STIGA BLV 20 Li S / BLV 20 Li A Battery Garden Blower Vacuum

Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the STIGA BLV 20 Li S and BLV 20 Li A battery-powered garden blower and vacuum. Please read this booklet carefully before using the machine.

Product Overview and Components

The STIGA BLV 20 Li S/A is a battery-powered garden blower/vacuum designed for blowing and suction/shredding of leaves, grass, and light debris. It is powered by a battery and features a motor that drives an impeller to create airflow.

Main Components (Refer to Diagram 1):

• A: Motor unit
• B: Front blower/suction tube
• C: Rear blower/suction tube
• D: Handle
• E: Front handle
• F: ON/OFF switch / speed control
• G: Grass collection bag
• H: Vacuum/Blow switch
• I: Wheels
• J: Battery compartment

Safety Instructions

General Safety Warnings:

• [Warning] Read this manual thoroughly before operating the machine.
• [Danger] This machine can be dangerous if not used correctly.
• Do not allow children or persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience or knowledge, to use this machine. Local regulations may specify a minimum user age.
• Never use the machine near people, especially children, or animals. Children must be supervised by an adult and must not play with the device.
• Do not use the machine if you are tired, unwell, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances that may impair your attention and reaction capability.
• The user is responsible for accidents and damages caused to other persons or their property. Assess potential risks of the terrain and take necessary precautions for your own safety and that of others, especially on slopes, uneven, slippery, or unstable ground.
• If the machine is handed over to others, ensure they read and understand these instructions.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Wear appropriate clothing: sturdy work shoes with non-slip soles, long trousers. Never work barefoot or in light sandals.
• Wear hearing protection, anti-vibration gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask.
• Using hearing protection may reduce your ability to hear warnings (shouts or alarms). Pay close attention to events in the work area.
• Do not wear scarves, loose clothing, necklaces, bracelets, clothing with loose parts, or ties that could get caught in the machine or objects in the work area.
• Keep hair away from the air intake grille, as it can get caught in the impeller and cause severe injury. Tie back long hair.

Work Area and Machine:

• Thoroughly inspect the entire work area and manually clear it of all debris and objects that could be thrown by the machine (when used as a blower) or clog the suction tube (when used as a vacuum), or pose a hazard (stones, branches, metal wires, bones, etc.).
• If the ground is dusty, lightly moisten the surface.
• To reduce fire risk, do not place the machine with a hot motor among leaves or dry grass.
• Do not use the machine in potentially explosive areas where flammable liquids, gas, or dust are present. Sparks from the machine can ignite dust or vapors.
• Work only in daylight or with good artificial lighting and good visibility.
• Ensure other persons are at least 15 meters away from the machine's operating radius.
• Avoid working in wet grass, rain, or during thunderstorms, especially if there is a risk of lightning.
• Avoid using the machine on wet or slippery ground, or on uneven or steep slopes, if stability is not guaranteed.
• Do not expose the machine to rain or damp environments. Water entering the machine increases the risk of electric shock.
• Be particularly aware of ground unevenness (bumps, ditches), slopes, hidden hazards, and obstacles that may obstruct visibility.
• Exercise caution near inclines, ditches, or embankments.
• If using the machine near a road, be aware of traffic.
• Always pay attention to wind direction and never work against the wind.
• Do not use the machine near open windows.
• Start the machine on a level, firm surface.
• Do not use the machine on paved or gravel surfaces to avoid injury from displaced material.
• Avoid accumulation of displaced material in the outlet area, as this can hinder proper operation and cause kickback through the air inlets.

