Kenmore Vacuum Cleaner Owner's Manual

Introduction

This manual provides instructions for assembling, operating, and maintaining your new Kenmore vacuum cleaner. Keep this guide and your sales receipt for future reference.

Model and Serial Number: Record your vacuum cleaner's model and serial numbers here for future reference.

Limited One-Year Warranty

This warranty is for one year from the date of purchase and applies only to private household vacuum cleaner use. During the warranty year, Sears will repair any 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 vacuum bags, belts, light bulbs, and filters, which are expendable parts. For warranty service, return the vacuum cleaner to the nearest Sears Service Center in the United States. This warranty applies only while this product is in use in the United States. Sears, Roebuck and Co., DI817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179.

Important Safety Instructions

[WARNING] Basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, injury, or damage when using your vacuum cleaner.

• Read all instructions in this manual before assembling or using your vacuum cleaner.
• Turn off all controls before unplugging.
• Use your vacuum cleaner only as described in this manual. Use only with Sears recommended attachments.
• Disconnect electrical supply before servicing or cleaning out the brush area. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or injury from moving parts.
• Do not leave the vacuum cleaner unattended when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
• Do not use outdoors or on wet surfaces to reduce the risk of electrical shock.
• Use extra care when cleaning on stairs. Do not rest vacuum cleaner on steps. Do not put on chairs, tables, etc. Keep on floor.
• Do not use vacuum cleaner to pick up flammable or combustible liquids (gasoline, cleaning fluid, perfumes, etc.), or use in areas where they may be present. The fumes from these substances can create a fire hazard or explosion.
• Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
• Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
• Do not use with a damaged cord or plug. If vacuum cleaner is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped in water, return it to a Sears Service Center.
• Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as a handle, close a door on cord, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners. Do not run vacuum cleaner over cord. Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
• Do not handle plug or vacuum cleaner with wet hands.
• Do not put any objects into openings.
• Do not use vacuum cleaner without dust bag and/or filters in place.
• Always change the dust bag after vacuuming carpet cleaners or freshener, powders, and fine dust. These products clog the bag, reduce airflow and can cause the bag to burst. Failure to change the bag promptly could cause permanent damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Do not use the vacuum cleaner to pick up sharp hard objects, small toys, pins, paper clips, etc. They may damage the vacuum cleaner or dust bag.
• Unplug before connecting Handi-mate Jr. (if applicable). Keep hands away from bristles when unit is on.
• You are responsible for making sure that your vacuum cleaner is not used by anyone unable to operate it properly.
• Do not use with any opening blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair, and anything that may reduce air flow.
• Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.
• Do not extend the stretch hose, extension hose or hose combination beyond its reach. Doing so can cause the vacuum cleaner to tip and may cause personal injury or property damage.

[SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS]

Proper assembly and safe use of your vacuum cleaner are your responsibilities. Your vacuum cleaner is intended for Household use. Read this Owner's Manual carefully for important use and safety information. This guide contains safety statements under warning and caution symbols.

Parts and Features

It is important to know your vacuum cleaner's parts and features to assure its proper and safe use. Review these before using your vacuum cleaner.

• Handle
• On/Off Switch
• Handi-Mate Jr. Crevice Tool
• Cord Extension
• Upper Cord Hook
• Cord Hook Combination
• Release Handle
• Head
• Wand
• Variable Wand
• Exhaust Filter (Filter inside)
• Dirt Sensor Adjustment Lever
• Furniture Guard
• Dust Bin Port
• Dirt Sensor Optics (inside)
• Protector
• Model/Serial Number Label
• Lower Hose
• Handle Release Pedal

Replacement Part Numbers:

Assembly Instructions

[CAUTION] Do not plug into the electrical supply until the assembly is complete. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or injury.

Before assembling the vacuum cleaner, check the PACKING LIST on the cover of the separate Repair Parts List to verify you have received all components.

Handle Assembly:

1. Remove the two (2) handle screws located in the body. Do not overtighten, as this could strip the screw holes. Do not operate without screws in place.
2. Position the handle as shown in the illustration. Firmly press the handle onto the body.
3. Secure with the provided handle screws.

