Shop-Vac 5HM Series,3HM Series User Manual

USER MANUAL

Series:

3HM
5HM

ATTENTION!

DANGER!

Read all safety rules carefully before attempting to operate. Retain for
future reference.

Never operate this unit when flammable materials or
vapors are present because electrical devices produce
arcs or sparks that can cause a fire or explosion. NEVER
OPERATE UNATTENDED!

For your records, please record the following information

and store this user manual in a safe location.

Catalog No.

Model No.

Purchase Date:

(Located on the carton)

(Located on top portion of the vacuum)

87550-74

Household and Workshop Use
WET/DRY VACUUM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Important Safety Instructions .............................................................................................

Grounding Instructions ....................................................................................................

Extension Cords .................................................................................................................

Unpacking .........................................................................................................................

Assembly ...........................................................................................................................

Set Up and Operation .........................................................................................................

Filter Installation and Maintenance ..................................................................................

Empty Liquid Waste From the Tank ....................................................................................

Automatic Suction Shut Off ................................................................................................

Lubrication ........................................................................................................................

Storage ..............................................................................................................................

Service ..............................................................................................................................

Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................

Warranty and Contact Information .....................................................................................

3

3-4

4

4

5

6

6-8

8

8

9

9

9

9-10

10

SECTION PAGES

TOOLS NEEDED

PAGE 2

• Safety Glasses

• Flathead Screwdriver

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

When using an electric appliance, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS APPLIANCE.

WARNING – TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK OR INJURY:

1. Do not leave appliance when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
Connect to a properly grounded outlet only. See Grounding Instructions.

2. Do not expose to rain – store indoors.

3. Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.

4. Use only as described in this manual. Use only Manufacturer’s recommended attachments.

5. 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, contact Shop-Vac Corporation for assistance.

6. 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.

7. Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug; not the cord.

8. Do not handle plug or appliance with wet hands.

9. Do not put any object into openings. Do not use with any openings blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair
and anything that may reduce air flow.

10. Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.

11. Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches or hot ashes.

12. Do not use without dust bag and/or filters in place.

13. Turn off all controls before unplugging.

14. Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.

15. Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids such as gasoline or use in areas where they
may be present.

16. Do not use your cleaner as a sprayer of flammable liquids such as oil base paints, lacquers, household
cleaners, etc.

17. Do not vacuum toxic, carcinogenic, combustible or other hazardous materials such as asbestos, arsenic,
barium, beryllium, lead, pesticides or other health endangering materials. Specially designed units are
available for these purposes.

18. Do not pick up soot, cement, plaster or drywall dust without cartridge filter and collection filter bag in
place. These are very fine particles that may pass through the foam and affect the performance of the
motor or be exhausted back into the air. Additional collection filter bags are available.

19. Do not leave the cord lying on the floor once you have finished the cleaning job. It can become a tripping
hazard.

20. Use special care when emptying heavily loaded tanks.

21. To avoid spontaneous combustion, empty tank after each use.

22. The operation of a utility vac can result in foreign objects being blown into eyes, which can result in eye
damage. Always wear safety goggles when operating vacuum.

23. STAY ALERT. Watch what you are doing and use common sense. Do not use vacuum cleaner when you
are tired, distracted or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication causing diminished control.

24. WARNING! Do NOT use this vacuum cleaner to vacuum lead paint debris because this may disperse fine

lead particles into the air. This vacuum cleaner is not intended for use under EPA Regulation 40 CFR Part
745 for lead paint material cleanup.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING

– DO NOT LEAVE VACUUM UNATTENDED

WHEN IT IS PLUGGED IN AND/OR OPERATING. UNPLUG UNIT WHEN NOT IN
USE.

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

This appliance must be grounded. If it should malfunction or breakdown, grounding provides a path of
least resistance for electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock. This appliance is equipped with
a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and grounding plug. The plug must be inserted into an
appropriate outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.

PAGE 3

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

(CONT’D)

WARNING – IMPROPER CONNECTION OF THE EQUIPMENT-GROUNDING

CONDUCTOR CAN RESULT IN A RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. CHECK WITH A QUALIFIED
ELECTRICIAN OR SERVICE PERSON IF YOU ARE IN DOUBT AS TO WHETHER THE OUTLET IS
PROPERLY GROUNDED. DO NOT MODIFY THE PLUG PROVIDED WITH THE APPLIANCE – IF
IT WILL NOT FIT THE OUTLET, HAVE A PROPER OUTLET INSTALLED BY A QUALIFIED
ELECTRICIAN.

