Shark Cleaning LA481 Series ADV Upright Vacuum User Guide
- June 13, 2024
- Shark Cleaning
Table of Contents
- IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
- ASSEMBLY
- TECHNOLOGY SETTINGS
- ODOR NEUTRALIZER TECHNOLOGY TIPS
- ODOR NEUTRALIZER TECHNOLOGY
- WHOLE-HOME CLEANING
- EMPTYING THE DUST CUP
- CLEANING THE FILTERS
- MAINTENANCE
- CORD MAINTENANCE
- CHECKING FOR BLOCKAGES
- AVAILABLE ACCESSORIES
- TROUBLESHOOTING
- FIVE (5) YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
- TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
**Shark Cleaning LA481 Series ADV Upright Vacuum User Guide
**
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, injury, or property damage, when
using an electrical appliance, basic precautions should always be followed,
including the following:
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE
USING THIS VACUUM
-
Inspect power cord and plug for any damage before use. DO NOT use vacuum cleaner with a damaged cord or plug. Turn off all controls before plugging in or unplugging the vacuum cleaner. Store your vacuum cleaner with the power cord secured around the two cord hooks. To minimize the risk of power cord damage, do not allow the motorized brush roll to ingest the cord. If this occurs, immediately shut off power to the vacuum and remove the cord.
-
This appliance has a polarized plug.
If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet, reverse the plug (one blade is wider than the other). If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician.
DO NOT force into outlet or try to modify to fit. -
Your vacuum cleaner may consist of a motorized nozzle, wand, hose, and/ or vacuum pod. This device contains electrical connections, electrical wiring, and moving parts that potentially present risk to the user.
The hose contains electrical wires.
Do not use when damaged, cut, or punctured. -
Use only identical replacement parts.
-
Carefully observe and follow the instructions provided below to avoid improper use of the appliance.
DO NOT use the vacuum for any purpose other than those described in this manual. -
Before use, carefully inspect all parts for any damage. DO NOT use if any parts are damaged.
-
The use of an extension cord is NOT recommended.
-
This vacuum cleaner contains no serviceable parts.
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This appliance can be used by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved.
Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children. Keep the appliance and its cord out of reach of children. DO NOT allow the appliance to be used by children. DO NOT allow to be used as a toy. Close supervision is necessary when used near children. -
Always turn off the vacuum cleaner before connecting or disconnecting any motorized nozzles, hose, or other accessories.
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DO NOT handle plug or vacuum cleaner with wet hands.
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DO NOT use without filters in place.
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Only use Shark® branded filters and accessories.
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DO NOT damage the power cord:
a) DO NOT pull or carry vacuum cleaner by the cord or use the cord as a handle.
b) DO NOT unplug by pulling on cord. Grasp the plug, not the cord.
c) DO NOT run the vacuum cleaner over the power cord, close a door on the cord, pull the cord around sharp corners, or leave the cord near heated surfaces. -
DO NOT put any objects into nozzle or accessory openings. DO NOT use with any opening blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair, and anything that may reduce airflow.
-
DO NOT use if nozzle or accessory airflow is restricted. If the air paths or the motorized floor nozzle become blocked, turn the vacuum cleaner off and unplug from electrical outlet.
Remove all obstructions before you plug in and turn on the unit again. -
Keep nozzle and all vacuum openings away from hair, face, fingers, uncovered feet, or loose clothing.
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DO NOT use if vacuum cleaner is not working as it should, or has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water.
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Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
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DO NOT leave the vacuum cleaner unattended while plugged in.
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When powered on, keep the vacuum cleaner moving over the carpet surface at all times to avoid damaging the carpet fibers.
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DO NOT place vacuum cleaner on unstable surfaces such as chairs or tables.
-
Your Shark® vacuum may not be designed to stand up on its own.
When taking a break from cleaning, you may need to lean it against furniture or a wall, or lay it flat on the floor. Using the vacuum for an application where the unit lacks stability may result in personal injury. -
DO NOT use to pick up:
a) Liquids
b) Large objects
c) Hard or sharp objects (glass, nails, screws, or coins)
d) Large quantities of dust (drywall dust, fireplace ash, or embers).
