Kenmore Vacuum Cleaner Owner's Manual

Important Information

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Read and follow all safety and operating instructions before first use of this product.

⚠️ CUIDADO: Lea y sigue todas las instrucciones de operaci6n y seguridad antes det uso de este producto.

For replacement parts, please contact: Sears Parts and Repair Center (1-800-488-1222) Anytime, day or night (U.S.A. only)

For any other issue, please contact: Vacuum Cleaner Help Line (1-877-531-7321) 7:30am-4:00pm EST, M-F (U.S.A. and Canada)

Website: www.sears.com

One Year Limited Warranty

When assembled, operated, and maintained according to instructions, this vacuum cleaner is warranted against defects in material or workmanship for one year from the date of purchase. Return to any Sears store for free repair.

Note: Warranty is 90 days for non-private family use.

This warranty covers only defects in material and workmanship. Sears will NOT pay for:

• Expendable items (filters, belts, light bulbs, bags).
• Instruction, cleaning, or maintenance by a service technician.
• Damage or failure due to improper assembly, operation, or maintenance.
• Damage or failure resulting from accident, abuse, misuse, or use for other than intended purpose.
• Damage or failure caused by unauthorized modifications.

Implied warranties are limited to one year. Sears shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages. This warranty gives you specific legal rights.

Manufacturer: Sears, Roebuck and Co. Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A. Sears Canada Inc., Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5B 2B8

Important Safety Instructions

❗ WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electrical shock, injury to persons, or damage, follow basic safety precautions:

• Read all instructions before use.
• Use only as described in this manual and with Sears recommended attachments.
• Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and body parts away from openings and moving parts.
• Turn off all controls before unplugging.
• Disconnect electrical supply before servicing or cleaning the brush area to prevent electrical shock or sudden brush start.
• Use extra care when cleaning on stairs. Keep on floor, not on furniture.
• Do not leave vacuum cleaner plugged in when not in use. Unplug before maintenance.
• ❗ To reduce the risk of electrical shock: Do not use outdoors or on wet surfaces.
• 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. Return to a Sears Service Center if not working properly, dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped in water.
• Do not pull or carry by cord; use cord as a handle; close a door on cord; pull cord around sharp edges or corners; run vacuum cleaner over cord. Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not unplug by pulling on cord; 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 with any opening blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair, and anything that may reduce air flow.
• Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids (gasoline, cleaning fluid, perfumes, etc.) or use in areas where they may be present, as fumes 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 use without dust bin and/or filters in place.
• Always clean the dust bin after vacuuming carpet cleaners, freshener powders, or fine dust, as these products clog filters, reduce airflow, and can cause damage. Failure to clean the dust bin 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 bin.
• Unplug before connecting Handi-mate Jr.™
• You are responsible for ensuring the vacuum cleaner is not used by anyone unable to operate it properly.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Your vacuum cleaner is intended for Household use. Read this Owner's Manual carefully for important use and safety information.

Parts and Features

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

Key Components:

• Headlight Bulb
• Exhaust Filter (Part No. USA: 20-5248, Canada: 20-40324)
• Primary Filter (Part No. USA: 20-86889, Canada: 20-40335)
• Touch Control
• Handle Quick Release
• Upper Cord Hook
• Power Button
• Combination Brush
• Carrying Handle
• Upper Hose Hook
• Extension Wand
• Release Pedal
• Extension Hose Release Lever
• Motor Protector (Behind Hose)
• Dirt Sensor
• Dust Bin Release Handle
• Dust Bin
• Exhaust Filter Cover (Filter Inside)
• Furniture Guard
• Nozzle
• Wand Holder
• Floor Brush
• Wand

Assembly Instructions

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

Verify all components against the REPAIR PARTS LIST.

Handle Assembly

1. Remove the combination brush from the handle to expose the handle mounting hole.
2. Remove the handle screw from the vacuum cleaner body.
3. Position the handle assembly as shown in the illustration [refer to original diagram].
4. Firmly press the handle onto the body. Secure with the provided handle screw.
5. Begin tightening the screw with your fingers. Adjust handle slightly if necessary.
6. Using a screwdriver, tighten the handle screw. Reinstall the combination brush.

