Kenmore Vacuum Cleaner Owner's Manual
Models: 116.31720, 116.31721
Part No. CO1ZBJBODUOO-8191917
Printed in U.S.A.
Before Using Your New Vacuum
Please read this guide. It will help you assemble and operate your new Kenmore vacuum in the safest and most effective way. For more information about care and operation, call your nearest Sears store. You will need the complete model and serial numbers when requesting information. Your vacuum's model and serial numbers are located on the Model and Serial Number Plate.
Record your vacuum's model and serial numbers here:
Model No.: _________________________
Serial No.: _________________________
Date of Purchase: _________________________
Keep this book and your sales check (receipt) in a safe place for future reference.
Kenmore Vacuum Cleaner Warranty
LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON KENMORE VACUUM CLEANER
This warranty is for one year from the date of purchase and includes only private household vacuum cleaner use. During the warranty year, when this vacuum cleaner is operated and maintained according to the owner's manual instructions, Sears will repair any defects in material or workmanship free of charge. This warranty excludes vacuum bags, belts, light bulbs, and filters, which are expendable parts and become worn during normal use. For warranty service, return this 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. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Important Safety Instructions
Your safety is important to us. To reduce the risk of fire, electrical shock, injury to persons, or damage when using your vacuum cleaner, follow basic safety precautions including the following:
- Read this manual before assembling or using your vacuum cleaner.
- Use your cleaner only as described in this manual.
- Use only with Sears recommended attachments.
- To reduce the risk of electrical shock:
- Do not use outdoors or on wet surfaces.
- Disconnect electrical supply before any servicing or cleaning. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury.
- Always turn cleaner off before unplugging.
- Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
- Do not use with damaged cord or plug. If cleaner is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to a Sears Service Center/Department.
- Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as a handle, close door on cord, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners.
- Do not run cleaner over cord. Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
- Do not leave cleaner when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
- 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 use cleaner without dust bin and/or filters in place.
- Always clean the dust bin after vacuuming carpet cleaners or freshener, powders, and fine dust. These products clog the filters, reduce airflow, and can cause the bag to burst. Failure to clean the dust bin could cause permanent damage to the cleaner.
- Do not use the cleaner to pick up sharp, hard objects, small toys, pins, paper clips, etc. 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 cleaner to pick up flammable or combustible liquids (gasoline, cleaning fluids, 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 allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
- Use extra care when cleaning on stairs. Do not put on chairs, tables, etc. Keep on floor.
- Do not handle plug or cleaner with wet hands.
- Do not put any objects into openings.
You are responsible for making sure that your vacuum cleaner is not used by anyone unable to operate it properly.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Proper assembly and safe use of your vacuum cleaner are your responsibilities. Your cleaner is intended only 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. Please pay special attention to these boxes and follow any instructions given. WARNING statements alert you to such dangers as fire, electrical shock, burns, and personal injury. CAUTION statements alert you to such dangers as personal injury and/or property damage.
Parts and Features
It is important to know your vacuum cleaner parts and features to assure its proper and safe use. Review these before using your cleaner.
| Item | Part No. In U.S. | Part No. In Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Filter | 20-50722 | 20-50722C |
| Exhaust Filter | 20-86889 | 20-86889C |
| Headlight Bulb | 20-5240 | 2O-40600 |
| Belt | 20-5275 | 20-40096 |
Main Unit Components:
- Power Cord: Connects the vacuum to the electrical outlet.
- Hose Holder: Supports the hose when not in use.
- Cord Hook: Used to wrap and secure the power cord.
- Handle: For carrying and maneuvering the vacuum.
- Dust Bin Release Handle: Used to detach the dust bin for emptying.
- Primary Filter (Inside): Traps dust and debris.
- Height Adjustment Lever: Selects the appropriate cleaning height for different carpet piles.
- Nozzle Cover: Protects the agitator and brush area.
- Furniture Guard: Protects furniture from accidental bumps.
- Nozzle Cover Retainers: Secure the nozzle cover.
- Bin Exhaust: Where air is expelled after filtration.
- Exhaust Filter (inside): Further filters air before it is released.
- Headlight (Some Models): Illuminates the cleaning area.
- Nozzle Base: The main cleaning head of the vacuum.
- Agitator/Brush Roll: Rotates to agitate carpet fibers and loosen dirt.
- Suction Inlet: Where dirt is drawn into the vacuum.
- Retainer/Carry Handle: For carrying the vacuum.
- On/Off Switch: Controls power to the vacuum.
- Motor Protector: Internal safety feature to prevent overheating.
- Model/Serial Numbers Plate: Location for identifying the vacuum.
