STEINEL Mobile Heat MH3 & MH5 Cordless Hot Air Tools

This document provides comprehensive operating instructions for the STEINEL Mobile Heat MH3 and MH5 cordless hot air tools. It covers product features, safe operation, applications, accessories, and warranty information.

Important Safety Instructions

UL Warning

Read this instruction book before using. To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose the tool to rain or moisture. Store indoors. When servicing, use only identical replacement parts. Basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury. This hot air gun operates at up to 950°F with no visual indication of temperature (no flame). Never leave the device unattended, as this poses a fire risk. The heat stream at the outlet nozzle can burn skin. Do not turn on the hot air tool with your hand in front of the nozzle. DO NOT USE NEAR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS. DO NOT USE FOR: Heating gas engines, heating car batteries, or thawing refrigerator equipment.

Chemical Warnings (California Proposition 65)

Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Examples include lead from lead-based paints, crystalline silica from bricks and cement, and arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber. Your risk from these exposures varies. To reduce exposure, work in a well-ventilated area and use approved safety equipment, such as dust masks designed to filter microscopic particles.

General Warnings

This tool is capable of producing temperatures up to 950°F of flameless heat at the nozzle. Always direct the heat away from yourself and others. Prevent ignition of combustible materials on or near the workpiece. Prevent blockage of intake and nozzle openings. Keep a fully charged fire extinguisher on hand. Allow the nozzle and accessory tips to cool to room temperature before storage.

Cautions

• Hidden Areas: Be aware that hidden areas behind walls, ceilings, floors, soffit boards, and other panels may contain flammable materials that could be ignited by the hot air tool. Ignition may not be readily apparent, potentially causing property damage and injury. If in doubt, do not use. When working in such locations, keep the hot air tool moving in a back-and-forth motion; lingering in one spot could ignite the material.
• Direct Airflow: Do not direct the airstream at clothing, hair, or other body parts. Do not use as a hair dryer.
• Flammable Environments: Do not use near flammable liquids or in an explosive environment (fumes, gases, or dust). Remove materials or debris that may become ignited from the work area.
• Handling: Always hold the tool by its plastic enclosure. The metal nozzle requires approximately 20 minutes to cool to a touchable temperature. Do not touch the nozzle or accessory tips until they are cool.
• Storage: Do not store the tool until the nozzle has cooled to room temperature. Place the tool in a clear area away from combustible materials while cooling.
• Airflow: Do not cut off airflow by placing the nozzle too close to the workpiece. Keep intake vents clean and clear of obstructions.
• Placement: Place the tool on a level surface when not hand-held. Position the cord to prevent tipping.
• Supervision: Do not leave the tool unattended while it is running or cooling down, as this poses a fire risk.
• Fire Safety: Keep a fully charged fire extinguisher nearby.
• Glass: Do not direct airflow directly on glass.
• Shielding: Shield materials around the heated area to prevent damage or fire.
• Batteries: Use only with batteries specified in this manual.

Additional Safety Precautions

• Do not use in wet conditions.
• This tool is not a toy and should be respected; it is not to be used by children.
• Do not use in a bath or over water.
• Safety glasses should be worn when using this tool.
• It is recommended that leather gloves be worn when using a hot air tool.
• Always unplug the tool after use.
• Paint Stripping Warning: Extreme care should be taken when stripping paint. Paint peelings, residue, and vapors may contain lead, which is poisonous. Lead-based paint should only be removed by a professional and not with a hot air tool. Determine if paint contains lead before removal.
• Do not allow dust, debris, or other contamination to enter the heat blower air intake, as they may ignite or damage the tool.

