KaiVac® 1200 Series Operator and Parts Manual
Serial #s 1220-47 on
1250-763 on

© 2007 Kaivac, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Read First
INSTALL DATE
Please fill out card for future records
Install date__________________
Serial No.___________________
Read this manual prior to operation.
This machine will operate at its optimal efficiency if:
- The machine is operated as described in this manual.
- The machine is maintained properly and regularly-per maintenance instructions.
- The machine is maintained with manufacturer parts only.
Carefully unpack and inspect your new KaiVac cleaning machine for shipping damage. Each unit is tested and thoroughly inspected before shipping. For instructions regarding shipping damage, contact Kaivac, Inc. immediately. All returns must have a Return Authorization Number (RAN), which is available by calling the Kaivac, Inc. Customer Service Department. Remember to protect your investment by registering your Warranty online at www.kaivac.com or mailing/faxing in the form on page ii.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Getting Started
| Topic | Page |
|---|---|
| Limited Warranty Protection Plan | i |
| Warranty Registration Form | ii |
| Introduction | 1 |
| Safety Precautions | 2-3 |
Operating your KaiVac
| Topic | Page |
|---|---|
| Out of Box Setup Instructions | 4 |
| Vac Tank Horn Instructions | 4.5 |
| Preparing your KaiVac for use | 5 |
| Operating your KaiVac using the S-I-M-P-L-E Process | 6 |
Maintaining your KaiVac
| Topic | Page |
|---|---|
| Machine Maintenance | 7 |
| Black Box Removal Instructions | 9 |
| Troubleshooting | 10-12 |
| Machine Diagrams | 13-21 |
| Parts Listings | 22-25 |
© 2007 Kaivac, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Limited Warranty Protection Plan
The KaiVac has been engineered and tested to provide long lasting performance. This warranty covers defects in workmanship or materials under normal use and service from the date of purchase.
Kaivac, Inc. warrants the following components to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for these time periods:
- Extended Warranty for end users who use only Kaivac chemicals for the life of the machine.
- 5 years on rotationally molded parts
- 3 years on other parts (excluding wear items)
- 1 year on labor
- Standard Warranty (for approved non-Kaivac chemicals)
- 1 year parts and labor
- Chemicals that have not been approved by Kaivac. (If uncertain, please call Kaivac to check.)
- No warranty
All KaiVac replacement parts are guaranteed for 90 days from the date of installation. Normal wear items such as wheels, hoses, seals, gaskets, cords, casters, squeegees and GFCI are excluded from warranty coverage.
All warranty claims must be accompanied by a Return Authorization Number (RAN), which is available by calling the Kaivac, Inc. Customer Service Department. No returns will be accepted without a RAN.
This warranty does not apply to return freight costs, damage or defect caused by accident, negligence, misuse, fire or repair done by anyone other than a Kaivac authorized repair center. In no event shall Kaivac, Inc. be liable for incidental or consequential damages, or any damages to persons or property.
Please Note: Under no circumstances will the seller be liable for any loss, damage, expenses or consequential damages arising in connection with the use or inability to use seller’s product. Kaivac, Inc. reserves the right to make changes or improvements to its equipment without notice. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages. This warranty is in lieu of any other warranty expressed or implied, including any warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
Warranty Registration Form
To be completed and mailed or faxed by the customer purchasing equipment. Return this warranty card within ten days of purchase.
Purchased By:
Name ________ Title ________
Company ________
Street Address ________
City ________ State ________ Zip Code ________
Phone Number ________ Fax ________
Date Purchased ___/___/___ Name of Distributor ________
I would like to receive updated information Yes ____ No ____
Email address: ________
- ☐ KaiVac® 1550 (KaiZen™)
- ☐ KaiVac® 1750
- ☐ KaiVac® 1220
- ☐ KaiVac® 1720
- ☐ KaiVac® 2150
- ☐ KaiVac® 1250
Serial Number ________
Type of Business
- ☐ School/University
- ☐ Hospital/Health Care
- ☐ Contract Cleaner
- ☐ Industrial
- ☐ Office
- ☐ Other ________
Intended Uses (check all that apply):
- ☐ Restroom Cleaning
- ☐ Floor Stripping
- ☐ Kitchen Cleaning
- ☐ Carpet Extraction
- ☐ Cleaning Around Machinery
- ☐ Stairwell Cleaning
- ☐ Locker and Shower Room
- ☐ Hallway Cleaning
- ☐ Classroom Cleaning
- ☐ Other ________
Thank you for registering for our warranty program. As our way of saying thanks, we'd like to send you a free microfiber KaiTowel™.
Please return completed forms to:
Kaivac, Inc.
401 S. Third Street
Hamilton, OH 45011
Or Fax to: (513) 887-4601
© 2006 Kaivac, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Introduction
Inspection