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

Cord Assembly

1. Ensure the quick release upper cord hook is in the upright position. Remove the wire tie from the power cord.
2. Place the power cord into the locking notch on the body [refer to original diagram] to keep it from going under the agitator.
3. Wrap the power cord around the quick release cord hook and the carrying handle. Lock the power cord plug onto the power cord.

Handi-Mate Jr.™ and Telescopic Wand

• Handi-Mate Jr.™: For operation, see separate Owner's Manual. To insert, place into the storage compartment and rotate back until it snaps into place. To remove, rotate out of the compartment.
• Telescopic Wand: Place the telescopic wand in the wand holder. Place the crevice tool in the top of the telescopic wand.

Operating Instructions

Cord Release

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. Ensure the power cord is still locked into the locking notch.
3. Plug the polarized power cord into a 120 Volt outlet located near the floor.
4. To replace cord, turn upper cord hook to the up position, then wrap cord.

❗ WARNING: This vacuum cleaner has a polarized plug (one blade is 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.

Releasing the Handle

Press down on the handle release pedal with your foot and pull back and down on the handle with your hand. Note: The agitator does not rotate when the vacuum cleaner is in the upright position.

Touch Control and Modes

The touch control panel allows selection of various cleaning modes.

• inteliCLEAN: Turns ON the vacuum cleaner in inteliCLEAN mode. The indicator light is green. Pressing the `inteliCLEAN` or `TOOLS` button turns OFF or de-activates inteliCLEAN mode.
• SUCTION/TOOLS: Changes the suction level of the vacuum cleaner motor (HIGH, MEDIUM, LOW). When the vacuum cleaner is OFF and locked in the upright position, pressing the `SUCTION` button turns ON the motor to HIGH for cleaning most carpets. The agitator starts (HIGH speed) when the vacuum cleaner is lowered. Pressing `SUCTION` cycles the motor through MEDIUM, LOW, and HIGH suction levels.
• GENTLE/FLOOR: Turns ON the vacuum cleaner motor to HIGH suction and the agitator motor to LOW speed for gentle cleaning of delicate carpets and rugs. Pressing `GENTLE/FLOOR` a second time turns OFF the agitator motor for cleaning bare floors. The `SUCTION` button can be used to cycle motor speed through MEDIUM, LOW, and HIGH.
• CARPET: Turns ON the vacuum cleaner motor to HIGH suction and the agitator motor to HIGH speed for cleaning most carpets and rugs. The `SUCTION` button cycles the motor through MEDIUM, LOW, and HIGH suction levels.

Motor Function Summary:

inteliCLEAN™ System and Dirt Sensor

The inteliCLEAN system automatically selects the appropriate cleaning power.

• inteliCLEAN Indicator: Green when inteliCLEAN mode is activated.
• Dirt Sensor: Monitors dirt concentration and adjusts power.
  • Green Sensor Light: Little or no dirt detected. inteliCLEAN operates at MEDIUM power for low energy consumption and noise.
  • Amber Sensor Light: Normal dirt concentration. inteliCLEAN operates at HIGH power. Energy consumption and noise levels increase.
  • Amber and Red Sensor Lights: Heavy dirt concentration. inteliCLEAN operates at MAXIMUM power. Highest energy consumption and noise levels.

Pile Height Selection and Setting

Your vacuum cleaner has a two-speed, direct-drive agitator for various floor surfaces.

⚠️ CAUTION: Do not use the CARPET setting (high speed) for berber-style carpet, as it could cause damage or excessive wear.

• Use the GENTLE setting (low speed) ONLY for berber or delicate pile carpeting.
• The agitator may slow down or stop on thick carpeting, area rugs, or throw rugs. If the agitator stops and does not restart, refer to the AGITATOR MOTOR OVERLOAD PROTECTOR section.
• The FLOOR setting is suitable for all bare floors (wood, tile, linoleum, slate, etc.).

To select a pile height setting:

1. Turn off the vacuum cleaner.
2. Tilt the vacuum cleaner back until the front wheels are lifted slightly off the floor.
3. Slide the adjustment lever to the correct setting.

There are four (4) pile height settings: LOW (for low-pile carpets and bare floors with agitator OFF), HIGH (for high-pile carpets like shag), and intermediate settings as needed.

⚠️ CAUTION: Do not allow the vacuum cleaner to remain in one spot for an extended period when the agitator is turning, as this may damage the carpet.

