RIDGID WD14500, WD1450EX1 - 14 U.S. GALLON/ 53 LITER PROFESSIONAL WET/DRY Vacuum Cleaner Manual

Unpacking and Checking Carton Contents

Tools Required

Phillips Screwdriver

Remove entire contents of carton. Check each item against the Carton Contents List. Contact 1-800-4-RIDGID from the US and Canada, 01-800-701-9811 from Mexico, or E-mail us at info@ridgidvacs.com if any parts are damaged or missing.

Carton Contents List

Key	Description	Qty
A	Wet/Dry Vac Assembly	1
B	Tug-A-Long Hose	1
C	Utility Nozzle	1
D	Wet Nozzle	1
E	Car Nozzle	1
F	Extension Wands	2
G	Owner's Manual	1

Carton containing the following parts:

Key	Description	Qty
H	Accessory Storage Bag	1
J	Caster Foot, Front	2
K	Caster Foot, Rear	2

Bag of Loose Parts - Containing the following:

Key	Description	Qty
L	2" Caster	4
M	Screw, Type AB #10 x 1-3/4	4

Filter Removal and Installation

To install a new filter you must first determine which filter attachment system is used on your Vac.

The filter cage has a stud on the end with either screw threads to receive a filter nut, or the Qwik Lock™ ball end which will allow the filter to snap into place without a filter nut or other attachment hardware.

The stud type will determine which of the following sets of instructions should be used.

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

To avoid damage to the blower wheel, always reinstall the filter before using the Vac for dry material pick-up.

Removal and Installation When Using the Qwik Lock™ Stud

Filter Removal:

1. Hold the filter tabs of the Qwik Lock™ filter in each hand.
2. With one thumb on the Qwik Lock™ stud, which protrudes through the integrated filter plate, lift up on the filter tabs while pushing down on the stud.
3. This action will cause the filter to release from the filter cage. Slide filter off cage.

Filter Installation:

1. Carefully slide the Qwik Lock™ filter over the filter cage and press down on the outside edge of the filter until the rubber gasket on the bottom of the filter seats securely around the base of the filter cage and against the lid.
2. Align the small center hole in the top of the filter over the Qwik Lock™ stud on the filter cage. Press firmly on top of the filter near the stud to allow the filter to snap over the ball on the end of the stud. The filter is now attached.

NOTE: Failure to properly seat the bottom gasket could result in debris bypassing the filter.

Removal and Installation When Using the Threaded Stud

Filter Removal:

1. Unscrew nut from threaded stud.
2. Pull up on filter to remove.

Filter Installation:

1. Carefully slide the filter over the filter cage until the threaded stud protrudes through the small center hole in the top of the filter. Press down on the outside edges of the filter until the rubber gasket on the bottom of the filter seats securely around the base of the filter cage and against the lid.
2. Place the filter nut onto the threaded stud and tighten down. Finger tighten only.

Drum/Caster Foot Assembly

If any parts are missing or damaged contact Customer Service.

Do not assemble until you have all the parts.

1. Insert the front and rear caster feet into the bottom of drum as shown. Light taps with a mallet or hammer may be needed to fully seat both caster feet.
   
2. Install (4) #10 x 1-3/4" screws into matching holes on both front and rear caster feet, securing them to the bottom of the drum. Tighten screws until just snug. Do not over tighten as this may tend to deform the caster feet.
   
3. Insert the caster stem into each of the caster feet, as shown.
   
4. Push on the caster until the ball on the caster stem is inserted all the way into the socket. You will be able to hear the ball snap into the socket and the caster will swivel easily when positioning is correct.

Accessory Storage Bag

Installing Accessory Storage Bag

1. Position rods of accessory storage bag directly over accessory rod receptacles in dust drum.
2. Slide rods of accessory storage bag into accessory rod receptacles until fully seated.

Removing Accessory Storage Bag

1. Pull straight up on rods of accessory storage bag until bag is loose.

NOTE: Powerhead will need to be removed before accessory storage bag can be removed.

Accessory Storage

Your accessories may be stored in the accessory storage bag, or in the two locations on the rear caster feet.

NOTE: Insert female end of extension wand into the holder sleeve as shown.

Cord Wrap

When vacuuming is complete, unplug the cord and wrap it around the power assembly as shown. The cord should wrap under the pull handle (above the inlet) and around and under the cord wrap of the motor cover.

Wet/Dry Vac Assembly

1. Position the powerhead assembly on the drum/caster foot assembly as shown (assembled earlier).
2. Rotate both latches down and press until you hear them snap over the flanges on the drum.

