Black & Decker GWC3600L Cordless Sweeper/Blower Vac User Manual

Intended Use

This Black & Decker cordless sweeper is designed for leaf clearing. It is intended for consumer and outdoor use only.

Safety Warnings

General Appliance Safety Warnings

⚠ Warning! When using mains-powered/cordless appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, personal injury, and material damage.

• Read this manual carefully before use and familiarize yourself with controls and proper use.
• The intended use is described in this manual. Using unauthorized accessories or operations may cause personal injury.
• The term "appliance" refers to both corded and cordless models.
• Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.

Using Your Appliance

• Always take care when using the appliance.
• Keep the work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
• Only use in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate in explosive atmospheres (flammable liquids, gases, dust).
• Never allow children or unfamiliar persons to use the appliance.
• Keep children and animals away from the work area and power cord.
• Keep bystanders and animals away while operating; distractions can cause loss of control.
• The appliance is not a toy.
• Do not immerse in water.
• Do not open the casing; no user-serviceable parts inside.

Personal Safety

• Stay alert, use common sense. Do not use when tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) where required, such as eye protection, dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, or hearing protection.
• Prevent unintentional starting: ensure the switch is OFF before connecting to power or battery, picking up, or carrying.
• Do not overreach; maintain proper footing and balance.
• Dress properly: avoid loose clothing or jewelry. Keep hair, clothing, and gloves away from moving parts.

Appliance Use and Care

• Before use, check for damaged or defective parts.
• Do not use if the switch does not operate correctly; such appliances are dangerous and must be repaired.
• Disconnect power/battery before making adjustments, changing accessories, or storing.
• Keep cutting tools sharp and clean (if applicable).
• Do not use if any part is damaged or defective.
• Have damaged/defective parts repaired or replaced by an authorized repair agent.
• Never attempt to replace parts other than those specified in this manual.

Electrical Safety

• Appliance plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug.
• Do not use adapter plugs with earthed appliances.
• Do not expose the appliance to rain or wet conditions.
• Do not abuse the cord; never use it for carrying, pulling, or unplugging. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts.
• When operating outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use.
• If operating in a damp location is unavoidable, use a Residual Current Device (RCD) protected supply.

After Use

• Store in a dry, well-ventilated place out of reach of children.
• Ensure children do not access stored appliances.
• Secure in a vehicle during transport to prevent movement.

Service

• Service by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts.

Additional Safety Instructions for Blow Vacs

• Wear heavy-duty footwear and long trousers for foot and leg protection.
• Always switch off, allow the fan to stop, and remove the battery/plug when:
  • The supply cable is damaged or entangled.
  • You leave the product unattended.
  • Performing checks, adjustments, cleaning, or maintenance.
  • The appliance vibrates abnormally.
• Do not place the inlet or outlet near eyes or ears. Never blow debris towards bystanders.
• Do not use in rain or leave outdoors while it is raining.
• Do not cross gravel paths or roads while switched on (blow mode). Walk, do not run.
• Do not place the unit down on gravel while switched on.
• Always ensure good footing, especially on slopes. Do not overreach.
• Do not place objects into openings; keep them clear of hair, lint, dust, and anything that may reduce airflow.
• Always use the product upright. Never run it on its side or upside down.
• The operator is responsible for accidents to others or their property.
• Do not carry the appliance by the cable.
• Always direct the cable away from the appliance.
• If the cord becomes damaged, disconnect the supply cord immediately. Do not touch the supply cord before disconnecting.
• Do not use solvents or cleaning fluids. Use a blunt scraper for grass and dirt.
• Replacement fans are available from a Black & Decker service agent. Use only recommended spare parts and accessories.
• Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight for safe working condition.

Safety of Others

• 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 supervised by a responsible person.
• Supervise children to ensure they do not play with the appliance.