Cord Assembly:

1. Make sure the quick-release upper cord hook is in the upright position. Remove the wire tie from the power cord.
2. Lock the power cord into the locking notch base by pressing it into the quick-release upper cord hook. This helps keep the power cord out from under the vacuum cleaner agitator.
3. Wrap the power cord around the upper and lower cord hooks and lock the power cord plug onto the power cord.

Extension Hose Assembly:

1. Connect the extension hose to the wand holder by twisting and pushing down over the wand holder to assure a good connection.
2. Connect the extension hose by aligning the slot with raised tabs. Push downward and rotate clockwise to lock in place. (For use of extension wand and hose, see ATTACHMENTS section.)

Handi-Mate Jr. Assembly:

1. Remove the Handi-Mate Jr. from the plastic bag.
2. Insert Handi-Mate Jr. into the vacuum cleaner as shown, then close the Handi-Mate Jr. storage cover.

Operating Instructions

Power Cord Connection:

1. Turn the quick-release upper 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 quick-release upper cord hook. Be sure the power cord is still locked into the locking notch on the upper cord hook.
3. Plug the polarized power cord into a 120 Volt outlet located near the floor. (Note: This vacuum cleaner has a polarized plug, with one blade wider than the other. It will fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If it does not fit fully, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified technician. Do not change the plug.)
4. To replace the cord, turn the upper hook counterclockwise pointing up, then wrap the cord.

[CAUTION] Do not plug in if the switch is in the ON position. Do not use outlets above counters, as damage from the cord to surrounding items could occur.

Pile Height Selection:

1. Turn off the vacuum cleaner.
2. Select a pile height setting by tilting the vacuum cleaner back until front wheels are lifted slightly off the floor.
3. Slide the adjustment lever to the correct setting.

Suggested Pile Height Settings:

• HIGH: Shag carpet, long pile, plush, scatter rugs.
• MED: Medium to long pile.
• LOW: Short to medium pile.
• EX LOW: Very low pile and bare floors.

On/Off Switch:

To start the vacuum cleaner, slide the ON/OFF switch from the OFF position to the ON position. To stop, slide the switch to the OFF position.

Variable Power Control:

This vacuum cleaner is equipped with a variable power control that allows you to select any cleaning power from low to high. Set to LOW suction power for delicate fabrics such as draperies. Set to MAX or full power for more conventional carpet or bare floor cleaning. To set to MAX suction power, move the control knob fully to the right.

Releasing the Handle:

Release the handle by pressing down on the handle release pedal with your foot and pulling back and down on the handle with your hand.

Carpet/Bare Floor Selector:

• Bare floor setting: Slide the carpet/bare floor selector all the way back and down toward the bottom of the nozzle until it locks into place. In this position, the brush assembly does not revolve. This setting should be used for cleaning hardwood and tile floors and when any attachments (tools) are used.
• Carpet setting: Slide the selector all the way forward and up to the carpet position. In this position, the brush assembly will turn. When carpets are being cleaned, the selector should be in this position.

[CAUTION] For longer belt life, turn vacuum off before moving the selector. Failure to do so can cause the belt to rub on the selector shaft and may result in the belt becoming hot and creating a burning rubber smell.

Attachments

Attachments increase the vacuum's versatility for various cleaning tasks.

Attaching Tools:

1. Remove the upper end of the hose that is attached to the wand holder by grasping the hose collar, twisting, and pulling straight out. The attachments can now be added to the hose.
2. To achieve maximum reach with the attachments, add the crevice tool to the end of the wand by inserting and twisting slightly.

[CAUTION] When using attachments, be careful not to overextend the stretch hose when reaching. Trying to reach beyond the hose stretch could cause the vacuum cleaner to tip over.

[CAUTION] When using attachments, make sure the vacuum cleaner is in the upright position and the Carpet/Bare Floor selector is in the BARE FLOOR position.