Insert Hose

Insert the push button end of the "Tug-ALong" hose into the inlet of the Vac. The hose should snap into place. To remove the hose from the Vac, press the release button in the hose assembly and pull the hose out of the Vac inlet, as shown.

Operation

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 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.
• Do not operate Vac in areas with flammable gases, vapors or explosive dust in the air. Sparks inside the motor can ignite airborne flammables. Flammable gases and vapors include: lighter fluid, solvent-type cleaners, oil-based paints, gasoline, alcohol, or aerosol sprays. Flammable dusts include: coal, magnesium, aluminum, grain, or gun powder.
• Do not vacuum up explosive dusts, flammable liquids, or hot ashes.
• Do not use Vac as a sprayer.

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.
• Do not service Vac while it is plugged-in. 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 independent 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.
• Do not vacuum toxic materials to reduce the risk of inhaling the vapors or dust.

To reduce the risk of electric shock, this appliance has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other except 230 volt models). 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.

After you plug the power cord into the outlet, turn the unit on by pushing the switch from position "O" to position "l". The symbols used on the switch actuator are international "On & Off" symbols. "O" is the symbol for "OFF" and "l" is the symbol for "ON".
= OFF
= ON

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.

Utility Nozzle - General purpose nozzle for most vacuuming applications.

Wet Nozzle - Used for wet pickup on smooth surfaces to pick up liquid and dry the surface in one stroke.

Car Nozzle - Dry pickup nozzle for car interiors and most upholstery cleaning.

Extension Wands - These wands can be connected together and provides additional length for more reach.

Hose - Provides transfer of vacuum or blowing capability to work site. Provides the means of attaching extension wands and nozzles.

Vacuuming Dry Materials

1. The filter must always be in correct position to reduce the risk of leaks and possible damage to Vac.
2. Your Wet/Dry Vac comes with the VF5000 Fine Dust Filter installed. 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

1. When picking up small amounts of liquid the filter may be left in place.
2. When picking up large amounts of liquid we recommend that the filter be removed. If the filter is not removed, it will become saturated and misting may appear in the exhaust.
3. When the liquid in the drum reaches a predetermined level, the float mechanism will rise automatically to cut off air-flow. When this happens, turn off the Vac, unplug the power cord, and empty the drum. You will know that the float has risen because Vac airflow ceases and the motor noise will become higher in pitch, due to increased motor speed.
4. After using the Vac to pick up liquids, the filter must be dried to reduce the risk of possible mildew and damage to the filter.

To reduce the risk of damage to the Vac, do not run motor with float in raised position.

Emptying the Drum

1. The Vac comes equipped with a drain for easy emptying of liquids. Simply unscrew the drain cap and lift the opposite side slightly to empty the drum.
2. Another option is to remove the powerhead assembly.
3. Lay powerhead assembly aside on a clean area while emptying drum.
4. Dump the drum contents into the proper waste disposal container.

To reduce the risk of back injury or falls, do not lift a Vac heavy with liquid or debris. Scoop or drain enough contents out to make the Vac light enough to lift comfortably.

Moving the Wet/Dry Vac

Should it become necessary to pick the Vac up to move it, the handle on the sides of the dust drum are used to lift. To maneuver the Vac, the push/pull handle on the powerhead of the unit should be used.

Blowing Feature

Your Vac features a blowing port. It can blow sawdust and other debris. Follow the steps below to use your Vac as a blower.

• Always wear safety eyewear complying with ANSI Z87.1 (or in Canada, CSA Z94.3) before using as a blower.
• To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders, keep them clear of blowing debris.

• Wear a dust mask if blowing creates dust which might be inhaled.
• To reduce the risk of hearing damage, wear ear protectors when using the Vac/blower for extended time or in a noisy area.

1. Locate blowing port of your Vac.
2. Insert the locking end of the tug-along hose into the blowing port of the Vac. The hose should snap into place.
3. (Optional) Attach extension wand to opposite end of hose, then place the car nozzle on the wand.
4. Turn Vac on and you are ready to use your Vac as a blower.

Maintenance

Filter

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

Your 14 Gallon Professional Wet/Dry Vac is supplied with RIDGID's VF5000 Fine Dust Filter. Replacement VF5000 Fine Dust Filters are available where you purchased your Vac. Ask for the RIDGID VF5000 Fine Dust Filter.

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

Filter Removal

Refer "Filter Removal and Installation" Section of this manual.

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

To avoid damage to the blower wheel and motor, always reinstall the filter before using the Vac for dry material pick-up.

Cleaning A Dry Filter

NOTE: For best cleaning results due to accumulated dust, clean the filter in an open area. Cleaning SHOULD be done outdoors and not in the living quarters.

