Hoover SteamVac Carpet Cleaner Instructions Manual

Hoover SteamVac Carpet Cleaner

About Hoover
Today, Hoover is a part of Charlotte, North Carolina-based TTI Floor Care North America. Hoover produces high-quality, effective vacuum cleaners for use in residential and business environments. Since 1908, customers and companies have relied on Hoover to deliver dependable, cutting-edge cleaning solutions. Full-size uprights and canisters, deep cleaners, and hard-floor cleaners are just a few of the many options Hoover has to offer for regular and specialized vacuuming.

Hoover SteamVac™ cleans carpet fibers by applying, scrubbing, and removing hot tap water and cleaning solution.
www.hoover.com
Au Canada – www.hoover.ca

To contact us

• www.hoover.com
  In Canada – www.hoover.ca
  
• 1-800-944-9200 – automated service dealer locator
  
• 1-330-499-9499 – our Consumer Response Center (8 AM to 5 PM Monday – Friday)

Fill in and Save

For your records, enter the model number in the space provided. This number is located on the data label on the back of the carpet cleaner.
Model No. ____________________________
Save your sales receipt and attach it to this manual. Proof of date of purchase may be required for the warranty service of your cleaner.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
When using an electrical appliance, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS APPLIANCE.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY:

• Fully assemble before operating.
• Operate the cleaner only at the voltage specified on a data plate on the lower handle of the cleaner.
• Do not leave the appliance when plugged in. Unplug from the outlet when not in use and before cleaning or servicing.
• Use indoors only.
• Do not immerse. Use only on carpet moistened by the cleaning process.
• Use only HOOVER® cleaning products intended for use with this machine. (See the “Cleaning Products” section of this manual.)
• Do not allow it to be used as a toy. Not intended for use by children aged 12 and under. Close supervision is necessary when used near children. To avoid injury or damage, keep children away from the product, and do not allow children to place fingers or other objects into any openings.
• Use only as described in this manual. Use only the manufacturer’s recommended attachments and products.
• Do not use a damaged cord or plug. If the appliance is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, take it to a service center prior to continuing use.
• Do not pull or carry by cord, use the cord as a handle, close a door on the cord, or pull the cord around sharp edges or corners. Do not place the product on the cord. Do not run the appliance over the cord. Keep the cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not unplug by pulling on the cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
• Do not handle plugs or appliances with wet hands.
• Do not put any objects into openings. Do not use any opening blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair, and anything that may reduce airflow.
• Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all parts of the body away from openings and moving parts.
• Turn off all controls before unplugging.
• Use extra care when cleaning on stairs. To avoid personal injury or damage, and to
  prevent the cleaner from falling, always place the cleaner at bottom of the stairs or on the floor.
  Do not place cleaner on stairs or furniture, as it may result in injury or damage.
• Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible materials, such as gasoline, or fine wood sandings, or use in areas where they may be present.
• Connect to a properly grounded outlet only. See Grounding Instructions.
• Unplug before connecting SpinScrub® Hand Tool.
• Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
• Do not use without Tanks or Filters in place.
• Do not clean over-floor electrical outlets.
• WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or reproductive harm. WASH HANDS AFTER HANDLING

CAUTION- TO REDUCE THE RISK OF DAMAGE:

• Avoid picking up hard, sharp objects with this product, as they may cause damage.
• Store appropriately indoors in a dry place. Do not expose the machine to freezing temperatures.
• Do not use sharp objects to clean out the hose as they can cause damage.
• To assist in reducing drying time, be certain the area is well-ventilated when using detergents and other cleaners with this machine.
• To help prevent matting and re-soiling, avoid contact with carpets until they are dry. Keep children and pets away from carpets
• until they are completely dry.
• Do not store the extractor with a solution in tanks.
• With brushes on, do not allow cleaners to sit in one location for an extended period of time, as damage to the floor can result.
• Do not use this extractor and accessories on hard floors. Using this machine on hard floors without proper attachment may scratch or damage your floor.
• Water will drip from the brushes and underside of the product after use and may puddle. To avoid damage to wood and laminate flooring and to avoid potential slip hazards, after use (a) do not leave the product on wood and laminate surfaces and remove it to a hard surface and (b) place the unit on absorbent material (such as a towel) to soak up drips.

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

This appliance must be grounded. If it should malfunction or break down, grounding provides a path of least resistance for electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock. This appliance is equipped with a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor (C) and grounding plug (A). The plug must be inserted into an appropriate outlet (B) that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.

