Important Safety Instructions
When using an electrical appliance, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:
- Read all instructions before using this wet/dry vacuum cleaner.
- To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not expose to rain. Store indoors.
- 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 dust bag and/or filters in place.
- Turn off all controls before unplugging.
- Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
- Unplug before connecting hose, nozzles, accessories, or filters.
Product Overview
The STANLEY SL18117 is an 8-gallon wet/dry vacuum designed for versatile cleaning tasks in homes, garages, basements, and job sites. It features a powerful 4 Peak HP motor, a durable stainless steel tank, and a 3-in-1 function for wet vacuuming, dry vacuuming, and blowing.
Key Features:
- Strong Suction & Large Capacity: 8-gallon stainless steel tank with a 4 Peak HP motor for heavy-duty pickup.
- Blower Function: Rear blowing port for clearing leaves and debris.
- Oversized Drain: Built-in drain for convenient liquid emptying.
- Multiple Accessories: Includes various nozzles and wands for different cleaning scenarios.
- Extended Cleaning Range: Over 16 feet cleaning range with a 10-foot power cord, 6-foot hose, and extension wands.
- Mobility: Equipped with 4 swiveling casters for easy movement.
Product Components:

This image displays the STANLEY SL18117 wet/dry vacuum from an angled view, highlighting its main components with numbered labels.
- Carry Handle
- Large ON/OFF Switch
- Vacuum Port
- Dust Tank (Stainless Steel)
- Drain Port
- Caster
- Blower Port
- Two Lid Latch
Included Accessories:

This image illustrates the complete set of accessories and components that come with the STANLEY SL18117 wet/dry vacuum.
- Crevice nozzle
- Extension wand x 2
- Floor nozzle
- Utility nozzle (Gulper nozzle)
- 1-7/8" Hose
- Cartridge filter
- Disposable filter bag
- Product manual
Setup
1. Unpacking and Assembly:
- Carefully remove all contents from the packaging.
- Attach the four (4) casters to the base of the vacuum tank by inserting them into the designated slots until they click securely into place.
- Ensure the lid latches are open and remove the motor head from the tank.
2. Filter Installation:
The type of filter required depends on whether you are performing wet or dry vacuuming.
- For Dry Vacuuming:
Install the cartridge filter over the filter cage on the motor head. Secure it with the filter cap. For fine dust, also install a disposable filter bag over the inlet port inside the tank, ensuring it covers the port completely and is secured by the cardboard collar.
- For Wet Vacuuming:
Remove the cartridge filter and disposable filter bag. The foam filter (not explicitly listed but standard for wet vacs, assuming it's part of the cartridge filter assembly or a separate component for wet use) should be used for wet pickup. Ensure no dry filters are present during wet operation to prevent damage.
3. Attaching the Hose and Accessories:
- Attach the flexible hose to the vacuum port on the front of the tank by twisting it clockwise until it is secure.
- Connect the desired extension wands and nozzle (e.g., floor nozzle, crevice nozzle, utility nozzle) to the end of the hose.
- For blower function, attach the hose to the blower port located at the rear of the motor head.
Operating Instructions
1. General Operation:
- Ensure the vacuum is properly assembled with the correct filter for your task.
- Plug the power cord into a suitable grounded electrical outlet.
- Turn the vacuum ON using the large ON/OFF switch located on the motor head.
- Guide the nozzle over the area to be cleaned.
- When finished, turn the vacuum OFF and unplug it from the outlet.

This image shows a person operating the STANLEY SL18117 wet/dry vacuum on a concrete surface, demonstrating its use for dry pickup with the floor nozzle.
2. Dry Vacuuming:
- Ensure the cartridge filter is securely installed. For fine dust, use a disposable filter bag.
- Select the appropriate nozzle for the surface (e.g., floor nozzle for large areas, crevice nozzle for tight spaces).
- Vacuum dry debris. Monitor the tank level and empty as needed.

