Kenmore Vacuum Cleaner 116.31810

Before Using Your New Vacuum Cleaner

This guide provides instructions for the safe and effective assembly and operation of your Kenmore vacuum cleaner.

Packing List

• Upright Vacuum Cleaner
• Handle
• Crevice Tool
• Combination Brush
• Pet Handi Mate™
• Telescoping Wand
• Use & Care Guide
• Repair Parts List

Kenmore Vacuum Cleaner Warranty

A summary of the warranty terms is provided. For full details, please refer to the warranty section.

Important Safety Instructions

⚠️ WARNING: Your safety is important. To reduce the risk of fire, electrical shock, injury, or damage, follow basic safety precautions:

• Use only as described in this guide and with Sears-recommended attachments.
• Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and body parts away from openings and moving parts.
• Disconnect power before servicing or cleaning the brush area to prevent unexpected startup.
• Do not leave the vacuum cleaner plugged in when not in use or before performing maintenance. Unplug when not in use.
• Do not use outdoors or on wet surfaces to reduce the risk of electrical shock.
• Close attention is necessary when used by or near children; do not allow it to be used as a toy.
• Do not use with a damaged cord or plug. If the vacuum is not working properly, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped in water, return it to a Sears Service Center.
• Do not pull or carry by the cord; use the cord as a handle, close a door on the cord, or pull around sharp edges. Do not run over the cord. Keep the cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not unplug by pulling on the cord; grasp the plug.
• Do not handle the plug or vacuum with wet hands.
• Do not put any objects into openings.
• Do not use with any opening blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair, and anything that may reduce airflow.
• Turn off all controls before unplugging.
• Use extra care when cleaning on stairs. Keep on the floor, not on chairs or tables.
• Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids (gasoline, cleaning fluid, perfumes) or use in areas where they may be present, as fumes can create fire hazards or explosions.
• Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
• Do not use without the dust bag and/or filters in place.
• Always replace the dust bag after vacuuming carpet cleaners, fresheners, powders, and fine dust, as these clog filters, reduce airflow, and can damage the vacuum. Failure to replace the bag could cause permanent damage.
• Do not use to pick up sharp hard objects, small toys, pins, paper clips, etc., as they may damage the vacuum cleaner or dust bag.
• Unplug before connecting the Pet Handi Mate™.
• You are responsible for ensuring the vacuum cleaner is not used by anyone unable to operate it properly.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Proper assembly and safe use are your responsibilities. This vacuum cleaner is intended for Household use. Read this Use & Care Guide carefully for important safety and usage information.

Parts and Features

Familiarize yourself with your vacuum cleaner's parts and features for proper and safe use.

The diagram shows the main components of the Kenmore vacuum cleaner. Key parts include: the exhaust filter at the top rear, the dust bag cover (which houses the dust bag) below it, the handle with the OFF/FLOOR/CARPET switch, a carrying handle, a furniture guard on the main body, and the nozzle at the bottom.

• Exhaust Filter
• Dust Bag
• Handle
• OFF/FLOOR/CARPET Switch
• Carrying Handle
• Exhaust Filter Cover
• Dust Bag Cover (Dust Bag Inside)
• Furniture Guard
• Nozzle Holder
• Nozzle

Assembly Instructions

⚠️ WARNING: Do not plug into the electrical supply until assembly is complete. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or injury.

Before assembling, check the PACKING LIST to verify all components are present.

Handle Assembly

❗ CAUTION: Do not overtighten the screw. Overtightening could strip the screw holes. Do not operate without the screw in place.

1. Remove the handle screw from the body of the vacuum cleaner.
2. Position the handle assembly as shown in the illustration.
3. Using a screwdriver, tighten the handle screw.

NOTE: It may be necessary to adjust the handle slightly.

Attachment Assembly

Hose and Wand

1. Insert the tab on the telescopic wand into the "J" slot on the hose handle. Twist the telescopic wand to lock in place.
2. Place the telescopic wand in the wand holder and route the hose as shown.
3. Snap the hose handle into the hose holder located on the handle of the vacuum cleaner.
4. Rotate the hose release lever downwards to release the hose as shown.
5. Snap the hose into the hose cuff on the side of the vacuum cleaner.
6. Rotate the hose release lever upwards to lock the hose in place.

❗ CAUTION: Do not operate the agitator without the wand properly inserted into the wand holder and the hose handle properly secured in the hose holder.

