Bissell OptiClean® Bagged Canister User manual

Earn BISSELL Rewards!
Register your
product today!
See details on
back page
2Thank You
USER'S GUIDE
42Q8 SERIES
Safety Instructions
Product View
Assembly
Operations
Maintenance and Care
Troubleshooting
Product Registration
Replacement Parts
Consumer Services
3
4
5
6-9
10-12
13
16
14
16
Accessories
Warranty
14
15
Earn BISSELL Rewards!
Register your
product today!
See details on
back page

www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
Thanks for buying a BISSELL Vacuum
Thanks for buying a BISSELL OptiClean canister. 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 OptiClean canister vacuum is well made, and
we back it with a limited one year warranty. We also stand
behind it with a knowledgeable, dedicated Consumer Services
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 OptiClean canister vacuum.
Thanks again, from all of us at BISSELL.
Mark J. Bissell
Chairman, President & CEO
2

www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
3
When using an electrical appliance,
basic precautions should be observed,
including the following:
READ ALL
INSTRUCTIONS
BEFORE USING YOUR
CANISTER VACUUM.
Always connect to a polarized outlet
(left slot is wider than right). Unplug
from outlet when not in use and before
conducting maintenance.
WARNING: To
reduce the risk of fire,
electric shock, or injury:
■Do not leave cleaner when it is
plugged in.
■Unplug from outlet when not in use
and before servicing.
■Do not use with damaged cord or plug.
■To unplug grasp plug not cord.
■Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as
a handle, close door on cord, pull cord
around sharp corners, run cleaner over
cord, or expose cord to heated surfaces.
■Hold plug when rewinding the cord
onto the reel. Do not allow the plug
to whip when rewinding.
■Do not use cleaner if it has been
dropped, damaged, left outdoors or
dropped into water. Have it repaired
at an Authorized Service Center.
■Do not allow children to use as a toy.
■Do not use outdoors or on wet surfaces.
■Do not handle cleaner or plug with
wet hands.
■Do not put any object into openings, use
with blocked opening, or restrict air flow.
■Do not use without dust bag and/or
filters in place.
■Do not allow hair, loose clothing, fingers
or body parts to get near openings or
floor brush in the appliance.
■Do not pick up hot coals, cigarette
butts, matches or any hot, smoking,
or burning objects.
■Do not pick up hard or sharp objects
such as glass, nails, screws, coins, etc.
■Do not pick up flammable or combus-
tible materials (lighter fluid, gasoline,
kerosene, etc.) or use in the presence
of explosive liquids or vapor.
■Do not unplug by pulling on cord.
■Do not pick up toxic material (chlorine
bleach, ammonia, drain cleaner, etc.).
■Do not use 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 for any purpose other
than described in this User’s Guide.
■Always turn off this appliance before con-
necting or disconnecting vacuum hose.
■Use only manufacturer’s
recommended attachments.
■Use only on dry, indoor surfaces.
■Keep openings free of dust, lint, hair, etc.
■Keep appliance on a level surface.
■Turn off all controls before plugging
or unplugging cleaner.
■Be extra careful when cleaning
stairs.
■Close attention is necessary when
used by or near children.
SAVE THESE
INSTRUCTIONS
FOR FUTURE USE
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 plug in any way.
This model is for household use only.

www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
4
Power
Button
OnBoard Tool
Storage Lever
Carry Handle
Bag
Change
Indicator
Telescoping
Extension Wand
Dust Bag
Compartment Latch
Swivel Hose
Product view
Flex Hose
Handle
Post-Motor
Filter Compartment
Automatic Cord
Rewind Button
Variable
Suction
Power
Control
WARNING:
Do not plug in your
vacuum until you
are familiar with all
instructions and
operating procedures.
Combination
Dusting Brush/
Upholstery Tool
Crevice Tool

www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
Assembly
1. Connect swivel hose by squeezing both
locking buttons and inserting it into the
suction opening on the canister. Once
the swivel hose is inserted in the suction
opening, release the locking buttons.
2. Connect telescoping extension wand to
the handle end of the flex hose.
3. Connect the floor nozzle foot onto the
telescoping extension wand.
4. To extend the telescopic tube, push the
black release button and then pull the
tube to the desired length.
NOTE: Shorten length of telescopic
tube for storage.
WARNING:
Plastic film packaging can
be dangerous. To avoid
danger of suffocation, keep
away from babies and
children.
1.
3.
5

