Makita VC013GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

About This Manual

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for operating, maintaining, and safely using the Makita VC013GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner. It includes detailed specifications, safety warnings, and guidance on features like wireless activation. Please read and understand all instructions before use.

Specifications

Note: Specifications are subject to change without notice due to continuous research and development. Specifications may vary by country.

Important Safety Warnings

General Safety

• Ensure users are familiar with the tool before operation.
• Keep children supervised and away from the vacuum.
• Do not use the tool if it is damaged or modified.
• Never stand on the vacuum.
• Do not use in rain or near heat sources.
• Ensure adequate ventilation. Do not block air vents.
• Maintain proper posture and balance.
• Do not kink, pull, or step on the hose.
• Turn off immediately if performance drops or abnormal behavior occurs.
• Remove the battery before servicing or changing accessories.
• Clean and maintain the vacuum after each use.
• Do not use gasoline, benzene, thinner, alcohol, or similar cleaning agents, as they can cause discoloration, deformation, or cracking.
• For safety and reliability, all repairs and maintenance should be performed by authorized Makita service centers using genuine Makita parts.

Operation Safety

• Flammable/Explosive Materials: Do not vacuum flammable materials, pyrotechnics, burning cigarettes, hot ash, sharp materials (razor blades, needles, broken glass). Do not use near gasoline, gas, paints, adhesives, or other highly explosive materials due to sparking from the motor commutator.
• Hazardous Materials: Do not vacuum toxic, carcinogenic, flammable, or other hazardous materials such as asbestos, arsenic, barium, beryllium, lead, or pesticides.
• Wet Conditions: Do not operate the vacuum outdoors in the rain.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate room ventilation as exhaust air is discharged into the room where the tool is used.
• Hose Handling: Do not kink, pull, or step on the hose.
• Abnormal Operation: If you notice weak performance or other abnormal behavior, turn off the vacuum immediately.
• Battery Removal: Remove the battery before performing any service or maintenance, or when not in use.

Battery Safety

• Read all instructions and warning symbols on the charger, battery, and product before use.
• Do not disassemble or tamper with the battery.
• Do not short-circuit the battery terminals. Avoid contact with conductive materials. Do not store the battery with other metal objects like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, or screws.
• Do not expose batteries to fire or high temperatures. Incineration may cause explosion.
• Do not puncture, cut, crush, drop, or impact the battery.
• Do not use or store batteries at temperatures above 50°C (122°F).
• Charge batteries only with the specified charger and within the specified temperature range. Improper charging may damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
• If electrolyte leaks from the battery, avoid contact with skin or eyes. If contact occurs, wash the affected area with water and seek medical attention if it gets into your eyes.
• Do not use damaged or modified batteries, as they may exhibit unpredictable behavior leading to fire, explosion, or injury.
• Do not expose batteries to water or rain.
• If the tool is not used for an extended period (more than six months), recharge the battery.
• Batteries can become hot after use; allow them to cool before handling.

Wireless Unit Safety

• Install the wireless unit only once. Do not open the cover after installation.
• Place the vacuum on a flat, stable surface.
• Clean the vacuum of dust and debris before installing the wireless unit.
• To prevent static electricity, touch a suitable metal object to discharge static electricity before handling the wireless unit.
• Ensure the wireless unit is inserted in the correct orientation and the cover is securely closed.
• Do not force the wireless unit.
• Do not remove or place stickers on the wireless unit.
• Avoid high temperatures, dust, and corrosive gases.
• Allow the unit to dry if it becomes moist. Clean with a dry cloth.
• Do not insert other devices into the wireless unit slot.
• Do not operate if the slot cover is damaged.

Product Features

Purpose of Use

The tool is designed for dry and wet vacuuming. It is suitable for industrial use in locations such as hotels, schools, factories, shops, offices, and rental businesses.

Noise Level

Typical A-weighted sound pressure level (LpA) according to EN60335-2-69:

• Working mode: No-load (Vacuum): 75 dB(A)
• Working mode: No-load (Blower): 75 dB(A)
• Uncertainty (K): 2.5 dB(A)

Note: Noise emission values are measured according to standard test methods and can be used for comparison. Actual noise levels may vary depending on usage.

Vibration

Equivalent continuous vibration value (tri-axial vector sum) according to EN60335-2-69:

• Working mode: No-load (Vacuum): 2.5 m/s² or less
• Working mode: No-load (Blower): 2.5 m/s² or less
• Uncertainty (K): 1.5 m/s²

Note: Vibration emission values are measured according to standard test methods and can be used for comparison. Actual vibration levels may vary depending on usage.

Battery Capacity Indicator

Press the check button on the battery to check the remaining capacity. Indicator lights will illuminate for a few seconds.

On Battery: Lights indicate capacity levels (e.g., 75%-100%, 50%-75%, 25%-50%, 0%-25%). A flashing light may indicate a battery fault.

On Control Panel: The control panel also displays battery capacity via indicator lights.

