NUTONE NC5500 (01) PDF Document

To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock or injury when using your NUTONE NC5500, please adhere to the following warnings:

1. Do not use on wet surfaces or outdoors.

2. Do not vacuum liquids or fine powders (such as drywall dust).

3. Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids such as gasoline or use in areas where they may be present.

4. Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.

5. Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.

6. Use only as described in this manual. Use only manufacturer’s recommended attachments.

7. Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.

8. Turn off all controls before unplugging.

9. Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.

10. Do not handle plug or appliance with wet hands.

11. Do not use with damaged cord or plug. If appliance is not working as it should, if it has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to a Service Center.

12. Keep your work area well lighted.

13. Connect to a properly grounded outlet only.

14. When performing installation, servicing or cleaning the unit, it is recommended to wear safety glasses and gloves.

15. When applicable local regulations comprise more restrictive installation and/or certification requirements, the aforementioned requirements prevail on those of this document and the installer agrees to conform to these at his own expenses.

1. Do not put any object into openings. Do not use with any opening blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair and anything that may reduce air flow.

2. Ensure air flows freely and exhausts unobstructed from top or side outlet.

3. Do not use without filter (or filters, according to the model) in place.

4. Do not use to blow leaves or debris.

5. Do not place any object on top of the unit.

6. Do not install the unit horizontally.

7. Do not use the pail as a wash bucket.

8. Do not use the pail as a stool.

9. Avoid picking up sharp objects.

10. This appliance is for use on a standard 120 VAC, dedicated 15-amp branch circuit. Some brands of house panel breakers may be more sensitive to startup current than others (for example, Square D brand). In the event where nuisance tripping of the house panel breaker occurs*, we recommend changing the breaker with an “HM” type of the same AMP rating. * after ensuring that the circuit is DEDICATED to the central vacuum unit, meaning that there is no other electrical device connected to the central vacuum unit circuit.

11. Do not unplug the unit by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.

12. Store your vacuum cleaner indoors in a clean, dry area, and away from extreme temperatures.

13. Any servicing other than that recommended in this manual should be performed by an authorized service facility.

14. We recommend that your unit be inspected by a specialized technician once a year.

WARNING: Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a 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 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. The NUTONE NC5500 is equipped with a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and grounding plug. The plug must be plugged into an appropriate outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.

This appliance is for use on a standard 120 VAC, dedicated 15-amp branch circuit with a NEMA 5-15R receptacle. Make sure that the power unit is connected to an outlet and has a grounding attachment plug that looks like the plug shown in the manual. No adapter should be used with this power unit.

Open the wall inlet cover and insert the end of the hose into the inlet to turn on the vacuum.

For non-switched hoses, inserting the hose automatically turns on the power unit; removing the hose shuts off the power unit. Some hoses have switches which can be used to activate the power unit. Unless using the utility valve (on the NUTONE NC5500 model), the ON/OFF switch located on the power unit needs to be kept in the OFF position.

As you vacuum, dirt and dust are carried to the power unit where they remain in a bag or in the debris pail. Use the cleaning tools as you would for any other vacuum cleaner. Avoid picking up very large debris or lengthy items as these kinds of objects may become lodged in the hose or tubing.

The NUTONE NC5500 has a 6 U.S. gallons (22.7 liters) capacity. Under normal conditions, the bag/debris pail requires changing/emptying approximately twice a year. If the bag/debris pail is full, you will notice a reduced suction from the system. Unless this loss of suction is caused by a blockage, changing the bag or emptying the debris pail will solve the problem.

NOTE: Even if not filled to capacity, if the bag seems tightly stretched when removing the debris pail, changing the bag will prevent it from tearing.

To empty the debris pail on your NUTONE NC5500, release both latches on the sides of the unit by pulling out and then pushing up. Holding the pail by the latches, lower it from the unit. Carry the pail to a trash receptacle and dispose of the debris. Put the pail back in its place.

1. To remove the disposable bag, release both latches on the sides of the unit by pulling out and then pushing up. Remove the pail from the unit. Grasp the edges of the bag collar and pull down. The bag will slide off easily. Do not pull on the bag itself.

2. Unfold the new bag.

3. Grasp the collar where indicated on the new bag and insert it over the bag adapter. Be careful not to tear the bag. Ensure the collar is positioned between the taper ring and the bag stopper on the bag adapter. Put the pail back in its place.

The permanent filter on your NUTONE NC5500 protects the motor and stops small particles from escaping. The filter cleans itself by moving up when the power unit starts and dropping down when the unit is turned off. Under normal use, there is no need to maintain this filter. It is possible to remove it to inspect the motor foam filter, or to replace it if it has been damaged by sharp debris.