[CAUTION] Attachments used in dirty areas, such as under a refrigerator, should not be used on other surfaces until they are washed. They could leave marks.

Attachment Storage:

1. Remove the combination brush from the wand or hose. Snap it into the appropriate storage location.
2. Remove the crevice tool from the wand by twisting. Place it in the end of the wand.
3. Reattach the extension hose to the wand holder and place the wand in the slot on the front of the wand holder.
4. Reinsert the Handi-Mate Jr. into the vacuum cleaner as shown, then close the Handi-Mate Jr. storage cover.

Attachment Use Chart:

[NOTE] Always clean attachments before using on fabrics.

Carpet Edges: Guide either side or the front of the nozzle along a baseboard. The full-width agitator brushes help remove dirt at carpet edges.

Stairs: Set handle in full upright position. Set the Carpet/Bare Floor selector to BARE FLOOR when using attachments to prevent possible floor damage. Use the crevice tool or combo brush.

[WARNING] Do not place the vacuum cleaner on the stairs. It may fall, causing personal injury or property damage.

Performance Features

Motor Protection System:

• Thermal Protector: This vacuum cleaner has a thermal protector which automatically trips to protect the motor from overheating. If a clog prevents the normal flow of air to the motor, the thermal protector turns the motor off automatically, allowing it to cool and prevent damage. To correct: Turn the vacuum cleaner OFF and unplug the power cord. Allow the vacuum cleaner to cool and the thermal protector to reset. Check for and remove clogs, if necessary. Also check and clean/replace any clogged filters. Wait approximately thirty (30) minutes, then plug in and turn on to see if the motor protector has reset. The motor protector will not reset if the vacuum cleaner is not turned off, even if it has cooled down.
• Motor Protector By-Pass Valve: This vacuum cleaner is also equipped with a motor protector by-pass valve which automatically opens to provide cooling air to the motor when a clog prevents normal airflow. If the bypass valve opens, you will notice a change in sound as air rushes through the valve opening. To correct: See the TROUBLESHOOTING table.

[CAUTION] Do not block the motor protector.

[NOTE] The motor protector may open when using attachments or cleaning new carpet due to reduced airflow or new carpet lint filling the dust bin quickly. See the TROUBLESHOOTING table.

Dirt Sensor:

The electronic dirt sensor detects particles as they pass through the vacuum cleaner. A red light indicates dirt is being picked up. The light stays on as long as the sensor detects a high concentration of particles.

To Clean Dirt Sensor Optics:

The dirt sensor optics consist of two optic cells located inside the dust bin port assembly. Clean them when the red light stays on continuously, when dirt or dust adheres to them, or whenever the dust bin is cleaned, to assure maximum performance.

1. Remove the Dust Bin as outlined in the DUST BIN CLEANING section.
2. With the dust bin removed, insert a cloth into the dust bin port opening.
3. Wipe the optic cells with a soft, dry cloth.
4. Never use cleaners or liquids, as they can speed recoating and necessitate more frequent cleaning.

[CAUTION] Disconnect electrical supply before servicing or cleaning the unit. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury from the vacuum cleaner suddenly starting.

Vacuum Cleaner Care

[CAUTION] Disconnect electrical supply before performing maintenance to the unit. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury from the vacuum cleaner suddenly starting.

Storage:

1. Unplug cord from wall outlet.
2. Gather the cord and wrap it loosely around the upper and lower cord hooks.
3. Store the vacuum cleaner in a dry, indoor area, on the floor with the handle locked in the upright position.

[WARNING] Wrapping the cord too tightly puts stress on the cord and can cause cord damage. A damaged cord is an electrical shock hazard and could cause personal injury or damage.

Cleaning Exterior and Attachments:

• Do not drip water on the vacuum cleaner.
• Clean exterior using a clean, soft cloth that has been dipped in a solution of mild liquid detergent and water, then wrung dry. Wipe dry after cleaning.
• To reduce static electricity and dust buildup, wipe the outer surface of the vacuum cleaner and attachments.
• Wash attachments in warm soapy water, rinse, and air dry. DO NOT clean in dishwasher.

