Benchmark 1277-028 User manual

5 year limited warranty on tool
45.6L WET/DRY
VACUUM
3181069
SL18199P
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1
LENGTH OF EXTENSION CORD
110V-120V 25’(7.5 m) 50’ (15.25 m) 100’ (30.5 m) 150’ (45.7 m)
Amps AWG Wire Size
0-6 18 16 16 14
7-10 18 16 14 1 2
11-12 16 16 14 12
13-16 14 12 Not recommended
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
45.6L WET/DRY VACUUM
Voltage 120V~ 60Hz
Rated Power 10A 6Peak HP
Tank Capacity 12Gal (45.6L)
Flexi Hose 6 ft x 1-7/8 in (1.8 m x 48mm)
Flow rate 100CFM
Power cord 16ft.(4.9 m)
Replacement cartridge filter 1277-036
Replacement collection bag 1277-034
Weight 20.3 LBS(9.2KGS)
When using an extension cord with your Wet/Dry Vac refer to the following table
to determine the required AWG wire size. Before using the cleaner make sure the
power cord and extension cord are in good working conditions. Make repairs or
replacements before using the vacuum cleaner. Only use extension cords that are
rated for outdoor use.
NEED ASSISTANCE?
Call us on our toll-free customer support line:
1-866-349-8665 (Monday through Friday 9am – 5pm Eastern Standard Time)
• Technical questions
• Replacement parts
• Parts missing from package

1277-028
45.6L WET DRY VACUUM
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Product Specifications .................................................................................. 1
Table of Contents ........................................................................................... 2
General Safety Warnings ................................................................................ 3
Safety Symbol................................................................................................ 4
Servicing of a Double-Insulated Wet/Dry Vacuum ........................................... 5
Specific Safety Instructions ........................................................................ 5-6
Know Your Wet/dry Vacuum ........................................................................ 6-7
Operation ...................................................................................................... 7
Maintenance ............................................................................................ 8-12
Exploded View ........................................................................................ 13-14
Warranty...................................................................................................... 15
Parts List ..................................................................................................... 16
Product Specifications................................................................................. 17

3
SPECIFIC SAFETY INSTUCTIONS FOR 45.6L POLY WET/DRY VACUUM
• Read all instructions before using this appliance
• Read and understand this instruction manual and all labels on the Wet/Dry
Vacuum before using.
• Safety is a combination of common sense, staying alert and knowing how
this Wet/Dry Vacuum works. Use this Wet/Dry Vacuum only as described in
this manual. To reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to the Wet/Dry
Vacuum, use only recommended accessories
GENERAL SAFETY WARNINGS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read and understand all safety and operational instructions . Failure to follow the
safety rules listed below and other basic safety precautions may result in serious
personal injury. Keep this manual, sales receipts, and applicable warranty forms
for future reference.
SAFETY SYMBOLS
The purpose of safety symbols is to alert you of the potential safety RISKS.
Recognize and understand them. Follow the instructions provided.
Failure to obey a DANGER safety alert WILL result in serious personal
injury or death to you or to others . Always obey all messages following
this symbol to reduce the risk of serious personal injury or death.
Failure to obey a WARNING safety alert MAY result in serious
personal injury or death to you or to others. Always obey all messages
following this symbol to reduce the risk of potential serious personal
injury or death.
Failure to obey a CAUTION safety alert MAY result in personal
injury or property damage to you or to others. Always obey
all messages following this symbol to reduce the risk of personal
injury or property damage.
Failure to obey a NOTICE or a CAUTION (without a safety alert)
MAY result in property damage to you or to others. Always obey all
messages following this symbol to reduce the risk of property damage.
SYMBOL MEANING