Guidelines for Persons Removing Materials

1. Move the workpiece outdoors. If not possible, ensure the work area is well-ventilated with exhaust fans moving air from inside to outside.
2. Remove or cover carpets, rugs, furniture, clothing, cooking utensils, and air ducts.
3. Place drop cloths in the work area to catch residue. Wear protective clothing such as extra work shirts, overalls, and hats.
4. Work in one room at a time. Furnishings should be moved to the center of the room and covered. Seal off work areas from the rest of the dwelling by covering doorways with drop cloths.
5. Children, pregnant or potentially pregnant women, and nursing mothers should not be present in the work area until work and cleanup are complete.
6. Wear an approved dust respirator mask or a dual filter (dust and fume) respirator mask. Disposable paper masks are not adequate. Ensure the mask fits properly; beards and facial hair can affect the seal. Change filters often.
7. Use caution when operating the hot air tool; keep it moving to avoid generating excessive fumes.
8. Keep food and drink out of the work area. Wash hands, arms, and face, and rinse mouth before eating or drinking. Do not smoke or chew gum or tobacco in the work area.
9. Clean up all removed residue and dust by wet mopping floors and wiping surfaces with a wet cloth. Do not sweep, dry dust, or vacuum. Use a high phosphate detergent or trisodium phosphate (TSP) for washing and mopping.
10. At the end of each work session, place residue and debris in a double plastic bag, seal it, and dispose of properly.
11. Remove protective clothing and work shoes in the work area to avoid carrying dust into the rest of the dwelling. Wash work clothes separately. Wipe shoes with a wet rag, then wash the rag with the clothes. Wash hair and body thoroughly with soap and water.

Battery Safety

Prevent unintentional starting by ensuring the switch is in the off-position before connecting or handling the battery pack. Disconnect the battery pack before making adjustments, changing accessories, or storing the appliance. Recharge only with the manufacturer-specified charger. Use appliances only with specifically designated battery packs to avoid injury and fire risk. Keep battery packs away from metal objects when not in use to prevent short-circuiting, which can cause burns or fire. Do not use damaged or modified battery packs or appliances, as they may exhibit unpredictable behavior. Do not expose battery packs or appliances to fire or excessive temperatures (above 265°F / 130°C), as this may cause explosion. Follow all charging instructions and charge only within the specified temperature range. Have servicing performed by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. Do not modify or attempt to repair the appliance or battery pack except as indicated in the instructions. Protect the rechargeable battery and tool from heat, moisture, water, and continuous sunlight to prevent explosion risk. Remove the rechargeable battery if the tool will not be used for a prolonged period to prolong its life. If electrolyte fluid escapes, rinse affected areas with copious amounts of clean water and seek medical attention if necessary. Provide fresh air and seek medical attention if you feel unwell or experience discomfort due to vapors.

Transportation

To transport the tool, remove the battery pack. Shipping li-ion battery packs is subject to dangerous goods regulations (UN 3480 and UN 3481). Ascertain current regulations and obtain information from your carrier. Certified packaging is available from Steinel. Only ship battery packs if the housing is intact and not leaking liquid. Insulate contacts to prevent short-circuiting during shipment.

Tool Features

The STEINEL Mobile Heat cordless hot air tools are designed for shaping and welding plastic, heating shrink tubing, soldering, tin-plating, and undoing bonded joints. They are powered by 18V battery packs compatible with CAS/Metabo chargers.

Tool Components

The tools feature the following components:

• 1. Stainless steel outlet nozzle: The part where hot air is expelled.
• 2. Removable guard sleeve: Protects the nozzle area.
• 3. Multifunction hanger: Integrated ring for hanging the tool.
• 4. Air inlet: Where air is drawn into the tool.
• 5. Temperature selection display: An LCD display showing temperature settings (specific to MH3 and MH5 models).
• 6. Button for airflow mode: Used to adjust airflow settings (MH5 only).
• 7. Button for selecting programmes and memory button: Used for accessing preset programs and saving custom settings (MH5 only).
• 8. Joystick: Used for adjusting temperature and airflow settings.
• 9. Ergonomic soft grip: For comfortable handling.
• 10. Rechargeable battery release catch: Used to detach the battery pack.
• 11. CAS tool rechargeable battery 18V 8 Ah: The power source for the tool.
• 12. Rechargeable battery state-of-charge indicator: Displays the remaining battery power.
• 13. Button for state-of-charge indicator: Press to view the battery charge level.
• 14. LED light: Illuminates the work area and indicates when the tool is ON.
• 15. Safety lockout: Prevents accidental activation.
• 16. ON/OFF switch: Powers the tool on and off.