[CAUTION] Do not use attachments if they are wet. Attachments used in dirty areas, such as under a refrigerator, should not be used on other surfaces until they are washed. They could leave marks.

Dust Bin Cleaning

[CAUTION] Always unplug power cord from electrical outlet before performing any maintenance on vacuum cleaner.

Always empty the dust bin when dirt level reaches the "MAXIMUM FILL" line.

To Remove Dust Bin:

1. Raise the dust bin latch.
2. Grasp the handle located at the side.
3. Lift up and out to remove dust bin from vacuum cleaner.

To Empty Dust Bin:

1. Hold dust bin over a trash container.
2. Lift dust bin lid directly off the dust bin.
3. Pour dust bin contents into a trash container.
4. Remove any debris that might be located in the dust bin port or the filter screen.

[CAUTION] Do not use dust bin handle to carry unit. Do not carry dust bin by dust bin lid.

Filter Screen Cleaning:

Check filter screen frequently and clean when dirty. To clean filter screen, wipe screen with a dry cloth.

Dust Bin Cleaning Knob:

Every time dust bin is removed, rotate cleaning knob on top of dust bin until filter is clean to maintain cleaning performance.

To Replace Dust Bin:

1. Place dust bin into vacuum cleaner.
2. Secure dust bin into place by closing the dust bin latch.
3. Replace dust bin lid assembly by placing back on dust bin as shown.

Filter Changing/Cleaning

[CAUTION] Unplug power cord from electrical outlet. Do not operate the vacuum cleaner without the primary or exhaust filters. Be sure the filters are properly installed to prevent motor failure and/or electrical shock.

Primary Filter:

Check primary filter frequently and clean when dirty.

To Remove Primary Filter:

1. Remove the dust bin and dust bin lid assembly as outlined in the DUST BIN CLEANING section.
2. While holding primary filter over a trash container, grasp filter, rotate, and lift off.

To Clean Primary Filter:

1. Clean primary filter by gently tapping over a trash container. Tap on several sides to ensure best cleaning.
2. Rinse with water only as needed; do not use any detergent or soap.
3. Allow the filter to dry for 24 hours before putting it back into the vacuum cleaner.

To Replace Primary Filter:

1. With the slot side on the filter towards the filter cover, slide the cleaning cam inside the opening.
2. Rotate filter clockwise until slots lock onto tabs in the cover.
3. Re-assemble dust bin lid to dust bin. Insert into vacuum cleaner and secure with dust bin latch.

Exhaust Filter:

The exhaust filter must be replaced when dirty. It should be replaced regularly depending on use conditions. The filter CANNOT be washed as it will lose its dust trapping ability.

To Replace Exhaust Filter:

1. Remove filter cover by pulling out at the top of the exhaust filter cover.
2. Remove the exhaust filter cartridge.
3. Push only on the filter cartridge frame, not on the filter material itself. The foam seal of the filter should be placed against the vacuum cleaner body.
4. Replace the exhaust filter cover by placing bottom tabs in slots and pushing in until cover snaps into place.

[NOTE] Under normal use and care, your filter can be expected to last up to 5 years.

Belt Changing and Agitator Cleaning

[WARNING] Disconnect electrical supply before servicing or cleaning the unit. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury from vacuum cleaner suddenly starting.

Cleaning Agitator:

To clean the agitator, turn the vacuum cleaner over. Cut off any carpet pile and lint entangled around the agitator with a pair of scissors in the slots provided. Frequently check and remove hair, string, and lint build-up in the brush area. If build-up becomes excessive, follow the steps below.

Agitator Cleaning Schedule:

• HEAVY USE (used daily): Clean Agitator every week.
• MODERATE USE (used 2-3 times/week): Clean Agitator every month.
• LIGHT USE (used 1 time/week): Clean Agitator every 2 months.

Remove any dirt or debris in the belt path area or in the agitator area.