Protection Systems

The tool is equipped with protection systems for the tool and battery. These systems automatically interrupt motor power to extend the life of the tool and battery. The tool will automatically stop if it encounters:

• Overload Protection: If the tool is operated in a way that causes excessively high current draw, it will automatically stop without any signal. Turn off the tool and stop the operation that caused the overload.
• Overheat Protection: If the tool or battery overheats, the tool will automatically shut off, and the battery indicator may flash. Allow the tool to cool down before restarting.
• Deep Discharge Protection: If the battery capacity is low, the tool will automatically stop. If the tool does not operate when the switch is pressed, remove the battery and recharge it.
• Other Fault Protection: The protective system is designed to prevent other causes of tool damage, leading to automatic shutdown. If the tool stops temporarily, identify and remove the cause.

Electronic Function: Anti-Restart Function

When the battery is inserted and the switch lever is in the ON position, the tool will not start. To start the tool, turn the switch lever to OFF and then back to ON.

Suction Power Adjustment

Suction power can be adjusted using the dial on the tool. Turn the dial counter-clockwise to decrease suction power and clockwise to increase it.

Automatic Shut-off for Wet Vacuuming

The vacuum is equipped with a float mechanism that prevents water from entering the motor when the collection tank is full. When the tank is full and no more water can be vacuumed, turn off the tool and empty the collection tank.

Carrying Handle

Carry the tool by the handle. Do not hold the recessed grip of the battery cover.

Power Switch

Use the switch lever to turn the vacuum ON (I or AUTO) or OFF (O).

Wireless Activation (AWS)

AWS allows the vacuum to operate automatically when a compatible power tool is switched on. This feature requires the tool to be registered with the vacuum.

• Registration: Follow the steps to pair the tool with the vacuum. This involves pressing buttons on both the tool and the vacuum to establish a connection. Indicator lights confirm the status.
• Operation: Once registered, the vacuum will start automatically when the power tool's trigger is pulled and stop when the trigger is released.
• Cancellation: To stop wireless activation, press the button on the tool or set the vacuum's switch to OFF.
• Clearing Registrations: All registered tools can be cleared from the vacuum by following a specific procedure involving pressing and holding the wireless activation button.

Assembly and Setup

Installing the Filter Set

Use the filter set only when vacuuming dry dust with a HEPA filter. It helps reduce HEPA filter clogging and maintain suction power.

1. Release the lock hooks and remove the main unit.
2. Insert the damper onto the HEPA filter and cover it with the filter set. Ensure the rubber band of the filter set is hooked onto the edge of the HEPA filter.
3. Attach the main unit and secure it.

Mounting the Paper Dust Bag / Filter Bag

These bags are for single use. After filling, dispose of the entire bag without emptying. Choose the appropriate bag for the task (paper bag for dust/hair, filter bag for concrete dust/wood chips).

1. Insert the paper dust bag / filter bag carton into the groove on the dust cover until it clicks into place.
2. Unfold the paper dust bag / filter bag completely.
3. Attach the dust cover to the mounting surface on the collection tank. Press the dust cover until the lever locks it in place.

Installing the Polyethylene Bag

Using a polyethylene bag allows for easy emptying of the tank without soiling your hands. Spread the bag over the collection tank.

1. Carefully pull the polyethylene bag out of the tank and close the opening by hand.
2. Empty the polyethylene bag before it is completely full to prevent it from tearing.

Connecting the Hose

Caution: Never bend or step on the hose. Do not move the vacuum by pulling the hose.

• For Vacuuming: Insert the hose into the suction inlet and turn clockwise to secure.
• For Blowing: Insert the hose into the blower outlet and turn clockwise to secure.

Note: The vacuum has separate suction and blower ports. Connect the hose to the appropriate port for your task.

Attaching Nozzles

Attach the wide nozzle, crevice nozzle, or other optional accessories to the hose by turning and pushing them fully onto the hose end.

Connecting Tools

Connect the hose to the dust extraction port of a power tool. You may need an optional adapter (e.g., Joint 22-38 or Front Cuff 24).

Note: Ensure the hose is securely attached to the vacuum's suction inlet when connecting to a tool.

Storing Hose and Nozzles

The hose and nozzles can be stored on the vacuum as shown in the diagrams.

Mounting the Shoulder Strap

Attach the shoulder strap hooks to the designated protrusions on the vacuum.

Installing Wheels

Insert the wheels into the holes on the bottom of the collection tank. Wheels with brakes are available.

Wheel Locking and Unlocking

To prevent accidental movement, lock the wheels during operation, when pausing, or when storing the vacuum. Press the brake levers down to lock the wheels; lift them to unlock. Ensure wheels are unlocked when moving the vacuum to avoid damage.

Using the Tool

Using as a Vacuum

Caution: Use a HEPA filter when collecting dry dust. Using the HEPA filter for wet collection may reduce suction power; dry the filter if this occurs. Use a wet filter (optional accessory) for repeated wet collection.

1. Install the hose and nozzle into the suction inlet and turn on the tool.
2. Empty the tank before it becomes full after vacuuming.

Using for Blowing

Caution: Do not blow dirty water. Foreign objects can cause injury if they enter the eyes. Do not blow against the wind, as foreign objects can be blown back into your eyes. Always wear safety glasses, a cap, and a mask. Never point the nozzle at anyone nearby. Be aware of your surroundings when blowing; the operator is responsible for accidents or damage to others or their property. Do not use for inflating items like inflatable boats or balls, as excessive motor speed can damage the fan.