Battery State-of-Charge Indicator

The battery pack features a state-of-charge indicator with four green LEDs. Pressing button 13 displays the charge level. If an LED flashes, the battery is almost drained and requires recharging. The display automatically turns off after approximately 5 seconds.

Startup

Charge the battery pack before use. The ideal storage temperature is between 50°F and 90°F, and the permissible charging temperature is between 32°F and 120°F. The rechargeable battery automatically switches off at temperatures above 160°F and reactivates when it returns to the optimal temperature range.

Inserting Rechargeable Battery: Slide the charged battery into the base of the hot air tool until it clips into place.

Switching On the Tool: Push the safety lockout (15) in the direction of the arrow, then press the ON/OFF switch (16). To switch OFF, release the ON/OFF switch (14).

Removing Battery Pack: Press the release catch (10) to detach the battery pack.

Getting Started - Mobile Heat MH3

Upon first use, the tool's factory temperature setting is 570°F, indicated by an LED under the temperature selection display (5). The heating element and motor activate immediately. The MH3 features a temperature priority function that maintains a constant temperature by controlling blower speed. To set the temperature to 930°F, move the joystick (8) to the right; the LED on the right side of the display will light up. To return to 570°F, move the joystick to the left.

Getting Started - Mobile Heat MH5

The temperature of the MH5 can be adjusted with the tool switched off by pressing any button below the display. The temperature is infinitely variable from 120°F to 930°F via the LCD control panel. The joystick (8) acts as a +/- input for temperature adjustments in 50°F steps. Holding the joystick pressed accelerates the setting process. The tool takes a few seconds to reach the set temperature. The selected temperature is shown for 3 seconds, followed by the current actual temperature. The '°C/°F' symbol flashes until the set temperature is reached. After switching off, the tool retains the last setting.

Setting Airflow Rate

To adjust the airflow rate, press the 'airflow' button (indicated by a fan symbol). Use the joystick to set the desired rate. The setting mode closes automatically if no input is received within 5 seconds. The airflow rate can be adjusted from a minimum of 150 l/min to a maximum of 300 l/min. Battery capacity may affect the maximum achievable airflow. If the battery has low capacity, the motor speed will not increase beyond a certain point, and the LCD bars will flash to indicate the current airflow rate. In such cases, replace or recharge the battery.

Programming Mode [P] (MH5 Only)

The MH5 offers four factory-set programs for common tasks. Press the 'P' button (8) to enter programming mode. Programs are numbered 1 through 4. Pressing the button cycles through the programs or returns to normal operation.

Preset Programmes

Memory Function [S] (MH5 Only)

User-defined programs can be changed and memorized. Press the 'P' button (7) until the desired program is displayed. Set the chosen airflow and temperature. The memory symbol on the LCD will flash, indicating a change. To save the setting, press and hold the program selector button. The memory symbol will flash for approximately 2 seconds, then remain illuminated to confirm the save. Pressing the program button again until the number disappears returns the tool to normal operation.

Hanger

An integrated ring is provided for hanging the tool. Caution: Maximum pulling force is 150 N.

LED Light

The LED illuminates the work area when the tool is switched ON and also serves as a 'tool ON' indicator.

Applications

The STEINEL hot air tools are ideal for smaller components and shrink tubing, and are appreciated by electronics technicians, model-makers, automotive workshops, and electrical fitters. Common uses include:

• Heat-shrinking: Shrink-fitting connectors for cables and wires; fitting heat-shrinkable products.
• Soldering / De-soldering: Soldering SMD components; repairs and corrections to electronic SMD assemblies.
• Shaping: Working on plastic parts, such as in model-making.
• De-icing: De-icing locks.
• Welding (MH5 only): Welding with welding rods (e.g., PVC, PE, PP, ABS); welding PVC sheeting (e.g., roof membranes, HGV curtain sides/tent tarpaulin).
• Heating large areas (MH5 only): Heating automotive films.