DO NOT use as an attachment to power tools for dust collection.
e) Smoking or burning objects (hot coals, cigarette butts, or matches)
f) Flammable or combustible materials (lighter fluid, gasoline, or kerosene)
g) Toxic materials (chlorine bleach, ammonia, or drain cleaner) -
DO NOT use in the following areas:
a) Poorly lit areas
b) Wet or damp surfaces
c) Outdoor areas
d) Spaces that are enclosed and may contain explosive or toxic fumes or vapors (lighter fluid, gasoline, kerosene, paint, paint thinners, mothproofing substances, or flammable dust). -
Turn off all controls before plugging in or unplugging the vacuum.
-
ODOR
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Observe the following when interacting with the Odor Neutralizer Technology cartridge.
a) DO NOT attempt to disassemble Odor Neutralizer Technology cartridge.
b) Avoid direct contact with the fragrance pod in the cartridge.
c) DO NOT directly inhale from the Odor Neutralizer Technology cartridge.
d) Keep away from children and pets.
e) Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flame.
f) DO NOT place in direct sunlight.
FRAGRANCE CARTRIDGE FIRST AID
a) Avoid contact with fabrics and finished surfaces.
b) Eye contact: Remove contact lenses if present. Rinse continuously with water for several minutes.
c) Skin contact: Wash hands thoroughly after handling. If irritation or rash develops, seek medical advice/attention.
d) Inhalation: Move person to fresh air if they are experiencing any respiratory symptoms. If symptoms persist, seek medical advice/ attention.
e) Ingestion: DO NOT induce vomiting. Seek medical advice/ attention. -
Unplug from electrical outlet when not in use and before any maintenance or cleaning.
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Hand wash with water only.
Washing with cleaning chemicals could damage the unit. -
During cleaning or routine maintenance, DO NOT cut anything other than hair, fibers, or string wrapped around the brushroll.
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Allow all filters to air-dry completely before replacing in the vacuum to prevent liquid from being drawn into electric parts.
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Make sure the dust cup and all filters are in place after routine maintenance.
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If provided, secure the power cord around the two cord hooks during storage.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
ASSEMBLY
- Place Pod down onto Nozzle.
- Insert Wand into Pod.
- Insert Handle into wand.
- Attach Hose to back of pod.
- Remove Odor Neutralizer Technology Dial from bag. Flip up the dial handle, align the teal arrows, then insert the dial into the nozzle.
- To lock and engage the dial, rotate it counterclockwise until it clicks into the desired odor intensity setting.
More detailed Odor Neutralizer Technology assembly instructions and visuals on the following two pages.
IMPORTANT: For proper operation, ensure all connections are securely clicked into place
POWER CORD
For cord access, rotate upper hook down and remove cord.
Use cord holder on the side of wand to hold cord in place while vacuuming.
TECHNOLOGY SETTINGS
SETTINGS
Flip up the dial handle and rotate the odor dial to adjust Odor Neutralizer Technology intensity or to unlock the dial for cartridge access.
Insertion/Removal: Rotate the odor dial to align the teal arrows. Remove the dial to access the odor cartridge for removal or replacement.
Low: Rotate the dial toward the Low position to decrease the intensity to the lowest level when the vacuum is in use.
High: Rotate the dial toward the High position for the highest intensity level when the vacuum is in use. This position is the recommended setting for optimal performance.
ODOR NEUTRALIZER TECHNOLOGY TIPS
Odor Dial Must be Installed for Vacuum to Function Properly
Remove odor cartridge from dial if you don’t want the benefits of the odor neutralization technology
Maintenance Required
- Clean all filters as recommended under Cleaning Filters.
- Empty the dust cup before storing your vacuum.
- Replace the cartridge as recommended under Odor Cartridge Replacement.
- Visit qr.sharkclean.com/odortech to learn more and purchase replacements.
- If wet pet messes are cleaned up, thoroughly clean the vacuum.
Fragrance Strength Over Time
The intensity of the Odor Neutralizer Technology’s fragrance may diminish over time. It may also have no noticeable fragrance at all. This is natural and does not indicate the technology isn’t working. Follow replacement instructions to ensure continued performance.
