vac from its storage rack and place it on the floor, as a full canister can weigh up to 40 pounds. A float mechanism automatically cuts off airflow when the liquid in the canister reaches a predetermined level, indicating it's time to empty the canister.
- Blower Function: The manual mentions a "blower port" and instructions for attaching a diffuser cap with a lanyard to the vac motor assembly when using the blower function. This suggests the vac can be converted to a blower for clearing debris.
- Portability and Storage: The "Clean 'N Carry" aspect is supported by detailed instructions for "Hanging Vac on Storage Rack." This involves mounting a storage rack to a wall, ensuring it's indoors and not exposed to rain, and then securing the vac to the rack. The rack is designed to hold the vac, hoses, extension wands, and other accessories, promoting organized storage and easy access. The vac's handle and canister design facilitate lifting and carrying.
- Accessory Use: The manual describes various accessories, including 14' and 7' Pos-I-Lock hoses, an adapter for connecting hoses, extension wands, a utility nozzle, dusting brush, car nozzle, and crevice tool. These accessories enhance the versatility of the vac for different cleaning tasks. The hoses can be connected independently or together for extended reach.
- Power Cord Management: Instructions are provided for winding the electrical cord around the cord wrap area on the back of the motor assembly and snapping it into cord retainers on the storage rack to prevent tripping hazards and keep the cord tidy.
- Operation Controls: The vac is turned on and off using a switch with international "On & Off" symbols ("I" for ON, "O" for OFF). The manual also notes that the appliance has a polarized plug for electric shock reduction.
Maintenance Features:
Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of the Craftsman Wet/Dry Vac. The manual provides clear instructions for filter maintenance, vac cleaning, and general care.
Key maintenance features include:
- Filter Maintenance: The filter, made of high-quality paper, is designed for both wet and dry pickup. Users are instructed on how to remove the filter (unscrewing the filter nut, removing the filter plate, and lifting off the filter) for cleaning or replacement. The filter cage should not be removed as it protects the blower wheel.
- Filter Cleaning: For dry filters, debris can be removed by gently tapping the filter against the inside wall of the vac canister or by running water through it (as described for wet filters). For wet filters, water should be run through the filter from a hose or spigot, taking care not to damage it with strong pressure. After cleaning, the filter should be reinstalled on the vac and the unit run for approximately 10 minutes to dry it, or allowed to dry before storing the vac.
- Filter Inspection: After cleaning, the filter should be checked for tears or small holes, and if found, it must be replaced immediately to prevent dust from escaping.
- Canister Cleaning: The vac canister should be emptied of debris, then washed thoroughly with warm water and mild soap, and wiped dry.
- Exterior Cleaning: The outside of the vac can be cleaned with a cloth dampened with warm water and mild soap.
- Storage: The manual advises storing the vac indoors and unplugging it when not in use. The storage rack system facilitates organized storage of the vac and its accessories.
- Repair and Replacement Parts: The manual includes a "Repair Parts" section with a detailed list of parts by key number and description, emphasizing that only identical Sears replacement parts should be used for repairs to maintain product safety and reliability. It also states that repairs and adjustments should be performed by Sears Service Centers.
- Warranty Information: A "FULL ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN WET/DRY VACS" is provided, covering defects in material or workmanship for one year from the date of purchase for household use, and 90 days for commercial or rental purposes.