Makita VC2012L Dust Extractor Vacuum Cleaner User Manual

Makita VC2012L Dust Extractor Vacuum Cleaner

The Makita VC2012L Dust Extractor Vacuum Cleaner is designed for heavy-duty dust collection in workshops, building sites, and industrial settings.

Safety Instructions

Always follow safety measures when operating the Makita VC2012L Dust Extractor Vacuum Cleaner, including proper filter installation and battery handling.

• Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner.
• If the Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is not used for a long period of time, remove the battery from the tool.
• If foam/liquid comes out, switch off immediately.
• Clean the water level limiting device regularly and examine it for signs of damage.
• Always make sure that filters are correctly installed before use.
• Do not use the cleaner without filters in place.
• It is recommended to have some spares as filters are consumable items.
• Be sure the switch is OFF when installing battery(ies).
• Never use the cleaner outdoors in the rain.
• For Finland, this machine is not to be used outdoors in low temperatures.
• If the exhaust air is returned to the room, it is necessary to provide for an adequate air change rate in the room. Reference to the National regulations is necessary.
• Do not block the suction inlet/outlet/cooling vents. These vents permit cooling of the motor.
• Blockage should be carefully avoided; otherwise, the motor will burn out due to a lack of ventilation.
• Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer.
• Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs.
• Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
• Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact.
• If liquid contacts the eyes, additionally seek medical help.
• Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
• Do not use a battery pack or tool that is damaged or modified.
• Do not expose a battery pack or tool to fire or excessive temperature.
• Exposure to fire or temperature above 130 °C may cause an explosion.

Parts Description

1. Head unit
2. Float
3. Float cage
4. Cloth filter
5. Tank

Intended use

This appliance, the Makita VC2012L Dust Extractor Vacuum Cleaner, is designed to collect both wet and dry dust efficiently and is suitable for commercial use, including hotels, schools, hospitals, factories, shops, offices, and rental businesses.

Noise

The typical A-weighted noise level determined according to EN60335-2-69

Model VC001GL

• Sound pressure level (LpA: 70 dB(A) or less
• Uncertainty (K): 2.5 dB (A)

Model VC003GL

• Sound pressure level (LpA)  70 dB(A) or less
• Uncertainty (K):.5 dB(A)
• The noise level under working conditions may exceed 80 dB (A).

The declared noise emission value(s) have been measured in accordance with a standard test method and may be used for comparing one tool with another.

Wear Ear Protection

• The noise emission during actual use of the power tool can differ from the declared value(s) depending on the ways in which the tool is used, especially what kind of workpiece is processed.
• Be sure to identify safety measures to protect the operator that are based on an estimation of exposure in the actual conditions of use (taking account of all parts of the operating cycle, le such as the times when the tool is switched off and when it is running idle,  in addition to the trigger time).

Vibration

The vibration total value (tri-axial vector sum) is determined according to EN60335-2-69.

Model VC001GL

• Vibration emission (ah, M) 2.5 m/s2 or less
• Uncertainty (K):.5 m/s2

Model VC003GL

• Vibration emission (ah, M)  .5 m/s2 or less
• Uncertainty (K) 15 m/s2

The declared vibration total value(s) have been measured in accordance with a standard test method and may be used for comparing one tool with another. The declared vibration total value(s) may also be used in a preliminary assessment of exposure.

Functional Description

Installing or removing a battery cartridge

The Makita VC2012L Dust Extractor Vacuum Cleaner has double battery slots. With two identical batteries in parallel, you can extend its running time in one or more uses without having to stop to recharge. This vacuum cleaner also works with a single battery, so you can choose either a double battery or a single battery according to your needs.

1. Left battery slot
2. Right battery slot

With Double Batteries

• Continuous drive with two batteries allows longer runtime and more efficient cleaning. When the first battery is becoming empty, the cleaner automatically switches to a power source, so it continues working with the second battery.

With a Single Battery

• Only one battery is required as a power source in either the left or right battery slot. The cleaner automatically determines which battery slot is available according to operating conditions.

Installation and Uninstallation

• To install battery cartridges, release the lock first and open the battery cover. Then insert the battery cartridges.
  1. Lock
  2. Battery cover
• Align the tongues on the battery cartridges with the grooves in the battery housing and slip them into place. Insert them all the way until they lock in place with a little click. Then lock the battery cover.
  1. Battery cartridge
  2. Button

To remove the battery cartridges, slide them out of the battery housing while pressing and holding the buttons in front of the cartridges.

Indicating the Remaining Battery Capacity

Press the check button on the battery cartridge to indicate the remaining battery capacity. The indicator lamps light up for a few seconds.

1. Indicator lamps
2. Check button

Depending on the conditions of use and the ambient temperature, the indication may differ slightly from the actual capacity.