NOTES:
- The odor dial needs to be installed for the vacuum to function properly, with or without the odor cartridge.
- Odor Neutralizer Technology effectively deodorizes while interacting with odors from inanimate sources.
ODOR NEUTRALIZER TECHNOLOGY
ODOR CARTRIDGE REPLACEMENT
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Flip up the handle and rotate the dial clockwise until the two teal arrows are aligned. Pull the handle to remove the dial from the nozzle.
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Rotate the cartridge counterclockwise in the dial housing and pull out the cartridge to remove it.
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Remove the new odor cartridge from the sealed packaging. To maintain the life of the cartridge, keep it in the sealed packaging until you are ready to install it.
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Align the yellow arrow on the side of the cartridge with the yellow arrow on the side of the dial cover, then insert the cartridge into the dial.
Rotate the cartridge clockwise to lock it in place.
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Align the teal arrow on the dial cover with the teal arrow on the nozzle, then reinsert the dial into the nozzle. Rotate the dial counterclockwise until it clicks into an intensity setting to engage. Rotate further to change the intensity setting.
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Dispose of the old cartridge by dropping it into the trash.
NOTE: Odor cartridges need to be replaced for optimal Odor Neutralizer Technology experience. We recommend changing cartridges when new bad odors are detected.
WHOLE-HOME CLEANING
SETTINGS
Select surface setting:
O Power Off
I Hard Floor
For hard floors and small area rugs.
II Carpet
For carpets.
NOTE: For deep carpet cleaning per ASTM F608, use setting II (Carpet) with MAX suction.
The Suction Control Slider located on the handle allows you to adjust the suction depending on the floor type.
MIN: to reduce suction and increase maneuverability on carpets.
MAX: to increase suction on hard floors.
NOTE: The brushroll spins in all modes
HEADLIGHT INDICATOR LIGHTS
The headlights will flash or turn red to indicate issues that need attention.
Solid White Lights: The brushroll is spinning and the unit is working as
it should.
Solid Red Lights: There is a jam in the brushroll area. Turn off the
vacuum and unplug it, then remove any blockages in the nozzle.
Flashing Red Lights: The motorized floor nozzle is overheating. Turn off
the vacuum, unplug it, and remove any blockages. Let the vacuum cool down for
at least 60 minutes before restarting. See Troubleshooting section for more
information.
Flashing White Lights: The vacuum is operating in an environment that is
either too hot or too cold. This vacuum will only function properly in
temperatures ranging from 32°F (0°C) to 104°F (40°C). Turn the vacuum off and
adjust the room temperature.
NOTE: For deep cleaning per ASTMF608 (embedded dirt in carpets), please
set to Carpet mode.
NOTE: For maximum suction for above-floor cleaning per ASTM F558, set to
Hard Floor mode.
CLEANING MODES
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To engage Brushroll, select a surface setting, step on floor nozzle, and tilt handle back firmly.
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Step on the pedal on the floor nozzle to lift off the pod.
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Press the Handle Release button and pull up on the handle to detach it from the wand.
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Press the Wand Release button and pull up on the wand to detach it from the pod.
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Attach an optional cleaning accessory to handle or wand.
NOTE: All accessories are compatible with both the wand and the handle. Included accessories will vary by model.
EMPTYING THE DUST CUP
IMPORTANT: Unplug the power cord before performing any maintenance.
Empty the dust cup each time you vacuum and periodically during cleaning, when debris in the dust cup reaches the MAX fill line.
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To remove the Dust Cup, slide up on the release button located on the side of dust cup handle.
Tilt dust cup forward, then lift to remove.
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To empty debris into the trash, press the lower release button and the bottom of the dust cup will drop open.
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Clear debris from the Lint Screen in the dust cup. Lift the upper release tab at the top of the dust cup and open the lid. Gently brush the lint screen to remove debris .
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To reinstall, place the bottom of the dust cup onto the pod and then tilt until it clicks into place.