Residual Risks

Even with safety regulations, residual risks exist:

• Injuries from touching rotating/moving parts.
• Injuries when changing parts, blades, or accessories.
• Injuries from prolonged use (take regular breaks).
• Impairment of hearing.
• Health hazards from breathing dust (e.g., wood dust).

Labels on Appliance

The following pictograms are shown on the tool:

• ⚠ Warning! Read the manual prior to operation.
• 🔍 Wear suitable ear protection when operating this appliance.
• 💧 Do not expose the tool to rain or high humidity or leave outdoors while it is raining.
• ▲ Switch the tool off. Before performing any maintenance, remove the battery.
• 👤 Keep people and animals at least 6 m away from the work area.
• 👤 Keep bystanders away.
• 87 dB: Directive 2000/14/EC guaranteed sound power.

Additional Safety Instructions for Batteries and Chargers

Batteries

• Never attempt to open for any reason.
• Do not expose the battery to water or heat.
• Do not store where temperature may exceed 40 °C.
• Charge only at ambient temperatures between 10 °C and 40 °C.
• Charge only using the provided charger. Using the wrong charger could result in electric shock or overheating.
• When disposing of batteries, follow "Protecting the environment" section.
• Do not damage/deform the battery pack (risk of injury/fire). Do not charge damaged batteries.
• In case of battery leakage, wipe with a cloth, avoid skin contact.
• If skin/eye contact occurs, rinse immediately with water and seek medical attention.

Chargers

• Do not attempt to charge damaged batteries.
• Check that the mains voltage corresponds to the rating plate.
• Never replace the charger unit with a regular mains plug.
• Use your Black & Decker charger only with the supplied battery/tool.
• Never attempt to charge non-rechargeable batteries.
• If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or an authorized service center.
• Do not expose the charger to water.
• Do not open the charger.
• Do not probe the charger.
• The appliance/tool/battery must be placed in a well-ventilated area when charging.
• The charger is intended for indoor use only.
• Read the instruction manual before use.

Electrical Safety (Charger)

Your charger is double insulated; no earth wire is required. Always check that the mains voltage corresponds to the voltage on the rating plate. Never attempt to replace the charger unit with a regular mains plug.

Features

1. Blow tube
2. Vac tube
3. Collection bag
4. Blow/Vac switch
5. On/Off switch
6. Power commander
7. Battery
8. Feet

Assembly

⚠ Warning! Before assembly, ensure the appliance is switched off and the battery is removed.

⚠ Warning! Always wear protective gloves when working with your cordless sweeper.

Blow Tube Assembly (Fig. A)

The blow tube (1) must be assembled before use.

• Align the latches (9) on the side of the blow tubes (1).
• Push the blow tube (1) firmly into each other until the latches (9) click into place.

Note: The tubes should not be separated once assembled.

Vac Tube Assembly (Fig. B)

The vac tube (2) must be assembled before use.

• Align the latches (10) on the side of the vac tube (2).
• Push the vac tube (2) firmly into each other until the latches (10) click into place.

Note: The tubes should not be separated once assembled.

Fitting and Removing the Battery (Fig. C)

• To fit the battery (7), align it with the receptacle on the tool. Slide the battery into the receptacle and push until it snaps into place.
• To remove the battery, push the release button (11) while simultaneously pulling the battery out of the receptacle.

Use

⚠ Warning! Let the tool work at its own pace. Do not overload.

Charging the Battery (Fig. D)

The battery needs to be charged before first use and whenever it fails to produce sufficient power. The battery may become warm while charging; this is normal.

⚠ Warning! Do not charge the battery at ambient temperatures below 10 °C or above 40 °C. Recommended charging temperature: approx. 24 °C.

Note: The charger will not charge a battery if the cell temperature is below approximately 0 °C or above 40 °C. The battery will begin to charge automatically when the cell temperature warms up or cools down.

