Bissell PowerForce Compact 1520 Manual

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING YOUR UPRIGHT VACUUM.
Always connect to a polarized outlet (one slot is wider than the other). Unplug from outlet when not in use and before conducting maintenance. When using an electrical appliance, basic precautions should be observed, including the following:

WARNING
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY:

Always connect to a polarized outlet (one slot is wider than the other). Do not modify the polarized plug to fit a non-polarized outlet or extension cord.
Do not leave vacuum cleaner when it is plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
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 for any purpose other than described in this User’s Guide. Use only the manufacturer’s recommended attachments.
Do not use with damaged cord or plug. If the appliance is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, have it repaired at an authorized service center.
Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as a handle, close a door on cord, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners. Do not run appliance over cord. Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
Do not handle plug or vacuum cleaner with wet hands.
Do not put any object into openings. Do not use with any opening blocked; keep openings free of dust, lint, hair, and anything that may reduce airflow.
Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.
Turn off all controls before plugging or unplugging vacuum cleaner.
Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible materials (lighter fluid, gasoline, kerosene, etc.) or use in areas where they may be present.
Do not use vacuum cleaner in an enclosed space filled with vapors given off by oil base paint, paint thinner, some moth-proofing substances, flammable dust, or other explosive or toxic vapors.
Do not use to pick up toxic material (chlorine bleach, ammonia, drain cleaner, etc.).
Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
Do not use without filters in place.
Do not pick up hard or sharp objects such as glass, nails, screws, coins, etc.
Use only on dry, indoor surfaces.
Keep appliance on a level surface.
Do not carry the vacuum cleaner while it is running.
Unplug before connecting or disconnecting the TurboBrush® Tool or TurboEraser® Pet Tool (on select models).

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE USE
This model is for household use only.

THIS APPLIANCE HAS A POLARIZED PLUG
To reduce the risk of electric shock, this appliance 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 electrician to install a proper outlet. Do not change the plugin anyway.

Thanks for buying a BISSELL vacuum

We’re glad you purchased a BISSELL vacuum. Everything we know about floor care went into the design and construction of this complete, high-tech home cleaning system.

Your BISSELL vacuum is well made, and we back it with a limited one-year warranty. We also stand behind it with a knowledgeable, dedicated Consumer Care department, so, should you ever have a problem, you’ll receive fast, considerate assistance.

My great-grandfather invented the floor sweeper in 1876. Today, BISSELL is a global leader in the design, manufacture, and service of high-quality homecare products like your BISSELL vacuum.
Thanks again, from all of us
at BISSELL.

Mark J. Bissell
Chairman & CEO

Product View

Handle
Handle/ High Reach Extension Wand
Crevice Tool
Dusting Brush
Carrying Handle
Tank Release Button
Accessory Holder
Dirt Container
Dirt Container Empty Button
Cord Hook
Extension Wand Release
Hose Clip
Stretch Hose
Upper Quick Release™ Cord Wrap
Power Cord
Handle Recline Pedal
Power Switch Pedal
Product Rating Label and Serial Number
Hose Holder
Foot Hose

WARNING
Plastic film can be dangerous. To avoid danger of suffocation, keep away from babies and children.
WARNING
Do not plug in your vacuum cleaner until you are familiar with all instructions and operating procedures.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of electric shock, turn power switch off and disconnect polarized plug from electrical outlet before performing maintenance or troubleshooting checks.

Assembly

This user’s guide has been designed to help you get the utmost satisfaction from your vacuum. You’ll find assembly and operating instructions, safety precautions, as well as maintenance and troubleshooting instructions. Please read this guide thoroughly before assembling your vacuum cleaner.

Pay particular attention to the product diagram, assembly instructions, and part names. Locate and organize all parts before assembly. Familiarize yourself with the parts and where they go. Following this user’s guide will greatly enhance your ability to get the best performance from your vacuum for many years.
1. Position the handle so the lower tab is facing the back of the vacuum.
2. Insert the handle into the base and push until you hear it lock into place.
3. Wrap power cord around cord wraps and place attachments in their correct holders.

WARNING
Do not operate vacuum with damp or wet filters or without all filters in place first.