NOTE: Be sure the raised edge of the hose handle rests against the edge of the hose holder.

Pet Handi Mate™

For operation of Pet Handi Mate™, see separate Use & Care Guide.

1. Place Pet Handi Mate™ into the storage area.
2. Rotate the Pet Handi Mate™ back until it snaps into place.

Crevice Tool

1. Insert the crevice tool into the holder on the side of the vacuum cleaner as shown.

Combination Brush

1. Insert the combination brush into the holder on the back of the vacuum cleaner as shown.

Power Cord

1. Place the wand into the wand holder and the hose handle into the hose holder.

NOTE: The wand and hose handle must be in place before wrapping the power cord.

2. Make sure that the cord hook is in the upright position as shown.
3. Wrap power cord loosely around cord hook and carry handle.
4. Lock power cord plug onto the power cord.

⚠️ 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.

Operating Instructions

Power Cord

❗ CAUTION: Moving parts! To reduce the risk of personal injury, DO NOT touch the agitator when the vacuum cleaner is on. Contacting the agitator while it is rotating can cut, bruise, or cause other injuries. Always turn off and unplug from electrical outlet before servicing. Use caution when operating near children.

1. Turn the quick release upper cord hook to either side and down to release the power cord.
2. Detach the power cord plug from the power cord and pull the cord off the quick release upper cord hook.

⚠️ WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock, this vacuum cleaner has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). The plug will fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified technician to install the proper outlet. Do not change the plug in any way.

3. Be sure the power cord is locked into the locking notch of the upper cord hook.
4. Plug the polarized power cord into a 120 Volt outlet located near the floor.

⚠️ WARNING: Personal Injury and Product Damage Hazard. When any abnormality/failure occurs, stop using the product immediately and disconnect the power plug. DO NOT use outlets above counters. Damage from cord to items in surrounding area could occur.

5. To store cord, turn upper cord hook to the up position, then wrap cord loosely around quick release cord hook and carrying handle.

⚠️ WARNING: Electrical Shock And Personal Injury Hazard. 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.

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.

Note: The agitator does not rotate when the vacuum cleaner is in the upright position.

OFF/FLOOR/CARPET Switch

To start the vacuum cleaner, slide the OFF/FLOOR/CARPET switch ⚙️ from the OFF position to the FLOOR or CARPET position.

❗ CAUTION: Refer to your carpet manufacturer's cleaning recommendations. Some more delicate carpets may require that they be vacuumed with the agitator turned off, to prevent carpet damage.

To stop the vacuum cleaner, slide the ON/FLOOR/CARPET switch to the OFF position.

❗ CAUTION: Do not allow vacuum cleaner to remain in one spot for any length of time when the agitator is turning. Damage to carpet may occur.

• OFF - Turns both suction and brush motors off.
• FLOOR - Turns on the suction motor only. In this position, the brush assembly does not revolve. Use this setting for cleaning hardwood and tile floors and when any attachments (tools) are used.
• CARPET - Turns on both the suction and the brush motors.

Note: The agitator does not rotate when the vacuum cleaner is in the upright position.

Pile Height Selection and Setting

To select a pile height setting:

Select a pile height setting by pressing the HEIGHT ADJUST pedal on the side of the nozzle. The pile height setting shows on the indicator window. See SUGGESTED PILE HEIGHT SETTINGS.

Attention: Refer to your carpet manufacturer's cleaning recommendations. Some more delicate carpets may require that they be vacuumed with the agitator turned off to prevent carpet damage.

Suggested Pile Height Settings

There are four (4) pile height settings on the vacuum cleaner. For best deep down cleaning, use the XLO setting. However, you may need to raise the height to make some jobs easier, such as scatter rugs and some deep pile carpets, and to prevent the vacuum cleaner from shutting off.

• HI - Shag, deep pile, or scatter rugs.
• MED - Medium to deep pile.
• LO - Low to medium pile.
• XLO - Most carpets, bare floors, and delicate carpets that require the agitator to be turned off.

Check Bag Indicator ?

When the vacuum cleaner is running with normal airflow, the light on the CHECK BAG indicator is off. The light comes on whenever the airflow becomes blocked. If that occurs, check the disposable dust bag, motor safety filter, and other possible clog locations shown in CLOG REMOVAL.