Attachments:
- Hose: Flexible tube for reaching areas away from the main unit.
- Short Hose: Connects the main hose to the vacuum body.
- Wand (Some Models, Qty. 1 or 2): Extension tubes for the hose.
- Crevice Tool: Narrow attachment for cleaning tight spaces.
- Dusting Brush (Some Models): Brush attachment for delicate surfaces.
- Combination Brush (Some Models): Versatile brush for various surfaces.
- Extension Hose (Some Models): Additional hose length.
- Floor Brush: Attachment for hard floor surfaces.
- Adaptor (Some Models): Connects different attachment parts.
Assembly Instructions
Before assembling the vacuum, check the PACKING LIST on the cover of the separate Repair Parts List to verify that you have received all the components of your new Kenmore vacuum.
Handle Assembly
⚠️ WARNING: Electrical Shock Hazard. Do not plug into the electrical supply until the assembly is complete. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or injury.
- Remove the screw located just below the top edge of the back of the vacuum. [Screw Icon]
- Position the handle as shown. While holding the power cord out of the way, slide the handle into the opening at the top of the vacuum.
- Insert the screw so it passes through the handle into the vacuum.
- Begin to tighten the screw with your fingers. It may be necessary to adjust the handle slightly.
- Using a screwdriver, tighten the screw. CAUTION: Do not overtighten. Overtightening could strip the screw holes. Do not operate the cleaner without the screw in place.
Cord Assembly
- Make sure the quick release cord hook is in the upright position.
- Remove the wire tie from the power cord.
- Lock the cord into place by forcing it into the locking notch on the body of the quick release cord hook. This helps keep the power cord out from under the vacuum cleaner agitator.
- Wrap the power cord around the quick release cord hook and lower cord retainer, then lock the power cord plug onto the power cord.
Attachment Assembly
After the handle has been assembled to the body and the power cord has been wrapped around the cord hooks, the attachments can be assembled.
- Snap the suction inlet end of the hose into the back of the vacuum cleaner.
- Place the hose behind the handle and over the hose holder.
- Place the hose in the front slot of the tool holder, twisting and pushing down over the short hose to assure a good connection.
- Place the extension wand in the rear slot of the tool holder.
- Slide the crevice tool into the slot beside the wand.
- Place the dusting brush or combination brush on the wand with the brush portion up.
Attachment Storage: Return the hose to its position on the short hose and the attachments to their holders.
Operating Instructions
How to Start
- Turn the quick release cord hook to either side and down to release the power cord. [Release Icon]
- Release the power cord plug from the power cord and pull the cord off the quick release cord hook. Check to be sure the power cord is still locked into the locking notch in the quick release cord hook.
- Plug the polarized power cord into a 120 Volt outlet located near the floor. NOTE: To reduce the risk of electric shock, this vacuum cleaner has a polarized plug; one blade is wider than the other. This 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.
- ⚠️ WARNING: Personal Injury and Product Damage Hazard. DO NOT plug in if the switch is in the ON position. Personal injury or damage could result. DO NOT use outlets above counters. Damage to items in surrounding area could occur.
Pile Height Selection and Setting
SOME MODELS
To select a pile height setting:
- Turn off cleaner.
- Select a pile height setting by tilting the cleaner back until front wheels are lifted slightly off the floor.
- Slide the adjustment lever to the correct setting.
Models with no selector adjust automatically for varying carpet heights.
Suggested Pile Height Settings
You may need to raise the height to make some jobs easier, such as scatter rugs and longer pile carpets. Suggested settings are:
- Models with two (2) positions:
- HIGH: medium to long pile.
- LOW: short to medium pile.
- Models with four (4) positions:
- HIGH: shag carpet, long pile, plush, scatter rugs.
- MED: medium to long pile.
- LOW: short to medium pile.
- EX LOW: very low pile.
Place unit in "HIGH" when using attachments to prevent possible floor damage.
ATTENTION: Special care is required when vacuuming certain types of carpet or floor covering. Always check the carpet or floor covering manufacturer's recommended cleaning instructions before vacuuming.
Releasing the Handle
Place your foot on the footrest and pull back on the handle until it releases from its upright position. [Foot Rest Icon]
SOME MODELS
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. [Handle Release Pedal Icon]
ON/OFF Switch
To start the vacuum cleaner, step on the ON/OFF switch located on the back of the vacuum. [On/Off Switch Icon] To stop the vacuum cleaner, step on the switch a second time.