To remove and install the permanent filter:

1. Remove the pail from the unit. To remove the permanent filter, use the pull tab (A) located on the edge of the filter to pull and loosen it from the inlet chamber wall. Squeeze from both sides of the filter to the center of the housing. Then, carefully remove it from the unit.

2. Squeeze the filter to move it past the inlet opening (B). Let the filter bear against the unit wall by releasing the pressure.

3. To reinstall, make sure to place the rigid ring in its groove to ensure proper sealing. Ensure the filter is installed so that the pull tab (A) is accessible for future removal.

CAUTION: Be sure to reinstall the filter properly. Appropriate location is critical to ensure proper protection of the motor.

The motor foam safety filter on your NUTONE NC5500 is located at the top of the vacuum chamber and protects against dirt being pulled into the motor if the disposable bag or permanent filter should accidentally be torn. This filter should be checked and cleaned if necessary when a replacement bag is installed or when the permanent filter is removed.

Simply brush the filter clean. If the filter is excessively soiled, hand wash it in a water and mild detergent solution, rinse, and let it dry completely on a flat surface before reinstalling.

CAUTION: Operating the power unit without the motor foam filter will void the warranty.

To remove the motor foam filter: Remove the debris pail and disposable bag or permanent filter. Lift the center of the wire retaining the motor foam filter and slide the filter out of its location.

To reinstall the motor foam filter: Reverse the steps described above.

For a Low Voltage Hose:

To ensure proper operation, insert the hose into the wall inlet. Align the tab on the hose up with the depression in the wall inlet (A).

For a Dual Voltage Hose (Electric Kits Only):

In addition to connecting the hose into the wall inlet (A), the dual voltage hose must also be connected to a standard electrical outlet (B).

For a Low Voltage Hose:

The switch will turn the power unit ON (I position) and OFF (O position).

For a Dual Voltage Hose:

Switch on II position: Central vacuum mode with power brush.

Switch on I position: Central vacuum mode without power brush.

Switch on O (center) position: Power unit is turned OFF.

CAUTION: Always check the underside of the product for any obstructions prior to use.

WARNING: Never leave the electric power brush unattended while it is plugged in.

1. Read important safety instructions before installing the power brush.

2. Ensure the hose is disconnected from the power supply before installing the power brush.

3. Push the wand into the power brush neck so that the lock button snaps in place.

4. Connect the hose handle into the wand quick connector and ensure that the prongs are aligned with the receptacle holes. Push until the lock button snaps in place.

CAUTION: Always pick up hard or sharp objects by hand before using your power brush. Items such as pins, hairpins, tacks, crayons, etc., may damage the brush roll or may break the belt.

Wand Release: The power brush is not recommended for use on bare floors. The wand release pedal (A) on the power brush allows you to quickly disconnect the wand and switch to a combination floor/rug tool for use on bare floors.

Power Brush Neck Release: Push down the power brush neck release pedal (B) to unlock the brush neck. Return the neck to the upright position for storage. Always unlock the brush neck before use.

Power Brush Height Adjustment: The icons (D) refer to the carpet pile height. Select the height by depressing the height adjustment pedal (C) to the desired position: Extra-Low, Low, Medium, or High. The LEDs show the carpet pile covered by the selected height.

Wand Length Adjustment: Extend (E) or shorten (F) the wand to a comfortable work position by holding the wand grip (G) in one hand and sliding the upper section with the other hand.

Edge Cleaner: The brush extends the full width for effective edge cleaning along both sides of the nozzle. To operate, simply run the cleaner along the edge board.

The power brush is equipped with an electronic circuit breaker that protects the motor and the belt if a too large object is picked up accidentally.

If the power brush stops while vacuuming, turn the power unit off using the handle. Release the power brush from the wand and turn it over to see if there is an obstruction. When the brush roll jam has been cleared, press the reset button (H) and connect the power brush back to the wand. Finally, turn the power unit/power brush back on. If it fails to restart or continues to trip without any apparent reason, the power brush must be serviced by an authorized service center.

WARNING: Disconnect electrical supply before servicing or cleaning the unit. Failure to do so can result in electrical shock or personal injury from the cleaner suddenly starting.

Brush Roll Cleaning: To keep high cleaning efficiency and prevent damage, the brush roll must be cleaned every time the belt is changed. The brush roll must also be cleaned according to the following schedule:

Heavy use (daily): Clean every week.

Moderate use (2-3 times per week): Clean every month.

Light use (once a week): Clean every 2 months.

Check and remove hair, string, and lint build-up frequently in the brush roll and end cap areas. Remove any dirt or debris in the belt path and in the brush roll areas.

