Introduction
This instruction manual provides important information for the safe operation, assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Vacmaster Professional Beast Series 12-Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vac (Model VJH1211PF0201). This high-performance vacuum is designed for demanding cleanup tasks in various environments, including job sites, workshops, and garages. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure proper function and to prevent injury or damage.
Important Safety Information
Always follow basic safety precautions when using electrical appliances to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury.
- Read all instructions before operating the vacuum.
- Do not leave the appliance unattended when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
- Do not use outdoors or on wet surfaces.
- Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
- Use only as described in this manual. Use only manufacturer's recommended attachments.
- Do not use with damaged cord or plug. If appliance is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to a service center.
- Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as a handle, close a door on cord, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners. Do not run appliance over cord. Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
- Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
- Do not handle plug or appliance with wet hands.
- Do not put any object into openings. Do not use with any opening blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair, and anything that may reduce air flow.
- Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.
- Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
- Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids, such as gasoline, or use in areas where they may be present.
- Do not use without filters in place.
- Turn off all controls before unplugging.
- Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
- Do not use to pick up toxic, carcinogenic, combustible or other hazardous materials like asbestos, arsenic, barium, beryllium, lead, pesticides or other health endangering materials.
Package Contents
Your Vacmaster Professional Wet/Dry Vac includes the following components:
- 12-Gallon Wet/Dry Vac Unit
- 7 ft. x 2-1/2 in. Kink Resistant EVA Hose
- Fine Dust Cartridge Filter
- Foam Wet Filter
- High Efficiency Dust Bag
- Floor Nozzle with Squeegee & Brush
- Utility Nozzle
- Crevice Tool
- (2) Extension Wands
- Air & Noise Diffuser

Figure 1: Included Accessories and Components
Setup
Follow these steps to assemble your wet/dry vacuum before first use.
- Unpack Components: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Ensure all listed accessories are present.
- Attach Casters: Invert the tank. Insert the caster feet into the slots on the bottom of the tank. Push firmly until they click into place.

Figure 2: Fully Assembled Vacmaster Wet/Dry Vac
- Install Filter (Dry Vacuuming): For dry pickup, ensure the fine dust cartridge filter is securely installed over the filter cage. Twist the filter retainer to lock it in place.
- Install Filter (Wet Vacuuming): For wet pickup, remove the cartridge filter and install the foam wet filter over the filter cage. Ensure it covers the cage completely.
- Attach Hose: Insert the large end of the hose into the vacuum port on the tank. Twist to secure.
- Attach Accessories: Connect the desired accessory (e.g., floor nozzle, crevice tool) to the end of the hose or to the extension wands.
Operating Instructions
Dry Vacuuming
- Ensure the fine dust cartridge filter is installed.
- Plug the power cord into a suitable electrical outlet. The 20-foot power cord provides ample reach.
- Turn the vacuum ON using the large, dust-sealed on/off switch located on the power head.
- Begin vacuuming dry debris. The powerful 5.5 Peak HP motor is designed for efficient pickup.
- When finished, turn the vacuum OFF and unplug it.
Wet Vacuuming
- Remove the cartridge filter and install the foam wet filter.
- Plug the power cord into a suitable electrical outlet.
- Turn the vacuum ON.
- Begin vacuuming liquids. The vacuum will automatically shut off when the tank is full to prevent overflow.
- When finished, turn the vacuum OFF and unplug it.
- To empty the tank, locate the extra-large drain port at the bottom of the tank. Remove the cap to quickly drain liquids.
Blower Function
Your Vacmaster Professional Wet/Dry Vac can also function as a powerful blower.
- Locate the blower port on the vacuum.
- Insert the hose into the blower port.
- Turn the vacuum ON to use it as a blower for clearing debris.

Figure 3: Key Features and Components
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your vacuum.
Filter Maintenance
- Fine Dust Cartridge Filter: For dry pickup, regularly clean the cartridge filter by tapping it gently to dislodge dust or by rinsing it with water (allow to dry completely before re-use). Replace if damaged or suction decreases significantly. Compatible replacement filters include VCFF, VCFS, VFF51.
- Foam Wet Filter: After wet pickup, remove and rinse the foam filter with water. Allow it to air dry completely before storing or re-using.
- High Efficiency Dust Bag: For fine dust collection, install a high efficiency dust bag (VDBL, VHBL) inside the tank. Replace when full.
Tank Cleaning
Empty the tank after each use, especially after wet vacuuming. Rinse the polypropylene tank with water and wipe it dry to prevent mold or odors.
Hose and Accessory Storage
The vacuum features on-board hose, accessory, and power cord storage for convenience. Wrap the hose around the power head and utilize the integrated accessory slots and power cord hook. The flat power head design also allows for convenient tool storage on top.

Figure 4: Integrated Hose Storage

Figure 5: Flat Top Design for Tool Storage
Troubleshooting
Before performing any troubleshooting, ensure the vacuum is unplugged from the power outlet.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum does not turn on. | No power to outlet; Power cord not plugged in; On/Off switch is off; Thermal cut-off activated. | Check power outlet; Ensure cord is fully plugged in; Turn On/Off switch to ON; Unplug and allow unit to cool for 30 minutes. |
| Loss of suction. | Hose or accessory clogged; Tank full; Filter clogged or dirty; Lid not sealed properly. | Clear obstruction from hose/accessory; Empty tank; Clean or replace filter; Ensure lid is securely latched. |
| Motor sounds louder than usual. | Filter is clogged; Obstruction in hose or tank. | Clean or replace filter; Check for and remove any obstructions. |
| Water leaking from exhaust. | Foam filter not installed for wet pickup; Tank is overfilled. | Install foam filter for wet use; Empty tank. |
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | VJH1211PF0201 |
| Tank Size | 12 Gallons |
| Tank Material | Polypropylene |
| Peak HP | 5.5 HP |
| Voltage | 120V-60Hz |
| Amps | 10.5 Amps |
| Air Watts | 370 Air Watts |
| CFM | 143 CFM |
| Water Lift (In.) | 60 Inches |
| Cord Length | 20 Feet |
| Hose Diameter | 2-1/2 Inches |
| Noise Level | 69 dB |
| Item Weight | 20 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 20 x 20 x 24 inches |
Warranty
The Vacmaster Professional Beast Series Wet/Dry Vac (Model VJH1211PF0201) comes with a 5-year limited warranty. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal use. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the official Vacmaster website or contact customer support.
Support
For technical assistance, replacement parts, or warranty inquiries, please contact Vacmaster Customer Support:
- Website: www.vacmaster.com
- Phone: 1-866-994-8759 (Toll-Free)
- Email: support@vacmaster.com
You can also refer to the official user manual PDF for more detailed information: Vacmaster VJH1211PF0201 User Manual PDF.





