Makita Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

WARNINGS

This machine is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge. Children should be supervised. See "SPECIFICATIONS" for battery type. See "Installing or removing battery cartridge" for battery removal/installation. Dispose of battery cartridges according to local regulations. Remove battery if the tool is not used for a long period. Do not short the battery cartridge. Refer to "MAINTENANCE" for precautions.

SPECIFICATIONS

Specifications are subject to change without notice. Specifications and battery cartridges may differ by country. For wet dust, float and water/cloth filter are required.

Applicable battery cartridge and charger

• Battery cartridge: BL4020/BL4025/BL4040*/BL4050F* (*Recommended battery)
• Charger: DC40RA/DC40RB/DC40RC

WARNING: Only use listed battery cartridges and chargers. Use of others may cause injury and/or fire.

Symbols

• [No Standing Symbol] Never stand on the cleaner.
• [Dust Symbol] Dust class L (light). Follow country's regulations for dusts and occupational health and safety.
• [Manual Symbol] Read instruction manual.
• [Attention Symbol] Take particular care and attention.
• [Warning Symbol] Warning! The cleaner may contain hazardous dust.

Intended Use

The appliance is intended for collecting both wet and dry dust. Suitable for commercial use in hotels, schools, hospitals, factories, shops, offices, and rental businesses.

Noise

Typical A-weighted noise level (according to EN60335-2-69):

• VC001GL: Sound pressure level (LPA): 70 dB(A) or less, Uncertainty (K): 2.5 dB(A)
• VC003GL: Sound pressure level (LPA): 70 dB(A) or less, Uncertainty (K): 2.5 dB(A)

Noise level under working may exceed 80 dB(A). Declared noise emission values are for comparison and preliminary exposure assessment.

WARNING: Wear ear protection. Actual noise emission may differ based on usage.

Vibration

Vibration total value (determined according to EN60335-2-69):

• VC001GL: Vibration emission (a_hm): 2.5 m/s² or less, Uncertainty (K): 1.5 m/s²
• VC003GL: Vibration emission (a_hm): 2.5 m/s² or less, Uncertainty (K): 1.5 m/s²

Declared vibration total values are for comparison and preliminary exposure assessment. Actual vibration may differ based on usage.

WARNING: Be sure to identify safety measures based on exposure estimation in actual conditions of use.

EC Declaration of Conformity

For European countries only. Included as Annex A to this instruction manual.

SAFETY WARNINGS

Cordless vacuum cleaner safety warnings

1. WARNING: IMPORTANT! READ CAREFULLY all safety warnings and instructions before use. Failure to follow may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.
2. Ensure the cleaner is used by adequately instructed personnel.
3. Operators must be provided with information, instruction, and training on safe use, including safe removal and disposal of collected material.
4. If foam/liquid comes out, switch off immediately. Clean the water level limiting device regularly.
5. Always ensure filters are correctly installed before use. Do not use without filters. Replace damaged filters immediately. Have spare filters available.
6. AVOID UNINTENTIONAL STARTING. Ensure switch is OFF when installing battery(ies).
7. Do not attempt to pick up flammable materials, fireworks, lighted cigarettes, hot ashes, hot metal chips, sharp materials (razors, needles, broken glass), or the like.
8. NEVER USE THE CLEANER NEAR gasoline, gas, paints, adhesives, or other highly explosive substances due to sparks from the switch and motor commutator.
9. Never vacuum up toxic, carcinogenic, combustible, or other hazardous materials such as asbestos, arsenic, barium, beryllium, lead, pesticides, or other health-endangering materials.
10. Always place the cleaner on a horizontal flat surface to prevent falling or unintentional movement.
11. Never use the cleaner outdoors in the rain.
12. For Finland, do not use outdoors at low temperature.
13. Do not use close to heat sources (stoves, etc.).
14. If exhaust air is returned to the room, ensure adequate air change rate. Reference National regulations.
15. Do not block suction inlet/outlet/cooling vents to prevent motor burnout due to lack of ventilation.
16. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
17. Do not fold, tug, or step on the hose.
18. Stop the cleaner immediately if poor performance or abnormality occurs.
19. REMOVE THE BATTERY(IES) when not in use, before servicing, and when changing accessories.
20. Clean and service the cleaner immediately after each use for optimal condition.
21. MAINTAIN THE CLEANER WITH CARE. Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease.
22. CHECK DAMAGED PARTS. Before further use, check guards or other damaged parts for proper operation. Check alignment of moving parts, binding, breakage, mounting, and other conditions affecting operation. Damaged parts should be repaired or replaced by an authorized service center. Have defective switches replaced by an authorized service center.
23. For user servicing, the machine shall be dismantled, cleaned, and serviced without risk to maintenance staff.
24. The machine should be technically inspected by the manufacturer or an instructed person at least annually.
25. When carrying out service or repair operations, all contaminated items that cannot be satisfactorily cleaned are to be disposed of in impervious bags according to current regulations.
26. REPLACEMENT PARTS. When servicing, use only identical replacement parts.
27. When not in use, always store the cleaner indoors.
28. Wet filters and the interior part of the liquid container shall be dried before storage.
29. Be kind to your cleaner. Rough handling can cause breakage.
30. Do not attempt to clean the exterior or interior with benzine, thinner, or cleaning chemicals, as cracks and discoloration may occur.
31. Do not use cleaner in an enclosed space where flammable, explosive, or toxic vapors are present, or where flammable dust is present.
32. Do not operate the cleaner or any tool while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
33. As a basic safety rule, use safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields.
34. Use a dust mask in dusty work conditions.
35. This machine is not intended for use by children with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge.
36. Children should be supervised to ensure they do not play with the cleaner.
37. Never handle battery(ies) and cleaner with wet hands.
38. Use extreme caution when cleaning on stairs.
39. Do not use the cleaner as a stool or work bench, as it may fall and cause personal injury.

