Milwaukee M18 FVC23L User manual

OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Cat. No.
M18 FVC23L
M18 FUEL™ 23L WET/DRY VACUUM
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand operator's manual.
Original instructions

2
WORK AREA SAFETY
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
PERSONAL SAFETY
•Do not handle battery pack or vacuum with wet
hands.
•Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or
dark areas invite accidents.
•
•Do not use in the presence of explosive dust,
liquids or vapors.
•Do not use where oxygen or anesthetics are used.
•Use extra care when using on stairs.
VACUUM USE AND CARE
•
in place.
•
•STAY ALERT. Watch what you are doing and use
common sense. Do not use vacuum when you are
alcohol or medication causing diminished control.
•The operation of a vacuum can result in foreign
objects being blown into eyes, which can result in
eye damage. Always wear safety goggles or glasses
with side shields when operating vacuum.
•
•Avoid accidental starting. Ensure the switch is
Inserting battery pack in vacuum that has the switch
on invites accidents.
•
•
•
Use special care when emptying heavily loaded
tanks.
To avoid spontaneous combustion, empty dust
box after each use.
Do not leave vacuum unattended when battery
pack is installed. Remove battery pack when not
in use and before servicing.
•Do not pick up anything that is burning or smok-
ing such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
•Do not pick up soot, cement, plaster or drywall
motor or be exhausted back into the air.
•
BATTERY TOOL USE AND CARE
•Disconnect the battery pack from the appliance
before making any adjustments, changing ac-
cessories, or storing appliance. Such preventive
safety measures reduce the risk of starting the ap-
pliance accidentally.
•Do not put any object into openings. Do not use
with any opening blocked; keep free of dust, lint,
•Maintain vacuum. Check for misalignment or
binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and
operation. If damaged, have the vacuum repaired
before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly
maintained tools.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
•
manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type
with another battery pack.
•
battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
•
This 23L Wet/Dry vacuum cleaner is intended for
use on construction/renovation sites for general
non-flammable materials such dust, sawdust and
liquids.
Vacuums have motors and other parts that can
produce sparks during normal use. Do not use
within 10 metres of areas where explosive
materials may be present (such as petrol pumps
and places where liquids like paint thinners,
cleaners, solvents, etc. are stored).
Wear a dust mask or use a suitable dust
extraction solution when working in dusty
situations. Dust particles can harm your lungs.
Do not use to pick up flammable or
combustible liquids such as petrol or use in
areas where they may be present.
It is also intended for commercial use, for example
in hotels, schools, hospitals, factories, shops,
offices and rental businesses.
•
This product is suitable for collection of silica
dust when used in accordance with these
instructions. To reduce the risk of health
hazards from other vapours or dust, do not
vacuum carcinogenic, toxic or hazardous
materials such as asbestos, arsenic, barium,
beryllium, lead, pesticides or other health
endangered materials.
•Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch
source and/or battery pack, picking up or carry-
ing the tool.
on the switch or energising power tools that have
the switch on invites accidents.
This appliance is not intended for use by persons
(including children) with reduced physical, sensory
or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and
knowledge, unless they have been given
supervision or instruction concerning use of the
appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
Children should be supervised to ensure that they
do not play with the appliance.
•
•
•Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and bal-
ance at all times. This enables better control of the
vacuum in unexpected situations.
•
of body away from openings and moving parts.
•Use only as described in this manual. Use only
manufacturer’s recommended attachments.
WARNING
WHEN USING AN ELECTRICAL VACUUM, BASIC PRECAUTIONS
SHOULD ALWAYS BE FOLLOWED, INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING:
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING VACUUM. BEFORE USING THE
VACUUM, READ THIS OPERATOR’S MANUAL, BATTERY PACK AND
CHARGER OPERATOR’S MANUALS, AND ALL LABELS ON THE VACUUM,
BATTERY PACK, AND CHARGER. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE WARNINGS AND
INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN ELECTRIC SHOCK, FIRE AND/OR SERIOUS
INJURY.

