Kenmore Canister Vacuum Cleaner Manual

The Kenmore Canister Vacuum Cleaner is a powerful and versatile cleaning appliance designed for comprehensive home maintenance. It features a multi-surface motor, HEPA filtration system, adjustable suction power, various attachments for different cleaning tasks, a retractable cord, and bagged or bagless dust collection options. Below are key sections covering safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Using Attachments 7. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Storage & Care 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Canister body with motor and filtration, telescopic wand, power nozzle, hose, and accessory kit.

FeatureDescription
Multi-Surface MotorAdjustable suction for carpets, hard floors, and delicate surfaces
HEPA Filtration SystemCaptures 99.97% of dust, pollen, and allergens
Power NozzleMotorized brush roll for deep carpet cleaning
Telescopic Metal WandAdjustable length for comfortable reach
Accessory KitIncludes crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery nozzle
Retractable Power CordConvenient storage with foot pedal retraction
Bag/Bagless OptionChoose between disposable bags or easy-empty dust cup
Suction Control DialAdjust suction power for different surfaces
Onboard StorageAttachments store on canister for easy access
HeadlightIlluminates cleaning path in dark areas

Assembly & Setup

Unpack all components and inspect for damage. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

  1. Attach wheels: Slide wheels onto axle pins until they click into place.
  2. Connect hose: Insert hose end into canister inlet and twist clockwise to lock.
  3. Attach telescopic wand: Insert wand into hose handle until it clicks.
  4. Connect power nozzle: Align nozzle with wand end and push until secure.
  5. Install bag or dust cup: For bagged models, insert disposable bag; for bagless, secure dust cup.
  6. Plug into standard 120V AC outlet.

WARNING! Ensure vacuum is unplugged during assembly. Handle with care to avoid pinching fingers.

First-Time Use

Before first use, perform a quick test to ensure all components work properly.

  1. Check filtration: Ensure HEPA filter is properly seated in its compartment.
  2. Test suction: Turn on vacuum and adjust suction control dial to medium setting.
  3. Test attachments: Connect each accessory to ensure secure fit.
  4. Check cord retraction: Press foot pedal to retract cord completely.
  5. Empty dust cup or check bag: Ensure collection system is empty before use.

CAUTION! Do not use on wet surfaces or to pick up liquids. Keep hair, loose clothing, and fingers away from moving parts.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on canister body. Power Nozzle has additional settings.

Canister Controls: Power On/Off switch, Suction Control Dial (Low/Medium/High), Cord Retraction Pedal, Bag/Bin Release Button.

Power Nozzle Controls: On/Off switch for brush roll, Height Adjustment (4 settings for different carpet piles), Headlight On/Off.

Settings Guide: Low suction for delicate rugs and curtains; Medium for hard floors and normal carpets; High for deep cleaning and pet hair. Adjust nozzle height so brush roll lightly contacts carpet surface.

Using Attachments

Each attachment designed for specific cleaning tasks. Always turn off vacuum before changing attachments.

  1. Crevice Tool: For tight spaces, corners, between cushions, and along baseboards.
  2. Dusting Brush: Gentle cleaning for lampshades, blinds, books, and electronics.
  3. Upholstery Nozzle: With brush strip for sofas, chairs, mattresses, and car interiors.
  4. Floor Brush: For hard surfaces like wood, tile, and laminate floors.
  5. Extension Wands: Combine for high reach cleaning of ceilings, fans, and tops of cabinets.

Tip: Store attachments on canister caddy for easy access during cleaning sessions.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends vacuum life.

  1. Empty dust cup: When full or after each use. Press release button and empty into trash.
  2. Clean filters: Wash pre-motor filter monthly with cold water; air dry 24 hours. Replace HEPA filter every 6-12 months.
  3. Check brush roll: Monthly, remove hair and debris wrapped around brush roll.
  4. Inspect hose: Regularly check for clogs or damage. Use straightened coat hanger to clear obstructions.
  5. Check wheels: Wipe clean to prevent dirt transfer to floors.
  6. Replace bags: When bag is 2/3 full (bagged models only).

WARNING! Always unplug vacuum before performing maintenance. Never operate without filters installed.

Storage & Care

Proper storage prevents damage and maintains vacuum readiness.

  1. Retract cord completely using foot pedal.
  2. Wrap hose neatly around canister hooks.
  3. Store all attachments on canister caddy.
  4. Store upright in cool, dry location away from heat sources.
  5. Empty dust cup/bag before long-term storage.

CAUTION! Do not store with wet filters. Keep away from children and pets.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL Standard 1017. EPA Energy Star certified where applicable. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Kenmore, Inc. For genuine replacement parts and filters, use only Kenmore-branded accessories. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-426-9225.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Loss of suctionFull bag/dust cup, clog, dirty filtersEmpty collection system; check for clogs in hose and nozzle; clean or replace filters.
Brush roll not spinningObstruction, belt broken, switch offClear hair/debris from brush roll; check and replace belt if needed; ensure power nozzle switch is on.
Vacuum won't turn onPower source, cord, switchCheck outlet; inspect cord for damage; ensure power switch is engaged.
Unusual noise/vibrationObstruction, loose part, worn bearingCheck for and remove obstructions; tighten all connections; contact service if bearing noise persists.
OverheatingClogged filters, full bag, blocked airflowClean filters; empty bag/dust cup; check for and clear obstructions; allow to cool 30 minutes.
Cord won't retractTangled cord, retraction mechanismUntangle cord manually; check retraction spring; contact service if mechanism faulty.

Reset: Unplug for 10 minutes if motor overheats, then restart.

Service: 1-800-426-9225; www.kenmore.com

Kenmore Canister Vacuum Cleaner Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025