This image provides a close-up view of the different nozzles included with the vacuum: the Gulper nozzle, Floor Brush, and Crevice nozzle, each designed for specific cleaning tasks.
3. Wet Vacuuming:
- IMPORTANT: Remove the cartridge filter and disposable filter bag before wet vacuuming. Only use the foam filter (if separate) or ensure the filter cage is clear.
- Use the utility nozzle for wet pickup.
- The vacuum will automatically shut off when the liquid reaches its maximum capacity. Turn off the vacuum, unplug it, and empty the tank.
4. Blower Function:
- Unplug the hose from the vacuum port.
- Attach the hose to the blower port located at the rear of the motor head.
- Turn the vacuum ON to use it as a blower for clearing debris from surfaces.
5. Emptying the Tank:
- For dry debris, unlatch the motor head and lift it off. Dispose of the contents or remove the disposable filter bag.
- For liquids, locate the oversized drain port at the bottom of the tank. Unscrew the drain cap to empty the liquid. Alternatively, remove the motor head and carefully tip the tank to pour out liquids.
- Clean the tank thoroughly after wet pickup to prevent mold or odors.
Maintenance
1. Filter Cleaning and Replacement:
- Cartridge Filter: For optimal performance, clean the cartridge filter regularly. Tap it gently to dislodge dust, or rinse it with water if heavily soiled. Allow it to air dry completely before reinstallation. Replace the filter if it is damaged or excessively worn.
- Disposable Filter Bag: Replace the disposable filter bag when it is full or when suction power decreases significantly.
- Foam Filter (for wet use): Rinse the foam filter with water and allow it to air dry completely before storing or reusing.
2. Tank Cleaning:
- After each use, especially after wet vacuuming, empty the tank and rinse it with water.
- Wipe the interior and exterior of the tank with a damp cloth.
- Ensure the tank is completely dry before storing to prevent rust or mildew.
3. Hose and Accessory Care:
- Inspect the hose and accessories for blockages or damage before and after each use.
- Clear any obstructions from the hose or nozzles.
- Wipe accessories clean with a damp cloth.
4. Storage:
- Store the vacuum and its accessories in a clean, dry place, away from extreme temperatures.
- Wrap the power cord neatly to prevent damage.
Troubleshooting
Before performing any troubleshooting, ensure the vacuum is unplugged from the power outlet.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum does not start. | No power to the outlet; Power cord not plugged in; ON/OFF switch in OFF position; Faulty motor. | Check power supply/circuit breaker; Plug in power cord securely; Turn switch to ON; Contact customer support. |
| Loss of suction. | Tank full; Filter clogged; Hose or nozzle blocked; Air leak in hose connection; Lid not sealed properly. | Empty tank; Clean or replace filter; Clear blockage; Check hose connections; Ensure lid latches are secure. |
| Water coming from exhaust. | Tank is overfilled during wet pickup; Foam filter not installed or damaged. | Empty tank; Check/install foam filter. |
| Excessive noise. | Blockage in hose/nozzle; Motor issue. | Clear any blockages; Contact customer support if noise persists. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | STANLEY |
| Model Name | SL18117 |
| Capacity | 8 Gallons |
| Motor Horsepower | 4 Peak HP |
| Special Feature | Wet, Dry, Blower Function |
| Filter Type | Cartridge |
| Hose Length | 6 feet (1.8 Meters) |
| Power Cord Length | 10 feet |
| Noise Level | 80 dB |
| Form Factor | Cannister |
| Color | Silver |
| Included Components | 1 x Wet/dry vacuum, 1 x 1-7/8" X 6' Flexible hose, 2 x Extension wands, 1 x cartridge filter, 1 x disposable dust bag, 1 x Floor nozzle, 1 x gulper nozzle, 1 x Crevice nozzle |
Warranty and Support
This STANLEY wet/dry vacuum comes with a 1-year limited lifetime warranty as stated in the product features. Please refer to the warranty card included in your product packaging for full terms and conditions.
For technical assistance, replacement parts, or warranty claims, please contact STANLEY customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the official STANLEY website or within the product manual included in the box.
You can also visit the official STANLEY Store on Amazon for more product information and support resources.