3
SERVICE
•
repair person using only identical replacement
parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power
tool is maintained.
•Do not modify or attempt to repair the appliance
or the battery pack (as applicable) except as
indicated in the instructions for use and care.
•Do not use a battery pack or tool that is dam-
explosion or risk of injury.
•
excessive temperature. -
perature above 130°C (265°F) may cause explosion.
•Follow all charging instructions and do not charge
the battery pack or tool outside the temperature
Charging
range may damage the battery and increase the
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR
WET/DRY VACUUM
•
• -
erly installed.
•
Wear ear protectors.Exposure to noise can cause
hearing loss.
This product is suitable for collection of silica
dust when used in accordance with these in-
structions. To reduce the risk of health hazards
from other vapors or dust, do not vacuum car-
cinogenic, toxic or hazardous materials such
as asbestos, arsenic, barium, beryllium, lead,
pesticides or other health endangered materials.
SYMBOLOGY
Volts
Direct Current
Read Operator's Manual
Wear Eye Protection
Do Not Step
Unlock
Lock
Max Power Mode
Max Runtime Mode
•Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected
from the battery; avoid contact. If contact ac-
cidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid
contacts eyes, additionally seek medical help.
Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation
or burns.
To reduce the risk of injury, when
working in dusty situations, wear
propriate respiratory protection or use a
suitable dust extraction solution.
Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on
how often you do this type of work. To reduce your
exposure to these chemicals: work in a well ventilated
area, and work with approved safety equipment, such
as those dust masks that are specially designed to
Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM).
This product meets applicable
regulatory requirements.
Do not dispose of electric tools
together with household waste
material. Electric tools and electronic
equipment that have reached the end
of their life must be collected
separately and returned to an
environmentally compatible recycling
facility.
•
Maintain labels and nameplates. These carry
important information. If unreadable or missing,
contact a MILWAUKEE®service facility for a
replacement.
•Always use common sense and be cautious
when using tools. It is not possible to anticipate
every situation that could result in a dangerous
outcome. Do not use this tool if you do not
understand these operating instructions or you feel
the work is beyond your capability; contact
MILWAUKEE®Tool or a trained professional for
additional information or training.
ADDITIONAL BATTERY SAFETY RULES
To reduce the risk of fire, personal
injury, and product damage due to a
short circuit, never immerse your tool, battery pack
or charger in fluid or allow a fluid to flow inside
them. Corrosive or conductive fluids, such as
seawater, certain industrial chemicals, and bleach
or bleach-containing products, etc., can cause a
short circuit.
Do not charge non-rechargeable
batteries.
Dust class
READ AND SAVE ALL INSTRUCTIONS FOR
FUTURE USE
•
When battery pack is not in use, keep it away
from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins,
keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects,
that can make a connection from one terminal
to another. Shorting the battery terminals together
WARNING
WARNING
Some dust created by power
sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling,
and other construction activities contains
chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects or
other reproductive harm. Some examples of these
chemicals are:
•lead from lead-based paint
•crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other
masonry products, and
•arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated
lumber.
WARNING
WARNING

SPECIFICATIONS
Cat. No.............................................. M18 FVC23L
Volts............................................................ 18V DC
Battery Type .................................................M18™
Charger Type................................................M18™
Suction.................................................... 149 mBar
Capacity* ......................................................... 23 L
Recommended Ambient Operating Temperature.......
............................................................ -18°C to 40°C
4
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
1.
2. Hose storage
3. Motor housing
4. Blower port (not shown)
5. Handle
6. Accessory storage
areas
7. Storage tie downs
8. Tank latches (front
and back)
9. Dust bag holder
10.23 litre wet/dry
vacuum tank
11. Switch
12.Hose storage clip
13.Vacuum inlet
14.Pedal
15.Wheel lock
16.Battery bay
17.Tank drain cap
18.Wet/dry vacuum cart
19.Extension wand
1
56
8
10
18
3
19 6
2
17
4
9
7
16
14
11
12
13
15
IP rating........................................................... IPX4
Dust Collection Class........................................... L
* Litres indicated reflect drum volume, not necessarily collection capacity, actual capacity dependent upon
type of debris collected, condition of filter and other factors.
23 litre Wet/Dry Vacuum Tank included with M18 FVC23L only.
Large wet/dry vacuum
HEPA filter
(4932479805)
Weight......................................................... 13.4 kg
Dimensions............................. 533 x 711 x 406 mm
(508mm with hose wrapped)