Attachments
⚠️ WARNING: Personal Injury Hazard and Property Hazard. DO NOT place hands or feet underneath the unit at any time. When using attachments, the agitator continues rotating. Do not allow the cleaner to remain in just one place for a period of time as the agitator may damage the floor surface. Avoid placing the cleaner on furniture, the fringed area of rugs, deep pile carpeting, or carpeted stairs. The ideal position for the cleaner when using attachments is for the unit to be on a level area with the handle in the full upright position.
TO USE ATTACHMENTS:
- Place the cleaner on a flat surface, and move the height adjustment to HIGH.
- The attachments will fit on the hose or the wand. In addition, the dusting brush or combination brush will also fit on the crevice tool.
- The hose and wand can be pulled off the short hose by grasping the cuff and twisting while pulling up.
CAUTION: When using attachments, be careful not to overextend the hose length when reaching. Trying to reach beyond the hose reach could cause the cleaner to tip over.
SOME MODELS
An extra wand, without tabs, is included. This extra wand can be added to the wand with tabs for extra reach. Insert wand and twist a quarter of a turn to secure fit.
The attachments can be added to the hose if the item to be cleaned is not far from the cleaner. The hose on some models will expand. NOTE: When cleaner is turned on, the hose on some models will have a tendency to collapse due to suction of the cleaner.
If more reach is needed, the wand can be attached to the hose and the attachments can be added to the wand.
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 Combinations:
- Dusting Brush on Wand
- Crevice Tool on Wand
- Combination Brush on Wand
- Dusting Brush on Crevice Tool on Wand (for extended reach into tight spaces)
Vacuum Cleaner Care
Vacuum Storage
Store the vacuum cleaner in a dry, protected area. Wrap the cord neatly.
Cleaning Exterior and Attachments
Wipe the exterior of the vacuum with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents. Wash attachments in warm, soapy water and dry completely before use.
Dust Bin Cleaning
The dust bin should be cleaned regularly, especially after vacuuming fine dust, powders, or carpet fresheners, to maintain optimal performance and prevent damage.
- Release the dust bin using the Dust Bin Release Handle.
- Carefully remove the dust bin from the vacuum body.
- Empty the contents into a trash receptacle.
- Wipe the inside of the dust bin with a damp cloth if necessary and dry thoroughly.
- Reattach the dust bin securely to the vacuum body.
Secondary Filter Cleaning
The secondary (exhaust) filter should be cleaned periodically to ensure proper airflow.
- Locate and remove the exhaust filter, typically found near the dust bin or exhaust port.
- Gently tap the filter against a hard surface to dislodge loose dust.
- If the filter is very dirty, it can be washed in cool water. Allow it to air dry completely before reinstalling.
Filter Changing/Cleaning
Regular cleaning or replacement of the primary and exhaust filters is crucial for maintaining suction power and air quality.
- Primary Filter: This filter is usually located inside the dust bin or a separate compartment. Remove it, tap it clean, or wash it if recommended by the filter type. Ensure it is completely dry before reinstallation.
- Exhaust Filter: (See Secondary Filter Cleaning above).
- Refer to the "Parts and Features" section for filter part numbers. Replace filters if they become damaged or excessively dirty.
Belt Changing and Agitator Cleaning
A worn or broken belt will prevent the agitator from rotating, leading to poor cleaning performance. This procedure requires disconnecting power.
- ⚠️ WARNING: Electrical Shock Or Personal Injury Hazard. Disconnect electrical supply before servicing or cleaning the unit. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury from cleaner suddenly starting.
- Disconnect electrical supply.
- Turn the vacuum cleaner upside down.
- Remove the nozzle cover retainers (screws or clips).
- Lift off the nozzle cover.
- Remove the old belt from the motor shaft and the agitator.
- Clean any debris from the agitator and the nozzle area. Check the agitator brushes for wear; replace the agitator if brushes are worn down.
- Place the new belt over the motor shaft, then loop it around the agitator. Ensure the belt is properly seated on both the motor shaft and the agitator.
- Reassemble the nozzle cover and retainers.
- Turn the vacuum upright and check that the agitator rotates freely when the vacuum is turned on (briefly).
Clog Removal
If airflow is restricted or suction is lost, check for clogs in the hose, wand, nozzle, or dust bin port.
- Disconnect electrical supply.
- Check the hose for obstructions. Remove any visible clogs.
- Check the wand and attachments for blockages.
- Inspect the nozzle inlet and dust bin port for debris.
- Use a long, blunt object (like a broom handle) to carefully push out any stubborn clogs.
- Ensure the dust bin and filters are clean and not clogged.
Motor Protector
This vacuum cleaner is equipped with a motor protector that automatically shuts off the motor if it overheats. If the vacuum stops running, unplug it, check for clogs or full dust bin, and allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before attempting to restart. If the motor protector trips frequently, contact Sears service.