Plastic Types and Welding Characteristics

The following table details various plastic types and their welding characteristics:

Accessories

Your retailer offers a wide range of accessories for the STEINEL hot air tools:

• a Surface nozzle 50 mm, Prod. No. 070113
• b Surface nozzle 75 mm, Prod. No. 070212
• c Window nozzle 50 mm, Prod. No. 070311
• d Window nozzle 75 mm, Prod. No. 070410
• e Paint scraper kit, Prod. No. 010317
• f Reflector nozzle, Prod. No. 070519
• g Crimp connectors: Ø 0.5-1.5 (Prod. No. 006655), Ø 1.5-2.5 (Prod. No. 006648), Ø 0.1-0.5 / Ø 4.0 - 6.0 (Prod. No. 006662)
• h Heat-shrinkable tubes: 4.8-9.5 mm (Prod. No. 071417), 1.6-4.8 mm (Prod. No. 071318), 4.0-12.0 mm (Prod. No. 072766); Heat-shrinkable tubing set, set of 3 (Prod. No. 075811)
• i Soldering reflector nozzle, Prod. No. 074616
• j Reduction nozzle 14 mm, Prod. No. 070717
• k Reduction nozzle 9 mm, Prod. No. 070618
• l Hot air tool guard cage, Prod. No. 053963
• m Wide-slit nozzle, Prod. No. 074715
• n Pressure roller: Silicone (Prod. No. 006785), Rubber (Prod. No. 093211)
• o Plastic welding rod: Rigid PVC (Prod. No. 073114), HDPE (Prod. No. 071219), PP (Prod. No. 073411), ABS (Prod. No. 074210)
• p Welding nozzle, Prod. No. 070915
• q CAS tool rechargeable battery 18V 8 Ah
• r CAS battery charger

Temperature Conversion

The following tables provide conversions between Celsius and Fahrenheit:

Conversion °C to °F

Conversion °F to °C

Limited Warranty

STEINEL warrants its hot air tools for one (1) year from the date of purchase, provided they are operated and maintained properly and used under normal conditions. The warranty does not cover wearable items like heating elements that require periodic replacement. It specifically excludes tools subjected to abuse, unauthorized repair or modification, or those used in continuous operation. Any other use voids the STEINEL warranty.

Warranty and Repair Procedures

For product failure, contact STEINEL customer service at (800) 852-4343 for troubleshooting. If repair is needed, STEINEL will issue an RGA# and provide a shipping address. The customer must ship the tool with a description of the difficulty and proof of purchase. STEINEL will diagnose the issue and, if covered by warranty, will repair or replace the defective tool at their option. If the tool is not defective or the issue is not covered by warranty, STEINEL will contact the customer to discuss options before performing any repair work. Non-warranty repair work is billed at standard rates after quoting.

Consequential Damages

The company is not liable for incidental or consequential damages arising from the product's use, breach of warranty, delivery issues, or other contractual breaches. Some states may not allow these limitations.

Disclaimers of Warranties

The warranties provided are in lieu of all other expressed or implied warranties. Any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose expires one (1) year after the date of purchase. Company communications regarding product performance are for convenience only and do not modify expressed warranties. No agents or other parties are authorized to make warranties or assume liability on behalf of the Company. Limitations on implied warranty duration may not apply in all states.

Limitation of Actions

Any action resulting from a warranty breach must be commenced within one (1) year after the cause of action arises. The Company's total liability for any warranty breach shall not exceed the actual purchase price of the product.

Other Rights

This warranty grants specific legal rights, and other rights may vary by state.

1 Year Manufacturer's Warranty