Battery Indicators on the Control Panel

The remaining battery capacity can be read on the control panel at any time. Press the check button, and the left and right indicators will show the battery charge levels correspondingly.

1. Battery indicators
2. Check button
   

The battery indicators will also be activated when the cleaner starts functioning or switches its power source from one to another.

Appliance/battery Protection System

The Makita VC2012L Dust Extractor Vacuum Cleaner is equipped with an appliance/battery protection system. This system automatically cuts off power to the motor to extend the vacuum cleaner’s and battery life. The appliance will automatically stop during operation if the appliance or battery is placed under one of the following conditions:

Overload protection

• When the appliance/battery is operated in a manner that causes it to draw an abnormally high current, the appliance automatically stops. In this situation, turn the appliance off and stop the application that caused the appliance to become overloaded. Then turn the appliance on to restart.

Overheat Protection

• When the appliance is overheated, the appliance stops automatically, and both left and right battery indicators blink. In this situation, let the appliance cool down before turning the appliance on again.   
• When the battery is overheated, the appliance stops automatically, and one of the indicators for an overheated battery blinks. In this situation, let the battery cool down before turning the appliance on again.

Overdischarge Protection

• When the battery capacity becomes low, the appliance stops automatically. If the appliance does not run along with the switch operation, remove the batteries from the appliance and recharge them.

Protections Against Other Causes

• The protection system is also designed for other causes that could damage the appliance, and allows the appliance to stop automatically.
• Take all the following steps to clear the causes when the appliance has been brought to a temporary halt or stopped in operation.
• Turn the appliance off, and then turn it on again to restart.
• Charge the battery(ies) or replace it/them with a recharged battery(ies).
• Let the appliance and battery(ies) cool down. If no improvement can be found by restoring the protection system, then contact your local Makita Service Center.

Switch Action

Turning cleaner on

1. 1. Turn the stand-by switch in the “I” (ON) position to have the cleaner ready in stand-by mode.
   2. Press the power button. To switch back to stand-by mode, press the power button again.

Turning Cleaner off

• Perform one of the following steps.
  • Press the power button to set the cleaner back in stand-by mode, and then turn the stand-by switch in the “O” (OFF) position.
  • Turn the stand-by switch in the “O” (OFF) position.

Adjusting suction power

• The suction power can be adjusted according to your work needs.
  • Turn the suction force adjusting knob to the left to reduce the suction power.
  • Turn the suction force adjusting knob to the right to increase the suction power.
    1. Stand-by switch
    2. Power button
    3. Suction force adjusting knob

Auto-Suction

The auto-suction stop feature works only while the cleaner is used with the float and float cage. The cleaner has a float mechanism that prevents water from entering the motor when picking up more than a certain amount of water. When the tank is full, and the cleaner no longer picks up water, switch off the cleaner and empty the tank.

Locking and Unlocking Casters

Rear casters can be locked with stoppers to help the cleaner stand still. Lower the stopper lever by hand to lock the caster, and raise it to release.

1. Caster
2. Stopper lever
3. Unlocked position
4. Locked position

Carriage Handle

When carrying the cleaner, carry it by holding the handle on the head unit. The handle is retractable on the
head unit when not in use.

Assembly

To use a powder filter

1. Loosen the screws securing the float cage, and then remove the screws, float cage, and float from the head unit.
   1. Screw
   2. Float cage
   3. Float
   4. Head unit
2. Remove the cloth filter from the tank.
   1. Cloth filter
   2. Tank
3. Place the prefilter into the tank, aligning the mounting position markings on the prefilter and tank.
4. Set the damper into the prefilter, and then place the powder filter over the damper, aligning the mounting position markings on the powder filter and prefilter.
5. Mount the head unit over the tank and secure it with the locking latches.
   1. Head unit
   2. Powder filter (HEPA)
   3. Damper
   4. Prefilter
   5. Tank
   6. Mounting position marking

Installing a Water Filter

To pick up water or wet dust only, the water filter is more
suitable for the cloth filter.
When installing the water filter, align its mounting position marking with the one on the tank.

1. Water filter
2. Tank
3. Mounting position marking

Installing Paper Pack

1. Unfold a paper pack.
2. Align the paper pack opening with the dust intake of the tank.
3. Install the paper pack into the tank with its cardboard opening hooked on the paper pack holder.
   1. Paper pack
   2. Cardboard opening
   3. Paper pack holder
   4. Dust intake

Installing a Polyethylene Bag

With a polyethylene bag installed in the tank, you can easily empty the tank without getting your hands dirty. Lay a polyethylene bag over the tank, and slip one side of the top edge of the bag at its open end in between the holder plate and the front wall of the tank.