CLEANING THE FILTERS
Regularly rinse and replace the filters to maintain your vacuum’s suction power and to maximize the effectiveness of the Odor Neutralizer Technology.
Rinse filters with cold water only. Allow all filters to air-dry for at least 24 hours before reinstalling them to prevent liquid from being drawn into electronic parts.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT use soap when cleaning the filters
RINSE PRE-MOTOR FILTERS EVERY MONTH
Remove the Dust Cup, then lift out Filters.
RINSE HEPA FILTER EVERY YEAR
To remove the HEPA Filter, first pull the tab on the bottom of the filter
door, then lift off the door. Press the tab on the side of the HEPA filter and
pull out the filter.
To reinstall the door, align the top first, then press in the bottom until it
clicks into place.
MAINTENANCE
NOZZLE MAINTENANCE
SELF-CLEANING BRUSHROLL
If any hair is wrapped around the brushroll, continue vacuuming, using Carpet
mode on a bare
floor surface, a low-pile carpet, or a small area rug. This will allow the
self-cleaning brushroll to
remove the hair wrap and send it to the dust cup.
If you run over a hard or sharp object or notice a noise change while
vacuuming, check for
blockages or objects caught in the brushroll.
If some fibers remain wrapped around the brushroll after continued use, clear them from the brushroll.
Clean off any debris on the brushroll.
NOTE: If any hair is wrapped around the brushroll, extending cleaning time will allow the self-cleaning brushroll to remove it for you. If some fibers remain wrapped around brushroll after continued use, carefully remove them.
CORD MAINTENANCE
To minimize the risk of power cord damage, DO NOT run the vacuum over the
power cord.
If this occurs, immediately shut off power to the vacuum and remove the cord
from the brushroll or nozzle.
-
DO NOT pull or carry vacuum cleaner by the cord or use cord as a handle.
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DO NOT unplug by pulling on the cord.
Grasp the plug, not the cord. -
DO NOT close the door on the cord.
-
DO NOT pull the cord around sharp corners.
-
DO NOT leave the cord near heated surfaces.
CHECKING FOR BLOCKAGES
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Detach dust cup from vacuum pod. Empty dust cup and remove debris from lint screen in the top of the dust cup.
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Detach wand from pod and handle, and check both ends for blockages.
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Detach hose from handle by pressing on the release button at the top of the hose. Detach the hose from the pod, and check openings for blockages.
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Detach handle from wand and hose from the vacuum pod, and check openings for blockages.
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Detach wand from floor nozzle, tilt nozzle neck back, and check opening for blockages.
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To access the nozzle hose, pinch the release touchpoints on the bottom of the nozzle, then lift the cover and clear any blockages.
AVAILABLE ACCESSORIES
A Crevice Tool
This slender tool offers extended reach to access corners, baseboards, tight
spaces, and ceilings.
B Upholstery Tool
Picks up hair, dust, and large debris from mattresses, couches, curtains,
lampshades, and other delicate upholstered fabrics.
C Pet Multi-Tool
A single convertible tool for cleaning tough pet messes two ways: use the
stiff bristle brush to clean stuck-on debris, or take off the bristles to
reveal an upholstery tool perfect for removing stubborn pet hair and large
piles of debris.
D Duster Crevice Tool
Two cleaning tools in one. The crevice tool gives you extended reach to clean
in tight spaces, while the soft brush is ideal for dusting delicate surfaces.
E Pet Power Brush
The turbine brush loosens and removes pet hair and debris from carpets, and
powerfully deep-cleans dander out of upholstery and other surfaces.
F Under-Appliance Wand
Clean under and behind hard-to-move appliances and furniture with this
adjustable 36” tool. Flip the extension piece over to clean the underside of
appliances.
G Anti-Allergen Dust Brush
This brush features nylon fiber bristles specifically designed for removing
fine dust and allergen particles from the most delicate surfaces.
H HairPro™ Self-Cleaning Pet Power Brush
Tackles pet hair and ground-in dirt from above-floor areas like carpeted
stairs and upholstery, while actively removing hair wrap as it cleans.