4
1277-028
45.6L WET DRY VACUUM
When using this Wet/Dry Vacuum,
follow basic safety precautions including the following:
To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock or injury:
• Do not run the Wet/Dry Vacuum unattended.
• Do not vacuum, or use this Wet/Dry Vacuum near liquids, gases, or explosive
vapours like gasoline or similar fuels, lighter fluid, cleaners, oil based paints,
natural gas or hydrogen. Do not vacuum or use this Wet/Dry Vacuum near
explosive dusts like coal dust, magnesium dust, grain dust, or gunpowder
as sparks inside the motor can ignite flammable vapours or dust.
•
Do not vacuum burning or smoking items such as cigarettes, matches,
or hot ashes.
• Keep the cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not expose to rain. Store indoors.
• Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
• Do not use if the cord, plug or other parts are damaged.
• If the Wet/Dry Vacuum is not working correctly or has missing parts, has
been dropped or damaged, left outdoors or dropped in water, return it to
an independent service centre.
• Do not pull or carry by the cord. Do not use the cord as a handle, close
a door on the cord, or pull the cord around sharp edges or corners.
• Do not run the Wet/Dry Vacuum over the cord.
• Do not handle the plug or the Wet/Dry Vacuum with wet hands.
• To reduce the risk of health hazards from vapours or dusts, do not vacuum
toxic materials.
• Do not use or store near hazardous materials.
• Do not use this Wet/Dry Vacuum with a torn filter or without installing the filter
except when vacuuming liquids as described in the operation section of this manual .
• Do not use the Wet/Dry Vacuum as a toy. Pay particularly close attention when
it is beinG used by or near children.
• To reduce the risk of injury from the Wet/Dry Vacuum accidentally starting,
unplug the power cord before changing or cleaning the filter.
• Do not leave the Wet/Dry Vacuum unattended when it is plugged in.
Unplug it from the power outlet when not in use and before servicing.
Turn o the Wet/Dry Vacuum before unplugging.
• Do not put any objects into the ventilation openings. Do not vacuum with the
ventilation openings blocked.
• Keep free of dust, lint, hair or any other items that may reduce the air flow.
• Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all body parts away from openings
and moving parts.
To reduce the risk of falling, use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
When using as blower:
• Direct air discharge only at work area.
• Do not use Wet/Dry Vac as a sprayer.
• Do not direct air at bystanders.
• Keep children away when blowing.
• Wear safety goggles.

5
Wet/Dry Vacuum is double-insulated, eliminating the need for a separate
grounding system. Use only identical replacements parts. Read the servicing
instructions before servicing the Wet/Dry Vacuum.
Use this Wet/Dry Vacuum only as described in this manual. Observe the following
warnings that appear on the motor housing of this Wet/Dry Vacuum.
WARNING
SERVICING OF A DOUBLE-INSULATED WET/DRY VACUUM
In a double-insulated Wet/Dry Vacuum, two systems of insulation are provided
instead of grounding. This means that no grounding is provided on
a double-insulated appliance, nor should a means for grounding be added.
Servicing a double-insulated Wet/Dry Vacuum requires extreme care and
knowledge of the system and should be done only by qualified service personnel.
Replacement parts for a double-insulated Wet/Dry Vacuum must be identical
to the parts they replace. The double-insulated Wet/Dry Vacuum is marked with
the words “DOUBLE INSULATED” and the symbol may also be marked
on the appliance.
• For household use only.
• To reduce the risk of electric shock, unplug before cleaning or servicing.
• DO NOT use without filters in place.
• To reduce the risk of electric shock, use indoors only.
WARNING
If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or
its service agent a similarly qualified person in order to avoid a hazard.
WARNING
Remove the plug from the socket before performing maintenance. Before using
the machine make sure that the frequency and voltage shown on the rating plate
correspond with the voltage. Specifications and details are subject to change
without prior notice. The accessories shown in the pictures may vary from model
to model.

6
1277-028
45.6L WET DRY VACUUM
Servicing of a Double-Insulated Wet/Dry Vacuum – Cont’d
WARNING
For your own safety, read and understand this instruction manual. Do not operate
unattended. Do not use this Wet/Dry Vacuum to pick up hot ashes, coals, toxic,
flammable or other hazard materials. Do not use near explosive liquids or vapours.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not expose to rain. Store indoors.
CAUTION
Do not vacuum drywall dust or cold fireplace soot or ash with a standard wet/dry
filter. This dust is very fine and hence will not be captured by the filter and
may cause damage. Refer to the operation section for proper filter selection.
WARNING
SERVICING OF DOUBLE-INSULATED WET/DRY VACUUM.
CAUTION
To reduce the risk of injury from moving parts, unplug before servicing.
SAVE THIS USER MANUAL
WARNING
MISUSE or failure to follow the safety rules stated in this instruction manual
may cause serious personal injury.
Save these instructions for reference.