1. Holder plate
2. Front wall of the tank
3. Polyethylene bag

Spread the other top edges of the bag outwards over the top rims of the tank. Place the cloth filter or prefilter over the polyethylene bag to secure the opening of the bag.

1. Cloth filter/prefilter

Emptying the Tank

Release the locking latches and lift the head unit off the tank. Shake off dust from the cloth filter or prefilter before lifting the filter away from the tank. Then remove the polyethylene bag from the tank, closing the opening of the bag by hand.

1. Polyethylene bag
2. Tank

Installing Multi Hook

• Use the multi-hook to hold a hose, accessories, and attachments not in use in place, and you can quickly take them out according to your preferences.
• Place the multi hook over the mounting base at the rear of the cleaner, setting the rails on the multi hook along the grooves on the mounting base.
  1. Multi hook
  2. Mounting base

Installing the MAKPAC adapter

Connectable and stackable MAKPAC storage cases can be installed on top of the cleaner with an optional adapter. The cases are available in many sizes and styles to suit your preferences.

• Place the mounting base hook over the handle of the cleaner with its mounting surface facing upwards when the handle is folded into the closed position.
  1. Mounting base hook
  2. Mounting surface
  3. Handle
• Mount the MAKPAC adapter onto the mounting base hook, and secure it together with the four screws provided.
  1. MAKPAC adapter
  2. Mounting base hook
  3. Screw
• Lift the push bar and tighten the knob to prepare for installing the MAKPAC cases onto the cleaner.
  1. Push bar
  2. Knob

Installing hose

• Insert the hose end into the dust intake (hose inlet) of the cleaner, then turn it clockwise until it locks in place.
  1. Hose 2.
  2. Dust intake (hose inlet)

Connections with your Work Tools

• By connecting the vacuum cleaner to any available work tools compatible with the cleaner, such as the Makita SN400MP Snow Blower Attachment, it works as a dust extractor for your power tools. For example, the Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner can be connected to tools like the Makita RP0900 8mm 900W Plunge Router using the dedicated hose and/or additional parts. Depending on your cleaner model, you may need to replace the hose or prepare extra parts. Select one of the front cuffs or joints (optional accessories) as most suitable for your tool model. Place the cuffs or joint, as necessary, between the front end of the cleaner hose and a dust extraction port of your tool.
  1. Front cuffs or joints
  2. Cleaner hose
  3. Power tool
  4. Vacuum cleaner

Installing or Removing

Attaching the bent pipe assembly

Optional accessory

The bent pipe assembly is used for connecting the Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner to the extension wand or nozzle for vacuum cleaning to this product. If you want to use this product as a vacuum cleaner, attach the bent pipe assembly to the hose.

For the screw-in type bent pipe assembly

• To attach, unscrew the front cuff from the hose and fasten the sleeve of the bent pipe assembly onto the hose. To remove, loosen the sleeve of the Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner bent pipe assembly from the hose.
  1. Hose
  2. Bent pipe assembly
  3. Sleeve

For the snap-on type bent pipe assembly

• To attach, insert the hose end into the bent pipe Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner assembly. Make sure that the tabs on the hose end snap into the holes on the bent pipe assembly. To remove, pull the bent pipe assembly while pressing both of the tabs on the hose end.
  1. Hose end
  2. Tab
  3. Hole
  4. Bent pipe assembly

Attachments without a lock function

Insert an attachment into the suction inlet of the Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner the cleaner by pushing and hand screwing it in place. Hand twist and pull the attachment apart from the suction inlet after use.

Attachments with a Lock Lunction

Insert an attachment into the suction inlet of the cleaner by pushing it together with a click. To remove the attachment, pull it off while pushing the release button.

1. Suction inlet with lock function
2. Release button
3. Attachment with a lock function

1. Attachment witha  lock function
2. Suction inlet with lock function
3. Suction inlet without lock function

Assembling the Nozzle and the Wand

Twist and insert the nozzle into the extension Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner wand.

1. Extension wand
2. Flexible rubber nozzle
3. Corner nozzle
4. T-shape nozzle

When using the floor/carpet switching t-nozzle, you can change the mode depending on the place.

• Floor mode: suitable for a smooth place, such as a hard floor
• Carpet mode: suitable for a shaggy place such as a carpet or a rug.
  1. Mode switching button 2.
  2. Floor mode
  3. Carpet mode

Adjusting the Lengths

A slide-type extension wand can be combined with the Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner for shorter and longer lengths. It allows for cleaning hard-to-reach areas and comfortable positioning options. Pull in and out the slide pipe to change wand lengths while pressing and holding the slide button. Release the slide button to lock the slide pipe in your desired position.

1. Slide pipe
2. Slide button

Maintainance

To maintain product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs, any other maintenance, or adjustment should be performed by Makita Authorized or Factory Service Centers, always using Makita replacement parts.