Vacuuming Tips

For best results, vacuum slowly and overlap strokes. Use attachments for edges, corners, and upholstery.

Performance/Safety Features

Your vacuum cleaner is equipped with features such as a motor protector and a dirt sensor for optimal performance and safety.

Vacuum Cleaner Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Vacuum Cleaner Storage

Store the vacuum cleaner in a dry, protected area. Wrap the cord neatly.

Cleaning Exterior and Attachments

Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth. Clean attachments as needed.

Dust Bin Cleaning

Clean the dust bin after vacuuming carpet cleaners, freshener powders, or fine dust. These can clog filters and damage the vacuum.

1. Press the dust bin release handle [refer to original diagram].
2. Remove the dust bin.
3. Empty the contents.
4. Wipe clean if necessary. Reinstall securely.

Primary Filter Removal and Cleaning

The primary filter should be cleaned regularly to maintain airflow.

1. Remove the dust bin.
2. Locate the primary filter inside the dust bin housing [refer to original diagram].
3. Remove the filter.
4. Tap the filter gently to remove loose dust. Wash with mild soap and water if necessary, and allow to air dry completely before reinstalling.

Exhaust Filter Replacement

Replace the exhaust filter when it appears dirty or damaged.

1. Locate the exhaust filter cover on the back/side of the vacuum [refer to original diagram].
2. Open the cover and remove the old filter.
3. Insert the new exhaust filter (Part No. USA: 20-5248, Canada: 20-40324).
4. Close the cover securely.

Light Bulb Replacement

If the headlight bulb burns out, replace it with a new bulb of the same type.

1. Unplug the vacuum cleaner.
2. Access the bulb housing [refer to original diagram].
3. Remove the old bulb and screw in the new one.
4. Replace any protective covers.

Agitator Cleaning

Periodically clean the agitator brush to remove tangled hair, threads, and debris.

1. Unplug the vacuum cleaner.
2. Turn the vacuum cleaner upside down or access the bottom plate.
3. Carefully cut away tangled material from the agitator brush.
4. Ensure the brush can spin freely.

Clog Removal

If airflow is restricted, check for clogs in the nozzle, hose, wand, and dust bin.

1. Unplug the vacuum cleaner.
2. Check the nozzle opening for obstructions.
3. Disconnect the hose and wand and check for blockages.
4. If clogs persist, refer to the troubleshooting section or contact Sears.

Troubleshooting

Refer to the table below for solutions to common performance issues.

• Vacuum cleaner won't run: 1. Check if plugged in. 2. Reset circuit breaker or replace fuse. 3. Allow vacuum to cool; reset thermal protector. 4. Check wall outlet.
• Poor job of dirt pick-up: 1. Ensure handle screw is tight. 2. Adjust pile height setting. 3. Check for worn agitator (service may be needed). 4. Check nozzle for clogs. 5. Check hose for clogs. 6. Check hose for damage. 7. Ensure hose is fully inserted. 8. Check for motor protection system activation (change of sound). 9. Clean or replace filters.
• Vacuum Cleaner picks up movable rugs or pushes too hard: 1. Adjust pile height setting.
• Light won't work: 1. Replace burned-out light bulb.
• Agitator does not turn: 1. Ensure handle is not in full upright position. 2. Reset Agitator Overload protector. 3. Allow vacuum to cool; reset thermal protector.
• Airflow restricted with attachment use. Sound changes: 1. Check attachments for fuzz, lint, pet hair, or other debris. 2. Check for clogs and clean hose.
• Difficulty adjusting pile height setting: 1. Ensure vacuum cleaner is in the proper upright position, tilt back slightly, and then adjust.
• Dirt Sensor will not work: 1. Clean optic cells.

Requesting Assistance or Service

For repair, replacement parts, accessories, or owner's manuals:

• In the U.S.A. and Canada: Call 1-800-4-MY-HOME (1-800-469-4663) anytime for home repair services.
• For carry-in products (vacuums, etc.): Call 1-800-488-1222 anytime (U.S.A. only) or visit www.sears.com.
• For service in Spanish (Canada): Call 1-888-SU-HOGAR (1-888-784-6427).
• For service in French (Canada): Call 1-800-LE-FOYER (1-800-533-6937).
• Website: www.sears.ca

© Sears, Roebuck and Co. ® Registered Trademark / ™ Trademark / SM Service Mark of Sears Brands, LLC.