www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
Operations
6
Special tools
Your BISSELL OptiClean canister is
not only a powerful carpet and rug
vacuum cleaner, it’s also a versatile
bare floor and above floor vacuum
cleaner when you select one of the
special tools.
BareFloor tool
Use to vacuum carpets, rugs and
bare floors. Swivel head turns to
get into tight spaces and fits under
cabinets.
1. To vacuum carpets and rugs, push the
brush switch to the carpet position
. This will pull the brushes up into
the floor nozzle.
2. To vacuum bare floors, push the brush
switch to the bare floor position .
This will extend the brushes down from
the floor nozzle.
On-board Tools
The crevice tool and the
combination dusting & upholstery
brush are stored inside the canister
unit. To access them, simply push
down on the Tool Storage Cover
Release. Tools may be attached on
the handle or, where longer reach
is needed, to the extension wand.
Crevice tool
Use the crevice tool in tight, narrow
spaces.
Combination dusting brush/
upholstery tool
1. Use the dusting brush to clean curtains,
draperies, cushions and fabrics
2. Slide the brush off to use the
upholstery tool on cushions, draperies
and fabrics
1. 2.
Brush DownBrush Up
Tip:
Tip:
Before cleaning under low furniture,
check area first for objects that might
harm the unit or block the hose.
Hair, string and small objects can
block the hose and tools. Check them
occasionally for obstructions.
Crevice Tool Slide Combo
Brush

www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
7
Operations
Power cord
The power cord is located at the rear
of the vacuum. Gently pull out the
power cord, watching for the yellow
line. Stop pulling the power cord once
the yellow line is visible. There is also
a red line, which indicates the end of
the usable cord. Do not pull the power
cord out beyond the red line.
Power button
Turn the power ON or OFF by pressing
lightly downward on the power but-
ton ( ).
Automatic cord rewind
Your vacuum is equipped with an
automatic cord rewind. When clean-
ing is finished, press the power button
OFF ( )and grasp the plug to discon-
nect from the electrical outlet. Hold the
plug and press the automatic cord
rewind button to rewind the cord
automatically.
Variable suction power control
The variable suction power control
panel is located on the top of the vac-
uum. Press the +button to increase
suction. Press the –button to decrease
suction, for lightly soiled areas or deli-
cate fabrics.
Power
Button
Automatic
Cord Rewind
CAUTION:
Be careful to avoid injury as
cord retracts very quickly.
CAUTION:
Before using your vacuum,
make sure that the dust
bag and all filters (pre-
motor and post-motor) are
in place. Do not operate
your vacuum without the
dust bag and filters.
Variable Suction
Control
WARNING:
To reduce the risk of electric
shock, turn power switch
OFF and disconnect plug
from electrical outlet before
performing maintenance or
troubleshooting checks.

Bag change indicator
The bag change indicator is located at
the top of the variable suction power
control panel. If the bag change
indicator turns orange while you are
vacuuming, the dust bag needs to be
replaced. The dust bag may appear to
be full or only partially full depending
upon the type of debris picked up.
Fine particles can block the airflow
in the dust bag and reduce suction
before the dust bag is full. If the bag
change indicator remains orange,
even after changing the dust bag, turn
the vacuum off and check for a clog in
the hose or tools.
Operations
Bag Change
Indicator
www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
8

Dust bag replacement
When disposing of the dust bag,
be sure to follow all steps—the
design of this dust bag allows it to
be sealed prior to removal, thus
eliminating expulsion of dust.
1. Turn the power OFF ( ). Unplug the
vacuum from the electrical outlet.
2. Disconnect the hose.
3. Open the dust bag compartment by
lifting up on the latch located at the
top of the canister, near the carrying
handle.
4. Before removing the vacuum bag, hold
the vacuum bag retainer in place and
pull up on the center tab of the bag to
seal off the dust bag.
5. Once the vacuum bag has been sealed,
remove the vacuum bag by pulling up
on the side tabs and sliding it off the
Vacuum Bag retainer. Dispose of
used bag.
NOTE: Be careful not to throw
away the plastic retainer.
6. Slide the new Vacuum Bag onto the
retainer, with the arrow pointing
downward. Make sure the hose
opening is fully exposed.
7. Ensure that the Vacuum Bag is tucked
fully inside the unit before closing the
canister housing. Press down gently on
the door until it locks into place.
NOTE: The dust bag compartment
door will not close without the
dust bag in place. Attempting to
force the door closed could result
in damage to the machine.
8. Reconnect the hose
Operations
3.
4.
5.
6.
www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
9