1. Remove filter from Vac. Gently tap filter against the inside wall of your dust drum. The debris will loosen and fall.
2. For thorough cleaning of dry filter with fine dust (no debris), run water through it 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.

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 cause a lot of dust to come out of your Vac. If your filter is damaged or worn, replace it immediately.

Allow the filter to dry before reinstalling and storing the Vac.

Cleaning and Disinfecting the Wet/Dry Vac

To keep your Wet/Dry Vac looking its best, clean the outside with a cloth dampened with warm water and mild soap.

To clean the drum:

1. Dump debris out.
2. Wash drum thoroughly with warm water and mild soap.
3. Wipe out with dry cloth.

Before prolonged storage or as needed (i.e.; waste water pick up) the drum should be disinfected.

To disinfect the drum:

1. Pour 1 gallon of water and 1 teaspoon chlorine bleach into the drum.
2. Let solution stand for 20 minutes, carefully swishing every few minutes, making sure to wet all inside surfaces of the drum.
3. Empty drum after 20 minutes. Rinse with water until bleach smell is gone. Allow drum to dry completely before sealing the motor on the drum.

Cord Maintenance

When vacuuming is complete, unplug the cord and wrap it around the motor cover. If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or their service agent or by similarly qualified personnel to reduce the risk of accident.

Storage

Before storing your Vac, the drum should be emptied and cleaned. The cord should be wrapped around the unit and the hose should be stored as described in this manual. Accessories should be kept in the same area as the Vac so they can be readily available. The Vac should be stored indoors.

Casters

If your casters are noisy, you may put a drop of oil on the roller shaft to make them quieter.

To assure product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs and adjustments should be performed by Independent Service Centers, always using RIDGID replacement parts.

Repair Parts

14 Gallon Professional Wet/Dry Vac Model Number WD14500/WD1450EX1
RIDGID parts are available on-line at www.ridgidparts.com
Always order by Part Number - Not by Key Number

Key No.	Part No.	Description
1	830564	Actuator, Switch
2	813213	Switch, Toggle
3	832527	Power Head Assembly (WD14500)
3	833121	Power Head Assembly (WD1450EX1)
4	826387	Drum Latch
5	823200A	Float
6	823201-3	Filter Cage
7	VF5000	Filter - VF5000 Fine Dust
8	830717-1	Accessory Storage Bag
9	830683-1	Dust Drum Assembly
10	73185	Drain Cap
11	830716	Caster Foot, Rear
12	820563-12	Screw Type "AB" #10 x 1-3/4
13	830715	Caster Foot, Front
14	73102	Caster
15	VT2509	† Utility Nozzle
16	VT2503	† Car Nozzle
17	VT2510	† Wet Nozzle
18	826356-5	† Hose Assembly
19	VT2508	† Extension, Wands
20	509850	Bag of Loose Parts (Includes Keys 12 and 14)
21	SP6735	Owner's Manual

† These replacement parts may be available where you purchased your Vac.

RIDGID parts are available on-line at www.ridgidparts.com

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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Safety is a combination of using common sense, staying alert, and knowing how your Wet/Dry vacuum cleaner ("Vac") works.

Safety Signal Words

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

When using your Vac, always follow basic safety precautions including the following:

To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury:

• Read and understand this manual and all labels on the 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
• Do not use with a torn filter or with out 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.
• Do not leave Vac when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
• Turn off Vac before unplugging.
• 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.
• 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 back injury or falls, do not lift a Vac that is heavy with liquid or debris. Partially empty by scooping debris or draining liquid.
• 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.
  • Wear safety eyewear.
• 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.
• This 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.
• 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 16 gauge (AWG) in size. To reduce power loss, use a 14 gauge extension cord if 25 to 50 ft. long and 12 gauge for 50 ft. or longer.
• To reduce the risk of hearing damage, wear ear protectors when using for extended time or 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 INSULATED GROUNDING NOT REQUIRED. WHEN SERVICING USE ONLY IDENTICAL REPLACEMENT PARTS.

• For your own safety, read and understand owner's manual. Do not run unattended. Do not pick up hot ashes, coals, toxic, flammable 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.

SAVE THIS MANUAL

FOR QUESTIONS OR INFORMATION CONTACT US AT
1-800-4-RIDGID (1-800-474-3443) from the US and Canada
01-800-701-9811 from Mexico
www.ridgidvacs.com

Documents / Resources

References

• RIDGID Replacement Parts | RIDGID Store
• Wet Dry Vacs | RIDGID Tools

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