RIDGID WD45500 4.5 Gallon ProPack Wet/Dry Vac Owner's Manual

Introduction

This PRO PACK Wet/Dry Vac is designed for household use and can be used for vacuuming wet or dry materials, or as a blower. Familiarize yourself with its features and operation by reading this manual.

Getting to Know Your Wet/Dry Vac

The vacuum cleaner features several storage locations for accessories and the power cord.

Key Components and Storage:

• Hose Storage: Located on the unit for the expandable hose.
• Crevice Tool Storage: Designated spot for the crevice tool.
• Power Cord Storage: Area for winding and storing the power cord.
• Cord & Hose Storage Area: Combined storage for cord and hose.
• Dust Drum: The main container for collected debris.
• Power Switch: For turning the unit ON and OFF.
• Drum Latch (2): Secures the powerhead to the dust drum.
• Extension Wand (2): Used to extend reach, stored on the back of the unit.
• Left/Right Extension Wand Clips: Attach to the unit to hold extension wands.
• Left/Right Cover: Covers for accessory storage areas.
• Handle: For carrying the unit.
• Blowing Port: Located at the rear for blower function.
• Utility Nozzle Storage: For the utility nozzle.
• Dusting Brush Storage: For the dusting brush.
• Powerhead Assembly: Contains the motor.
• Accessory Storage Area: Compartment for storing various accessories.
• Vac Inlet Port: Where the hose connects for vacuuming.

Accessories Included:

• Expandable Hose: Transfers vacuum or blowing capability and connects to extension wands and nozzles.
• Crevice Tool: Picks up debris in hard-to-reach locations.
• Utility Nozzle: General purpose nozzle for most vacuuming applications.
• Extension Wands: Connect together to provide extended reach.
• Dusting Brush: Cleans areas with fine dust or debris, ideal for detailed cleaning.

Assembly

Unpacking and Contents:

This product requires assembly. Check all parts against the Carton Contents List. Contact customer service if any parts are damaged or missing.

Extension Wand Clips Installation:

The extension wand clips (D/E), marked 'L' and 'R', attach to the back of the PRO PACK unit. Hook the tab on the bottom of the clip into the depression on the bottom of the dust drum, then rotate the clip upwards until it snaps into place.

Operation

Safety Warnings:

! WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, explosion, or damage to the Vac:

• Do not leave the Vac running unattended.
• Do not leave the Vac plugged in when not in use.
• Do not continue running if the float has cut off suction.
• Avoid using near flammable liquids, gases, or dusts.
• Do not vacuum burning or smoking materials, or hot ashes.
• Empty the drum after each use, especially if it contained combustible materials like stained rags or sawdust.
• Do not vacuum drywall dust, cold fireplace ash, or other fine dusts with the standard filter; use a fine dust filter instead.
• Do not vacuum toxic vapors or hazardous materials.

! WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock or injury:

• Do not expose to rain or allow liquid into the motor compartment; store indoors.
• Do not handle the plug, switch, or Vac with wet hands.
• Unplug before servicing. Contact service if the Vac is not working correctly, has missing parts, or is damaged.
• Use only outdoor-rated extension cords in good condition.

! CAUTION: To reduce the risk of hearing damage, wear ear protectors for extended use or in noisy areas.

Polarized Plug / On-Off Switch:

The Vac features a polarized plug for safety. Ensure it is fully inserted into a polarized outlet. The power switch uses international 'ON' (I) and 'OFF' (0) symbols.

Vacuuming Dry Materials:

• Always ensure the filter is correctly positioned to prevent leaks and damage.
• For very fine dust, empty the drum and clean the filter more frequently for optimal performance.
• Use a dry filter for dry pickup; a wet filter will clog easily.

Vacuuming Liquids:

• Small amounts of liquid (under 2 inches) do not require filter removal.
• For larger liquid volumes, remove the paper filter and install the RIDGID wet application foam filter. Do not remove the filter cage or float.
• When the drum is full, a float will rise and cut off airflow. Turn off and unplug the Vac before emptying.
• Allow the filter to dry completely after wet pickup to prevent mildew.
• IMPORTANT: Do not run the motor with the float in the raised position.

Emptying the Dust Drum:

! WARNING: Unplug the power cord before emptying.

1. Unplug the power cord.
2. Lift the two drum latches and lift the powerhead (A) off the dust drum (B).
3. Set the powerhead upright in a clean, dry area.
4. Dump drum contents into an appropriate waste container.
5. Empty and clean the drum before storing.

Blowing Feature:

The Vac can be used as a blower for yard work, patio cleanup, and workshop applications.

1. Locate the blowing port at the rear of the powerhead.
2. Insert the expandable hose (J) into the blowing port and engage the locking tab.
3. Turn the Vac ON to use as a blower.
4. To remove the hose, turn the Vac OFF, press the hose locking tab, and pull the hose out.

! WARNING: Always wear safety eyewear (ANSI Z87.1 or CSA Z94.3) when using as a blower.

! WARNING: Keep bystanders clear of blowing debris.

! CAUTION: Wear a dust mask if blowing creates dust.

! CAUTION: Wear ear protection for extended use or in noisy areas.

Storage

Convenient storage locations are provided for the power cord, expandable hose, and accessories.

Left Cover Storage:

Under the left cover, store the expandable hose (J), crevice tool (G), and power cord. Fold the hose and place it in the bin. Position the crevice tool upright. Fold or wrap the cord neatly.