7
KNOW YOUR WET/DRY VACUUM
WARNING
Before starting please read, understand, and apply the safety instructions.
Reminder: DO NOT vacuum hazardous substances.
FUNCTIONS
1. Handle 2. Power switch
3. Lid latches 4. Vacuum port
5. Dust tank 6. Drain cover
7. Casters 8. Flexible hose
9. Extension wand 10. Floor brush
11. Utility nozzle 12. Crevice nozzle
13. Disposable filter bag 14. Cartridge filter
OPERATION
ATTENTION
Read the entire important safety information section at the beginning of this manual
Including all text under subheadings therein before set up or use of this product.
UNPACKING & SET-UP SUMMARY
1. Pull lid latches in an outward motion, remove power head and some accessories
that may have been shipped in the tank.
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1277-028
45.6L WET DRY VACUUM
Operation – Cont’d
2. Attach casters following the instructions as below:
a. Invert dust tank and align casters as shown in diagram to the right,
then secure casters with provided screws.
b. Return dust tank to an upright position.
3. Before replacing power head, refer to this manual to ensure you have
the proper filters installed for the cleaning operation.
4. Replace power head, and apply pressure with thumb to each latch until
it snaps tightly in place. Make sure all lid latches are clamped securely.
5. Insert the hose end into inlet of tank.
6. Attach the extension wands to the end of the hose. Apply slight pressure
until fitting is tight.
7.
Attach one of the cleaning accessories (depending on the cleaning requirements)
on the extension wands. Twist slightly to tighten the connection.
8. Plug the cord into the wall outlet. The cleaner is ready for use.
9. Turn the unit “ON” by pushing the switch from position “O” to position “ I”.
The “O” is the “OFF” position and the “I” is the “ON” position.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of fire or explosion, do not operate this vacuum in areas with
flammable gases, vapors or explosive dust in the air. Flammable gases or vapors
include but are not limited to: lighter fluid, solvent-type cleaners, oil-based
paints, gasoline, alcohol or aerosol sprays. Explosive dusts include but are
not limited to: coal, magnesium, aluminum, and grain or gun powder. Do not
vacuum explosive dust, flammable or combustible liquids or hot ashes. Do not
use this vacuum as a sprayer for any flammable or combustible liquid. To reduce
the risk of health hazards from vapours or dusts, do not vacuum toxic materials.
WARNING
The operation of any utility vacuum can result in foreign objects being blown
into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety eyewear
complying with ANSI Z87.1 (or in Canada, CSA Z94.3) before starting operation.
CAUTION
To reduce risk of hearing damage, wear ear protectors when using the vacuum
for extended hours or when using it in a noisy area.
O = OFF · I = ON

9
DRY PICK-UP
1. The filter must always be in correct position to reduce the risk of leaks and
possible damage to the vacuum. Make sure that the filter is completely
covering the filter cage. Make sure there are no gaps between the filter
and the lid. (See illustration). It is very important to assemble the filter
to the cage without allowing any possible leaks or tears. Any leaks will allow
the picked up debris to be blown out of the blower port and back into the
surrounding environment.
2. When using the vacuum to pick up very fine dust, it will be necessary to
empty the dust tank and clean or replace the filter at more frequent intervals
to maintain peak vacuum performance. Shake excess dust o cartridge filter
with a rapid up and down movement.
NOTICE
A dry filter is necessary to pick up dry material. If you use the vacuum
to pick up dust when the filter is wet, the filter will clog quickly and be very
dicult to clean. If the filter gets wet, replace it before continuing to do
dry pickups.
INSTALLING THE CARTRIDGE FILTER
The cartridge filter can be used for wet or dry pick-up, installation is the same
for both.
1. With the power head in an upside down position, slide the cartridge filter
down over the lid cage, push the filter seal against the power head.
2. Place filter retainer into the top of the cartridge filter, hold the power head
with one hand, turn the handle on filter retainer clockwise to tighten,
locking the filter into place.
3. To remove the filter for cleaning, again hold the power head and turn the
filter retainer counter-clockwise to loosen and remove, slide the cartridge
filter o the lid cage.
4. To clean the cartridge filter, shake or brush o excess dirt or rinse
(from the inside of the filter) with water, dry completely (approx. 24hrs)
and re-install.
NOTE: If the filter has been used for wet pick up, it must be cleaned
and dried before using for dry pick-up.
Cartridge
filter