This appliance is for use on a nominal 120-volt circuit, and has a grounded plug that looks like the plug
illustrated in sketch A. A temporary adaptor that looks like the adaptor illustrated in sketches B and C may
be used to connect this plug to a 2-pole receptacle as shown in sketch B if a properly grounded outlet is
not available. The temporary adaptor should be used only until a properly grounded outlet (sketch A) can
be installed by a qualified electrician. The green colored rigid ear, lug or the like extending from the adaptor
must be connected to a permanent ground such as a properly grounded outlet box cover. Whenever the
adaptor is used, it must be held in place by a metal screw.
IN CANADA, THE USE OF A TEMPORARY ADAPTOR IS NOT PERMITTED BY THE CANADIAN ELECTRICAL
CODE. Make sure that the appliance is connected to an outlet having the same configuration as the plug. No
adaptor should be used with this appliance.

EXTENSION CORDS

When using the appliance at a distance where an extension cord becomes necessary, a
3-conductor grounding cord of adequate size must be used for safety, and to prevent loss
of power and overheating. Use Table A to determine A.W.G. wire size required. To determine

ampere rating of your vacuum, refer to nameplate located on motor housing. Before using
appliance, inspect power cord for loose or exposed wires and damaged insulation. Make any needed repairs
or replacements before using your appliance. Use only three-wire outdoor extension cords which have
three prong grounding-type plugs and three-pole receptacles which accept the extension cord’s plug. When
vacuuming liquids, be sure the extension cord connection does not come in contact with the liquid.
NOTE: STATIC SHOCKS ARE COMMON IN DRY AREAS OR WHEN THE RELATIVE HUMIDITY OF THE AIR IS
LOW. THIS IS ONLY TEMPORARY AND DOES NOT AFFECT THE USE OF THE APPLIANCE. TO REDUCE THE
FREQUENCY OF STATIC SHOCKS IN YOUR HOME, THE BEST REMEDY IS TO ADD MOISTURE TO THE AIR WITH
A CONSOLE OR INSTALLED HUMIDIFIER.

UNPACKING

Remove vacuum cleaner and all accessories from the carton. Important: Remove the tank cover by pushing
in the side lugs with thumbs and lifting up on the tabs of the tank cover. Remove any accessories, which
may have been shipped in the tank.

SKETCH A SKETCH B SKETCH C

GROUNDING METHODS

Volts

Total length of cord in feet

120V

Ampere Rating

More Not More

Than Than

0 - 6
6 - 10
10 - 12
12 - 16

25 50 100

150

AWG

18
18
16
14

16
16
16
12

16
14
14

14
12
12

Not recommended

TABLE A

PAGE 4

PAGE 5

ASSEMBLY

WALL BRACKET INSTALLATION:

1. Select mounting location at a wall stud and/or provide a minimum 8” wide x 12” high x ¾” thick surface,
which is strong enough to hold the weight of the vacuum unit with a full tank of debris.

WARNING – INADEQUATE MOUNTING COULD ALLOW THE UNIT TO FALL,

CAUSING INJURY AND/OR DAMAGE TO THE UNIT.

2. Secure wall bracket to mounting surface with 3 screws provided or other suitable
fastener. (NOTE: The screws provided are adequate ONLY for mounting into wood.
Be sure to use the proper, suitable fasteners for mounting vacuum to a surface
other than wood.) Make sure bracket is level.

3. The tool bag hook can be mounted on the wall in close proximity to the vacuum.
Secure with screws provided. Hang tool bag onto hook using loop in back of tool
bag.

ATTACH VAC:

1. Grasp top handle with one hand and place other hand under front of tank.

2. Align tab on back of vacuum (located near top of tank) to engage with slot in
center of wall bracket as vacuum is lowered into bracket.

3. Push downward making sure slots on vacuum (located near the bottom of the
tank) attach to the tabs located at bottom of bracket.

4. Lower top handle on vacuum to lay flat on top of housing. This will secure unit in
bracket.

DETACH VAC:

1. Push release lever on bracket with thumb, while moving top handle on vacuum to
the up position.

2. Grasp top handle with one hand and place other hand under front of tank.

3. Pull upward until vacuum detaches from bracket.

PAGE 6

SET UP AND OPERATION

DANGER

– This equipment incorporates parts such as switches, motors or the

like that tend to produce arcs or sparks that can cause an explosion. Do not pick up flammable,
combustible, or hot materials. Do not use around explosive liquids or vapors, as electrical devices
produce arcs or sparks which can cause a fire or explosion - do not use at filling stations or
anywhere gasoline is stored or dispensed.

1. Refer to the filter installation and maintenance section to make sure the correct filters are installed for
your cleaning operation.