5
ASSEMBLY
Removing/Inserting the Battery
To remove the battery, push in the release buttons
and pull the battery pack away from the tool.
To insert the battery, slide the pack into the body
of the tool. Make sure it latches securely into place.
Removing/Installing the Filters
NOTICE
1. Remove the battery pack.
2.
3.
4. Empty all debris from the tank.
Pick-Up/Blower
The vacuum can be used for debris pick-up or as a
blower, depending on the port used.
5.
6. Replace the motor housing and secure both
latches.
1. For the debris pick-up, insert the large end of the
hose into the intake port of the motor housing, lin-
ing up the tabs on the hose with the notches in the
2. To use as a blower, insert the large end of hose
into the blower port of the motor housing, lining
up the tabs on the hose with the notches in the
Attaching/Removing the Wet/Dry
Vacuum Cart
1. To attach, place rear of vacuum on the cart with
the front angled upwards.The vacuum inlet should
face the front of the cart where the pedal is located.
2. Slide the rear of the vacuum under the ledge feature.
Ledge
feature
3.
4.
Lower the front of the vacuum so it lines up with
the cart and front ledge. Once the cart clicks, the
vacuum is secured on the cart.
To remove, press one foot on the pedal. Lift the
vacuum with handle away from the cart.
Installing/Removing the Accessories
To install the nozzles, hoses or extensions, push
the accessory onto the vacuum hose inlet.
To remove
vacuum hose inlet.Store the accessories in the mo-
tor head or in the designated cart storage areas.
To remove the filter, turn counter clockwise and
remove from the motor housing/float cage.
To install the filter, slide it over the float cage.
Line up the filter tabs with the motor housing
notches and turn clockwise to lock in place.
Use the HEPA filter for dry pickup only. Use the
foam filter for wet pick-up operation only.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury,
always remove the battery pack
before removing the tank.
CAUTION
Keep filter clean. Efficiency of the
vacuum is largely dependent on
the filter. A dirty filter will reduce the air flow and
overall efficiency of the system. Remove from
tank and tap clean.
WARNING
Recharge only with the charger
specified for the battery. For
specific charging instructions, read the
operator’s manual supplied with your charger
and battery.
WARNING
Always remove the battery pack
any time the tool is not in use.
When applicable, adhere to jobsite
guidelines pertaining to the disposal
of silica dust.
WARNING
Only use accessories specifically
recommended for this tool.
Others may be hazardous.

6
The dust extractor hose adapter is used to connect
the hose to a power tool in place of other dust col-
lection, such as a dust bag.
To installthe adapter, remove any nozzles or acces-
sories from the end of the hose. Twist the adapter
To remove, reverse the procedure.
OPERATION
To reduce the risk of injury, wear safety goggles or
glasses with side shields. Empty tank before use.
wet pick-up operations.
Starting and Stopping Vacuum
To turn the vacuum on max power mode, push the
switch to the Speed Two (II) position.
To turn the vacuum, push the switch to the OFF
(O) position.
Wet Pick-Up Operation
For wet pick-up operation, it is recommended to use
(Single pack, Cat. No. 49901990).
1. Remove the battery pack.
2. Remove ALL dirt and debris found in the tank.
3.
Float cage
4.
5. Insert the battery pack.
6. Turn on the vacuum and begin pick-up.
7.
a wet pick-up job or when tank is full and ready to
immediately and empty the tank.
8. Remove the battery pack.
9. To empty the tank, raise the hose to drain any
excess liquid into the tank. Do not use vacuum
inlet to drain contents.
10.Remove motor housing and pour liquid waste into
a suitable drain.
11. Clean the interior of the tank and pick-up acces-
sories periodically, more often when used to pick
up wet, sticky materials. Use warm, soapy water.
Do not store vacuum with liquid in tank.
When working in dusty situations, wear appro-
priate respiratory protection or use a suitable
dust extraction solution.
If the float is clean, moves freely,
and the suction does not shut off
when the tank is filled, contact a MILWAUKEE®
service facility for repairs. A malfunctioning tool
can cause personal injury or property damage.
To turn the vacuum on max runtime mode, push
the switch to the Speed One (I) position.
Remove HEPA filter and install the foam filter
(see "Removing/Installing the Filter"). Ensure
that the float cage remains in place.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury,
always wear proper eye
protection marked to comply with
AS/NZS 1337.1.
CAUTION
NOTICE
Failure to turn off unit after float rises
and shuts off suction will result in
damage to the motor.
To continue use, emply the liquid waste from the
tank. If the vacuum is accidentally tipped over, it
could lose suction. Turn off the vacuum and reutrn it
to an upright position. The float will return to its
normal position.
When picking up liquids, 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 will develop a higher than normal pitch
noise and the suction is drastically reduced. If this
occurs, turn off the vacuum immediately.
Installing/Removing Fleece Dust Bag
a fleece dust bag to collect fine dust particles
(Single pack, Cat. No. 49901979) .
1. To install, release the tank latches and remove
the motor housing.
2. Lift the dust bag holder up and out to remove
from the tank.
3. Slide the cardboard dust bag inlet in to the dust
bag holder.
Installing/Removing the Dust Extraction
Adapter (Cat no.: 49901980, not included)