Operating Posture:

• When using as a blower, always hold the machine firmly with your right hand on the upper handle.
• When using as a vacuum, hold the machine firmly with both hands: right hand on the upper handle and left hand on the lower handle, with the collection bag on the operator's left side.
• Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces like pipes, heaters, stoves, or refrigerators, as this increases the risk of electric shock.
• Maintain a firm and stable stance and handle the machine carefully.
• Do not bend or lean over the machine.
• When working on slopes, ensure a secure footing.
• Operate the machine at a walking pace.
• Be careful not to strike foreign objects hard, or to inhale material and dust blown by the air stream.
• Do not direct the air stream at people or animals.
• When using as a leaf blower, exercise extreme caution to prevent removed material or airborne dust from causing injury to people or animals, or damage to property.
• Never insert hands into the suction opening.
• Do not suck up metal pieces, stones, bottles, cans, other foreign objects, or bulky items that could damage the impeller.
• Never stand over the machine base when vacuuming objects.
• Always keep face, hands, and body away from the intake grille and discharge opening, and do not block air passages during starting or operation.
• Rotating parts can cause severe injury. Avoid contact with these parts while they are still spinning.
• [Warning] In case of breakage or accidents during operation, stop the motor immediately and remove the machine to prevent further damage. If you or others are injured, provide first aid as appropriate and seek medical attention. Carefully remove any residual items that could cause damage or injury if left unattended.
• Prolonged use of vibrating tools may cause circulatory problems, vascular diseases (known as "Raynaud's Syndrome" or "dead finger"), particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions. Symptoms may affect hands, wrists, and fingers, causing numbness, tingling, itching, pain, pale skin, or structural skin changes. These effects can be exacerbated by low ambient temperatures or a firm grip on the handles. If symptoms occur, reduce usage time and consult a doctor.

Usage Restrictions:

• The machine must only be operated by persons capable of holding it firmly with both hands and maintaining balance.
• Never use the machine with damaged, missing, or incorrectly fitted safety guards.
• Always use the machine with the appropriate accessories for the intended purpose (blowing or vacuuming).
• Do not tamper with, disable, remove, or alter safety systems or microswitches.
• Do not use the machine if the switch does not correctly turn the tool on and off. A tool that cannot be operated with its switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
• Do not subject the machine to excessive force, and do not use small machines for heavy-duty tasks. Using an appropriate machine reduces risks and improves work quality.

Maintenance and Storage

Regular maintenance and proper storage ensure the machine's safety and performance.

Maintenance:

• Never use the machine if parts are worn or damaged. Replace worn or damaged parts; do not attempt repairs. Use only original spare parts.
• The noise and vibration levels indicated in this manual are the maximum values during machine operation. Take appropriate precautions to mitigate potential damage from high noise levels and vibration exposure. Use the machine at a constant speed. Hold the handle firmly with appropriate force. Use the machine at the minimum speed necessary for the task. Wear hearing protection. Take frequent and appropriate breaks during work.

Storage:

• To reduce fire risk, do not leave containers with clippings inside a room.

Battery / Battery Charger:

• [Important] The following safety instructions supplement the safety regulations in the specific manual for the battery and battery charger supplied with the machine.
• To charge the battery, use only manufacturer-recommended battery chargers. An unsuitable charger can cause electric shock, overheating, or leakage of corrosive liquid from the battery.
• Use only batteries intended for your tool. Using other batteries may lead to injury and fire hazards.

Environmental Protection:

• Strictly follow local regulations for the disposal of packaging, damaged parts, and other environmentally harmful substances. These wastes must not be disposed of with household waste but must be collected separately and taken to a recycling center or special collection points for material reuse.
• Strictly follow local regulations for the disposal of waste materials.
• When decommissioning the machine, do not simply abandon it in the environment; hand it over to a recycling center according to local regulations.
• Do not dispose of electrical equipment in household waste. According to EU Directive 2012/19/EG on waste electrical and electronic equipment, such equipment must be collected separately and sent for environmentally sound recycling. Improper disposal can release hazardous substances into groundwater and the food chain, harming health and well-being. Contact your local waste disposal authority or dealer for more information.
• Dispose of batteries at the end of their life cycle responsibly. Batteries contain materials that can be hazardous to you and the environment. They must be removed separately and disposed of in a facility that accepts lithium-ion batteries.
• Separate collection of used products and packaging enables material recycling and reuse. Reusing recycled materials helps prevent environmental pollution and reduces demand for raw materials.