NOTE: It is normal for the CHECK BAG indicator to come on when using certain attachments, due to reduced airflow through the attachment. No maintenance is required.

Attachments

❗ CAUTION: DO NOT use the hose when the vacuum cleaner is in the use position. Always return the vacuum cleaner to the upright position before using the hose and attachments.

TO USE ATTACHMENTS

1. Place the vacuum cleaner in the upright position.
2. Remove the hose handle and wand by removing the hose handle from the hose holder and lifting up.

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

DO NOT pull the vacuum cleaner around the room by the hose. Property damage or personal injury could result.

Telescoping Wand

The wand length is adjustable and requires no assembly. To adjust, simply push down on the wand handle and slide the upper wand to the desired height.

2. Extend wand to desired length.
3. Use attachments as needed. See ATTACHMENT USE TABLE.

FOR ADDITIONAL REACH: Rotate hose release lever down to release hose for maximum hose reach.

Combination Brush

The combination brush can be attached directly to the wand. Use the brush holder without the brush for greater suction on furniture cushions or stairs. Use brush holder with brush for cleaning loose surfaces such as drapes.

Attachment Use Table

✔️ = Applicable

* Always clean attachments before using on fabrics.

** Use the brush holder without the brush for greater suction on furniture cushions or stairs. Use the brush holder with the brush for cleaning loose surfaces like drapes.

Carpet Edges: Guide one side or the front of the nozzle along the wall edge.

Stairs: Place the handle in the full upright position. The agitator stops. Use the crevice tool, combination brush, or Pet Handi Mate™.

Tilting the Unit: When using attachments, maintain the hose release lever in the closed position when possible. This helps keep the vacuum from tipping when the hose is stretched. If additional hose is needed, open the release lever and pull additional hose. Use caution not to tip the vacuum.

⚠️ WARNING: Personal Injury Hazard. DO NOT place the vacuum on the stairs. If it falls, it could cause personal injury or property damage.

For best cleaning results, keep airflow passages unobstructed. Unplug the vacuum before examining.

Motor Protection System

⚠️ WARNING: Electrical Shock or Personal Injury Hazard. Disconnect the unit before cleaning or servicing. Otherwise, electrical shock or personal injury could occur if the vacuum starts unexpectedly.

Thermal Protector - Motor Suction

This vacuum has a thermal protector that automatically adjusts to protect the vacuum from overheating. If an obstruction prevents normal airflow to the motor, the thermal protector automatically shuts off the motor to allow it to cool, preventing potential damage.

Thermal Protector - Agitator Motors

This vacuum is equipped with overload protectors on the agitator motors that automatically activate for motor protection. These protectors automatically disconnect electrical current to the motors when overheating occurs, allowing the motors to cool and preventing burnout or damage.

❗ CAUTION: Always return the vacuum to the upright position before using the hose and attachments. Failure to do so may result in overheating of the agitator motors, which can cause the thermal protector to activate. To correct this problem: Turn off the vacuum and unplug the power cord to allow the vacuum to cool and the thermal protector to reset. Remove obstructions or change the bag if necessary. Also, examine and replace any clogged filters. Wait approximately 40-50 minutes, then plug in the vacuum and turn it on to see if the motor protector has reset.

Motor Protector (Air Vent)

This vacuum contains an air vent valve that serves as a motor protector. When a blockage prevents air circulation to the motor, this valve automatically opens to provide fresh airflow to the motor, preventing overheating and subsequent damage. You may notice a different sound when this valve activates and air passes through it. To correct the problem: Consult the TROUBLESHOOTING chart. Note: The bypass valve may be open while using attachments or cleaning a new carpet due to reduced airflow from the attachments themselves or from carpet fluff that quickly fills the bag. Consult the TROUBLESHOOTING chart.

Note: Do not obstruct the motor protector.

Agitator Overload Protector

The agitator motor has built-in protection against motor damage if the agitator becomes blocked. If the agitator slows down or stops, the agitator overload protector turns off the agitator motor. The suction motor will continue to run.

To correct the problem: Turn off and unplug the vacuum, clear the obstruction, and then press the overload protector button. NOTE: A MINIMUM OF 20 SECONDS MUST PASS BEFORE RESETTING THE OVERLOAD PROTECTOR.

To reset: Push the agitator overload protector button.

If the problem persists, seek a qualified technician for service.