10
1277-028
45.6L WET DRY VACUUM
INSTALLING DISPOSABLE FILTER BAG
1. Slide the cardboard collar opening firmly onto the vacuum port deflector
until it stops against the deflector wall.
2. Position the bag so that it is distributed around the inside of the tank.
3. Replace and secure the power head onto the tank.
WET PICK-UP
This cleaner requires only a minimum of conversion when going from dry to wet
pick-up. A clean cartridge filter may be used for vacuuming small amounts
of liquids. For best results when vacuuming large quantities of liquid, remove
the cartridge filter. The cartridge filter must be positioned over the filter cage
while vacuuming liquids. When picking up several tanks full of liquid, the cartridge
filter will become saturated and misting may appear in the exhaust air. At this time,
you should dry or replace the cartridge filter to eliminate the misting and possible
dripping of liquid around the lid. After completing a wet pick-up job, raise the hose
to drain any excess liquid into the tank before shutting o. The interior of tank
should be periodically cleaned.
1. Always disconnect the plug from the wall outlet before removing the power head.
place power head in an upside down position. Remove cartridge filter by sliding
it up and o the filter cage.
NOTE: 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.
2. This wet/dry vac is equipped with a float mechanism which will rise automatically
to cut o the airflow when the liquid in the tank reaches a pre determined level.
When this happens, turn o vac, unplug the power cord, and empty the dust
tank. You will know that the float has shut the airflow o because the suction
ceases and the motor noise becomes higher in pitch due to increased motor
speed. The liquid capacity may vary with the rate of pickup.
IMPORTANT: To reduce the risk of damage to the vacuum, do not run motor
with float in raised position.
NOTE: If accidentally tipped over, the vacuum could lose its suction ability.
If this occurs, place vac in upright position and turn switch o. This will allow
the float to return to its normal position, and you will be able to continue operation.
Float
in raised
position

11
EMPTYING THE TANK
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury from accidental starting, unplug power cord before
emptying the dust tank.
1. Remove the power head assembly of the wet/dry vacuum by pulling
outward on the lid clips located on each side of the vacuum. Lift o
the power head assembly.
2. Dump the tank contents into the proper waste disposal container.
3. Liquids may be emptied through the tank drain. To empty, turn the Unit
o and remove the plug from the wall outlet. Remove the drain cap and
deposit the liquid waste contents in a suitable drain. After tank is empty,
return the drain cap to its original position. To continue use, plug the cord
into the wall outlet and turn the unit on.
BLOWING OPERATION
WARNING
Always wear safety eyewear complying with ANSI Z87.1 (or in Canada CSA Z94.3)
when using as a blower. To avoid injury to bystanders, keep them clear
of blowing debris.
WARNING
Wear a dust mask if blowing creates dust which might be inhaled. To reduce
the risk of hearing damage, wear ear protectors when using the vac/blower
for extended hours or or in confined space.
The vacuum contains a blowing feature. Follow the steps below to use
the vacuum as a blower.
1. Locate blowing port on the vacuum.
2. Insert one end of the 6 ft x 1-7/8 in / 1.8 m x 48 mm hose
into the blower port.
3. Turn the vacuum “ON”.