Handle position
Press the handle recline pedal with your foot to place your vacuum in one of three positions.
1. Upright – For storage and transport.
2. Normal Cleaning – Press handle release pedal once. Use for most household floor cleaning tasks.
3. Low Cleaning – With the vacuum in normal cleaning position, press handles release pedal again. Use for reaching under low furniture, such as tables, chairs, or beds.

ATTENTION
The floor brush will continue to rotate while using your vacuum for above-floor cleaning. To prevent carpet damage, do not lean on the vacuum or let the power foot tilt forward.

Operations

Special tools
Your BISSELL vacuum is not only a powerful carpet and rug vacuum cleaner, it’s also a versatile above-floor vacuum cleaner when you select one of the special tools.
1. Raise handle to upright position.
2. Grasp hose and remove from hose holder.
3. Attach tools by firmly pushing onto vacuum hose or extension wand.
Crevice Tool:
Use in tight narrow spaces.
Dusting/Upholstery Tool (select models):
Use to dust upholstery, drapes, blinds, shelves, baseboards, and much more.
NOTE: The floor brush will continue to rotate while tools are in use.

Tip » You can use the special tools either on the end of the vacuum hose or on the end of the High Reach Extension Wand.
High reach extension wand
1. Remove extension wand by releasing the extension wand release lever and pulling the handle out of the body.
2. Connect the hose to the extension wand by inserting into the open end of the extension wand and twisting it to lock.

Transporting cleaner
1. To move your cleaner from room to room, put the handle in the upright position, tilt the cleaner back on its rear wheels, and push forward.
2. The cleaner can also be moved by using the carrying handle on the front of the vacuum.

Tips » Hair, string and small objects can block the vacuum hose or tools. Check them occasionally for obstructions.
» Before cleaning under low furniture, check area first for objects that might harm the unit or block the vacuum hose.

Operations

Using your cleaner
1. For first-time use, remove the plastic plug guard and dispose.
2. Rotate the Quick Release cord wrap towards the floor and slip power cord from upper and lower cord wraps.
3. Connect power cord plug to a polarized outlet.
4. To keep the power cord out of your way while cleaning, place it in the cord hook by the top of the vacuum.

CAUTION
Before using your vacuum, make sure that all filters are in place. Do not operate your vacuum without these filters.

ATTENTION
Some Berber carpets have a tendency to fuzz with wear. Repeated strokes in the same area may enhance this condition.

Power Switch pedal
The red power switch pedal is located on the back of the cleaner, under the cord wraps.
1. Step on the power switch to turn the unit “On”. The rotating floor brush and suction will start.
2. Step on the pedal again to turn the vacuum “Off”.

WARNING
The rotating floor brush continues to rotate while tools are in use. To reduce the risk of injury from moving parts, always move the cleaner with the carrying handle at the front of the cleaner. Always place vacuum cleaner on floor with handle in an upright position when using tools. Never place your fingers under the cleaner when it is running. Never place power foot on furniture or uneven surfaces. Do not place vacuum cleaners close enough to objects to pull them into a rotating brush.

Maintenance and Care

How to maintain your vacuum
To maintain maximum cleaning performance, the following maintenance steps must be performed: Check rotating floor brush frequently, remove any strings, hair or debris that might interfere with the suction power.
NOTE: More frequent filter cleaning or replacement may be necessary if you are vacuuming new carpet, fine dust, or have allergy concerns. Follow the instructions on the following pages to perform these simple maintenance steps.

WARNING
To reduce the risk of electric shock, turn power switch off and disconnect polarized plug from electrical outlet before performing maintenance or troubleshooting checks.

Tip
The dirt container may be washed in warm water with a mild detergent. Rinse and dry thoroughly before re-attaching it. This is not dishwasher safe.

Emptying the dirt container
The dirt container needs to be emptied when dirt reaches the “Full” line.
1. Turn off vacuum and unplug it from electrical outlet.
2. Remove Dirt Container by pushing the Dirt Container Release Button on top of the tank handle.
3. Holding Dirt Container over garbage bin, press Release Button on back. Snap bottom back into place.
4. Put the Dirt Container back on the vacuum and push to lock into place.