Carefully unpack and inspect your new KaiVac cleaning machine for shipping damage. Each unit is tested and thoroughly inspected before shipping. For instructions regarding any shipping damage, contact Kaivac, Inc. immediately. All returns must have a Return Authorization Number (RAN), which is available by calling the Kaivac, Inc. Customer Service Department.
Warnings
DO NOT operate without a functional Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI).
DO NOT operate with a frayed, worn or damaged electrical cord.
DO NOT use to pick up flammable or combustible materials.
DO NOT run the pump without water in the water tank.
DO NOT use hot water.
DO NOT remove the float shutoff.
ALWAYS test chemicals for compatibility on surfaces to be cleaned.
ALWAYS winterize your Kaivac equipment between uses if it will be exposed to freezing temperatures.
Grounding Instructions
THE KAIVAC MUST BE GROUNDED. If it should malfunction or stop working, grounding provides a path of least resistance for the electrical current and reduces the risk of electrical shock. The KaiVac is equipped with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to further reduce danger of electric shock. It must be maintained and tested regularly. An equipment grounding cord and plug is included with the unit. The plug must be inserted in an appropriate outlet that has been properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances. Cutting off the ground wire or using a cord with an ungrounded plug will void the warranty on the unit, and Kaivac, Inc. will NOT accept responsibility for the unit.
Improper connection of the equipment grounding cord can result in the risk of electrical shock. Ask a qualified electrician or service person to check the outlet grounding if you are unsure. Do not modify the plug provided with the KaiVac. If it will not fit the outlet, have a properly grounded outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
Safety Precautions
Equipment Warning
- Read all instructions to ensure safe operation of the KaiVac.
Training
- Proper training is required before using the KaiVac. Contact your authorized Kaivac distributor for training information.
- Instruction placards are attached to each KaiVac and should not be removed.
- These placards show proper cleaning procedures and safety precautions.
Equipment Use
- Use the equipment for the purposes specified by the manufacturer. Do not use the equipment for any other purpose.
- See the S-I-M-P-L-E operation section for proper use of equipment.
Spray Gun
- Never point the spray gun at people.
Prevention of Electrocution
- Use the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) with the KaiVac at all times.
- Test the GFCI before each use.
- Do not spray liquid from the KaiVac onto electrical outlets or on any electrical devices.
Personal Protection
- Wear gloves, eye protection and ear protection when operating the KaiVac.
Machine Integrity
- Do not run the pump dry. This will void the machine warranty.
- Do not run hot water through the pump. This can cause pump cavitation and will void the warranty.
- Always be sure the water tank and water line filters are clear of debris. Running the pump with clogged filters can cause pump damage.
- Replace any damaged cords before use.
Winterize Your Kaivac Equipment
- Your Kaivac machinery should be winterized between uses if it is to be exposed to freezing temperatures.
- To winterize your machine:
- Pour 1/2 gallon of windshield wiper fluid into the empty water tank.
- Aim the spray gun into the water tank.
- Run the pump and spray the gun until the fluid begins running through.
Chemical use
- Only use chemicals approved for use with the KaiVac. Use of non-Kaivac chemicals may cause machine damage and will reduce warranty periods. Turn chemical line off when not in use.
- Keep the appropriate chemical MSDS on hand at all times.
- Cleaning chemicals should not be put in the water tank (with the exception of KaiDri in small amounts). Chemicals in the water tank can harm operator and machine because:
- Chemicals in the water tank must pass through the pump, which may cause premature pump failure.
- Use of chemicals in the water tank voids the warranty.
- Chemicals in the water tank will be aerosolized and may harm the operator.
Electrical
- Connect to a properly grounded outlet only.
- Do not pull the KaiVac by the cord or use the cord as a handle.
- Do not close a door on the cord or pull the cord around sharp edges or corners.
- Do not run over the cord.
- Keep the cord away from heated surfaces.
- Turn off the unit before unplugging.
- Do not pull on the cord to unplug. Grasp the plug at the outlet and pull.
Prevention of Water Damage to Buildings
The KaiVac is to be used on water resistant building surfaces only. These include concrete, terrazzo, ceramic tile and quarry tile.
The KaiVac may be used for stripping on vinyl composite tile floors, but daily cleaning of resilient flooring using the KaiVac is not recommended.
Never overflow the water tank or the vacuum recovery tank.
Discontinue use if any leaks occur in the KaiVac.
Out of Box Setup Instructions
- Remove vac wand sections from the sides of machine and attach together until locking pin engages as shown.

