These Frequently Asked Questions are a supplement to the Owner's Manual and Safety Instructions. Please review the
Owner's Manual for safety warnings and precautions, and assembly, operating, inspection, maintenance, and cleaning
procedures.
For best performance, ensure you are using the correct filter for your vacuum and application. Regularly clean or
replace the filter and empty the tank as needed. The filter included with your vacuum is intended for general
household usage and larger particles. For fine dry particles such as drywall dust, we recommend using a disposable
dust collection bag to prevent filter clogs. For wet pickup, the paper filter must be removed to ensure proper
operation of the vacuum. Please refer to your vacuum’s user manual for further details regarding model specific wet
pickup operation instructions.
When vacuuming fine dry particles, use a dust collection bag to improve filter performance and prevent clogging the
cartridge filter. If the cartridge or bag filter is damaged, dust may pass through the exhaust. Replace damaged
cartridge or bag filters.
If the tank is moved while overfilled with liquid, the float ball valve may not operate properly causing fluid to
exit the exhaust. Immediately dry your hands and feet, turn off the vacuum, unplug the vacuum from the power source,
and drain the liquid where appropriate. Do not continue to use the vacuum when the tank is full of liquid.
When vacuuming fluids, the dry cartridge filter must be removed to ensure proper operation of the vacuum.
A common cause for vacuum overheating is dirty or clogged filters. Clogged filters strain the motor and impeller
system, reducing airflow in the system. This lack of airflow and increased motor strain can cause elevated motor
temperatures. Please clean or if damaged, replace the filter on a regular basis. Vacuuming finer particles may
require more frequent filter cleaning.
Ensure that you are using an appropriately sized vacuum for your task. Smaller wet/dry vacuums (1-5 gallon) are
intended for small tasks and low volume requirements. Select a larger wet/dry vacuum for medium or large tasks,
including vacuuming wet basements or large areas.
Remove the filter according to the owner’s manual and tap and/or shake the filter in a waste basket to remove the
surface debris. If needed, the filter can be flushed with water but must dry for at least 24 hours to ensure proper
operation and vacuum air flow. While cleaning the cartridge filter, inspect to ensure no tears or holes are present.
If there are tears or holes in the filter, it must be replaced to prevent dry debris from passing through the
vacuum’s exhaust and damaging the vacuum.
Never vacuum anything that is burning, smoking, or hot, such as cigarettes, matches, charcoal, or hot ashes.
When using an extension cord, make sure that you use a cord with the appropriate gauge to carry the current your
vacuum will draw. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating.
Table A shows the correct size to use depending on cord length and nameplate ampere rating. Generally, it is better
to use a heavier gauge cord. The smaller the gauge number, the larger the diameter of the cord and amperage carrying
capacity.