Dust Indicator

The electric dust indicator is a feature that detects dust as it passes through the vacuum. The dust indicator lights are located on the front of the indicator cover. A green light indicates most dust was suctioned; a red light indicates the vacuum is suctioning dust.

OPERATION: As you vacuum, the red dust indicator light will turn on and stay on while the indicator detects a high concentration of dust passing through the vacuum.

Cleaning the Optical Cells

The dust indicator optics consist of two optical cells located inside the bag compartment. Periodically, it is necessary to clean the two optical cells for them to function at maximum capacity. It is recommended to clean the optical cells:

• When the red light continuously stays on.
• When dirt or dust adheres to the optical cells.
• When changing the dust bag.

To clean the indicator, wipe it with a soft, dry cloth. Never use detergents or liquids, as they can make the optical cells dirtier faster and require more frequent cleaning. The dust indicator compartment is accessed by opening the dust cover and removing the dust bag.

Vacuum Cleaner Storage

Collect the cord and wrap it around the upper and lower cord hooks, without overtightening. Secure the plug onto the cord.

Store the vacuum cleaner indoors in a dry place, with the handle in the upright position.

⚠️ WARNING: Electrical Shock or Personal Injury Hazard. If you wrap the cord too tightly, it can become strained and damaged. A damaged cord could cause electrical shocks and personal injury or damage.

Cleaning Exterior and Attachments

Unplug the electrical cord from the wall outlet.

Clean the exterior with a soft, clean cloth, wrung out after dampening with a solution of water and mild liquid detergent. DO NOT spray water on the vacuum. Dry the exterior with a dry cloth after cleaning.

Wipe the exterior surface of the canister and attachments to reduce static electricity and dust accumulation.

Wash attachments in warm, soapy water, rinse, and air dry. Do not wash them in a dishwasher.

❗ CAUTION: Do not use attachments while they are wet. Attachments used in dirty areas, like under the refrigerator, should not be used on other surfaces without first being washed. They could leave marks.

Dust Bag Replacement

⚠️ WARNING: Always disconnect the electrical cord before repairing any part of the vacuum cleaner.

TO REPLACE THE DUST BAG

1. Unfold the new dust bag. Fold the dust bag's safety tab in the direction opposite the opening that goes into the bag holder.
2. Take the collar of the dust bag and carefully pull to remove the dust bag.

NOTE: Do not pull on the bag safety mechanism when removing or installing a new dust bag.

3. Dispose of the used bag. DO NOT reuse the bag.
4. Inspect the bag support and the motor safety filter.
5. Insert the dust bag completely onto the bag support, holding the bag by the collar.
6. Place the bag in the dust bag chamber. Ensure the bottom of the dust bag is fully inside the bag cavity before closing the bag cover.
7. Close the bag cover. You should hear a characteristic click, indicating the cover has closed properly.

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

Ensure the dust bag is installed completely in the bag cavity.

NOTE: If the dust bag is not installed or not installed correctly, the bag safety mechanism will prevent the bag cover from closing.

Motor Protection Filter Cleaning

⚠️ WARNING: Electrical Shock Hazard. Unplug the power cord from the outlet. Do not operate the cleaner without the primary filter or exhaust filter. Ensure filters are properly installed to prevent motor failure and/or electrical shock.

Wash the filter with hot, soapy water, rinse, and dry thoroughly by hand and air dry. DO NOT wash in the dishwasher. DO NOT install when wet.

MOTOR PROTECTION FILTER

Check the motor protection filter frequently and clean it when dirty. If the filter is dirty, pull it out. Reinstall the filter by sliding it back into place under the straps in the bag cavity. Replace the dust bag and the dust bag cover.

Exhaust Filter Replacement

The HEPA exhaust filter should be replaced when dirty. It should be replaced regularly depending on usage conditions. The filter cannot be washed, as it will lose its dust-trapping capacity.

Note: Refer to PARTS AND FEATURES for the exhaust filter number.

1. Press down on the exhaust filter cover latch and pull it outwards to remove it from the vacuum cleaner.
2. Remove the exhaust filter.
3. Place the new filter inside the cover, ensuring the airflow arrow on the side of the filter points towards the cover. The gray seal of the filter should be placed against the vacuum body.
4. Replace the exhaust filter cover by aligning the tabs into the slots and pushing until the cover is in place.