Light Bulb Changing
⚠️ WARNING: Electrical Shock Or Personal Injury Hazard. Disconnect electrical supply before servicing or cleaning the unit. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury from cleaner suddenly starting.
- Disconnect electrical supply.
- To access the light bulb, remove the screw which secures the light lens to the vacuum. [Screw Icon]
- Remove the lens.
- CAUTION: Do not use a bulb rated over 130 V AC - 15 W. During extended use, heat from the bulb could overheat surrounding plastic parts.
- Remove the light bulb by pushing the bulb in while turning counterclockwise to release from the slot. Pull the light bulb straight out.
- To replace the light bulb, carefully insert the new bulb and turn clockwise to fit securely into slot. Use Bulb #20-5240 (In Canada, 2040600).
- IMPORTANT: Do not plug in or turn on until completely reassembled.
- Position the light lens back on the vacuum. Replace the light lens screw.
Agitator Servicing
Regularly check the agitator for debris and wear.
To Check Agitator
Turn the vacuum upside down. Check the agitator brushes for worn brushes. When brushes are worn down, replace the agitator.
Agitator Assembly
Replace agitator with a new one. Reassemble the belt, agitator, and nozzle cover. See BELT CHANGING AND AGITATOR CLEANING.
Troubleshooting
Review this chart to find do-it-yourself solutions for minor performance problems. Any service needed, other than those described in this owner's manual, should be performed by a Sears authorized service representative.
⚠️ WARNING: Electrical Shock Hazard. Disconnect electrical supply before servicing or cleaning the unit. Failure to do so could result in electrical shock or personal injury.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaner won't run. | 1. Unplugged at wall outlet. 2. Tripped circuit breaker/blown fuse at household service panel. 3. On/off switch not turned on. 4. Thermal protector tripped. | 1. Plug in firmly, push on/off switch to on. 2. Reset circuit breaker or replace fuse. 3. Push on/off switch to on. 4. Reset thermal protector (page 11). |
| Poor job of dirt pick-up. | 1. Full or clogged dust bin. 2. Wrong pile height setting. 3. Worn agitator. 4. Clogged nozzle or dust bin port. 5. Clogged hose. 6. Hole in hose. 7. Broken/misplaced belt. 8. Hose not inserted fully. 9. Motor protection system activated. 10. Dirty filters. 11. Agitator not rotating. | 1. Clean dust bin (pages 13, 14). 2. Adjust setting (page 7). 3. Replace agitator (page 20). 4. Check CLOG REMOVAL (page 18). 5. Check for clogs (page 18). 6. Replace hose. 7. Replace/fix belt (pages 16, 17). 8. Insert hose fully (page 6). 9. Check for clogs (page 18). 10. Clean/change filters (page 15). 11. Remove obstructions (page 15). |
| Cleaner picks up moveable rugs or pushes too hard. | 1. Wrong pile height setting. | 1. Adjust setting (page 7). |
| Light won't work. | 1. Burned out light bulb. | 1. Change light bulb (page 19). |
| Agitator does not turn. | 1. Broken belt. 2. Bare floor selector in bare floor setting. 3. Belt installed incorrectly. | 1. Replace belt (pages 16, 17). 2. Move selector to the carpet setting (page 7). 3. Check BELT CHANGING AND AGITATOR CLEANING (pages 16, 17). |
| Performance indicator, some models, is red. | 1. Full or clogged dust bin. 2. Dirty filters. 3. Clogged airflow passage. 4. Certain attachment tools restrict airflow. | 1. Clean dust bin (pages 13, 14). 2. Clean/change filters (page 15). 3. Clear clog from airflow passage (page 18). 4. This is normal. Light should go off when tool is removed. |
| Air flow restricted. Sound changes. | 1. Attachment use restricts air flow. 2. New carpet fuzz clogged air path. | 1. Check ATTACHMENTS (page 8). 2. Check CLOG REMOVAL and clean hose (page 18). |
Requesting Assistance Or Service
For repair of major brand appliances in your own home... no matter who made it, no matter who sold it!
1-800-4-MY-HOME ? (1-800-469-4663) ? www.sears.com (Anytime, day or night, U.S.A. and Canada)
? www.sears.ca
For repair of carry-in products like vacuums, lawn equipment, and electronics, call for the nearest Sears Parts and Repair Center.
1-800-488-1222 ? (Anytime, day or night, U.S.A. only)
? www.sears.com
For replacement parts, accessories, and owner's manuals that you need to do-it-yourself, call Sears PartsDirect!
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