Kenmore Central Vacuum Manual

The Kenmore Central Vacuum System is a powerful, built-in cleaning solution designed for residential use. It features a central power unit, in-wall tubing, inlet valves, and a collection canister or bag system. This manual covers safety guidelines, system components, installation procedures, operation instructions, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty information for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Accessories 7. Operation & Usage 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Central Power Unit, Inlet Valves, Hose, Wands, Cleaning Tools, Collection Canister/Bag, and System Tubing.

Feature	Description
Central Power Unit	High-suction motor unit installed in garage, basement, or utility area
Inlet Valves	Wall-mounted ports throughout the home for hose connection
Hose & Wands	Flexible hose with extendable wands for reaching all areas
Cleaning Tools	Includes floor brush, crevice tool, upholstery nozzle, and dusting brush
Collection System	Large-capacity canister or disposable bag for debris collection
System Tubing	Network of PVC pipes installed within walls/floors
ON/OFF Switch	Activates power unit when hose is inserted into inlet valve
Filter System	Protects motor from dust; may include HEPA or cloth filter
Exhaust Vent	Vents cleaned air outside the living space
Low-Voltage Wire	Connects inlet valves to power unit for automatic activation

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Installation requires basic carpentry and electrical skills.

Plan the layout: Determine locations for power unit, inlet valves, and tubing runs.
Install tubing: Run PVC pipes from power unit to each inlet valve location.
Mount inlet valves: Cut holes in walls, secure valves, and connect to tubing.
Install power unit: Mount in a dry, ventilated area; connect to electrical supply and exhaust vent.
Connect low-voltage wiring: Run wires from each inlet valve back to power unit terminals.

WARNING! Turn off power at circuit breaker before electrical connections. Ensure all tubing connections are airtight to maintain suction.

First-Time Setup

After installation, perform initial setup and testing.

Power connection: Plug power unit into dedicated 120V outlet or hardwire per local codes.
Test inlet valves: Insert hose into each valve to ensure power unit activates.
Check suction: Attach cleaning tool and verify strong suction at each inlet.
Inspect exhaust: Ensure exhaust vent is clear and directs air outside.
Install collection bag/canister: Follow unit instructions for proper installation.

CAUTION! Do not operate without filter or collection bag installed. Keep hands away from inlet openings during operation.

Specifications

Motor Power: 5.0 to 6.5 peak HP (varies by model).
Airflow: 130 to 150 CFM.
Suction: 110 to 130 inches of water lift.
Collection Capacity: 4 to 6 gallon canister or disposable bag.
Filtration: Cloth bag, paper bag, or HEPA filtration options.
Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Amperage: 10-12 amps.
Tubing Size: 2-inch diameter PVC.
Warranty: 5-year limited warranty on motor, 1-year on parts.

Controls and Settings

Power Unit Controls: ON/OFF switch, reset button, bag/canister full indicator. Hose Handle: ON/OFF switch for models with handle control.

Operation: Insert hose into inlet valve to automatically activate system. Remove hose to turn off.

Settings: No adjustable settings on basic models. Some models feature variable suction control on hose handle or at power unit.

Connecting Accessories

Standard accessories include floor brush, crevice tool, upholstery nozzle, and dusting brush.

Connect hose to inlet valve: Insert hose end firmly until click is heard.
Attach wand sections: Connect wands together by twisting or pushing.
Add cleaning tool: Attach desired tool to end of wand.
Begin cleaning: System activates automatically when hose is inserted.

Tip: Store hose and accessories in provided wall caddy or storage bag.

Operation & Usage

Designed for regular household cleaning on carpets, hard floors, and upholstery.

Insert hose: Push hose end into any inlet valve until it clicks.
Select tool: Choose appropriate attachment for cleaning surface.
Clean systematically: Overlap strokes for thorough cleaning.
Empty collection: When bag/canister is full, power unit will indicate.
Disconnect: Remove hose from inlet valve to turn system off.
Tool changes: Switch tools as needed without removing hose.
High-pile carpets: Use floor brush with beater bar if included.
Above-floor cleaning: Use appropriate tools for furniture, blinds, ceilings.

WARNING! Do not vacuum wet materials, flammable liquids, or sharp objects. Do not block inlet valves or exhaust vent.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends system life.

Empty collection: Replace disposable bags or empty canister when ¾ full.
Clean filter: Wash or replace filter every 3-6 months depending on use.
Check tubing: Inspect for clogs annually; use tubing cleaning kit if available.
Clean tools: Remove hair and debris from brushes and nozzles regularly.
Inspect hose: Check for cracks or leaks; ensure connections are tight.

CAUTION! Unplug power unit before performing any maintenance. Do not operate with damaged hose or components.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for safety in the United States and Canada. CSA Certified: Complies with Canadian Standards Association requirements. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4668.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No suction at inlet	Clogged tubing, full bag	Check for clogs in hose/tubing; empty/replace collection bag.
Power unit won't turn on	Electrical issue, blown fuse	Check circuit breaker; ensure unit is plugged in; check fuse if applicable.
Weak suction	Clogged filter, leak in system	Clean or replace filter; check all connections for air leaks.
Motor runs but no suction	Disconnected tubing, full bag	Inspect tubing connections; ensure bag/canister is properly installed.
Loud noise or vibration	Foreign object in impeller	Turn off immediately; check for objects in fan or impeller area.
Automatic turn-on not working	Low-voltage wire issue	Check wiring connections at inlet valves and power unit.

Reset: Press reset button on power unit if motor overheats and shuts off.

Service: 1-800-469-4668; www.kenmore.com