Dust Bag Cover Replacement

To reinstall or replace the dust bag cover:

1. Align the hinge pin of the bag cover with the hole in the bag cavity.
2. Swing the bag cover into place.
3. You should hear a click when the hinge pin snaps into place.

Agitator Cleaning

For efficient vacuuming, the agitator should be kept free of carpet fibers, hair, or accumulated dirt. After 7 to 10 uses, unplug and turn the vacuum cleaner over and check the agitator for accumulated hair, fibers, or dirt. Use scissors to carefully remove any buildup around the agitator.

Clog Removal

⚠️ WARNING: Electrical Shock or Personal Injury Hazard. Disconnect the unit before performing maintenance on your vacuum cleaner. Otherwise, electrical shock or personal injury could occur if the vacuum starts unexpectedly.

Hose

Always proceed with safety precautions before performing maintenance on your vacuum cleaner. If the vacuum does not seem to have sufficient suction, check if the dust bag is full or if the filter is clogged. See DUST BAG REPLACEMENT and MOTOR PROTECTION FILTER CLEANING. If the dust bag and filter areas are clear of obstructions, check the stretch hose.

TO REMOVE HOSE OBSTRUCTION

1. Turn the hose release lever clockwise to release the expandable hose.
2. Remove the lower end of the expandable hose from the wand holder by gripping the neck of the hose, twisting, and pulling straight upwards.
3. Plug in the vacuum cleaner and turn it on.
4. Stretch the hose to its maximum, then allow it to retract to its normal storage size.
5. Reinsert the hose into the opening in the body from which it was removed.
6. Tighten firmly to secure the connection.

⚠️ WARNING: Personal Injury Hazard. NEVER place hands or feet under the unit.

If the dust bag and filter areas are clear of obstructions, disconnect the nozzle from the hose and check the nozzle for obstructions. Turn the hose release lever to the right to the closed position. Clean the agitator according to the instructions in the AGITATOR CLEANING section. Return the vacuum cleaner to the upright position before plugging it into an outlet.

Troubleshooting

Check this chart to find solutions to problems you can correct yourself. Any other service should be performed by SEARS or another qualified service center.

⚠️ WARNING: Electrical Shock Hazard. Disconnect the vacuum cleaner before performing maintenance. Otherwise, electrical shock or personal injury could occur.

Requesting Assistance Or Service

Vacuum Cleaner Help Line: 1-877-531-7321 (8:00 am - 5:00 pm EST, M-F, U.S.A. and Canada)

Master Protection Agreements

Congratulations on making a smart purchase! Your new Kenmore® product is designed and manufactured to offer years of reliable performance. However, like all products, it may require preventive maintenance or occasional repair. For this reason, having a Master Protection Agreement can save you money and inconvenience. The Master Protection Agreement also helps prolong the useful life of your new product. Coverage includes parts and labor for normal use, expert service from authorized technicians, unlimited service calls, nationwide service, product replacement if repairs take too long or if the product cannot be repaired, and annual preventive maintenance. It also includes surge protection and food loss reimbursement for refrigerators/freezers. Some limitations and exclusions apply. For pricing and more information in the U.S.A., call 1-800-827-6655. Coverage in Canada varies; call Sears Canada at 1-800-361-6665.

Sears Installation Service

For professional installation by Sears of appliances, garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home items, call 1-800-4-MY-HOME (1-800-469-4663) in the U.S.A. and Canada.

Contact Information

For repair in your home of all major brand appliances, lawn and garden equipment, or heating and cooling systems, no matter who made it, no matter who sold it! Call anytime, day or night: 1-800-4-MY-HOME (1-800-469-4663) (U.S.A. and Canada).

For replacement parts, accessories, and owner's manuals: www.sears.com (U.S.A.), www.sears.ca (Canada).

For repair of carry-in items like vacuums, lawn equipment, and electronics, call anytime for the location of the nearest Sears Parts & Repair Service Center: 1-888-828-1222 (U.S.A.).

To purchase a protection agreement on a product serviced by Sears: 1-800-827-6655 (U.S.A.), 1-800-361-6665 (Canada).

Para pedir servicio de reparación a domicilio, y para ordenar piezas: 1-888-SU-HOGAR (1-888-784-6427) www.sears.com

Au Canada pour service en français: 1.800.LE.FOYER (1-800-533-6937) www.sears.ca