2. Replace tank cover on the tank by aligning tabs with the lugs. Press down firmly on the upper housing

until tank cover snaps into place.

3. Attach hose to inlet located on side of tank following the instructions that apply to your specific unit:

For 3.5 gallon:

Grasp curved hose end and position open end over inlet with long portion pointing
upwards. Push hose end into inlet as firmly as possible making sure notch on
hose end lines up with tab on inlet. Turn hose end until it is pointing towards
bottom of tank.

For 5 gallon:

Position non-threaded end of elbow over inlet with threaded end pointing
upwards. Push elbow into inlet as firmly as possible making sure notch on elbow
lines up with tab on inlet. Turn elbow until threaded part of elbow is pointing
towards bottom of tank. Insert long machine hose end with locking-nut into end of
elbow and tighten. Do not over-tighten.

4. Attach the desired cleaning accessory onto the accessory end of the hose. NOTE: Many more useful tools
are available at your local dealer or the Shop-Vac

®

website.

5. Plug the cord into the wall outlet. Your cleaner is ready for use.

I = ON, O = OFF

FILTER INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE

FILTRATION SYSTEM

There are a variety of filters available for your vacuum. There are cage filters that install onto the underside
of the tank cover and tank filters that install into the tank. The filters are grouped into three filtration
categories. General filtration is used for large debris; such as, wood chips, nails and gravel. Medium
filtration is used for medium debris; such as, dirt, sand and sawdust. Fine filtration is used for fine debris;
such as drywall dust, cold ash and cement dust. It is important to have the correct filters installed for your
cleaning operation to protect your vacuum motor. THE MOST EFFICIENT FILTRATION FOR YOUR VACUUM IS A
FINE FILTRATION CAGE FILTER WITH A FINE FILTRATION TANK FILTER.

NOTE: When using the vacuum to pick up very fine dust. It will be necessary to empty the tank and clean
the cage filter at more frequent intervals to maintain maximum pick up power or add a disposable filter bag.

DRY PICK UP OPERATION
NOTE: Never use the vacuum for dry pick up without a dry use filter installed. Using the vacuum without a

filter will cause damage to the motor.

WARNING – ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE PLUG FROM THE WALL OUTLET

BEFORE REMOVING THE TANK COVER.

Follow the instructions for the filter that came with your vacuum. Some filters mentioned do not come
standard with all vacuums. Additional filters are available at your local dealer or the Shop-Vac

®

website.

CARTRIDGE FILTER
The cartridge filter can be used for dry pick up and small quantities of wet pick up. Installation is the same
for both. When picking up fine dust or powders a filter bag must be used with the cartridge filter.

PAGE 7

FILTER INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE

(CONT’D)

1. If a foam sleeve is installed on the lid cage, remove it by sliding it off the lid cage. NOTE: If the cartridge
filter has been used for wet pick up, it must be cleaned and dried before using it for dry pick up.

2. With the tank cover in an upside down position, slide the cartridge down over the lid
cage, pushing until the filter seals against the cover.

3. Place the filter retainer into the top of the cartridge filter. Hold the tank cover with one
hand, turn the handle on the filter retainer clockwise to lock the filter into place.

4. To remove the filter for cleaning, hold the tank cover and turn the filter retainer
counter-clockwise to loosen and remove.

5. Slide the cartridge filter off the lid cage.

6. For standard cartridge filters and Ultra-Web

®

cartridge filters, clean the filter by shaking or gently
brushing off excess dirt. Extremely dirty filters may be cleaned with water by rinsing from the inside of
the filter. Dry completely (approximately 24 hours).

7. Check the filter for tears or small holes. If none are found, reinstall the filter. To prevent damage to your
vacuum, do not use a filter with a hole or tear.

NOTICE – This filter is made of high quality paper designed to stop small

particles of dust. The filter can be used for wet or dry pick up. A dry filter is necessary to
pick up dry material. If you use your vac to pick up dust when the filter is wet, the filter
will clog quickly and be very difficult to clean. The filter may become saturated when
picking up large quantities of liquid causing misting to appear in the exhaust air. At this
time, you should dry or change the filter to eliminate this occurrence. Please handle the
filter carefully when removing it for cleaning or when installing it. Check the filter for tears
or small holes. Even a small hole can cause dust to be exhausted. Do not use a filter with
holes or tears. Replace it immediately.

WARNING – KEEP FILTERS CLEAN. EFFICIENCY OF THE VACUUM IS LARGELY

DEPENDENT ON THE FILTER. A CLOGGED FILTER CAN CAUSE OVERHEATING AND POSSIBLY
DAMAGE THE CLEANER. CHECK THE FILTER PERIODICALLY AND REPLACE AS REQUIRED.