WARNING: Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in the risk of electric shock. Check with a qualified electrician or service person if you are in doubt as to whether the outlet is properly grounded. Do not modify the plug provided with the appliance – if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician. This appliance is for use on a nominal 120-volt circuit and has a grounding plug that looks like the plug (A) illustrated in Fig. 1. A temporary adapter (D) may be used to connect this plug toa 2-pole receptacle (E) if a properly grounded outlet is not available (Fig. 2). Thetemporary adapter should be used only until a properly grounded outlet (B) can be installed by a qualified electrician (Fig. 1). The green colored rigid ear, lug, or the like (F) extending from the adapter must be connected to a permanent ground(G) such as a properly grounded outlet box cover (Fig. 2). Whenever the adapter is used, it must be held in place by a metal screw. NOTE: In Canada, the use of a temporary adapter is not permitted by the Canadian Electrical Code.

Carton Contents 

• A. Carpet cleaner
  
• B. Stair/upholstery nozzle
  
• C. Hoover Detergent
  
• D. Spot and Stain Spray Cleaner (available at additional cost if not included with your model)

Cleaner Description 

1. Handgrip
   
2. Telescoping handle
   
3. Telescoping handle collar
   
4. Carry handle
   
5. ON/OFF switch
   
6. Solution tank
   
7. Tool connector/Hose
   
8. Nozzle
   
9. Recovery tank
   
10. Recovery tank lid
    
11. Float indicator window
    
12. Upper handle release button
    
13. Solution trigger: press to release the cleaning solution
    
14. Stair/upholstery nozzle
    
15. Handle release pedal
    
16. Cord hooks

This carpet cleaner is intended for household use. Operate carpet cleaner only at the voltage specified on a data plate on the back of the cleaner. Plug carpet cleaner into a properly grounded outlet.

Your HOOVER SteamVac™ Spot™ carpet cleaner is fully assembled and ready to begin cleaning!

How to fold the handle 

1. Raise the handle from the storage position until it locks in place.
2. Slide the collar (A) upon the telescoping handle (B) to adjust the handle to desired height.
3. Push up on the collar (A) to lower the telescoping handle. Rotate knob (C) backward to drop the handle into the storage position.

Fill the solution tank

Carpet Cleaner Basics

Unplug the carpet cleaner from the electrical outlet.

• Pull up on the solution tank handle (A) and remove the solution tank (Fig. 4)
  
• Turn the tank upside down and unscrew cap (B) (Fig. 5). The cap consists of 2 pieces — the cap ring (C) and the solution tank valve (D).
  
• Pour detergent into the tank to detergent fill line (E) (Fig. 6).
  
• Fill the tank completely with hot tap water.
  NOTE: For best results, use only Hoover detergents. They are specifically formulated for use with your SteamVac™ Spot™ carpet cleaner.
  
• Replace cap. Be sure the valve (D) is in the cap ring (C) before screwing the cap back on the tank (Fig. 5).
  
• Place the tank back onto the cleaner (Fig. 7), pressing firmly to be sure the tank is fully positioned.

Caution: Detergents contain Anionic and Nonionic Surfactants. Avoid contact with the eyes and skin. In case of contact with the eyes, flush with cold water for 15 minutes. In case of contact with the skin, wash with water. If irritation persists, call a physician.

Empty the recovery tank

Unplug the carpet cleaner from the electrical outlet.

• ✓ An automatic shut-off device prevents the carpet cleaner from picking up more dirty water than it can hold in the recovery tank.
  You will know the tank needs to be emptied —
  

   

  • When the motor sound rises in pitch.
    
  • You do not see the dirty solution coming up through the recovery tank lid.
    
  • The float (A) inside the recovery tank has risen to the top of the tank (Fig. 8), and is visible through the lid window (B).
• ✓ Step on the handle release pedal (C) to lower the handle and unlock the recovery tank (Fig. 9).
  
• ✓ Lift up on tank (D) and pull off (Fig. 10).
  
• ✓ Lift up on tank lid latches (E) and remove the tank lid (F), including the float (G) (Fig. 11). Empty the tank.
  
• ✓ Replace lid. Secure both latches (E) (Fig. 11).
  For full suction, it is important that the recovery tank lid is properly secured before replacing or operating.
  
• ✓ Remove any debris that has collected on the lint filter (H) on the cleaner body (Fig. 12 and inset).
  
• ✓ Place tank onto cleaner. Return the handle to an upright position.

Transporting 

• ✓ Your carpet cleaner may be transported easily by the convenient carrying handle (A) (Fig. 13).

Using the hose and tool 

Using the hose 

• ✓ Place the handle in the upright, storage position.
  
• ✓ Press on tab (A) to remove the hose wand (B) from the floor nozzle (C) (Fig. 14).

Attach tool

The stair/upholstery nozzle has a built-in brush to help provide the scrubbing action some spots may need for removal (Fig. 15). 