• To charge the battery (7), insert it into the charger (12). The battery fits only one way; do not force. Ensure it is fully seated.
• Plug in the charger and switch on at the mains. The charging indicator (13) will flash green continuously (slowly).
• Charge is complete when the charging indicator (13) lights green continuously. The charger and battery can be left connected indefinitely. The LED will change to flashing green when the charger occasionally tops off the battery charge. The charging indicator (13) will be lit as long as the battery is connected to the plugged-in charger.
• Charge discharged batteries within 1 week. Battery life is greatly diminished if stored discharged.

Leaving the Battery in the Charger

The charger and battery pack can remain connected with the LED glowing indefinitely. The charger will keep the battery pack fresh and fully charged.

Charger Diagnostics

If the charger detects a weak or damaged battery, the charging indicator (13) will flash red rapidly. Proceed as follows:

• Re-insert the battery (7).
• If the charging indicator continues flashing red rapidly, use a different battery to test the charging process.
• If the replaced battery charges correctly, the original battery is defective and should be returned for recycling.
• If the new battery shows the same indication, take the charger to an authorized service center for testing.

Note: It may take as long as 30 minutes to determine if a battery is defective. If the battery is too hot or too cold, the LED will alternately blink red, fast and slow.

Switching On and Off (Fig. E)

⚠ Warning! Use both hands to grip the product firmly when switching on.

• To switch the appliance on, slide the on/off switch (5) forward.
• To switch the appliance off, slide the on/off switch (5) back.

Power Commander (Fig. F)

The power command feature (6) is on the tool handle. It allows optimization of performance and power boost.

• To choose max power, rotate dial to setting 6. (Most vacuuming tasks require max power.)
• To maximize runtime, rotate dial to setting 1.
• For a combination, rotate dial from setting 2 to 5.

Using Your Product

⚠ Warning! When using as a blower or vacuum, always wear safety glasses. In dusty conditions, wear a filter mask.

⚠ Warning! Switch off your product, allow the fan to stop, and remove the battery before carrying out any adjustment, servicing, or maintenance.

Blow Mode (Fig. G and H)

• Align the blow tube (1) with the sweeper (Fig. G). Push until the lock (14) engages.
• Align the tabs of the fan cover (15) with the sweeper (Fig. H). Push until it engages.
• Hold the blow tube approximately 180 mm above the ground. Switch on the appliance and use a sweeping motion from side to side, advancing slowly, keeping debris/leaves in front of you.
• Once debris/leaves are blown into a pile, you can convert to vacuum mode to collect them.

⚠ Warning! Never operate in Blow mode without the blow tube and filter cover firmly in place.

Removing the Blow/Vacuum Tube (Fig. G and H)

• To disconnect the blow tube (1), press the lock button (14) and pull the tube off. Ensure the tube does not fall to the ground.

⚠ Warning! Never operate in Blow mode without the blow tube and filter cover firmly in place.

Vacuum Mode (Fig. I - L)

Note: For vacuuming/shredding, the collection bag (3) must be fitted.

• Remove the fan cover by pressing the release button (16) (Fig. I).
• Align the collection bag tube (17) with the sweeper (Fig. J). Push until the lock (14) engages.
• Attach the collection bag clip (18) to the collection bag hook (19) on the bottom of the sweeper (Fig. K).
• Align the tabs of the vac tube (2) with the sweeper (Fig. L). Push until it engages.
• Position the vac tube slightly above the debris/leaves.
• Switch on the appliance and use a sweeping motion; debris/leaves will be sucked up, shredded, and thrown into the collection bag.
• Your vacuum tube is fitted with a scraper for stubborn debris. Use it to loosen debris and continue vacuuming.
• As the bag fills, suction power decreases. Switch off the appliance and remove the battery.
• Unzip the bag to empty contents before continuing.

⚠ Warning! Never remove the collection bag without first turning off and removing the battery.

Note: If suction decreases and the bag is not full, the vacuum tube is likely clogged. Turn off, remove battery, and clear the tube.

Maintenance

Your Black & Decker appliance is designed for long operation with minimum maintenance. Proper care and regular cleaning ensure satisfactory operation.