Maintenance and care
The Pre-motor Filter prevents dust
and debris from interfering with
the operation of your vacuum. It
should be regularly checked for
wear or damage and replaced
when torn.
1. Turn the power OFF ( ). Unplug the
vacuum from electrical outlet.
2. Disconnect hose.
3. Open the dust bag compartment by lifting
up on the door latch at the front of the
vacuum. Follow the instructions on page
9 to remove and dispose of the dust bag.
4. Remove the filter frame from the filter hold-
er by gently pressing down on the top tab
and pulling the filter frame up and away
from the filter holder.
5. Remove the filter from the filter frame and
clean by hand washing in warm water.
A mild detergent can be used if desired.
Allow the filter to air dry completely
before replacing.
6. Place the filter back into the filter frame
and replace back into the filter holder,
snapping it back into place.
NOTE: The filter frame should be
placed so that the protective frame
is visible.
7. Following the steps on page 9, replace
the dust bag, making sure the entire back
is tucked in below the seal gasket.
8. Close dust bag compartment door and
press down gently until it locks into place.
9. Reconnect the hose.
NOTICE:
This product is intended for household
use only and not for commercial or
industrial use. Vacuuming of dust
from products like plaster, concrete or
ashes will damage the motor and void
the warranty.
Tip:
For maximum cleaning
performance, check the filters often
and clean or replace if necessary.
WARNING:
Do not operate cleaner with
damp or wet filters or
without all filters in place.
Cleaning the Pre-Motor Filter
Pre-Motor
Filter
4.
www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
10

Maintenance and care
Cleaning the Post-Motor Filters
HEPA
Media Filter*
The HEPA Media Filter* and the Post-
Motor Filter are located in the back
of your canister, between the power
button and automatic cord rewind. To
access the post-motor filters, lift up on
both of the filter storage tabs to open
the post-motor filter compartment. Both
filters should be regularly checked, and
cleaned if they appear dirty or if you
notice excessive amounts of dust inside
the canister. They need to be replaced if
severely damaged or torn.
Cleaning / Replacing
the HEPA Media Filter*
NOTE: The HEPA Media Filter* is a
white, pleated filter. This filter is NOT
washable. If this filter is damaged or
worn, it will need to be replaced.
1. Unplug the vacuum from the electrical outlet.
2. Lift up on both of the filter storage tabs
to open the post-motor filter compartment.
3. Remove the HEPA Media Filter* by
grasping the lip of the filter frame and
lifting upwards.
NOTE: The HEPA Media Filter*
should not be touched; when
handling be sure to touch only the
white plastic frame.
4. To clean the HEPA Media Filter*, hold over
a trash can and gently tap the frame of the
filter to remove excess dust.
NOTE: If the HEPA Media Filter*
is still excessively dirty, or is
damaged or torn, it will need to
be replaced.
5. Replace the filter in the compartment, with the
white plastic tab facing out.
6. Press down on the filter storage door and snap
back into place to close the filter compartment.
*The filter media, not the vacuum as a whole,
complies with the IEST-RP-CC001.5 or the
EN-1822-1:2009 HEPA standard.
Tip:
For maximum cleaning
performance, check the
filters often and clean or
replace if necessary.
WARNING:
Do not operate cleaner with
damp or wet filters or
without all filters in place.
3.
www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
11

Maintenance and care
Cleaning the Foam Post-Motor Filter
Foam
Post-Motor Filter
1. Unplug the vacuum from the
electrical outlet.
2. Lift up on both of the filter storage tabs to
open the post-motor filter compartment.
3. The Foam Post-Motor Filter is the black
filter located at the top of the compartment
door. Gently remove this filter.
4. The Foam Post-Motor Filter can be gently
cleaned by washing in warm water with
a mild detergent. Allow filter to dry
completely before reinstalling. If filter is
torn, replace with a new filter.
5. Reinstall filter. Press down on the filter
storage door and snap back into place to
close the filter compartment.
Tip:
For maximum cleaning
performance, check the filters often
and clean or replace if necessary.
WARNING:
Do not operate cleaner with
damp or wet filters or
without all filters in place.
3.
www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
12