Getting to Know the Machine

3.1 Machine Description and Intended Use

This machine is a garden power tool, specifically a portable battery-operated leaf blower/leaf vacuum for garden use. It consists of a motor that drives an impeller, generating a high-speed airflow.

3.1.1 Intended Use

This machine is designed and built for blowing and suction/shredding of leaves, grass, and various light-weight, small-sized debris.

3.1.2 Non-intended Use

Any other use deviating from the above may prove dangerous and cause personal injury or property damage. Non-intended use includes (but is not limited to):

• Accumulating and collecting flammable or explosive products, hot embers, smoldering material, burning cigarettes, glass fragments, sharp splinters, metal objects, stones, and anything that could be dangerous to the operator or others.
• Directing the airflow at people or animals.
• Using the machine by more than one person.

[Important] Improper use of the machine will void the warranty and release the manufacturer from any liability. Any damage or injury caused to the user or third parties as a result of improper use is the user's responsibility.

3.1.3 User

This machine is intended for use by consumers, i.e., laypersons. It is designed for "hobby use".

Assembly Instructions

For storage and transport reasons, some machine parts are not factory-fitted and must be assembled according to the following instructions after removing the packaging.

Unpacking and assembly must be performed on a flat, firm surface with sufficient space to move the machine and packaging, using appropriate tools. Do not use the machine until the instructions in the "ASSEMBLY" section have been completed.

4.1 Unpacking Procedure:

1. Carefully open the packaging, ensuring no components are lost.
2. Read all enclosed documents, including this instruction manual.
3. Remove all loose components from the carton.
4. Remove the machine from the carton.
5. Dispose of the carton and packaging in accordance with local regulations.

[Important] Before assembly, ensure the battery is not inserted into its seat.

4.2 Assembly / Removal of Blower/Suction Tube:

Insert the front blower/suction tube (Fig. 3.A) into the rear blower/suction tube (Fig. 3.B) and secure it with the screw (Fig. 3.C).

4.3 Assembly of Grass Collection Bag:

1. Attach the grass collection bag (Fig. 4.A) to the blower outlet (Fig. 4.B), ensuring it is properly hooked.
2. Hook the grass collection bag using the hook (Fig. 5.B) onto the front tube (Fig. 5.A).

4.4 Assembly of Front Handle:

Insert the handle (Fig. 6.A) into its seat and secure it in the desired position with the knob (Fig. 6.B).

4.5 Assembly of Shoulder Strap:

Hook the shoulder strap hook into the eyelet (Fig. 7.A) on the upper side of the machine.

[Important] Stop the machine and always remove the battery (Sec. 7.2.2) when removing the blower/suction tube and grass collection bag.

Controls

5.1 Vacuum/Blow Switch:

This switch allows you to change the machine's function:

• Setting the switch to "BLOW" (Fig. 8.A) activates the blowing function.
• Setting the switch to "VAC" (Fig. 8.B) activates the suction function.

[Warning] The machine's operating mode must be set before switching it on.

5.2 ON/OFF Switch:

The ON/OFF switch (Fig. 9) has a dual function:

1. It starts/stops the machine and simultaneously turns the impeller rotation on/off. Turn the switch to position "0" to stop the machine.
2. It allows adjustment of the impeller's rotational speed by turning the switch to the desired position (from 1 to 5).

[Warning] Starting the machine will cause the impeller to rotate simultaneously.

Using the Machine

6.1 Preparatory Work Steps

6.1.1 Battery Check and Charging (Fig. 10):

Before each use, check the battery charge level and charge it according to the instructions in the battery's manual.

6.1.2 Shoulder Strap Adjustment:

Adjust the shoulder strap length so that the suction tube can be guided close to the ground (Fig. 7).