I Home & Car Detail Kit
Deep-clean your car like a professional detailer, or clean hard-to-reach areas
in your home. Micro-sized tools let you clean around delicate objects and
access the tightest spaces like car vents and computer keyboards.
J Accessory Bag
This convenient accessory storage bag measures 32 cm x 70 cm and fits the
UnderAppliance Wand. Smaller size available at
sharkaccessories.com.
NOTE: Not all accessories come with all units. For a list of the accessories included with this model, see the top inside flap of the box. To order additional accessories, visit sharkaccessories.com.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Power cord caught in brushroll or floor nozzle.
-
To minimize the risk of power cord damage, DO NOT run the vacuum over the power cord.
If this occurs, immediately shut off power to the vacuum and remove the cord from the brushroll or nozzle. -
Inspect power cord and plug for any damage before use. DO NOT use vacuum cleaner with a damaged cord or plug. Turn off all controls before plugging in or unplugging the vacuum cleaner. Store your vacuum cleaner with the power cord secured around the two cord hooks.
Vacuum is not picking up debris. No suction or light suction.
-
Check filters to see if they need cleaning. Follow instructions for rinsing and air-drying the filters before reinstalling them in the vacuum.
-
Dust cup may be full; empty dust cup.
-
Check handle, hose, hose connections, nozzle, wand, pod, and accessories for blockages.
Clear any blockages found. -
If any string, hair, or carpet fibers are wrapped around the PowerFins® brushroll, carefully cut debris with scissors and remove from brushroll. See Nozzle Maintenance section for more information.
Vacuum lifts area rugs.
- Make sure Power/Surface switch is set to Hard Floor (setting I).
- Ensure the suction control slider on the handle is set to MIN.
- Suction is powerful. Take care when vacuuming area rugs or rugs with delicately sewn edges.
Brushroll does not spin in carpet cleaning mode.
- If the headlight indicator light turns red, immediately turn off and unplug the vacuum. Remove pod from floor nozzle and clear any blockages. Reconnect nozzle, plug in vacuum, and turn on power.
- With the power on, recline the handle, which will automatically turn on the brushroll.
- If this problem persists on thick carpets, move the suction control slider to MIN.
Vacuum turns off on its own or headlight indicator lights flash red.
If your vacuum overheats, the thermostat will automatically turn off the motor. Perform the following steps to restart:
-
Turn vacuum off and unplug it.
-
Empty dust cup and clean filters. See Emptying the Dust Cup and Cleaning and Replacing
the Filters sections for more information. -
Check for blockages in hose, wand, floor nozzle, accessories, and inlet openings.
-
Allow unit to cool for a minimum of 60 minutes.
-
Plug in vacuum and turn it on.
Vacuum is emitting air that smells bad.
- Dust cup may be full; empty dust cup. Empty dust cup after each use for optimal Odor Neutralizer Technology performance.
- Check filters to see if they need cleaning. Follow instructions for rinsing and air-drying the filters before reinstalling them.
- Check to make sure odor cartridge is installed in the dial and the dial is installed in the nozzle.
- Check the Odor Neutralizer Technology dial on the nozzle to see what setting is enabled.
- If Odor Neutralizer Technology dial is at any setting from Low to High and the cartridge has been installed for 6 months or longer, consider replacing it.
- If the odor cartridge is still emitting a scent but you dislike it, consider turning the intensity down, or reinstall the dial in the nozzle without the cartridge.
- If the Odor Neutralizer Technology cartridge is not emitting a scent, consider replacing it.
FIVE (5) YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
The Five (5) Year Limited Warranty applies to purchases made from authorized retailers of SharkNinja Operating LLC. Warranty coverage applies to the original owner and to the original product only and is not transferable.
SharkNinja warrants that the unit shall be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of five (5) years from the date of purchase when it is used under normal household conditions and maintained according to the requirements outlined in the Owner’s Guide, subject to the following conditions and exclusions:
What is covered by this warranty?
- The original unit and/or non-wearable parts deemed defective, in SharkNinja’s sole discretion, will be repaired or replaced up to five (5) years from the original purchase date.