Battery tool use and care

1. Recharge only with the specified charger. Using an incorrect charger may create a risk of fire.
2. Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
3. When the battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects (paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws) that can short the terminals, causing burns or fire.
4. Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts eyes, seek medical help.
5. Do not use a battery pack or tool that is damaged or modified, as this may result in fire, explosion, or risk of injury.
6. Do not expose a battery pack or tool to fire or excessive temperature (above 130 °C) as this may cause explosion.
7. Follow all charging instructions and do not charge outside the specified temperature range to avoid damaging the battery and increasing fire risk.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

WARNING: DO NOT let comfort or familiarity with the product replace strict adherence to safety rules. Misuse or failure to follow safety rules may cause serious personal injury.

Important safety instructions for battery cartridge

1. Before using, read all instructions and cautionary markings on the battery charger, battery, and product.
2. Do not disassemble or tamper with the battery cartridge; this may result in fire, excessive heat, or explosion.
3. If operating time becomes excessively shorter, stop operating immediately to avoid overheating, burns, or explosion.
4. If electrolyte gets into eyes, rinse with clear water and seek medical attention immediately.
5. Do not short the battery cartridge: Do not touch terminals with conductive material. Avoid storing battery cartridges with other metal objects. Do not expose battery cartridges to water or rain. Battery shorts can cause overheating, burns, or breakdown.
6. Do not store and use the tool and battery cartridge in locations where the temperature may reach or exceed 50 °C (122 °F).
7. Do not incinerate the battery cartridge, even if severely damaged or worn out, as it can explode in a fire.
8. Do not nail, cut, crush, throw, drop, or hit the battery cartridge against a hard object, as this may result in fire, excessive heat, or explosion.
9. Do not use a damaged battery.
10. Lithium-ion batteries are subject to Dangerous Goods Legislation requirements. Observe special requirements for packaging and labeling for commercial transport. Consult an expert for hazardous material. Tape or mask off open contacts and pack the battery to prevent movement in packaging.
11. When disposing of the battery cartridge, remove it from the tool and dispose of it safely according to local regulations.
12. Use batteries only with Makita-specified products. Installing batteries in non-compliant products may result in fire, excessive heat, explosion, or electrolyte leak.
13. If the tool is not used for a long period, remove the battery from the tool.
14. During and after use, the battery cartridge may become hot. Pay attention to handling hot battery cartridges.
15. Do not touch the tool terminal immediately after use, as it may be hot enough to cause burns.
16. Do not allow chips, dust, or soil to stick into the terminals, holes, and grooves of the battery cartridge, as this may result in poor performance or breakdown.
17. Unless the tool supports use near high-voltage electrical power lines, do not use the battery cartridge near them, as it may result in malfunction or breakdown.
18. Keep the battery away from children.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

CAUTION: Only use genuine Makita batteries. Use of non-genuine or altered batteries may result in bursting, fires, personal injury, and damage. It will also void the Makita warranty.

Tips for maintaining maximum battery life

1. Charge the battery cartridge before it is completely discharged. Stop operation and charge when tool power is noticeably less.
2. Never recharge a fully charged battery cartridge; overcharging shortens service life.
3. Charge the battery cartridge at room temperature (10 °C - 40 °C / 50 °F - 104 °F). Let a hot battery cartridge cool down before charging.
4. When not using the battery cartridge, remove it from the tool or charger.
5. Charge the battery cartridge if not used for a long period (more than six months).

