Kenmore Vacuum Cleaner Owner's Manual

Warranty Information

Limited One Year Warranty on Kenmore Vacuum Cleaner This warranty is for one year from the date of purchase and applies only to private household vacuum cleaner use. Sears will repair defects in material or workmanship free of charge when the vacuum cleaner is operated and maintained according to the owner's manual instructions. This warranty excludes expendable parts like dust bags, belts, light bulbs, and filters. For warranty service, return the vacuum cleaner to the nearest Sears Service Center in the United States. This warranty applies only while the product is in use in the United States and grants specific legal rights, with potential variations by state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Important Safety Instructions

To reduce the risk of fire, electrical shock, injury to persons, or damage, follow basic safety precautions:

• Read this manual before assembling or using the vacuum cleaner.
• Use the cleaner only as described in this manual. Use only with Sears recommended attachments.
• Electrical Shock Hazard: Do not use outdoors or on wet surfaces. Disconnect electrical supply before servicing or cleaning. Always turn the cleaner off before unplugging. Do not unplug by pulling on the cord; grasp the plug.
• Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and body parts away from openings and moving parts.
• Do not use without dust bag and/or filters in place.
• Change the dust bag after vacuuming carpet cleaners, fresheners, powders, or fine dust, as these can clog the bag, reduce airflow, and cause it to burst, potentially damaging the cleaner.
• Do not use with a damaged cord or plug. If the cleaner is not working properly, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to a Sears Service Center/Department.
• Do not pull or carry by the cord, use the cord as a handle, close doors on the cord, or pull the cord around sharp edges or corners. Do not run the cleaner over the cord. Keep the cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not leave the cleaner plugged in when not in use. Unplug from the outlet when not in use and before servicing.
• Do not use the cleaner to pick up sharp or hard objects, small toys, pins, paper, etc., as they may damage the cleaner or dust bag.
• Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
• Do not use the cleaner to pick up flammable or combustible liquids (gasoline, cleaning fluids, perfumes, etc.) or use in areas where they may be present, as fumes can create a fire hazard or explosion.
• Do not allow children to use the cleaner as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
• Use extra care when cleaning on stairs. Do not place on chairs, tables, etc.; keep on the floor.
• Do not handle the plug or cleaner with wet hands.
• Do not put any objects into openings.
• Keep openings free of dust, lint, hair, and anything that may reduce airflow.

WARNING statements alert you to dangers such as fire, electrical shock, burns, and personal injury.

CAUTION statements alert you to dangers such as personal injury and/or property damage.

You are responsible for ensuring your vacuum cleaner is not used by anyone unable to operate it properly.

Parts and Features

Description of the diagram showing parts and features:

• Dust Bag (Part No. 20-50688 in U.S. / 20-50680 in Canada)
• Headlight Bulb (Part No. 20-5240 in U.S. / 20-40600 in Canada)
• Belt (Part No. 20-5275 in U.S. / 20-40096 in Canada)
• Motor Safety Filter (Part No. 20-86886 in U.S. / 20-86886C in Canada)
• On/Off Switch (Handle Mounted or Body Mounted)
• Handle
• Cord Hook (Upper and Lower)
• Power Cord
• Bag Cover
• Exhaust Panel
• Height Adjustment Lever
• Carpet/Bare Floor Selector
• Base Plate
• Handle Release Pedal
• Agitator
• Clean-Out Port Cover
• Telescoping Wand
• Crevice Tool
• Dusting Brush
• Upholstery Tool
• Swivel Hose
• Stretch Hose
• Performance Bag Cover Indicator (Some Models)
• Model/Serial Numbers Plate

Assembly Instructions

Handle Assembly

Description of diagram: To assemble the handle, first remove the screw located below the carry handle on the back of the vacuum. Position the handle with cord hooks facing the back. Insert the handle into the opening at the top of the vacuum. Align the screw hole in the handle with the hole in the vacuum. Insert the screw through the back into the handle. Tighten the screw with a screwdriver, but do not overtighten to avoid stripping the holes. Do not operate without the screw in place.

Cord Assembly

Description of diagram: Ensure the quick release upper cord hook is upright. Remove the wire tie from the power cord. Lock the cord into the notch on the upper cord hook. Wrap the power cord around the upper and lower cord hooks. Lock the power cord plug onto the power cord to keep it from getting under the agitator.

Operating Instructions

How to Start

1. Turn the quick release cord hook to either side and down to release the power cord.
2. Release the power cord plug from the power cord and pull the cord off the upper cord hook. Check that the power cord is still locked into the hook.
3. Check that a bag is installed (See BAG CHANGING).
4. Plug the polarized power cord into a 120 Volt outlet located near the floor.