- In the event a replacement unit is issued, the warranty coverage ends six (6) months following the receipt date of the replacement unit or the remainder of the existing warranty, whichever is later. SharkNinja reserves the right to replace the unit with one of equal or greater value.
What is not covered by this warranty?
- Normal wear and tear of wearable parts (such as foam filters, HEPA filters, pads, etc.), which require regular maintenance and/or replacement to ensure the proper functioning of your unit, are not covered by this warranty. Replacement parts are available for purchase at sharkaccessories.com.
- Any unit that has been tampered with or used for commercial purposes.
- Damage caused by misuse (e.g., vacuuming up water or other liquids), abuse, negligent handling, failure to perform required maintenance (e.g., not cleaning the filters, not removing debris from the brushroll), or damage due to mishandling in transit.
- Consequential and incidental damages.
- Defects caused by repair persons not authorized by SharkNinja. These defects include damages caused in the process of shipping, altering, or repairing the SharkNinja product (or any of its parts) when the repair is performed by a repair person not authorized by SharkNinja.
- Products purchased, used, or operated outside North America.
How to get service
If your appliance fails to operate properly while in use under normal
household conditions within the warranty period, visit sharkclean.com/support
for product care and maintenance self-help. Our Customer Service
Specialists are also available at
1-800-798-7398 to assist with product
support and warranty service options, including the possibility of upgrading
to our VIP warranty service options for select product categories. So we may
better assist you, please register your product online at
registeryourshark.com and have the product on hand when you call.
SharkNinja will cover the cost for the customer to send in the unit to us for repair or replacement. A fee of $25.95 (subject to change) will be charged when SharkNinja ships the repaired or replacement unit.
How to initiate a warranty claim
You must call 1-800-798-7398 to
initiate a warranty claim. You will need the receipt as proof of purchase.
We also ask that you register your product online at registeryourshark.com and
have the product on hand when you call, so we may better assist you. A
Customer Service Specialist will provide you with return and packing
instruction information.
How state law applies
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you also may have other
rights that vary from state to state. Some states do not permit the exclusion
or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above may not
apply to you.
REGISTER YOUR PURCHASE
Scan QR code using mobile device
Scan here or visit qr.sharkclean.com/odortech for more information
RECORD THIS INFORMATION
Model Number: __
Serial Number: __
Date of Purchase: __
(Keep receipt)
Store of Purchase: __
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Voltage: 120V~, 60Hz
Watts: 960W
ODOR NEUTRALIZER TECHNOLOGY SPECIFICATIONS
- Product Name: Odor Neutralizer Technology Cartridge
- Manufacturer: Shark Ninja 89 A Street Needham, MA 02494
- Weight: 17.6g / 0.62oz
- Ingredients: Solid SM composite polymer C17 + fragrance SE 272235
Benefits of registering your product and creating an account:
- Get easier, faster product support and access to warranty information
- Access troubleshooting and product care instructions
- Be among the first to know about exclusive product promotions
TIP: You can find the model and serial numbers on the QR code label on the bottom of the back of the vacuum pod.
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND KEEP FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
This Owner’s Guide is designed to help you get a complete understanding of your new Shark® Lift-Away® ADV Upright Vacuum with PowerFins® HairPro™ and Odor Neutralizer Technology.
SharkNinja Operating LLC
US: Needham, MA 02494
CAN: Ville St-Laurent, QC H4S 1A7
1-800-798-7398
sharkclean.SharkNinja Operating LLC
US: Needham, MA 02494
CAN: Ville St-Laurent, QC H4S 1A7
Illustrations may differ from actual product. We are constantly striving to
improve our products;
therefore the specifications contained herein are subject to change without
notice.
This product may be covered by one or more U.S. patents. See
sharkninja.com/patents for more
information.
Illustrations may differ from actual product. We are constantly striving to
improve our products; therefore the specifications contained herein are
subject to change without notice.
This product may be covered by one or more U.S. patents. See
sharkninja.com/patents for more information.
© 2023 SharkNinja Operating LLC. LIFT-AWAY, POWERFINS, and SHARK are registered trademarks of SharkNinja Operating LLC. HAIRPRO is a trademark of SharkNinja Operating LLC.