Storage of Accessories

Accessories and attachments not in use, such as nozzles and brushes, can be hooked and stored in the multi-hook at the rear of the cleaner.

1. Multi hook

Accessories and attachments not in use. Pipes Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner (with an optional stopper installed) can be placed into the pipe holder when not using the cleaner for a short time.

1.  Stopper (optional accessory)
2. Pipe holder

A hose can be wrapped and stored around the housing or handle of the cleaner in large loops. Connect both ends together to make loops and hook the loops onto the handle. Alternatively, keep its root end installed in the hose inlet and hang the loops on the multi-hook with the loose end tied up.

Cleaning of the Cloth Filter

Clean out the cloth filter at regular intervals since a Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner clogged cloth filter may result in poor suction performance. Wipe and shake dust off the cloth filter by hand on occasion.

1.  Cloth filter

Cleaning of the Powder filter (HEPA) and Prefilter

Clean out the powder filter, prefilter, and damper Makita VC001GL Cordless Vacuum Cleaner at regular intervals since clogged filters and damper may result in poor suction performance. Routinely wipe and shake dust off filters and dampers by hand. Occasionally, wash the powder filter in water, rinse, and dry thoroughly in the shade before use. Never wash filters in a washing machine.

Specifications

Model:		VC001GL	VC003GL
Standard filter type		Cloth filter (for dry and wet dust)
Maximum air volume at the end of the hose (with BL4040, ø32 mm x 1.7 m hose)		2.7 m3/min
Maximum air volume at turbine (with BL4040)		4.2 m3/min
Vacuum (with BL4040)		23 kPa
Recoverable capacity	Dust	8 L	15 L
	Water	6 L	12 L
Dimensions (L x W x H)		366 mm x 334 mm x 425 mm	366 mm x 334 mm x 475 mm
Rated voltage		D.C. 36 V – 40 V max
Net weight		8.1 – 11.2 kg	8.4 – 11.5 kg
Protection degree		IPX4

• Due to our continuing program of research and development, the specifications herein are subject to change without notice.
• Specifications and battery cartridges may vary by country.
• The weight does not include accessories, but battery cartridge(s). The lightest and heaviest combination weight of the appliance and battery cartridge(s) is shown in the table.
• For wet dust, the float and the water filter, or the other filter, are required.

Applicable Battery Cartridge and Charger

Battery cartridge	BL4020 / BL4025 / BL4040* / BL4040F* / BL4050F* / BL4080F* *: Recommended battery
Charger	DC40RA / DC40RB / DC40RC / DC40WA

Optional Accessories

Some accessories may not be installed according to the combination of parts. If you need any assistance for more details regarding these accessories, ask your local Makita Service Center.

• Hose
• Front cuffs (22, 24, 38)
• Straight pipe
• Extension wand
• Corner nozzle
• Round brush
• Powder filter, HEPA (for dry dust)
• Damper
• Prefilter
• Water filter
• Cloth filter
• T-shape nozzle
• Bent pipe
• Polyethylene bag
• Paper pack
• MAKPAC adapter
• Makita genuine battery and charger

Customer Service

• Website: https://www.makitauk.com/
• Ph: 1-800-462-5482

FAQs

Q: What is the Makita VC2012L designed for?

For heavy-duty dust collection in workshops, building sites, and industrial settings, the VC2012L is a portable dust extractor. It efficiently collects wood chips, fine dust, and other debris while shielding users from dangerous particles.

Q: What type of dust can it handle?

Small debris and dry dust can be cleaned with this hoover. It works particularly well with wood shavings, fine sawdust, and ordinary workshop dust. For wet materials, it is not advised unless the proper accessories are used.

Q: Can I use the VC2012L with power tools?

Indeed! With compatible tools, the hoover can start and stop thanks to its power tool trigger connection automatically. For ongoing dust extraction during cutting or sanding operations, this is perfect.

Q: Is the VC2012L portable?

Indeed. The Hoover is portable thanks to its small size and large rear wheels. The handle makes it possible to navigate stairs or uneven workshop floors.

Q: How much noise does it produce?

Compared to many industrial vacuums, the VC2012L is comparatively quiet, operating at about 66 to 70 dB(A). Hearing protection may still be necessary when using it in confined areas.

Q: Can I use it for fine dust like drywall or cement?

It is capable of handling fine dust. To guarantee safety and adherence to regional laws, use a certified HEPA filter accessory whenever dealing with extremely fine or dangerous dust.

Q: Is the vacuum energy-efficient?

Indeed, the VC2012L is made for effective suction with low power consumption, which makes it perfect for prolonged use without incurring excessive electricity costs.

Q: Are replacement parts available?

Makita offers hoses, filters, and other accessories for replacement. To preserve performance and warranty coverage, only use authentic Makita parts.