This document is an owner's manual for the RIDGID WD1245 and WD1635 Wet/Dry Vacuums, available in 12 U.S. Gallons (45 Litres) and 16 U.S. Gallons (60 Litres) capacities, respectively. It provides comprehensive instructions for assembly, operation, maintenance, and safety.
Function Description:
The RIDGID Wet/Dry Vac is a versatile household appliance designed for vacuuming both wet and dry materials, and it can also function as a blower. Its primary purpose is to clean various debris and liquids from surfaces, offering flexibility for different cleaning tasks. The vacuum is double-insulated, eliminating the need for a separate grounding system, which enhances user safety.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Capacities: 12 U.S. Gallons (45 Litres) for WD1245, and 16 U.S. Gallons (60 Litres) for WD1635.
- Insulation: Double-insulated design.
- Filter: Uses a high-quality paper filter (VF5000 recommended) designed to stop very small dust particles. The filter can be used for both dry pick-up and small amounts of liquid.
- Float Mechanism: Automatically cuts off airflow when the liquid in the drum reaches a predetermined level, preventing damage to the motor.
- Hose: Features a "Tug-A-Long" hose that snaps into place for secure connection.
- Power Cord: The manual includes a table for selecting the appropriate extension cord gauge (A.W.G.) based on length: 14 A.W.G. for 0-50 Ft. and 12 A.W.G. for 50-100 Ft.
- Accessories: Includes a Tug-A-Long Hose, Casters, Caster Foot with Storage, Extension Wands (2), Utility Nozzle, Wet Nozzle, Car Nozzle, and an Owner's Manual. Replacement parts are available online.
Usage Features:
- Assembly:
- Caster/Caster Foot Assembly: Involves turning the drum upside down, inserting caster feet into the bottom, pushing them flush, inserting caster stems into the sockets, and pushing casters until they snap into place.
- Replacement Filter Assembly: The filter slides over the filter cage, secured by a filter nut and filter plate (finger-tighten only). The filter cage and float can be removed and replaced if needed, with specific instructions for aligning tabs and ensuring the float is placed "This Side Towards Lid" face down.
- Wet/Dry Vac Assembly: Involves aligning the vacuum port with the drain cap, placing the lid on the drum, ensuring it covers the top completely, and pushing down on latch areas (or rotating drum latches for WD1635) until they snap into place.
- Hose Insertion: The push-button end of the hose is inserted into the inlet until it snaps. Removal requires pressing the release button.
- Operation:
- Power Switch: An international "On & Off" switch is used, with "O" for OFF and "I" for ON.
- Vacuuming Dry Materials: The filter must always be in place. For very fine dust, frequent emptying and filter cleaning are recommended. A dry filter is necessary for dry material pick-up; a wet filter will clog quickly. A wet filter can be dried by running the vac without the hose for about 10 minutes.
- Vacuuming Liquids: For small amounts, the filter can remain. For large amounts, filter removal is recommended to prevent saturation and misting. The float mechanism will automatically stop airflow when the drum is full. After wet pick-up, the filter must be dried to prevent mildew.
- Blowing Feature: The hose can be inserted into the blowing port to use the vac as a blower for sawdust and other debris. Optional extension wands and car nozzles can be attached.
- Emptying the Drum: Liquids can be emptied by unscrewing the drain cap and tilting the drum. Alternatively, the lid can be removed by pulling flexible latches outward.
- Accessory Storage: Extension wands and accessories can be stored on rings on the caster feet or on the lid.
- Wet Nozzle Usage: The 2-1/2 inch wet nozzle is attached to an extension wand for picking up liquids from smooth surfaces. The squeegee dries the surface. The squeegee can be flipped or replaced if worn, with detailed instructions for removal and reinstallation.
Maintenance Features:
- Cord Maintenance: After use, the power cord should be unplugged and wrapped around the motor cover.
- Moving the Wet/Dry Vac: Lift using the handles on the sides of the dust drum; maneuver using the pull handle above the inlet.
- Filter Cleaning:
- Dry Filter: Some debris can be removed by slapping the lid while the vac is off. For best results, remove the filter and gently tap it against the inside wall of the dust drum outdoors. For thorough cleaning, run water through it as described for wet filters.
- Wet Filter: Run water through the filter from a hose or spigot, ensuring the pressure is not too strong. Reinstall and run the vac for about 10 minutes to dry the filter.
- Filter Inspection: After cleaning, check for tears or holes and replace immediately if found, as even small holes can cause dust to escape.
- Cleaning and Disinfecting the Wet/Dry Vac:
- Exterior: Clean with a cloth dampened with warm water and mild soap.
- Drum: Empty debris, wash thoroughly with warm water and mild soap, then wipe dry.
- Disinfection (for prolonged storage or waste water pick-up): Pour 1 gallon of water and 1 teaspoon chlorine bleach into the drum, let stand for 20 minutes (swishing occasionally), then empty and rinse until the bleach smell is gone. Allow to dry completely.
- Storage: Before storing, the drum should be emptied and cleaned. The cord and hose should be stored as described. The vac should be stored indoors.
- Casters: If noisy, a drop of oil on the roller shaft can quiet them.
- Repairs: All repairs and adjustments should be performed by Authorized Service Centers using identical RIDGID replacement parts to ensure product safety and reliability.
The manual emphasizes reading all instructions and labels before operation. It defines DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION signal words. Key safety warnings include:
- Never leave the vac running unattended.
- Avoid vacuuming flammable/combustible liquids, gases, explosive dusts (e.g., gasoline, coal dust, gun powder), burning/smoking materials (cigarettes, hot ashes), or toxic materials.
- Do not use as a sprayer.
- Wear safety eyewear (ANSI Z87.1 or CSA Z94.3 compliant) during operation, especially when blowing, to prevent eye injury from foreign objects.
- Wear ear protectors in noisy areas or for extended use to prevent hearing damage.
- Wear a dust mask for dusty operations.
- Do not expose to rain; store indoors.
- Do not use with a torn or missing filter (except when vacuuming liquids).
- Unplug the power cord before servicing or cleaning the filter.
- Do not pull the cord to unplug; grasp the plug.
- Do not use with a damaged cord, plug, or other parts.
- Avoid lifting a vac heavy with liquid or debris to prevent back injury or falls; partially empty it first.
- Use only RIDGID recommended accessories.
- When blowing, direct air only at the work area, keep children away, and do not use for jobs other than blowing dirt and debris.
- Static shocks are common in dry areas; adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can reduce frequency.
- Use only outdoor-rated extension cords of appropriate wire size (refer to the provided table).
- Do not remove the filter cage and float, as the float protects the motor from water and the cage prevents contact with the impeller.
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