8
Operation
WARNING
To reduce the risk of fire or explosion, do not operate this vac in areas with
flammable gases, vapors or explosive dust in the air. Flammable gases or
vapors include but are not limited to; lighter fluid, solvent type cleaners, oil-
base paints, gasoline, alcohol or aerosol sprays. Explosive dusts include but
are not limited to; coal, magnesium, grain or gun powder. Do not vacuum
explosive dust, flammable or combustible liquids or hot ashes. Do not use
this vac as a sprayer. To reduce the risk of health hazards from vapors or
dusts, do not vacuum toxic materials.
CAUTION: To reduce risk of hearing
damage wear ear protectors when
using the vac for extended hours or
when using it in a noisy area. The
operation of any utility vac can result
in foreign objects being blown into
the eyes, which can result in severe
eye damage. Always wear safety
goggles complying with ANSI Z87.1
(or in Canada CSA Z94-3-99 ) shown
on Package before commencing
operation. Safety Goggles are avail-
able at many local retail stores.
To reduce the risk of electric shock, this
appliance has a polarized plug (one blade
is wider than the other). 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 quali-
fied electrician to install the proper outlet.
Do not change the plug in any way.
After you plug the power cord into a 120V
outlet, turn the Wet/Dry Vac on by push-
ing the switch from “OFF” to “ON”.
Familiarize yourself with the accessories
included with the vac. Each accessory
may be used in various ways for vacuum-
ing 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 addi-
tional 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 avoid leaks and possible
damage to vac.
2. 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.
3.If your filter is wet but you need to use the
vac to pick up dry material, you can quickly
dry the filter by running the vac without
hose attached for about 10 minutes. The
clean air rushing through the vac will help
dry the filter.
WD1200/30 RIDGID MANUAL (12001 3/16/01 4:23 PM Page 8