To Remove Belt:

1. Disconnect power cord from electrical outlet, and place on paper to protect the floor surface.
2. Place vacuum cleaner in the full upright position. Turn the unit over so the agitator and base plate are facing upward.
3. Locate the two latches and the two locking tabs which secure the base plate.
4. To remove the base plate, press the two latches inward. Push in on the locking tabs toward the center of the vacuum cleaner.
5. Rotate the base plate away from the nozzle housing. The sides of the base plate need to be pulled slightly outward to clear the wheels.
6. The agitator and belt are now exposed. Carefully remove any residue that may exist in the belt area.
7. If the belt is still attached to the motor shaft, there will be tension on the agitator. If the belt is not broken, remove it from the motor shaft before lifting the agitator.
8. Carefully lift one end of the agitator and then lift the other end.

[WARNING] Be careful when removing the agitator as the belt tension is high. Failure to do so could result in personal injury from the agitator releasing quickly and snapping away.

To Replace Belt:

1. Make sure that the carpet/bare floor selector is in the carpet position.
2. Loop the new belt on the motor shaft.
3. Loop the end of the new belt on the agitator.
4. Press firmly, checking to see that each end is completely inserted.
5. Align the square extension on each end cap with the slots in the frame of the nozzle.
6. [NOTE] Care must be taken due to the belt tension during reassembly.
7. Check to see that the belt is centered in the belt groove. Turn the agitator with your fingers to see that it turns freely.

Belt Routing Diagrams:

Diagrams illustrate correct belt routing with the selector in the carpet position, and incorrect routing with the belt on the selector shaft or with the selector in the bare floor position.

Re-attaching Base Plate:

1. To re-attach the base plate, insert the tabs into the slots along the front edge of the base.
2. Place the vacuum cleaner in full upright position. Lower the base plate to its original position.
3. As the base is lowered, the inner areas will brush against the dust compartment wheels. A gentle pull outward may assist in reassembly.
4. Press the base plate down until the two locking tabs snap into place.
5. Slide the right latch to the right and the left latch to the left to secure.
6. Return the vacuum cleaner to the upright position before plugging into the electrical outlet.

Clog Removal

[CAUTION] Disconnect electrical supply before servicing or cleaning the unit. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury from vacuum cleaner suddenly starting.

If the vacuum cleaner does not seem to have adequate suction:

1. First, check if the dust bin is full or if a filter is clogged. See DUST BIN CLEANING and FILTER CHANGING sections.
2. If the dust bin and filter areas are free of clogs, check the hose area. Remove extension hose by grasping the hose collar, twisting, and pulling straight off.
3. Visually inspect the hose and the base area into which the hose is connected. Remove any visible clog.
4. Re-connect the extension hose to the dust bin port assembly. Plug in the vacuum cleaner and turn it on. Stretch the hose to maximum length and then allow the hose to return to its storage length.
5. If clogs persist, check the nozzle area. See AGITATOR CLEANING section.

[WARNING] Do not place hands or feet underneath the unit at any time. The agitator will be revolving rapidly when the vacuum cleaner is turned on and is in the carpet setting.

Light Bulb Changing

[CAUTION] Disconnect electrical supply before servicing or cleaning the unit. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury from vacuum cleaner suddenly starting.

To Remove Bulb:

1. Disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.
2. Lay the vacuum cleaner flat.
3. Gently insert a screwdriver into the lens cover slot, push down the lens, and rotate it with the screwdriver in a direction towards the unit.
4. Remove the bulb by pulling straight out.

To Replace Bulb:

1. Carefully insert the new bulb securely into the socket.
2. Replace the lens cover by inserting the bottom part of the lens into the slot, then push on the top part with a screwdriver. A "pop" sound indicates the lens is placed correctly.

[NOTE] Look in PARTS AND FEATURES for the bulb number. Do not use a bulb of more than 9 watts (13 volts). When the vacuum is used for a long period, the heat from the bulb can warm the plastic parts nearby.

Troubleshooting

Review this chart for solutions to problems you can correct yourself. Any other service should be performed by SEARS or another qualified service agent.