PARTS DESCRIPTION

The cleaner has double battery slots for extended running time. It can also operate with a single battery.

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

CAUTION: Always ensure the appliance is switched off and battery cartridges are removed before adjusting or checking functions.

Installing or removing battery cartridge

CAUTION: Always switch off the appliance before installing or removing battery cartridges. Hold the cleaner and battery cartridges firmly. Be careful not to pinch fingers when opening or closing the battery cover.

With double batteries: Continuous drive with two batteries provides longer runtime. When the first battery empties, the cleaner automatically switches to the second battery.

NOTE: The left battery slot has priority. The right slot is used only when the left slot is empty or has no battery.

NOTE: You can remove the left battery to recharge it after the cleaner switches to the right battery. To give priority back to the left battery, restart the cleaner.

With a single battery: Only one battery is required. The cleaner automatically determines the available slot.

Installation and uninstallation

To install battery cartridges, release the lock, open the battery cover, and insert the cartridges.

Align the tongues on the battery cartridges with the grooves in the battery housing and slip them into place until they click. Lock the battery cover.

To remove battery cartridges, slide them out while pressing and holding the buttons in front.

CAUTION: Always install the battery cartridge fully. If not, it may fall out, causing injury. Do not install forcibly; if it doesn't slide easily, it's not inserted correctly.

NOTE: A temporary halt in operations may occur when switching batteries, causing a slight loss of suction. The cleaner will recover and resume operations.

Indicating the remaining battery capacity

Press the check button on the battery cartridge to indicate remaining capacity. Indicator lamps light up briefly.

NOTE: Indication may differ slightly from actual capacity depending on use conditions and ambient temperature.

NOTE: The first (far left) indicator lamp blinks when the battery protection system is active.

Battery indicators on control panel

Remaining battery capacity can be read on the control panel. Press the check button; the left and right indicators show battery charge levels.

Appliance / battery protection system

The appliance has a protection system that automatically cuts off power to the motor to extend appliance and battery life. The appliance stops automatically if:

• The appliance/battery is operated in a manner that draws abnormally high current (Overload protection). Turn off the appliance and stop the overloading application, then turn it on again to restart.
• The battery is overheated. The appliance stops automatically, and an indicator blinks. Let the battery cool down before turning the appliance on again.
• The battery capacity becomes low (Overdischarge protection). Remove batteries and recharge them.

Protections against other causes: The system also protects against other causes of damage. To clear temporary halts or stops:

1. Turn the appliance off, then on again to restart.
2. Charge or replace battery(ies).
3. Let the appliance and battery(ies) cool down.

If no improvement, contact your local Makita Service Center.

Switch action

• Turning cleaner on: Turn the stand-by switch to "I" (ON). Press the power button.
• Turning cleaner off: Press the power button to set to stand-by mode, then turn the stand-by switch to "O" (OFF). Alternatively, turn the stand-by switch to "O" (OFF) directly.

NOTE: Battery indicators also activate when the cleaner starts or switches power source.

Adjusting suction power

Suction power can be adjusted using the suction force adjusting knob. Turn left to reduce, right to increase.

Auto-suction stop during wet suction operation

WARNING: Do not use for a long time while the float is at work, as this can cause overheat and deformation. Do not pick up foam or soapy liquid, as this can cause foam to come out of the air exit before the float works, potentially leading to electric shock and cleaner breakage.

The auto-suction stop feature works only with the float and float cage. The cleaner has a float mechanism to prevent water from entering the motor. When the tank is full and the cleaner stops picking up water, switch off and empty the tank.

Locking and unlocking casters

Rear casters can be locked with stoppers. Lower the stopper lever to lock, and raise it to release.

NOTE: Ensure casters are unlocked when moving the cleaner to prevent damage.

Carriage handle

CAUTION: Lift and carry the appliance with care to avoid personal injury or damage.

Carry the cleaner using the handle on the head unit. The handle is retractable when not in use.

ASSEMBLY

CAUTION: Always ensure the appliance is switched off and battery cartridges are removed before assembly or maintenance. Always wear a dust mask during assembly or maintenance.

Installing powder filter (HEPA) and prefilter (for dry dust)

Optional accessory

CAUTION: Never pick up water or other liquids or wet dusts when using the powder filter, as this may cause filter breakage.

To use powder filter:

1. Loosen screws securing the float cage, then remove screws, float cage, and float from the head unit.
2. Remove the cloth filter from the tank.

3. Place the prefilter into the tank, aligning mounting position markings.
4. Set the damper into the prefilter, then place the powder filter over the damper, aligning mounting position markings.
5. Mount the head unit over the tank and secure with locking latches.