1. Attach the hose to the blower outlet.
2. Point the hose end at the object to be blown and turn on the tool.

Note: Use the crevice nozzle for cleaning narrow spaces.

Wireless Activation (AWS) Function

AWS enables cordless operation. By connecting a compatible power tool to the vacuum, the vacuum can operate automatically when the tool's switch is activated.

• Registration: Requires Makita tools equipped with a wireless unit. Register each tool with the vacuum before first use.
• Operation: Once registered, the vacuum starts automatically when the tool's trigger is pulled and stops when released.
• Troubleshooting: Refer to the troubleshooting section for issues related to registration and operation.

Maintenance

Emptying the Dust Tank

Caution: Do not subject the collection tank to strong impacts. Empty the tank daily, even if not full, to maintain suction power and prevent motor damage.

1. Release the lock hooks and lift the main unit from the tank.
2. Tap the filter to remove dust, then empty the dust from the tank.

Disposing of Paper Dust Bag / Filter Bag

For Paper Dust Bag: Remove the dust cover and dispose of the paper dust bag.

For Filter Bag: Remove the dust cover. Pull the strap on the opening of the filter bag to close it, then dispose of the entire bag.

1. Insert a new paper dust bag / filter bag.
2. If not using a dust bag/filter bag, place the dust cover in its storage position on the main unit.

Note: The dust cover is essential and must always be used with a paper dust bag or filter bag.

Disposing of Polyethylene Bag

Remove the polyethylene bag from the tank and close the opening by hand.

Cleaning HEPA Filter / Wet Filter and Filter Set

Caution: Be careful not to scratch or damage the HEPA filter/wet filter with hard objects. A clogged filter reduces suction power; clean it periodically.

1. Remove the main unit by releasing and removing it from the tank.
2. Remove the HEPA filter / wet filter by turning it counter-clockwise and pulling it out of the main unit.
3. Tap the filter frame several times to remove dust. Periodically wash the filter with water, rinse it, and dry it thoroughly in the shade before reuse. Never wash the filter in a washing machine.
4. Install the HEPA filter / wet filter by inserting it and turning it clockwise until the locking tabs are securely engaged in the main unit.
5. Attach the main unit to the collection tank and secure it.

For the filter set, regularly wipe off dust from the pre-filter and damper. Filters wear out over time; it is advisable to have several on hand.

Troubleshooting

Vacuum Not Starting

• Problem: Vacuum does not start when the tool switch is pressed.
• Possible Cause: Wireless unit not installed on vacuum or tool; wireless unit installed incorrectly; wireless activation button on tool not pressed; vacuum switch not set to "AUTO"; more than 10 tools registered; all tool registrations cleared; no power supply; tool and vacuum too far apart; interference from other devices.
• Remedy: Ensure correct installation of wireless unit; press tool's wireless activation button; set vacuum switch to "AUTO"; check power supply; bring tool and vacuum closer; move away from interfering devices; re-register tool; clear all registrations if necessary.

Wireless Activation Issues

• Problem: Cannot complete tool registration / cancellation.
• Possible Cause: Wireless unit not installed or installed incorrectly; tool's activation button not pressed; vacuum switch not set to "AUTO"; missing power supply; incorrect operation; tool and vacuum too far apart; interference; tool switched on before registration/cancellation; tool registered with vacuum but not activated; interference from other devices.
• Remedy: Ensure correct installation; press activation button; set switch to "AUTO"; check power; repeat registration/cancellation steps; move units closer; move away from interference; ensure tool is off during registration; activate tool after registration; move away from Wi-Fi or microwave devices.

Vacuum Not Starting (General)

• Problem: Vacuum does not start when the tool switch is pressed.
• Possible Cause: Wireless unit not installed or installed incorrectly; wireless activation button on tool not pressed; vacuum switch not set to "AUTO"; tool registered with vacuum but not activated.
• Remedy: Ensure correct installation; press tool's activation button; set vacuum switch to "AUTO"; activate tool after registration.

Other Tools Activating Vacuum

• Problem: Vacuum starts when another user's tool is activated.
• Possible Cause: Other users are wirelessly activating the vacuum with their tools.
• Remedy: Turn off the wireless activation button on other tools or cancel their registration with the vacuum.

Cannot Clear All Registered Tools

• Problem: Cannot clear all registered tools from the vacuum.
• Possible Cause: Incorrect procedure followed.
• Remedy: Follow the specific procedure to clear all registrations by pressing and holding the wireless activation button on the vacuum.

Optional Accessories

Makita recommends using the following accessories for this tool:

• Hose
• Hose
• Front Cuff 24
• Joint 22-38
• Nozzle
• Brush
• Shoulder Strap
• Wheel Set
• Polyethylene Bag
• Paper Dust Bag
• Filter Bag
• Wet Filter
• HEPA Filter
• Filter Set
• Wireless Unit
• Genuine Makita Battery and Charger

Note: Some items may be included as standard accessories. Accessory availability may vary by country.