Right Cover Storage:

Under the right cover, store the dusting brush (H) and utility nozzle (I) in their molded locations. The blowing port is also located here.

Extension Wand Storage:

Snap extension wands (F) into the clips (D/E) on the back of the unit.

! CAUTION: Do not operate the vacuum with the hose still wrapped and stored.

! WARNING: Do not block ventilation openings.

Maintenance

Filter:

! WARNING: Unplug the power cord before changing or cleaning the filter.

The filter (C) is made of high-quality paper designed to capture fine dust particles. It can be used for dry or small amounts of liquid pickup. Handle with care.

Filter Removal & Installation (Qwik Lock™):

1. To remove: Place fingers under filter tabs, press the Qwik Lock™ stud, and lift tabs to release the filter. Slide filter off the filter cage.
2. To install: Slide the Qwik Lock™ filter over the filter cage, aligning the stud with the center hole. Ensure the rubber gasket seats properly. Press firmly until it snaps into place.

IMPORTANT: Always reinstall the filter before dry pickup to prevent damage to the blower wheel and motor.

NOTE: Improper seating of the gasket or integrated filter plate can allow debris to bypass the filter.

Clean the filter often for optimal performance.

! WARNING: Do not operate without the filter cage and float, as they prevent liquid from entering the impeller.

Cleaning a Dry Filter:

• Tap the lid to remove some debris while the unit is OFF.
• For best results, clean outdoors.
• After removal, tap the filter against the inside of the dust drum to loosen debris.
• For thorough cleaning, rinse with water as described for wet filters.

Cleaning a Wet Filter:

• After removal, rinse the filter with water from a hose or spigot. Use moderate water pressure.
• Inspect the filter for tears or holes after cleaning. Replace immediately if damaged.
• Allow the filter to dry completely before reinstalling or storing.

! WARNING: All other maintenance, repairs, and adjustments should be performed by Authorized Service Centers using RIDGID replacement parts.

Repair Parts

RIDGID parts are available online at store.ridgid.com/wetdry. Always order by Part Number.

Servicing of Double-Insulated Wet/Dry Vacs:

These units are double-insulated, meaning they do not require grounding. Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge of the system and must be done by qualified personnel using identical replacement parts. The unit is marked "DOUBLE INSULATED" and may have a square-within-a-square symbol.

! WARNING: Unplug the power cord before servicing electrical parts.

! WARNING: All disassembly and repairs must be performed by qualified personnel.

Warranty Information:

This product includes a 90-day Satisfaction Guarantee Policy and a Limited Lifetime Warranty. For details, visit RIDGID.com/VacWarranty or call 1-800-4-RIDGID.

Brand: EMERSON

Website: www.RIDGID.com

© 2021 Emerson

Safety Instructions (Spanish Summary)

Resumen de Instrucciones de Seguridad Importantes (Español): La seguridad es una combinación de sentido común, estar alerta y conocer el funcionamiento de la aspiradora. Se explican las palabras de señal de seguridad (PELIGRO, ADVERTENCIA, PRECAUCIÓN) y se detallan precauciones contra incendios, descargas eléctricas y lesiones. Se advierte sobre el uso cerca de materiales inflamables, tóxicos o explosivos, y sobre no aspirar materiales calientes o humeantes. Se enfatiza la importancia de vaciar el tambor después de cada uso y de usar el filtro correcto para polvo fino. Se advierte sobre la inhalación de vapores tóxicos y la exposición a la lluvia. Se incluye información sobre el uso por parte de niños y personas con capacidades reducidas. Se dan instrucciones para desenchufar antes de realizar servicio y se desaconseja el uso de cables dañados. Se recomienda el uso de cables de extensión para exteriores y de calibre adecuado. Se mencionan las características de aislamiento doble. Se advierte sobre no obstruir las ventilaciones y mantener alejadas las partes del cuerpo de las aberturas. Se dan precauciones para el uso como soplador, incluyendo el uso de gafas de seguridad y protección auditiva, y mantener alejados a los niños y a los transeúntes. Se advierte sobre el límite de peso y no pararse sobre la aspiradora.

Instructions de Sécurité Importantes (French Summary)

Résumé des Instructions de Sécurité Importantes (Français): La sécurité est une combinaison de bon sens, de vigilance et de connaissance du fonctionnement de l'aspirateur. Les termes de signalisation de sécurité (DANGER, AVERTISSEMENT, MISE EN GARDE) sont expliqués, ainsi que les précautions contre les incendies, les chocs électriques et les blessures. Il est conseillé de ne pas utiliser l'appareil près de matériaux inflammables, toxiques ou explosifs, ni d'aspirer des matériaux chauds ou fumants. Il est important de vider le réservoir après chaque utilisation et d'utiliser le filtre approprié pour les poussières fines. Des avertissements concernent l'inhalation de vapeurs toxiques et l'exposition à la pluie. Des informations sont fournies sur l'utilisation par les enfants et les personnes à capacités réduites. Des instructions sont données pour débrancher l'appareil avant toute maintenance, et l'utilisation de cordons endommagés est déconseillée. L'utilisation de rallonges extérieures de calibre approprié est recommandée. Les caractéristiques de double isolation sont mentionnées. Il est conseillé de ne pas obstruer les orifices de ventilation et de tenir les parties du corps éloignées des ouvertures. Des précautions sont prises pour l'utilisation en mode souffleur, y compris le port de lunettes de sécurité et de protections auditives, et le maintien à distance des enfants et des personnes présentes. Un avertissement concerne la limite de poids et de ne pas monter sur l'aspirateur.