• Switch off and unplug the appliance/tool, or remove the battery if integral.
• Unplug the charger before cleaning.
• Regularly clean ventilation slots with a soft brush or dry cloth.
• Regularly clean the motor housing with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive or solvent-based cleaners.
• Keep the appliance clean and dry.

Protecting the Environment

This product must not be disposed of with normal household waste. Make this product available for separate collection.

Separate collection of used products and packaging allows materials to be recycled and used again. Re-use of recycled materials helps prevent environmental pollution and reduces the demand for raw materials.

Local regulations may provide for separate collection of electrical products. Black & Decker provides a facility for the collection and recycling of its products. Return your product to any authorized repair agent.

Check the location of your nearest authorized repair agent by contacting your local Black & Decker office or visiting www.2helpU.com.

Batteries

At the end of their useful life, discard batteries with care:

• Run the battery down completely, then remove it from the tool.
• NiCd, NiMH, and Li-Ion batteries are recyclable. Package them to prevent short-circuiting terminals and take them to an authorized repair agent or local recycling station.
• Do not short-circuit battery terminals.
• Do not dispose of batteries in fire, as this may result in personal injury or explosion.

Technical Data

Hand/Arm weighted vibration value according to EN 60745:

• Vibration emission value (a_h) < 2.5 m/s², uncertainty (K) 1.5 m/s²
• L_pA (measure sound pressure) 81 dB(A), Uncertainty = 3 dB(A)
• L_wA (guaranteed sound power) 95 dB(A), Uncertainty = 3 dB(A)

EC Declaration of Conformity and Guarantee

EC Declaration of Conformity

MACHINERY DIRECTIVE, OUTDOOR NOISE DIRECTIVE

Model: GWC3600L

Black & Decker declares compliance with:

• 2006/42/EC, 2004/108/EC
• EN 60335-1
• 2000/14/EC, Blow Vac, Annex V

Notified Body: KEMA Quality B.V., Utrechtseweg 310, 6802 ED Arnhem, The Netherlands (ID No.: 0344)

Acoustic power levels:

• L_pA (measure sound power) 92 dB(A) (Uncertainty = 3 dB(A))
• L_wA (guaranteed sound power) 95 dB(A) (Uncertainty = 3 dB(A))

Products also comply with directive 2004/108/EC & 2011/65/EU.

For more information, contact Black & Decker.

Declaration by Kevin Hewitt, Vice-President Global Engineering, Black & Decker Europe.

Guarantee

Black & Decker offers an outstanding guarantee, in addition to statutory rights.

The guarantee is valid within the European Union and European Free Trade Area.

If a product becomes defective due to faulty materials, workmanship, or lack of conformity within 24 months from purchase, Black & Decker will replace defective parts, repair products, or replace products, unless:

• The product has been used for trade, professional, or hire purposes.
• The product has been subjected to misuse or neglect.
• The product has sustained damage from foreign objects, substances, or accidents.
• Repairs have been attempted by unauthorized persons.

To claim the guarantee, submit proof of purchase to the seller or an authorized repair agent. Check www.2helpU.com for agent locations.

Register your product at www.blackanddecker.co.uk for updates on new products and offers.

Contact Information

Australia: Black & Decker (Australia) Pty. Ltd., 20 Fletcher Road, Mooroolbark, Victoria, 3138. Tel: 03-8720 5100, Fax: 03-9727 5940

New Zealand: Black & Decker, 5 Te Apunga Place, Mt Wellington, Auckland 1060. Tel: +64 9 259 1133, Fax: +64 9 259 1122

United Kingdom: Black & Decker, 210 Bath Road, Slough, Berkshire SL1 3YD. Tel: 01753 511234, Fax: 01753 551155

Do not forget to register your product!

Register online at www.blackanddecker.co.uk/productregistration or send your name, surname, and product code to Black & Decker in your country.