Housing Cleaning: To keep the power brush housing clean, it can be wiped with a damp cloth and a mild soap solution, then thoroughly dried. Never use any type of chemical as they can damage the housing.

Storage:

1. Ensure that the hose and power cord are disconnected from the wall inlet before unplugging the power brush.

2. Disconnect the hose handle from the wand.

3. Always keep the hose neatly coiled when not in use.

4. When not in use, the power brush should be stored in a clean, dry place.

WARNING: Disconnect electrical supply before servicing or cleaning the unit. Failure to do so can result in electrical shock or personal injury from the cleaner suddenly starting.

WARNING: The motor shaft can become hot during normal use. To prevent burns, avoid touching the motor shaft when replacing the drive belt.

1. Turn the power brush over and using a Phillips no. 2 screwdriver, remove the 3 brush roll cover retaining screws and set aside.

2. Remove the brush roll cover.

3. To free the brush roll from the base, start by sliding the belt side end and pull the brush roll sideways (1). Once disengaged from the housing, lift the brush roll (2) out of its compartment.

4. Disengage the brush roll from the worn belt and extract the belt from the motor shaft by a twisting motion in the enlarged area (I) specifically made for that purpose.

5. Install the new belt by reversing steps 4 to 1.

NOTE: To ease belt replacement, start by inserting one end around the motor shaft in the enlarged area (I). Insert the brush roll through the belt until the belt is seated in its place. Push down the brush roll back in place.

Replace the brush roll when the bristles are worn to the base support bars level.

1. Turn the power brush over and using a Phillips no. 2 screwdriver, remove the 3 brush roll cover retaining screws and set aside.

2. Remove the brush roll cover.

3. To free the brush roll from the base, start by sliding the belt side end and pull the brush roll sideways (1). Once disengaged from the housing, lift the brush roll (2) out of its compartment.

4. Disengage the brush roll from the belt. Discard the worn brush roll.

5. Insert the new brush roll through the belt until the belt is seated in its place. Push down the brush roll back in place.

6. Finalize the installation by reversing steps 3 to 1.

If your NUTONE NC5500 experiences a loss of suction, check the following possible causes and remedies:

Debris pail or disposable bag is completely full.

Empty the debris pail or change the disposable bag.

Debris pail gasket damaged or missing.

Replace the debris pail gasket.

Obstruction in the hose.

To check for a hose blockage, insert the hose into any wall inlet and, while the power unit is running, check each additional inlet for normal suction by holding the palm of your hand over the open inlet. If normal suction is felt at all other inlets, the blockage is in the hose. Disconnect the hose from the wall inlet and insert a blunt instrument slightly smaller in diameter (like a flexible garden hose) through the cleaning system hose until the obstruction is cleared.

Obstruction in the tubing system inside the walls.

Insert the hose end into any inlet to make the power unit run, then place the palm of your hand over the opposite end of the hose. When you feel the suction increase, hold your hand over the hose end for a few seconds and then quickly remove your hand. Repeat this procedure several times to clear the obstruction. If not cleared, contact your nearest Service Center.

Permanent filter or disposable bag torn.

Clean the interior of the unit and install a new permanent filter or disposable bag.

Wall inlet cover not properly sealed.

Check all wall inlet covers to be sure they are closed and sealed tightly.

Exhaust tubing or vent clogged.

Inspect and remove any blockages.

If your NUTONE NC5500 fails to start or stops suddenly, check the following possible causes and remedies:

Defective inlet.

Check other wall inlets. If they work, replace the defective wall inlet.

Power unit internal circuit breaker has been activated (the reset button is popped up).

Push on the circuit breaker reset button located on the left side of the power unit. If this button pops up again, contact your authorized Service Center.

Blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker on house electrical panel.

Replace the fuse or reset the circuit breaker. Ensure the circuit is DEDICATED to the central vacuum unit. Some brands of house panel breakers may be more sensitive to startup current; correct the situation by changing the breaker with an “HM” type of the same AMP rating.

Defective hose.

Replace the hose as required.

Power unit overcurrent protector has been activated.

Unplug the power unit, wait at least 15 minutes, and plug the power unit back in.

If your NUTONE NC5500 runs continuously after the hose is removed, check the following possible causes and remedies:

The unit power switch is in ON position.

Set the unit power switch to the OFF position.

An electrical short has occurred somewhere in the system.

Perform a complete check of all wall inlets and power unit low voltage control lead connections. Contact your authorized Service Center.

NOTE: Order service parts by “Part No.” not by “Key No.”

* ITEM NOT SHOWN

Order Service Parts by “Part No.”, not by “Key No.”