6.2 Safety Checks:

[Important] Always perform safety checks before use.

General Checks:

6.2.2 Operational Tests:

[Important] Do not use the machine if any of the results deviate from the specifications in the following tables! Send the machine to a service center for necessary checks and repairs.

6.3 Commissioning:

1. Assume a safe and stable position.
2. Ensure the blower/suction tube is not directed towards observers or debris.

6.4 Operation

[Important] During operation, the machine must always be held firmly with both hands on the handles.

[Important] During operation, the battery is protected against complete discharge by a safety device that switches off the machine and blocks its operation.

6.4.1 Usage Recommendations:

1. Proceed slowly, keeping the end of the blower tube at a suitable distance from the ground (Fig. 7).
2. To prevent removed material from scattering, direct the airflow around the outer edges of the debris pile. Never direct the airflow into the center of the accumulated material.
3. Always hold the machine with both hands on the handles.
4. Use the shoulder strap when using the machine as a shredder.

6.4.2 Air Vents:

Never cover the air vents. Keep the air vents clear of foreign objects and debris at all times. The vents must always be clean to ensure proper motor cooling.

6.4.3 Use as a Blower:

1. Turn the control lever to "BLOW" (Fig. 8.A).
2. Hold the blower firmly.
3. Direct the airflow forward, sweeping from side to side, keeping the nozzle at a suitable distance from the ground. Proceed slowly, keeping the accumulated pile in front of you.

6.4.4 Use as a Leaf Vacuum/Shredder:

1. Turn the control lever to "VAC" (Fig. 8.B).
2. Hold the vacuum firmly.
3. The guide wheels (Fig. 1.I) at the end of the suction tube help guide the suction tube more easily towards the ground.
4. Small debris such as leaves and twigs are shredded as they pass through the impeller housing.
5. To ensure a longer bag life and better performance, empty the bag frequently.

6.4.5 Speed Adjustment:

It is always advisable to adjust the impeller's rotational speed according to the type of material to be removed:

• Medium blowing speed: for light materials and small bushes on the lawn, for moving grass and light leaves on asphalt or hard surfaces.
• Maximum blowing speed: for wet leaves, heavier materials like fresh snow, or bulky dirt.

6.5 Stopping:

To stop the machine, turn the switch to the STOP position "0" (Fig. 9).

The impeller continues to rotate for a few seconds even after the machine has been stopped.

Always stop the machine when moving between work areas.

[Important] Never place your hand on the control lever while moving to prevent accidental activation.

6.6 After Use:

1. Remove the battery from its seat and recharge it (Sec. 7.2.2).
2. Allow the motor to cool before storing the machine indoors.
3. Perform cleaning (Sec. 7.3).
4. Check the machine for loose or damaged parts. If necessary, replace damaged components and tighten any loose screws or bolts, or contact an authorized service center.
5. Check the machine for any damage. If necessary, contact the authorized service center.

[Important] Always remove the battery (Sec. 7.2.2) when leaving the machine unused or unattended.

Maintenance and Storage

7.1 General:

[Important] Before any inspection, cleaning, or maintenance/adjustment work on the machine:

• Stop the machine (Sec. 6.5).
• Remove and charge the battery (Sec. 7.2.2) (never leave the battery inserted or within reach of children or unauthorized persons).
• Ensure all moving parts have come to a complete stop.
• Allow the motor to cool before storing the machine indoors.
• Wear appropriate clothing, work gloves, and safety glasses.
• Read the relevant instructions.

[Important] Any maintenance or adjustment steps not described in this manual must be performed by your dealer or a qualified service center.

7.2 Battery

7.2.1 Battery Performance:

Battery autonomy (and thus the area that can be worked on before the battery needs recharging) is mainly influenced by user behavior, which should avoid:

• Frequent starting and stopping during operation.
• Using a rotational speed for the impeller that is unsuitable for the material being processed (Sec. 6.4.5).

To optimize battery autonomy, the impeller's rotational speed should always be set according to the type of material being processed.