Cleaning the tank filter

Turn off the vacuum and unplug it from the electrical outlet.
Remove dirt container by pressing release button and pulling away from the vacuum by the handle.
The filter is located inside of the dirt container lid. Open dirt container lid by lifting release latch.
Grasp the filter and pull to remove.
The filter can be washed by hand in warm water. Mild detergent may be used if desired. Rinse well, then air dry completely before putting back into the dirt container lid.
Place the filter back in the dirt container lid. The white mesh side should be put in first with the black foam side still visible. Align the locating details on the filter with the locating features in the tank lid.
NOTE: If the filter is still excessively dirty, damaged or torn, it will need to be replaced (see page 14 for replacement parts).
Close the dirt container lid and place the dirt container back onto the unit.
NOTE: When replacing the filter set, the white fabric side should be installed first. The dark foam side should be all that’s visible once the filters are in place

NOTICE
While vacuuming, certain carpets and low humidity conditions may generate small static discharges. The discharges are entirely harmless and are not associated in any way with the main power supply.

Cleaning the tank

Turn off vacuum and unplug it from electrical outlet.
Remove dirt container by pressing release button and pulling away from the vacuum by the handle.
Open dirt container lid by lifting release latch. Remove primary separator by lifting out of the dirt container.
The tank and separator can be washed by hand in warm water. Mild detergent may be used if desired. Rinse well then air dry completely before replacing.
Check hose inlet for any clogging.
Reassemble the primary separator by centering the front symbol and twisting toward lock position, as shown.
Replace dirt cup.

Power cord storage
When you have finished using your vacuum, store the power cord on the cord wraps.

Turn off vacuum cleaner and unplug power cord.
Loop power cord around cord wraps on back of cleaner, making certain the Upper Quick Release cord wrap is pointed up towards the handle and the Lower Quick Release cord wrap is pointed down towards the floor.
Clip molded plug to power cord to secure.

WARNING
Do not operate cleaner with damp or wet filters or without all filters in place.

Clean and replace rotating floor brush
You should check your cleaner’s rotating floor brush and drive belt regularly for wear or damage. You should also clean the brush and brush ends by removing string, hair, and carpet fibers. These can wrap around the brush and hamper its ability to effectively clean your carpet. Also, remove any debris that has accumulated under the brush cover.

Turn off vacuum and unplug from electrical outlet.
Place vacuum upside down with brush roll facing upwards.
Remove five screws as shown with a small Phillips screwdriver.
Lift off brush cover.
Grasp floor brush at both ends and lift out.
Clean strings, hair, and other debris from floor brush, motor pulley, and drive belt.
Check floor brush for worn areas and replace if needed.
Check air passageway for obstructions. Recline the handle to the floor, separate the hose from the hose wand base to look through the hose for clogs. Remove debris from this area.
When finished cleaning, reposition floor brush and drive belt. Turn floor brush by hand several times in the direction of the motor to align the belt on the floor brush. Then replace the brush cover and screws.

Replace drive belt

Follow steps 1-4 of previous section, “Clean and replace rotating floor brush”.
Check drive belt carefully for wear, cuts, and stressed areas. If the drive belt appears worn, you will need to replace it.
Remove brush, then grasp old drive belt and remove from motor shaft. Discard old drive belt.
Loop new drive belt over motor shaft and stretch another end over floor brush in the space provided between the bristles.
Place ends of floor brush down into slots on sides as shown.
Turn floor brush by hand several times in the direction of the motor shaft. If properly installed, drive belt will align itself on floor brush.
Replace brush cover and five screws.

Cleaning stretch hose and foot hose

Locate the stretch hose where it connects to the hose elbow on the back of the vacuum.
Look to see if there is any debris in the hose and hose elbow. Clean as necessary.
Locate the clear foot hose under the hose holder.
Remove the two screws located to the left of the hose.
Check for any debris in the hose.
Use a long narrow object such as a broomstick to clean the hose. Remove clogs or debris.
Replace two screws to attach foot hose. Replace stretch hose by sliding over inlet and rotating upwards towards the lock position.
NOTE: If the debris cannot be reached through the hose, then follow the instructions for cleaning the air passageway in the “Clean and replace rotating floor brush” section.