7
is closed. Dust bag is now sealed and can be
properly disposed.
-
pacity, suction decreases or dust bag is damaged.
4. Insert the dust bag holder back into the slot push-
ing downward to secure in place.
5. Spread out the dust bag in the tank. Replace the
motor housing and secure both latches.
6. To remove, release the tank latches and remove
motor housing.
7. Lift the dust bag holder up and out to remove
from the tank.
8.
9. Pull the cardboard tab until the dust bag inlet
MAINTENANCE
Storage
Before storing your vacuum, empty and clean the
Maintaining Tool
cover counter-clockwise to unlock from the motor
vacuum. Empty debris by holding away from the
user's face and tap clean. Water may be used to
Cleaning
Repairs
For repairs, return the tool, battery pack and charger
to the nearest authorised service centre.
To reduce the risk of injury,
always unplug the charger and
remove the battery pack from the charger or tool
before performing any maintenance. Never
disassemble the tool, battery pack or charger.
Contact a MILWAUKEE®service facility for ALL
repairs.
Never use vacuum without tank and filter
properly installed.
If cleaning with water, let filter dry 24 hours before
using with vacuum. Replace filter if damaged or
suction decreases (Single pack, Cat. No.
49901977, 49901978).
It is recommended that the filters are replaced
every 12 months depending on usage or when they
are unable to be adequately cleaned.
Keep your tool, battery pack and charger in good
repair by adopting a regular maintenance program.
Inspect your tool for issues such as undue noise,
misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage
of parts, or any other condition that may affect the
tool operation. Return the tool, battery pack, and
charger to a MILWAUKEE®service facility for
repair. After six months to one year, depending on
use, return the tool, battery pack and charger to a
MILWAUKEE®service facility for inspection.
If the tool does not start or operate at full power with
a fully charged battery pack, clean the contacts on
the battery pack. If the tool still does not work
properly, return the tool, charger and battery pack,
to a MILWAUKEE®service facility for repairs.
Clean dust and debris from any vents. Keep tool
clean, dry and free of oil or grease. Use only mild
soap and a damp cloth to clean, since certain
cleaning agents and solvents are harmful to
plastics and other insulated parts. Some of these
include petrol, turpentine, lacquer thinner, paint
thinner, chlorinated cleaning solvents, ammonia
and household detergents containing ammonia.
Never use flammable or combustible solvents
around tools.
WARNING
ACCESSORIES
Compatible with M18 FVC23L Wet/Dry Vacuum
49901980 Dust Extraction Adapter
For a complete listing of accessories, go online to
milwaukeetool.com.au / milwaukeetool.co.nz or
contact a distributor.
WARNING
Use only recommended
accessories. Others may be
hazardous.

58-14-0321-02A
WARRANTY - AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND
SERVICE - AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND
MILWAUKEE®prides itself in producing a premium quality product that is Nothing But Heavy DutyTM.
Your satisfaction with our products is very important to us! If you encounter any problems with the
operation of this tool, please contact your authorised MILWAUKEE®dealer.
For a list of MILWAUKEE®dealers, guarantee or service agents please contact MILWAUKEE®
Customer Service or visit our website.
(Australia Toll Free Telephone Number 1300 645 928)
(New Zealand Toll Free Telephone Number 0800 645 928)
or visit milwaukeetool.com.au/milwaukeetool.co.nz.
Please refer to Australian and New Zealand warranty supplied with tool. This warranty applies only to
product sold by authorised dealers in Australia and New Zealand.
DESIGNED BY MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP.
PROFESSIONALLY MADE IN USA
PRINTED IN USA
Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation
13135 West Lisbon Road, Brookfield, Wisconsin U.S.A. 53005
Milwaukee Tool (Australia)
26 - 40 Nina Link, Dandenong South,
Victoria, 3175, Australia
Milwaukee Tool (New Zealand)
274 Church Street, Penrose,
Auckland, 1061, New Zealand