How to Use a Rigid Wet Dry Vac
A Ridgid wet dry vac also goes under the generic name of shop vac. These vacuums are cylindrically shaped, have filters inside, and are versatile enough to be used for either picking up dry debris or wet pools, puddles or spills. Ridgid is the brand name of a specific type of wet dry vacuum cleaner, but it works on the same principles as every other vacuum that has a wet and/or dry classification. The function is the same, but the filters are what really matter. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Dry Pick-Up
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1
Open up your Ridgid wet dry vacuum. There will be two tabs, one on each side that separates the motor housing from the vacuum tank. Depress these buttons and pull up on the tabs to remove the motor housing.
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2
Fold up a Ridgid or generic brand paper filter over the foam filter that will be located directly beneath the motor housing. Attach it to the housing by sliding on an attachment ring that comes with each Ridgid wet dry vacuum. If you do not have an attachment ring, store-bought paper filter packages will also include one for your convenience.
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3
Secure the motor housing back onto the tank, push the switch to turn on the power, and you are now ready to vacuum up dry debris.
Wet Pick-Up
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4
Open up your Ridgid wet dry vacuum. There will be two tabs, one on each side that separates the motor housing from the vacuum tank. Depress these buttons and pull up on the tabs to remove the motor housing.
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5
Remove the paper filter medium by sliding the attachment ring down and over the filter, and then pulling the paper off.
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6
Use your Ridgid vacuum the way it is with the foam filter in place, and replace the motor housing back onto the tank. However, you can also use a cartridge filter instead. Simply slide off the foam filter and slide on a cartridge type. There will be a mounting cover that screws on over the bottom of the cartridge that holds it solidly in place. The cartridge can be used for either wet or dry applications, but always rinse out a wet cartridge and allow it to dry first before using it as a dry filter.
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Tips & Warnings
When using cartridge filters, always have an extra dry one on hand that can be switched with a wet cartridge.This will keep your vac up and running with no down-time for dry vacuuming operations.
Always unplug your Ridgid wet dry vac before changing the filters.
References
Resources
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