CAUTION
Do not use sharp objects, such as a hanger, to remove clogs.

Troubleshooting

WARNING
To reduce the risk of electric shock, turn power switch off and disconnect polarized plug from electrical outlet before performing maintenance or troubleshooting checks.

Problem	Possible causes	Remedies
Vacuum cleaner won’t run	Power cord not plugged in	Check electrical plug
Vacuum cleaner won’t run	Blown fuse/tripped breaker	Check/replace fuse or reset breaker
Vacuum cleaner won’t pick up dirt	Dirt container is full	Empty dirt container
	Filter dirty	Check, remove debris or clean
	Hose not secure	Check to be sure hose is snapped into place at both ends
	Dirt container not in place	Make sure dirt container is completely inserted and snapped into place.
	Vacuum path clogged	Visually check air passageway, hose inlet, and hose for anything that might be obstructing the vacuum path. Carefully remove blockage.
	Rotating power brush drive belt Broken	Replace drive belt
	Drive belt stretched	Check drive belt area and remove obstructions. Replace drive belt if necessary
	Floor brush bristles worn	Replace floor brush
	Floor brush jammed	Remove floor brush and clean debris from brush and ends. Check drive belt for any damage.

For additional FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) please visit Customer Support at Bissell.com.

Please do not return this product to the store.

Other maintenance or service not included in the manual should be performed by an authorized service representative.
Thank you for selecting a BISSELL product.
For any questions or concerns, BISSELL is happy to be of service. Contact us directly at 1-800-237-7691.

Warranty

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state. If you need additional instruction regarding this warranty or have questions regarding what it may cover, please contact BISSELL Consumer Care by E-mail, telephone, or regular mail as described below.
Limited One-Year Warranty
Subject to the *EXCEPTIONS AND EXCLUSIONS identified below, upon receipt of the product BISSELL will repair or replace (with new or remanufactured components or products), at BISSELL’s option, free of charge from the date of purchase by the original purchaser, for one year any defective or malfunctioning part.

See information on “If your BISSELL product should require service”.

This warranty applies to products used for personal, and not commercial or rental service. This warranty does not apply to fans or routine maintenance components such as filters, belts, or brushes. Damage or malfunction caused by negligence, abuse, neglect, unauthorized repair,
or any other use not in accordance with the User’s Guide is not covered.

BISSELL IS NOT LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY NATURE ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT. BISSELL’S LIABILITY WILL NOT EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE PRODUCT.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
*EXCEPTIONS AND EXCLUSIONS FROM THE TERMS OF THE LIMITED WARRANTY
THIS WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTIES EITHER ORAL OR WRITTEN. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES WHICH MAY ARISE BY OPERATION OF LAW, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED TO THE ONE YEAR DURATION FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE AS DESCRIBED ABOVE.

Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts so the above limitation may not apply to you.

NOTE: Please keep your original sales receipt. It provides proof of date of purchase in the event of a warranty claim.

Service

If your BISSELL product should require service:
Visit BISSELL.com or contact BISSELL Consumer Care to locate a BISSELL Authorized Service Center in your area.
If you need information about repairs or replacement parts, or if you have questions about your warranty, contact BISSELL Consumer Care.
Website or E-mail: www.BISSELL.com
Or Call:
BISSELL Consumer Care
1-800-237-7691
Monday – Friday 8am – 10pm ET
Saturday 9am – 8pm ET
Sunday 10am – 7pm ET

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BISSELL Consumer Care
For information about repairs or replacement parts, or questions about your warranty:
Email: www.BISSELL.com/email-us
Call:
BISSELL Consumer Care
1-800-237-7691
Monday – Friday 8 am – 10 pm ET
Saturday 9 am – 8 pm ET
Sunday 10am – 7pm ET
Visit the BISSELL website: www.BISSELL.com
When contacting BISSELL, have model number of cleaner available.
Please record your Model Number: ___________________
Please record your Purchase Date: ___________________
NOTE: Please keep your original sales receipt. It provides proof of purchase date in the event of a warranty claim. See Warranty on page 15 for details.