• ✓ Slide tool (D) onto the end of the hose wand. Snap the tool over a bump (E) on the wand (Fig 16).

Remove tool

• ✓ To remove the tool: Push forward and up on tab (F) (Fig. 16). Slide the tool off the hose wand.

Store hose and tool

• ✓ To return the hose wand to the storage position, align bump (E) on the wand with hole (G) in the nozzle and push in firmly until you hear a snap (Fig. 17).
  Note: The hose wand must be returned to the floor nozzle storage position in order for a cleaner to be used in the upright position for floor cleaning.
  
• ✓ Store upholstery nozzle (H) over projection (I) on the back of the cleaner for storage (Fig. 18).

Cleaning carpet

1. Remove lightweight furniture (tables, lamps, etc.) from the area to be cleaned. Protect any remaining furniture by pinning up furniture skirts and placing aluminum foil or plastic under the legs.
   
2. Vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove loose dirt, hair, lint, and other debris (Fig. 19).
   
3. Test detergent for colorfastness on a hidden area of the carpet. Wet a white cloth or paper towel with some detergent. Gently rub onto a hidden area of the carpet. Wait ten minutes. Blot with a white cloth or paper towel and check for color transfer.
   
4. Pretreat spots, stains, and high-traffic areas with HOOVER Spot and Stain Spray (Fig. 20). Spray spot or area with Spot and Stain Spray. Then proceed with the next cleaning steps.
   
5. Fill the solution tank with hot tap water and the proper amount of HOOVER detergent (see page 5) (Fig. 21).
   Use only HOOVER brand detergents in your carpet cleaner. Other brands may damage the carpet cleaner.
6. Plan your cleaning to avoid walking on wet carpets. Start at the end of the room farthest from the exit and work in small sections (Fig. 22).
   
7. Raise the handle from the storage position until it locks in place. Slide collar (A) on the telescoping handle (B) to adjust the handle to desired height. (Fig. 23). Step on the handle release pedal and lower handle. Turn cleaner ON.
   
8. Squeeze and hold the trigger (A) to release the cleaning solution (Fig. 24). Push the cleaner forward SLOWLY then pull it back SLOWLY.
   
9. Let go of the trigger and push the carpet cleaner over the same area to pick up the dirty solution without putting down more solutions. Continue using dry strokes until you see only a little solution coming up through the nozzle (front of the extractor) or recovery tank lid.
   
10. Do not make the carpet too wet! Use no more than two sets of forward and backward strokes while releasing the solution. Always follow with dry strokes – the more the better.
11. Listen carefully! When the motor sound changes (rises in pitch), the recovery tank needs to be emptied. When water has reached the maximum capacity in the recovery tank, the float will rise to the top of the tank and the cleaner will NOT pick up the dirty solution.
    
12. Allow the carpet to dry. Avoid walking on the carpet until it is dry. Increased air circulation (open doors, turn on fans, etc.) will help the carpet dry thoroughly to prevent the growth of mold or mildew.
    
13. Vacuum thoroughly after the carpet has dried. This will reduce any shading left by the carpet cleaner’s brushes.

No cleaning solution removes all stains from all carpets. Stain removal varies with the type of spill, time passed before removal, carpet material, and carpet type.

Cleaning upholstery

1. Check the fabric cleaning code (Fig. 25). Look on the furniture manufacturer’s tag for a ‘W’ or ‘WS’ code. These codes indicate that it is alright to use your carpet cleaner to clean the upholstery.
   Do not use the carpet cleaner on upholstery marked ‘S’, ‘X’, or ‘Dry Clean Only’.
   
2. Vacuum upholstery thoroughly with your vacuum cleaner’s attachments.
   
3. Test detergent for colorfastness on a hidden area of upholstery. Wet a white cloth or paper towel with some detergent. Gently rub onto a hidden area of upholstery. Wait ten minutes. Blot with a white cloth or paper towel and check for color transfer.
   
4. Pretreat spots and stains with HOOVER Spot and Stain Spray (Fig. 26). Spray spot or area with Spot and Stain Spray. Then proceed with the next cleaning steps.
   
5. Fill the solution tank with hot tap water and the proper amount of HOOVER detergent (see page 5)(Fig. 27).
   Use only HOOVER brand detergents in your carpet cleaner. Other brands may damage the carpet cleaner.
6. Place the handle in the upright, storage position. Press on tab (A) to remove the
   hose wand (B) from the floor nozzle (C) (Fig. 28).
   
7. Slide tool (D) onto the end of the hose wand. Snap the tool over a bump (E) on wand (Fig 29).
   
8. Plug the extractor into a properly grounded one and turn the extractor ON.
   
9. Squeeze and hold the trigger (A) to release the cleaning solution. Gently press the tool into the fabric and slowly pull the tool over the fabric (Fig. 30).
   