1 - After removing machine from container, attach the plastic elbow to the vac tank as shown above.

2 - SMALL HOSE CUFF
Attach vac motor hose to barb and vac motor inlet as shown above.
3 - Remove the tools from the vac tank and place them in the appropriate locations as shown above.

4 - Place the brush head onto the telescoping handle located on the left side of machine as shown above.

5 - Make sure all tools are removed from vac tank and replace vac lid on vac tank as shown above. Place tools in tote bag and hang bag over nose of machine.

6
1200 Series Vac Tank Horn Operation

- Connect the vacuum wand and slinky hose together.

- Rotate the horn assembly so that it is now pointing towards the front of the machine.

- Place hand behind vac hose and slide forward off of horn onto floor.

- Once hose is off and on floor turn on vac motor and proceed extracting.
Preparing your KaiVac for use
- Fill machine with clean, cool water.

Step 1 - Prepare the cleaning solution you will be using by attaching the chemical feed line and cap to the top of your chemical bottle and selecting the proper metering tip. (See placards for metering tip information.)

Step 2 - Check machine for all tools and supplies needed to complete task.

Step 3 - Check all hoses and spray lines for damage prior to use. If damage is found, do not continue until proper repairs are completed.

Step 4 - Plug in machine and test GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) to ensure it is working properly. You are now ready.

Step 5
S.I.M.P.L.E. No-Touch Cleaning Process
Set-up

Inject chemicals

Manual brush (optional)

Pressure wash and rinse

Loop spray line

Extract and dry

© 2007 Kaivac, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Machine Maintenance
| Item | Procedure |
|---|---|
| Floor Squeegee |
|
| Spray Gun |
|
| Pressure Hose |
|
| Water Tank |
|
| Vacuum Tank |
|
| Leaks |
|
| Electrical System |
|
Black Box Removal Instructions
- Remove all hoses, cords, and tools prior to black box removal.

1 - Laying the machine on its back remove the four yellow wingbolts as shown above.

2 - Placing your foot on one of the two handles, tilt the yellow tanks upward until standing upright.

3 - Locate and disconnect the water line and return line behind the black box on the machine.

4
Troubleshooting
| Area | Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical | No power to pump or vac motor. |
|
|
| Electrical burning smell. |
|
| |
| Vacuum System | No/Weak vacuum. |
|
|
| Moisture from exhaust. |
|
| |
| Blow Dry System | No air flow. |
|
|
| Moisture from nozzle. |
|
| |
| Suction, not blow action. |
|
| |
| DVD System (optional) | No power. |
|
|
| No picture. |
|
| |
| No audio. |
|
|
Troubleshooting
| Area | Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Pressure System | No water from pump or low pressure. | 1. Out of water. 2. Gun nozzle plugged. 3. Air in pump (vapor lock). 4. Gun orifice missing. 5. Water tank filter plugged. 6. In-line bowl filter plugged. 7. Bowl filter lid loose. 8. Pressure hose damaged. 9. Quick disconnect leaking. 10. Injector plugged. 11. Pulse hose damaged. 12. Regulator failed. 13. Hose kinked. 14. Seals in pump need replaced. | 1. Fill water tank. 2. Remove orifice with Allen wrench and clean. 3. Use power prime technique. 4. Replace orifice. 5. Clean tank and filter. 6. Remove filter cover and clean. 7. Gently tighten bowl cover. 8. Repair or replace. 9. Tighten or replace. 10. Remove safety cap from chemical and blow small amounts of compressed air into line. 11. Repair or replace. 12. Replace. 13. Unkink and check for damage 14. Remove and replace seals. |
| Bad fan pattern or pinpoint pattern on gun. | 1. Debris in nozzle. 2. Orifice damaged. | 1. Remove orifice with Allen wrench and clean. 2. Remove and replace. | |
| Chemical Injection System | No chemical flow. | 1. Out of chemical. 2. Safety cap not secure. 3. Chemical valve "off." 4. Safety cap plugged. 5. Spray gun in wrong mode. 6. Metering tip plugged. 7. Injector plugged. 8. Air entering system. 9. Injector installed backwards. | 1. Refill chemical. 2. Check safety cap / tighten. 3. Check on / off valve. 4. Replace cap. 5. Make sure gun nozzle is pulled out away from gun chemical mode. 6. Check metering tip for clog. 7. Remove safety cap from chemical and blow small amounts of compressed air into line. 8. Check for air entering system around chemical lines or injector. 9. If fluttering or pulsing sound can be heard while spraying or when machine is running it is possible that your injector is in backwards. Remove and reinstall. |
Troubleshooting
| Area | Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Injection System Cont'd. | Not enough chemical flow. |
|
|
| Chemical line blows off safety cap. |
|
| |
| Water backflows into chemical bottle. |
|
| |
| Dump System | Dump hose will not empty tank. |
|
|
| Dump hose leaks. |
|
| |
| Wheels and Casters | Wheels won’t roll, or they rub. |
|
|
| Squeegee Head | Floor streaks. |
|
|
| Squeegee head doesn’t easily rotate when installed on wand. |
|
| |
| Head won’t stay on wand. |
|
| |
| Premature blade wear. |
|
| |
| Sucks to the floor too tightly. |
|
|
Wiring Diagram Kaivac 1200 series
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| RD | RED |
| BL | BLUE |
| BK | BLACK |
| W | WHITE |
| G | GREEN |
| GFCI | GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER |

© 2007 Kaivac, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Tool Arrangement
Front Right View

Rear Left View

Overhead View

Bottom View

DryVac Complete (DRYVAC) See Page 21.5
© 2007 Kaivac, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Kaivac and KaiVac are trademarks of Kaivac, Inc. Southeastern Equipment & Supply is an independent dealer.