1. Introduction
The CADPXS Shield-550 is a robust negative air machine and HEPA air scrubber designed for commercial and heavy-duty use. It effectively purifies air by removing airborne particles and odors, making it ideal for various environments including home renovations, construction sites, and water or fire damage restoration projects. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation and maintenance of your Shield-550 unit.
2. Safety Information
Always read and understand all instructions before operating the unit. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.
- Electrical Safety: Ensure the unit is connected to a properly grounded outlet. Do not operate with a damaged cord or plug.
- Placement: Place the unit on a stable, level surface. Do not block air intake or exhaust.
- Environmental Conditions: This product is designed for indoor use. Do not expose to rain or water.
- Filter Maintenance: Always unplug the unit before changing filters.
- California Notice: This product does not meet California air cleaner regulation requirements and cannot be shipped to California. It is compliant with EPA standards for sale in other regions.
3. Product Overview
The CADPXS Shield-550 features a durable roto-molded housing and a multi-stage filtration system to ensure optimal air purification.
Components:
- Air Intake: Where contaminated air enters the unit.
- Filtration System: Consists of a MERV-10 pre-filter, a HEPA filter, and an activated carbon filter.
- Air Outlet: Where purified air is released.
- Control Panel: Houses the power switch, variable speed control, hour meter, and filter indicator.
- Auxiliary Outlet: Allows for daisy-chaining multiple units.
- Ergonomic Handle: For easy transport.
Control Panel Features:

Figure 1: Control Panel of the Shield-550. Features include variable speed control, hour meter, reset button, HEPA filter light indicator, and GFCI port.
- Variable Speed Control: Adjusts airflow from minimum to maximum.
- Hour Meter: Tracks total operating hours for maintenance scheduling.
- Reset Button: For resetting the circuit breaker.
- Change HEPA Filter Light Indicator: Illuminates when the HEPA filter needs replacement.
- Auxiliary Outlet (GFCI Protected): For connecting additional units or equipment.
4. Setup
Before initial use, ensure all packaging materials are removed and the unit is inspected for any damage.
- Unpack the Unit: Carefully remove the Shield-550 from its packaging.
- Positioning: Place the air scrubber in the desired location. It can be operated horizontally or vertically. Ensure adequate space around the intake and exhaust for optimal airflow.
- Power Connection: Plug the unit into a standard 115V, 60Hz grounded electrical outlet.
- Filter Installation: Verify that all three filters (MERV-10 pre-filter, HEPA filter, and activated carbon filter) are correctly installed inside the unit. Refer to the Maintenance section for detailed filter installation instructions.

Figure 2: The CADPXS Shield-550 Air Scrubber ready for operation.
5. Operating Instructions
Operating the CADPXS Shield-550 is straightforward. Follow these steps for effective air purification.
- Power On: Turn the variable speed control knob clockwise from the "OFF" position to the desired speed setting. The unit will begin operating.
- Adjust Airflow: Rotate the variable speed knob to increase (towards MAX) or decrease (towards MIN) the airflow as needed for your environment. The unit provides an airflow of up to 550 CFM, suitable for areas up to 800 square feet.
- Monitoring: The hour meter on the control panel will display the accumulated operating time. The "Change HEPA Filter" light will illuminate when filter replacement is due.
- Daisy-Chaining (Optional): For larger areas or increased airflow, multiple Shield-550 units can be daisy-chained using the auxiliary outlet. Ensure the total amperage does not exceed 10 amps when units are off, and 9 amps when on.
- Power Off: Turn the variable speed control knob counter-clockwise to the "OFF" position to power down the unit.
Video 1: Demonstrates the operation and features of the CADPXS Shield-550 Air Scrubber, including its filtration process and control panel.
Video 2: Provides a visual overview of the CADPXS HEPA Air Scrubber S-550 in a commercial setting, highlighting its design and functionality.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and efficiency of your CADPXS Shield-550. The primary maintenance task is filter replacement.
Filtration System:
The Shield-550 utilizes a 3-stage filtration system:
- 1. MERV-10 Pre-Filter: Captures larger particles like dust, lint, and hair, protecting the subsequent filters.
- 2. HEPA Filter: Blocks 99.97% of particles 0.3 micrometers or larger, including fine dust, pollen, and mold spores.
- 3. Activated Carbon Filter: Eliminates odors from paint, smoke, cooking, and VOCs.

Figure 3: Diagram illustrating the three layers of filtration: MERV-10 Pre-Filter, HEPA Filter, and Carbon Filter.
Filter Replacement:
The "Change HEPA Filter" light on the control panel indicates when the HEPA filter needs replacement. It is recommended to check and replace the pre-filter more frequently, depending on the environment's dustiness.
- Power Off and Unplug: Always turn off and unplug the unit before attempting any filter maintenance.
- Open Filter Compartment: Unlatch the two metal clips on the side of the unit and open the filter access panel.
- Remove Old Filters: Carefully remove the used filters, starting with the pre-filter, then the HEPA filter, and finally the carbon filter. Dispose of them according to local regulations.
- Install New Filters: Insert the new filters in the correct order: first the carbon filter, then the HEPA filter, and finally the MERV-10 pre-filter. Ensure they are seated properly.
- Close Panel: Close the filter access panel and secure the metal latches.
- Reset Indicator: Press the "RESET" button on the control panel to clear the filter change indicator.

Figure 4: The Shield-550 with its filter compartment open, showing the internal filters.
Video 3: Instructions on how to change the filters and reset the indicator light on the CADPXS Shield-550.
Video 4: Detailed visual guide on replacing CADPXS Air Scrubber Filters.
7. Troubleshooting
If your CADPXS Shield-550 is not operating as expected, refer to the common issues and solutions below.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unit does not power on. | No power supply; Circuit breaker tripped. | Check power cord connection and outlet. Press the RESET button on the control panel. |
| Reduced airflow. | Clogged filters; Blocked intake/exhaust. | Inspect and replace filters if necessary. Clear any obstructions from intake and exhaust. |
| "Change HEPA Filter" light is on. | HEPA filter needs replacement. | Replace the HEPA filter and reset the indicator. |
| Unusual noise during operation. | Loose components; Foreign object in fan. | Turn off and unplug the unit. Inspect for loose parts or obstructions. If problem persists, contact customer support. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | Shield 550 |
| Brand | CADPXS |
| Product Dimensions | 15.2"D x 25"W x 14.2"H |
| Weight | 33.5 Pounds |
| Color | Grey |
| Floor Area Coverage | 800 Square Feet |
| Airflow (CFM) | 550 CFM |
| Wattage | 288 watts |
| Certification | ETL Certified |

Figure 5: Visual representation of the dimensions and weight of the CADPXS Shield-550.
9. Warranty and Support
CADPXS stands behind the quality of its products. Your satisfaction is our priority.
- Warranty: CADPXS offers a 10-year limited service warranty on the Shield-550.
- Customer Support: If you experience any issues with your unit or have questions, please reach out to our dedicated support team. We are committed to providing prompt assistance to resolve your problems.
- User Manual (PDF): For a downloadable version of this manual, please refer to the Official User Manual PDF.