DISPOSABLE FILTER BAG
Use the disposable filter bag in conjunction with the cartridge filter for easy disposal of the debris. The bag
is not required for normal dry pick up. NOTE: For dry use only.

1. Make sure the cord is disconnected from the receptacle, tank cover is removed and the hose is
disconnected from tank inlet.

2. Grasp the cardboard collar firmly and slide rubber guard onto inlet fitting as far as
possible.

3. When secured in place, expand the filter bag and position around the inside of the
tank.

FILTER INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE

(CONT’D)

WARNING

– FOR FINE DUST AND POWDERS.

When vacuuming fine dust, or powders of any kind (plaster, drywall dust, cold ashes, concrete dust, etc.)
a high efficiency drywall filter bag must be used. When vacuuming normal household dust and debris,
standard household disposable filter bags may be used.

WET PICK UP OPERATION

1. Your vacuum can be used for wet pick up. Remove ALL dirt and debris found in the tank. Remove all dry
use filters, including the filter bag, from the vacuum.

2. A clean cartridge filter may be used to pick up small quantities of liquid. To use the cartridge filter; follow
the instructions under dry pick up.

3. For vacuuming large quantities of liquid use a foam sleeve. If a foam sleeve did not come standard with
your unit, one may be purchased at your local dealer, the Shop-Vac

®

website or by contacting Shop-Vac®

customer service. To use the foam sleeve; follow the instructions in this section.

4. Misting in the exhaust air or dripping of liquid around the tank cover may occur if the filter becomes
saturated during wet pick up. If this occurs, remove the filter and allow to dry, or replace with another dry
filter.

5. Turn the unit off immediately upon completing a wet pick up job or when tank is full and ready to be
emptied. When the tank is full, suction will drastically reduce. Refer to the automatic suction shut
off section for more information. Raise the hose to drain any excess liquid into the tank. Follow the
instructions in the emptying liquid waste section.

6. Before storing the vacuum cleaner or using for dry pick up, clean and dry the interior of the tank and the
underside of the tank cover. Clean and allow the filters to dry completely.

7. Wet pick up accessories should be washed periodically; especially after picking up wet, sticky kitchen
accidents. This can be accomplished with a warm solution of soap and water.

FOAM SLEEVE

1. With the tank cover in an upside down position, slide the foam sleeve down over the lid cage, pulling
until foam sleeve completely covers the lid cage.

2. Place the filter retainer onto the top of the foam sleeve. Hold the tank cover with one
hand, turn the handle on the filter retainer clockwise to lock the filter into place.

3. To clean the foam sleeve, hold the tank cover and turn the filter retainer counter­clockwise to loosen and remove. Slide the foam sleeve up and off the lidcage. Shake
excess debris off of the foam sleeve with a rapid up and down movement.

4. Hold foam sleeve under running water for a couple minutes, rinsing from the inside of
the filter. A water wash is not always required, depending on the condition of the filter.

5. Check the filter for tears. If any are found, replace with a new filter.

EMPTYING LIQUID WASTE FROM THE TANK

To empty liquid waste from the tank, turn the vacuum off and remove the plug from the wall outlet. Remove
the tank cover and deposit the liquid waste in a suitable drain. After tank is empty, return the tank cover to
its original position.

AUTOMATIC SUCTION SHUT OFF

The vacuum is equipped with an automatic suction shut-off that operates when picking up liquids. As the

level of the liquid rises in the tank, an internal float rises until it seats itself against a seal at the intake of
the motor, shutting off suction. When this happens, the motor will develop a higher than normal pitch noise
and the suction is drastically reduced. If this occurs, turn unit off immediately. Failure to turn unit off after
float rises and shuts off suction will result in extensive damage to the motor. To continue use, empty the
liquid waste from the tank as outlined in the previous section.

NOTE: IF ACCIDENTALLY TIPPED OVER, THE VACUUM COULD LOSE SUCTION, IF THIS OCCURS, TURN UNIT

OFF AND PLACE VAC IN UPRIGHT POSITION. THIS WILL ALLOW THE FLOAT TO RETURN TO ITS NORMAL
POSITION AND YOU WILL BE ABLE TO CONTINUE OPERATION.

PAGE 8

PAGE 9

LUBRICATION

No lubrication is necessary as the motor is equipped with lifetime lubricated bearings.

STORAGE

Before storing your vacuum the tank should be emptied and cleaned. The power
cord can be wrapped around the cord wraps provided on the tank cover on front
of vacuum. The hose may be wrapped around the wall bracket and the accessories
stored in the tool bag so they can be readily available. Never allow liquids to sit in
the tank for any extended period of time. The vacuum should be stored indoors.