Note: This vacuum cleaner has a polarized plug (one blade wider than the other) for safety. If the plug does not fit fully, reverse it. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified technician. Do not alter the plug.

WARNING: Do not plug in if the switch is in the ON position. Do not use outlets above counters, as damage to surrounding items could occur.

Pile Height Selection and Setting

To select a pile height: Turn off the cleaner. Tilt the cleaner back until the front wheels are slightly off the floor. Slide the adjustment lever to the correct setting. Suggested settings are: HIGH for shag carpet, long pile, plush, scatter rugs; MED for medium to long pile; LOW for short to medium pile; EX LOW for very low pile. You may need to raise the height for scatter rugs and longer pile carpets.

Carpet/Bare Floor Selector

Bare floor setting: Rotate the selector all the way back and down towards the bottom of the nozzle until it locks. The agitator does not revolve in this position. Use for hardwood, tile floors, and when using attachments.

Carpet setting: Slide the selector all the way forward and up. The agitator will revolve. Use for cleaning carpets.

Note: For longer belt life, turn the vacuum off before moving the selector. Ensure the selector is pushed fully and quickly to the desired position to prevent the belt from rubbing on the selector shaft and overheating.

WARNING: Do not place hands or feet underneath the unit when changing from the bare floor to the carpet pile height setting. The agitator begins to revolve rapidly when the vacuum is turned on and is in the carpet setting.

Releasing the Handle

Press down on the handle release pedal with your foot and pull back and down on the handle with your hand.

On/Off Switch

Handle Mounted (Some Models): To start, slide the On/Off switch from OFF to ON. To stop, slide to OFF.

Body Mounted (Some Models): To start, slide the On/Off switch on the body to ON. To stop, slide to OFF.

Attachments

Attachments include: Crevice Tool, Telescoping Wand, Dusting Brush, Upholstery Tool.

To Use Attachments:

1. Place the bare floor selector in the bare floor setting.
2. Remove the lower end of the stretch hose from the cleaner by grasping the hose collar, twisting, and pulling straight out.
3. Align the tabs on the extension wand with the "J" slots in the hose. Push the wand into the hose and twist to lock.
4. To achieve maximum reach, add the crevice tool by inserting and twisting.
5. Remove the telescoping wand from its storage position. Remove the crevice tool from the wand by turning the locking ring to UNLOCK, extending the wand, and turning the locking ring to LOCK. Attach the extension wand onto the open end of the hose.

Suction Control Slide: Located on the telescoping wand, close to the hose. Twist to the open position to reduce suction for cleaning delicate items like draperies, small rugs with low pile, and other delicate surfaces. Return to the closed position for normal cleaning.

WARNING: Do not overextend the stretch hose when using attachments, as trying to reach beyond its capability could cause the cleaner to tip over.

To Store Attachments: Remove dusting brush or upholstery tool and snap into storage location. Remove crevice tool from the wand by twisting and setting aside. Remove the extension wand from the hose by twisting left and pulling.

Extension Hose (Some Models): The stretch hose has two "J" shaped slots in the end where attachments fit. The extension hose attaches to the end of the unit hose. Attachments and the telescoping wand can be attached to the other end of the extension hose for additional reach. If your model did not come with one, it can be purchased separately (Part No. 20-52571 in U.S. / 20-40975 in Canada).

CAUTION: When using the regular hose or with the extension hose attached, the cleaner should be on a solid surface on the same level or below the level of the user's feet. Do not use the hoses when the cleaner is above the level of the user's feet.

Attachment Use Chart

*Always clean attachments before using on fabrics.

Vacuuming Tips

Carpet Edges: Use one of the sides or the front of the nozzle along the edge of the wall. Long brushes help pick up dirt from carpet edges.

Stairs: Place the handle in the upright position. Use the crevice tool or the fabric brush.

WARNING: Use caution if placing the vacuum on stairs. If it falls, it could cause personal injury or property damage.

Performance Features

Motor Protection System

This vacuum has a thermal protector (bypass valve) that opens automatically to provide airflow to the motor when a clog impedes airflow. A change in sound indicates the valve has opened. To correct the problem, consult the Troubleshooting section.

Performance Indicator

(Some Models) When the unit is operating with normal airflow, the indicator lines are white. The lines change to red when airflow passages are blocked. If this occurs, examine the dust bag, motor safety filter, and other possible clog locations indicated in the "Clog Removal" section. Note: Lines may appear red when using attachments due to reduced airflow.

Vacuum Cleaner Care

Vacuum Storage

Coil the cord and wrap it around the upper and lower cord hooks, without making it too tight. Store the vacuum indoors in a dry location, with the handle in the upright position.