If you wish to use the machine for longer work sessions than the standard battery allows, you can:

• Purchase an additional standard battery to immediately swap out the depleted one, without interrupting the work session.

[Important] Always use fully charged batteries. If one of the two batteries is not fully charged, the machine will shut down when the battery is depleted.

• Purchase a battery with higher autonomy than the standard battery (Sec. 13.1).

7.2.2 Removing and Charging the Battery (Figs. 12, 13):

[Important] The battery has a protection feature that prevents charging if the ambient temperature is not between 0 and +45°C.

7.3 Cleaning the Machine:

• To reduce fire risk, keep the machine clear of leaves and twigs.
• Always clean the machine after use. Use a clean, damp cloth moistened with a neutral detergent.
• Remove any moisture traces with a soft, dry cloth. Moisture poses a risk of electric shock.
• Do not use aggressive cleaning agents or solvents for cleaning plastic parts or handles.
• Do not use water jets and avoid getting the motor and electrical components wet.
• Always keep the impeller clean and free of dust and debris. Blow compressed air through the grille. Do not spray the impeller with water.
• To prevent overheating and damage to the motor or battery, always ensure the cooling air intake grilles are clean and free of dirt.

7.4 Cleaning the Grass Collection Bag and Suction Tube:

1. Turn the ON/OFF switch to "0" and wait for the machine to stop completely.
2. Remove the battery pack.

Technical Specifications

Technical Data:

Accessories Available on Request:

• [14] Battery pack, mod.: BT 20 Li 2.0 S, BT 20 Li 4.0 S, BT 20 Li 2.0 A, BT 20 Li 4.0 A
• [15] Battery charger, mod.: CG 20 Li, CGD 20 Li, CGW 20 Li

a) NOTE: The declared total vibration value was measured using a normalized test method and can be used to compare one tool with another. The total vibration value can also be used for a preliminary exposure evaluation.

b) WARNING: The vibrations emitted during actual use of the tool can differ from the declared total value according to how the tool is used. Therefore, it is necessary to adopt the following safety measures to protect the operator: wear protective gloves during use, limit the machine's usage time, and shorten the time the throttle control lever is pressed.

Troubleshooting

If problems persist after following the troubleshooting steps, contact your dealer.

Safety Symbols

The machine features various symbols. Their meanings are:

• [Warning] [Danger] This machine can be dangerous to you and others if not used correctly.
• [Important] Read the instruction manual carefully before operating the machine.
• [Eye protection] Wear hearing protection and safety glasses.
• [No rain] Do not expose to rain (or moisture).
• [Flying debris warning] CAUTION! FLYING DEBRIS HAZARD! Be careful that no material is thrown out by the airflow. It can cause severe injury to persons or damage to objects.
• [Keep distance warning] CAUTION! FLYING DEBRIS HAZARD! Keep persons or pets at least 15 m away from the machine during operation.
• [Battery removal] Remove the battery before any inspection, cleaning, or maintenance/adjustment work on the machine.
• [Rotating parts warning] Rotating impeller blades can cause severe injury. Do not touch the impeller while the machine is running.
• [Important] Damaged or illegible labels must be replaced. Request new labels from your authorized customer service center.

Declaration of Conformity

UK Declaration of Conformity / EC Declaration of Conformity

This declaration confirms that the machine (ST. S.p.A. - Via del Lavoro, 6 - 31033 Castelfranco Veneto (TV) - Italy) conforms to relevant directives and regulations.

Machine Type: Hand-held garden Blower-Vacuum / blowing-suction

Model Base: BLV 20 Li S, BLV 20 Li A

Motor: Battery-operated

Key Specifications Mentioned:

• Measured Sound Power Level: 98.7 dB(A)
• Guaranteed Sound Power Level: 102 dB(A)
• Air Flow: 0.16 m³/s

The company ST. S.p.A. declares under its own responsibility that the machine complies with the specified directives and standards.