10. Let go of the trigger and pull the tool over the same area to pick up a dirty solution without putting down more solutions. Continue using dry strokes until you see only a little solution coming up through the tool.
    
11. Do not make the upholstery too wet! Use no more than two strokes while releasing the solution. Always follow with dry strokes – the more the better.
    
12. Listen carefully! When the motor sound changes (rises in pitch), the recovery tank need to be emptied.
    When water has reached the full line in the recovery tank, the cleaner will NOT pick up the dirty solution.
    
13. Allow upholstery to dry. Avoid using upholstery until it is dry. Increased air circulation (open doors, turn on fans, etc.) will help upholstery dry thoroughly to prevent the growth of mold or mildew.

Routine care for your carpet cleaner

Clean the nozzle

Unplug the carpet cleaner from the electrical outlet.

• Wipe debris off the nozzle and front of the cleaner with a damp cloth (Fig. 31).

Clean the brushes

Unplug the carpet cleaner from the electrical outlet.

• Remove solution and recovery tanks to prevent possible leaks.
  
• Tilt the cleaner back so the handle rests on the floor (Fig. 32).
  
• Remove any carpet fibers or strings that may be attached to the brushes (Fig. 33).

Storing your carpet cleaner 

• ✓ Empty the solution tank and rinse thoroughly.
  
• ✓ Place an empty solution tank on the carpet cleaner. Turn the carpet cleaner ON. Squeeze the trigger and push the carpet cleaner forward and back several times, using the cleaner to pick up the remaining liquid. This will clear any solution remaining inside the cleaner.
  
• ✓ Empty the recovery tank, rinse thoroughly and let air dry.
  
• ✓ Allow brushes and underside of carpet cleaner to air dry thoroughly before storing carpet cleaner on a carpeted or wood surface.
  
• ✓ Push up on the collar (A) and lower the telescoping handle. Rotate knob (B) backward to drop the upper handle into the storage position (Fig. 34).

Lubrication

The motor is equipped with bearings that contain sufficient lubrication for the life of the motor. The addition of lubricant could cause damage. Do not add lubricant to motor bearings.

Service 

To obtain approved HOOVER service and genuine HOOVER parts, locate the nearest Hoover Sales and Service Center or Authorized Hoover Warranty Service Dealer (Depot) by:

• ✓ Checking the Service Section of Hoover on-line at www.hoover.com OR
  
• ✓ Checking the list of Sales and Service Centers provided with this cleaner OR
  
• ✓ Checking the Yellow Pages under “Vacuum Cleaners – Household” OR
  
• ✓ Calling 1-800-944-9200 for an automated referral of authorized service outlet locations (U.S. only)

Do not send your cleaner to Hoover in North Canton, Ohio for service; this will only result in a delay.
If further assistance is needed, contact the Hoover Consumer Response Center, Phone: 330-499-9499.
In Canada, contact Hoover Canada, Burlington, Ontario L7R 4A8, Phone: 1-800-263-6376.
Always identify your cleaner by the complete model number when requesting information or ordering parts. (The model number appears on the back of the cleaner.)

Troubleshooting 

Use the list below to help solve minor problems 

Full One Year Warranty

(Domestic Use) 

Your HOOVER® appliance is warranted in normal household use, in accordance with the Owner’s Manual against original defects in material and workmanship for a period of one full year from the date of purchase. This warranty provides, at no cost to you, all labor and parts to place this appliance in the correct operating condition during the warranted period. This warranty applies when the appliance is purchased in the United States including its territories and possessions, or in Canada or from a U. S. Military Exchange. Appliances purchased elsewhere are covered by a limited one-year warranty which covers the cost of parts only. This warranty does not apply if the appliance is used in a commercial or rental application.

This warranty only applies when the product is in use in the country or territory in which it is purchased. Warranty service can only be obtained by presenting the appliance to one of the following authorized warranty service outlets. Proof of purchase will be required before service is rendered.

1. Hoover Sales and Service Centers.
   
2. Hoover Authorized Warranty Service Dealers (Depots).

For an automated referral of authorized service outlets in the U.S.A., phone 1-800-944-9200 OR visit Hoover online at www.hoover.com.

This warranty does not cover pick-up delivery or house calls; however, if you mail your appliance to a Hoover Sales and Service Center for warranty service, transportation will be paid one way. While this warranty gives you specific legal rights, you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

If further assistance is needed, or if there are questions concerning this warranty or the availability of warranty service outlets, phone the
Consumer Response Center, Phone 1-330-499-9499.
In Canada, contact Hoover Canada, Burlington, Ontario L7R 4A8, 1-800-263-6376.

FAQs Hoover SteamVac Carpet Cleaner

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