WARNING: If you wrap the cord too tightly, it can stretch and damage it, potentially causing electrical shocks and personal injury or damage.

Cleaning Exterior and Attachments

Disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet. Do not spray water on the vacuum. Clean the exterior with a soft, clean cloth that has been wrung out after dipping in a solution of water and mild liquid detergent. Dry the exterior with a dry cloth after cleaning. Clean the exterior surface of the housing and attachments to reduce static electricity and dust accumulation. Wash attachments in warm, soapy water, rinse, and let air dry. Do not wash in a dishwasher. Do not use attachments if they are wet.

CAUTION: Do not use attachments if they are wet.

Bag Changing

To Remove Bag: Press the release button located on the top of the bag cover and pull the cover forward. Grasp the dust bag collar and carefully pull out the dust bag. Dispose of the used bag; do not reuse it.

To Change Bag: Fold the new bag's safety tab away from the opening that goes into the dust bag tube. Insert the dust bag completely over the dust bag tube, holding the bag by its collar. Place the bag collar in position. Ensure the bottom of the dust bag is fully inside the bag cavity before installing the bag cover. Place the bag cover in position, aligning the tabs with the body slots. Press down firmly until the cover latches securely with an audible click.

CAUTION: NEVER REUSE A DUST BAG. Very fine materials, such as carpet deodorizers, facial talc, fine dust, plaster, soot, new carpet fuzz, etc., can clog the bag and cause it to rupture before it is full. Change the bag more often when vacuuming these types of materials.

Motor Safety Filter Changing

Check the motor filter frequently and change when dirty. The filter should be changed periodically based on usage conditions. The filter cannot be washed, as it will lose its dust-trapping capacity. If the filter located at the bottom of the dust bag cavity is dirty, pull it forward from under the tabs, clean it, and slide it back into place under the tabs.

WARNING: Do not operate the vacuum without the motor safety filter. Ensure it is dry and installed properly to prevent motor failure or electric shock. Always disconnect the electrical cord before repairing any part of the vacuum cleaner.

Exhaust Filter Cleaning

Tilt the vacuum's upper section back by pressing the handle release pedal until it rests on the floor. Take the exhaust panel by the ends with both hands, push inward, and pull the panel forward. Lift out the spongy filter. Wash, rinse, and dry it. Do not wash in a dishwasher. Do not install while wet. Replace the spongy filter when dry, carefully positioning it so the slots align with the protruding pins. Replace the exhaust panel. Place the vacuum in the upright position.

Belt Changing and Brush Cleaning

WARNING: Disconnect the power cord before cleaning or servicing. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury from the cleaner suddenly starting.

Frequently check the brush area and remove any accumulated hair, cord, or lint. If accumulation is excessive, follow these instructions:

To Remove Belt: Disconnect the power cord and place paper under the vacuum to protect the floor. Place the vacuum in the upright position.

Invert the unit so the brush assembly and base plate face upwards. Release the base plate by sliding the left latch to the right and the right latch to the left. Press the safety tabs in the center. Pull the base plate out of the nozzle housing. The sides of the base plate may need to be pulled slightly outward to clear the wheels.

The agitator and belt are now visible. Carefully remove any debris accumulated around the belt. If the belt is still attached to the roller, remove it from the motor drive shaft before removing the agitator. Lift the right end of the agitator, then the left end. Carefully remove the brush support and washer from each end. Consult the exploded view diagram.

WARNING: Be careful when removing the agitator; the belt tension is high. If not careful, the brush could be released rapidly and cause personal injury.

CAUTION: To maintain high cleaning efficiency and prevent damage to the vacuum, clean the brush assembly whenever the belt is changed. Clean the brush assembly according to the following schedule: Weekly for daily use; Monthly for moderate use (2-3 times/week); Every 2 months for light use (1 time/week).

Remove all debris or dirt from the belt area and brush roller. Clean the brush assembly.

To Change Belt: Ensure the carpet/bare floor selector is in the carpet position. Place the new belt around the motor drive shaft. Ensure the belt is centered on the guide groove. Align the square extension of each cap with the nozzle frame slots. Install new brushes into the slots, ensuring correct orientation and that the brush and agitator bar backing are not reversed. Reinstall washers and brush supports in the correct order. Consult the exploded view diagram.

IMPORTANT: Change the washers first, then the brush supports. See the exploded view for correct part order. Due to belt tension, install carefully.

To Reinstall Base Plate: Insert the four tabs into the four slots along the front edge of the base. Place the vacuum in the upright position. Position the base plate. Slide the left latch to the left and the right latch to the right to secure them. Press the base plate down until the safety tabs are in place. Make sure both ends are properly seated. Slide the left latch to the left and the right latch to the right to secure them.