NOTICE: Before using the powder filter, ensure prefilter and damper are used together. Powder filter cannot be installed alone.

Installing water filter

Optional accessory

NOTICE: Never pick up water or wet dust without the float and cloth filter or water filter. For wet dust, ensure float cage and float are installed. When installing the water filter, set it tightly at the tank opening so the hook engages firmly and there is no space between the water filter and the tank.

NOTE: Water filter is recommended for picking up large amounts of water repeatedly. Otherwise, vacuum ability may be reduced with a cloth filter.

Installing paper pack

Optional accessory

WARNING: Before using a paper pack, ensure the cloth filter or prefilter is used together. Failure to do so may cause unusual noise, heat, and fire.

NOTICE: Never pick up water or other liquids or wet dusts when using a paper pack, as this may cause breakage. When using the cloth filter, ensure the float and float cage are attached. When using the prefilter, ensure the powder filter and damper are used together.

1. Unfold a paper pack.
2. Align the paper pack opening with the dust intake of the tank.
3. Install the paper pack into the tank with its cardboard opening hooked on the paper pack holder.

Installing polyethylene bag

With a polyethylene bag installed in the tank, you can easily empty the tank without dirtying your hands. Lay a polyethylene bag over the tank, and slip one side of the top edge into the holder plate and front wall of the tank.

Spread the other top edges of the bag outwards over the tank rims. Place the cloth filter or prefilter over the polyethylene bag to fasten the opening securely.

NOTE: Take the polyethylene bag out carefully to avoid scratching and tearing. Empty the bag before it becomes full to prevent tearing.

NOTE: A polyethylene bag (0.04 mm or thicker recommended) can be used.

NOTE: Too much dust will tear the bag easily.

Emptying tank with polyethylene bag

WARNING: Always ensure the cleaner is switched off and battery cartridges are removed before emptying the tank. Failure to do so may cause electric shock and serious personal injury.

NOTICE: Do not apply great impact on the float cage and tank, as this may cause deformation or damage. Empty the tank at least once a day, as this depends on picked-up dust volume. Otherwise, suction force will weaken and the motor may break. Do not grab hooks or latches when emptying the tank, as they may break.

Release the locking latches and lift the head unit off the tank. Shake off dust from the cloth filter or prefilter before removing it. Then remove the polyethylene bag, closing its opening by hand.

Installing multi hook

Use the multi hook to hold a hose, accessories, and attachments not in use. You can quickly take them out as needed.

Place the multi hook over the mounting base at the rear of the cleaner, aligning the rails on the multi hook with the grooves on the mounting base.

Installing MAKPAC adapter

Optional accessory

Connectable and stackable MAKPAC storage cases can be installed on top of the cleaner with an optional adapter. Cases are available in many sizes and styles.

Place the mounting base hook over the cleaner's handle with its mounting surface facing upwards when the handle is folded closed.

Mount the MAKPAC adapter onto the mounting base hook and secure with four provided screws.

Lift the push bar up and tighten the knob to prepare for installing MAKPAC cases.

NOTE: For details on installing MAKPAC cases, refer to the instructions provided with the MAKPAC adapter and cases.

Installing hose

NOTICE: Never force the hose for bending or stamping it. Never move the cleaner by pulling the hose. Forcing, stamping, and pulling the hose may cause breakage or deformation.

NOTICE: When picking up large wastes (planer shavings, concrete dusts, etc.), use the 38 mm inner diameter hose (optional accessory). Using the 28 mm inner diameter hose may cause hose stuffing and damage.

Connection to cleaner

Insert the hose end into the dust intake (hose inlet) of the cleaner, then turn clockwise until it locks in place.

Connections with your work tools

(Country specific)

Connect the vacuum cleaner to compatible work tools to use it as a dust extractor. Select one of the front cuffs or joints (optional accessories) suitable for your tool model. Place the cuff or joint between the cleaner hose and the tool's dust extraction port.

Installing or removing cleaner attachments

CAUTION: After installing an attachment, check if it is securely installed. If installed imperfectly, it may come off and cause personal injury.

Attachments with lock function

Optional accessory

NOTICE: When installing the attachment with lock function, align the release button with the hook on the attachment. If not aligned, the attachment will not lock and may come off.

Insert an attachment into the suction inlet of the cleaner by pushing them together until they click. To remove, pull it off while pushing the release button.

NOTE: An attachment with lock function can only be installed in the suction inlet with lock function.

Attachments without lock function

Optional accessory

Insert an attachment into the suction inlet by pushing and hand screwing it in place. Hand twist and pull the attachment apart from the suction inlet after use.