12
1277-028
45.6L WET DRY VACUUM
MAINTENANCE
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury from accidental starting, unplug power cord before
changing or cleaning filter. The filter should be cleaned often to maintain peak
Vacuum performance. Do not remove filter cage and float. The float prevents
water from entering the impeller and damaging the motor. The cage prevents
fingers from touching the moving impeller.
NOTICE
To avoid damage to the impeller and motor, always reinstall the reusable filter
before using the vacuum for dry pickups and for wet pickups. After cleaning,
check the filter for tears or small holes. Do not use a filter with holes or tears
in it. Even a small hole can cause dust to come out of the vacuum. Replace it
immediately. Before installing the filter on the vacuum, clean the area of the lid
so that the clamp ring will seal the bag against the lid and stop small particles
from bypassing the filter bag. If the filter is clean and not damaged, replace it
on the filter cage. If it cannot be reused, place a new filter over the filter cage.
Clean the filter in an open area.
CLEANING
To keep the wet/dry vacuum looking its best, clean the outside with a cloth
dampened with warm water and mild soap.
To clean the tank:
1. Dump out debris.
2. Wash tank thoroughly with warm water and mild soap.
3. Wipe out with dry cloth.
STORAGE
Before storing the vacuum, the dust tank should be emptied and cleaned.
The cord should be wrapped and hung on the unit and the accessories should
be kept in the accessory holder so they can be readily available. The vacuum
should be stored indoors.

13
TROUBLESHOOTING
WARNING
Minor problems often can be fixed without calling customer service.
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTIVE ACTION
Vacuum will not run No electricity Make sure electrical outlet
has voltage (A qualified
electrician may need to be
contacted)
Loss of suction,
wet pick-up
1. Full tank
2. Clogged hose
1. Drain and clean tank
2. Remove hose and clean
Loss of suction,
dry pick-up
1. Full tank
2. Clogged hose
1. Drain and clean tank
2. Remove hose and clean
debris

14
1277-028
45.6L WET DRY VACUUM
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EXPLODED VIEW

15
WARNING
When servicing, use only original equipment replacement parts. The use of any
other parts may create a safety hazard or cause damage to the wet/dry vacuum.
Any attempt to repair or replace electrical parts on this wet / dry vacuum may create
a safety hazard unless repairs are performed by a qualified technician.
NEED ASSISTANCE?
Call us on our toll-free customer support line:
1-866-349-8665
(Monday through Friday 9am – 5pm Eastern Standard Time)
• Technical questions
• Replacement parts
• Parts missing from package
PARTS LIST
KEY # PART # PART NAME QUANTITY
1 1277-028-001 Handle 1
2 1277-028-002 Top cover 1
3 1277-028-003 Power switch 1
4 1277-028-004 Thermal bae 1
5 1277-028-005 Thermal bae Sealing Ring 1
6 1277-028-006 Motor 1
7 1277-028-007 Silencer Spange 1
8 1277-028-008 Motor Sealing Ring 1
9 1277-028-009 Lid latches 2
10 1277-028-010 Crimping Board 1
11 1277-028-011 Power cord 1
12 1277-028-012 Lower Lid 1
13 1277-028-013 Filter Cage 1
14 1277-028-014 Dust tank 1
15 1277-028-015 Vacuum port 1
16 1277-028-016 Drain cover 1
17 1277-028-017 Caster 4

16
1277-028
45.6L WET DRY VACUUM
WARRANTY
45.6L WET/DRY VACUUM
If this Benchmark tool fails due to a defect in material or workmanship within
five years from the date of purchase, return it to any Home Hardware store with
theoriginal bill of sale for exchange. 3-year warranty for the battery and charger.
This warranty does not include expendable parts including but not limited to blades,
brushes, belts, light bulbs.
This warranty covers defects in material or workmanship only. It does not cover
normal wear and tear, failure due to abuse/misuse, or defects caused by careless or
accidental mishandling. If this Benchmark product is used for commercial orrental
purposes, this warranty does not apply.

45.6L WET/DRY
VACUUM
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE FIRST USE.
KEEP THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
KEEP AWAY FROM CHILDREN.
Not suitable for ultra-fine dust collection such as drywall dust.
Such use will void the warranty.
WEAR CSA APPROVED
EYE PROTECTION
WEAR EAR
PROTECTION
WEAR A
FACE MASK
Made in China
1277-028
BENCHMARK TOOLS CANADA
ST. JACOBS, ONTARIO N0B 2N0
© 2021 Home Hardware Stores Limited
TM
MC
CUSTOMER SERVICE/TECH SUPPORT
1-866-349-8665
* This BenchmarkTM product carries a five (5) year LIMITED warranty against defects
in workmanship and materials. See Owner’s Manual for full details.
3181069
SL18199P