Place the vacuum in the upright position before plugging it in. Ensure the belt is centered over the guide groove. Turn the agitator with your fingers to ensure it spins freely.

Note: If the belt is not centered on the guide groove (e.g., selector is on bare floor), it can overheat and smell like burning rubber.

Clog Removal

WARNING: Disconnect the unit before cleaning or servicing. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury if the vacuum starts unexpectedly.

If the vacuum is not picking up well or if the self-propulsion is not working, first ensure the bag is not full and the filter is not clogged. Consult instructions for BAG CHANGING and MOTOR SAFETY FILTER CLEANING.

If the filter and bag areas are clear, examine the hose area. Remove the lower end of the stretch hose from the vacuum by grasping the collar and pulling upward. Examine visually the clean-out port area and the hose insertion area at the base. Remove any blocking material.

Close the clean-out port cover, ensuring it seals properly. Reinsert the hose firmly into the opening at the lower part from which it was removed. Push firmly to ensure it is properly connected.

If the filter, bag, and hose areas are clear, examine the nozzle area. Refer to the section on BELT CHANGING AND BRUSH CLEANING. Check for clogs in the wand, nozzle, hose, or accessories.

WARNING: Do not place hands or feet under the unit when inserting the hose. The agitator begins to spin rapidly when the vacuum is turned on and a carpet pile height setting is engaged.

Note: For best cleaning results, keep air passages open. You need to check your vacuum occasionally for debris. The diagram indicates areas where debris accumulates most.

Light Bulb Changing

WARNING: Disconnect the unit before cleaning or servicing. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury if the vacuum starts unexpectedly.

Disconnect the vacuum. Press the handle release pedal to tilt the upper section of the vacuum back to the floor. Remove the base plate as described in the BELT CHANGING AND BRUSH CLEANING section. Grip the bulb assembly and carefully wiggle it out of the nozzle housing. Remove the bulb by pushing and twisting it counter-clockwise to remove it from the socket. Replace the bulb by pushing and twisting it clockwise until it is secured in the socket. Reinstall the base plate as described in the BELT CHANGING AND BRUSH CLEANING section.

Note: Refer to PARTS AND FEATURES for the bulb number. Do not use a bulb over 15 watts. When the vacuum is used for a long period, the heat from the bulb can warm the nearby plastic parts.

Brush Servicing

WARNING: Disconnect the unit before cleaning or servicing. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury if the vacuum starts unexpectedly.

To Examine Brush: When the brushes have worn down to the level of the base plate brush guard, or when the agitator bar is worn or chipped, replace the brushes.

To Change Brush: Remove the base plate and agitator. Refer to BELT CHANGING AND BRUSH CLEANING. Remove the brush supports and washers. Remove the brushes. Slide the new brushes into the slots. Ensure correct orientation and that the brush and agitator bar backing are not reversed. Reinstall washers and brush supports. Reinstall the belt, agitator, and base plate. Refer to BELT CHANGING AND BRUSH CLEANING.

Note: It may be easier to install new brushes and end brushes if you first soak them in warm water for a few minutes before sliding them into the slots. Do not use oil. Dry them thoroughly before installing.

Troubleshooting

Consult this chart for solutions to minor performance problems. Any service required beyond what is described in this manual must be performed by an authorized service representative.

Note on Clogs: Clogs can occur from carpet fuzz, fine dust, or using accessories which limit airflow. Check the nozzle, wand, hose, and accessory ports.

Requesting Assistance Or Service

For repair of major brand appliances in your own home, no matter who made it or sold it, call 1-800-4-MY-HOME (1-800-469-4663) anytime, day or night (U.S.A. and Canada). Visit www.sears.com or www.sears.ca.

For repair of carry-in products like vacuums and electronics, call for the nearest Sears Parts and Repair Center: 1-800-488-1222 anytime, day or night (U.S.A. only). Visit www.sears.com.

For replacement parts, accessories, and owner's manuals, call Sears PartsDirect: 1-800-366-PART (1-800-366-7278), 6 a.m. - 11 p.m., 7 days a week (U.S.A. only). Visit www.sears.com/partsdirect.

To purchase or inquire about a Sears Service Agreement or Sears Maintenance Agreement: 1-800-827-6655 (USA) or 1-800-361-6665 (Canada).

For service in Spanish: 1-888-SU-HOGAR (1-888-784-6427). For service in French (Canada): 1-800-LE-FOYER (1-800-533-6937).

Trademarks: Sears, Roebuck and Co.®, HomeCentral®, Kenmore®.