SERVICE

Do not attempt to service your Shop-Vac® wet/dry vacuum cleaner beyond that
described in this manual. Refer all other servicing to a qualified service center.

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES SOLUTION

Parts/accessories 1. Packed in tank 1. Check in tank
missing

Vacuum cleaner 1. No power at receptacle 1. Check for power
will not start 2. Defective switch 2. Contact Shop-Vac®
customer service

3. Defective motor 3. Contact Shop-Vac®
customer service

Dust discharging 1. Filter not installed/not installed 1. Properly install filter
from exhaust properly

2. Filter damaged 2. Replace filter

3. Filter clogged or dust is too fine 3. Use more efficient filter

4. Filter not functional 4. Clean or replace filter

Loss of suction 1. Loose hose connection 1. Tighten hose connection

2. Filter clogged 2. Clean or replace filter

3. Full tank 3. Empty tank

4. Hole in hose 4. Replace hose

Static shock 1. Dry environment 1. Add moisture to air (if
practical, use a console
or installed humidifier).

2. Relative humidity of air is low 2. This situation is temporary
and does not affect the use
of the vacuum cleaner.

TROUBLESHOOTING (CONT’D)

THREE YEAR HOME USE WARRANTY

Your Shop-Vac® vacuum cleaner is warranted for normal household use, in accordance with the User
Manual, against original defects in material and workmanship for a period of three years from date of
purchase. Should this product be used for commercial or rental use, a 90 day limited warranty will apply.
Shop-Vac Corporation warrants placing this vacuum cleaner in correct operating condition, by repair or parts
replacement, during the warranty period, without charge. This warranty does not cover accessories. Use of
non-recommended filters and/or accessories may void the manufacturer’s warranty. Shop-Vac

®

assumes
no responsibility for damage or faulty performance caused by misuse, careless handling, and where repairs
or modifications have been made. Do not attempt to service your vacuum beyond that described in the
User Manual. Proof of purchase date is required. The warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may
have other rights which vary from state to state or province to province. This warranty is void outside of the
United States and Canada.

Customers in the United States: for product service contact Shop-Vac Corporation, Customer Service, at
[phone] or go to www.shopvac.com/support. Visit www.shopvac.com for your vacuum’s parts
list schematic.

Customers in Canada: for product service return the complete unit, (transportation prepaid), to
the Authorized Shop-Vac

®

Service Centre nearest you. Visit www.shopvac.ca for a complete list of

authorized service centres in your area.
Customers in Mexico: for product service see paperwork that came with your unit.

PAGE 10

WARNING – IF ANY OF THE MOTOR HOUSING PARTS SHOULD BECOME

DETACHED OR BROKEN, EXPOSING THE MOTOR OR ANY OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS,
OPERATION SHOULD BE DISCONTINUED IMMEDIATELY TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
FURTHER DAMAGE TO THE VACUUM. REPAIRS SHOULD BE MADE BEFORE REUSING THE
VACUUM.

SHOP-VAC CORPORATION

2323 Reach Road, P.O. Box 3307
Williamsport, PA 17701-0307
[phone]
www.shopvac.com

SHOP-VAC CANADA

1770 Appleby Line
Burlington, Ontario L7L 5P8
[phone]
www.shopvac.ca

Shop Vac-México, S.A. de C.V.

Paseo de los Adobes 1081-3
Fraccionamiento Guadalajara Technology Park
Zapopan, Jalisco, México C.P. 45019

Patents Issued and Pending.

© 2015 Shop-Vac Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

MANUEL D’UTILISATION

Série :

3HM

5HM

ATTENTION!

DANGER!

Lisez attentivement tous les règlements relatifs à la sécurité avant
d’essayer de faire fonctionner l’appareil. Conservez-les pour référence
ultérieure.

Ne faites jamais fonctionner cet appareil en présence de
matières ou de vapeurs inflammables car les dispositifs
électriques produisent des arcs électriques ou des étincelles
qui risquent de provoquer un incendie ou une explosion. NE
LAISSEZ JAMAIS L’APPAREIL EN FONCTIONNEMENT SANS
SURVEILLANCE!

Modèle domestique et d'atelier
ASPIRATEUR SEC/HUMIDE

Pour vos dossiers, veuillez noter les renseignements suivants et

conserver ce mode d’emploi dans un endroit sûr.

N° de catalogue

N° de modèle

Date d’achat :

(Situé sur la boîte)

(Situé sur la partie supérieure de l’aspirateur)

87550-74