Troubleshooting
Vacuum cleaner won’t run
Possible causes Remedies
1. Vacuum cleaner is not plugged in 1. Check electrical plug
2. Power button is not pressed down 2. Press power button down
Vacuum cleaner won’t pick up or low suction
Possible causes Remedies
1. Tools, hose and/or telescoping extension wands are blocked 1. Remove each part and check for blockages
2. Filters are dirty 2. Check and clean or replace pre-motor and post-motor filters
3. Dust bag is full 3. Replace with new dust bag
4. Swivel hose not securely attached to suction opening 4. Make sure hose connector is locked into
suction opening
5. Crack or hole in flex hose 5. Check hose and replace if needed
6. Air flow regulator or variable suction power 6. Change to closed or maximum setting
control is set to open or minimum setting
Visible dust escaping from vacuum
Possible causes Remedies
1. Dust bag is full 1. Replace with new dust bag
2. Filters missing or installed incorrectly 2. Check pre-motor and post-motor filter for correct installation
3. Filters are dirty 3. Check and clean or replace pre-motor and post-motor filters
4. Flex hose is blocked 4. Remove hose and check for blockages
5. Swivel hose not securely attached to suction opening 5. Make sure swivel hose is locked into suction opening
6. Crack or hole in flex hose 6. Check hose and replace if needed
Other maintenance or service not included in the manual should be
performed by an authorized service representative.
Thank you for selecting a BISSELL product.
Please do not return this product to the store.
For any questions or concerns, BISSELL is happy to be of
service. Contact us directly at 1-800-237-7691.
WARNING:
To reduce the risk of electric
shock, turn power OFF ( ) and
disconnect plug from electrical
outlet before performing mainte-
nance or troubleshooting.
www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
13

Replacement parts - BISSELL vacuum
Accessories
1
1
2
2
3 4
3
5 6
4
Item Part No. Part Name
1 59H6 Dust Bag Accessory Pack
Includes:
- 5 High Filtration Dust Bags
- 1 Pre-Motor Filter
- 1 HEPA Media Filter*
2 203-7994 Pre-Motor Filter
3 203-7983 Pleated HEPA Media Filter*
4 203-7984 Foam Post-Motor Filter
Item Part No. Part Name
1 203-7998 Floor Nozzle
2 203-7997 Extension Wand
3 203-7991 Crevice Tool
4 203-7992 Combination Dusting Brush/Upholstery Tool
5 203-7996 Hose Assembly
6 203-7993 Dust Bag Holder Assembly
www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
14
*The filter media, not the vacuum as a whole, complies with the IEST-RP-CC001.5 or the
EN-1822-1:2009 HEPA standard.

Warranty - BISSELL OptiClean®Compact Vacuum
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 Services 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 Homecare, Inc. 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 below on "If your BISSELL product should require service".
This warranty applies to product 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.
If your BISSELL product should require service:
Contact BISSELL Consumer Services 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 Services.
Website or E-mail:
www.bissell.com
Use the “Customer Support” tab.
Or Call:
BISSELL Consumer Services
1-800-237-7691
Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. ET
Saturday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. ET
Or Write:
BISSELL Homecare, Inc.
PO Box 3606
Grand Rapids, MI 49501
ATTN: Consumer Services
BISSELL HOMECARE, INC. 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 last so the
above limitation may not apply to you.
www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
15

Registering is quick, easy and offers you benefits over the lifetime of your product.
You’ll receive:
BISSELL Rewards Points
Automatically earn points for discounts and free shipping on future purchases.
Faster Service
Supplying your information now saves you time should you need to contact us with
questions regarding your product.
Product Support Reminders and Alerts
We’ll contact you with any important product maintenance reminders and alerts.
Special Promotions
Optional: Register your email to receive notice of offers, contests, cleaning tips and more!
Visit www.bissell.com/registration now!
Don't forget to register your product!
©2011 BISSELL Homecare, Inc
Grand Rapids, Michigan
All rights reserved. Printed in China
Part Number 110-4416
Rev 07/11
Visit our website at:
www.bissell.com
For information about repairs or replacement parts, or questions about your warranty, call:
BISSELL Consumer Services
1-800-237-7691
Monday - Friday 8 a.m. — 10 p.m. ET
Saturday 9 a.m. — 8 p.m. ET
Or write:
BISSELL Homecare, Inc.
PO Box 3606
Grand Rapids MI 49501
ATTN: Consumer Services
Or 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.
BISSELL consumer services
www.bissell.com 800.237.7691
16
Registering is quick, easy and offers you benefits over the lifetime of your product.
You’ll receive:
BISSELL Rewards Points
Automatically earn points for discounts and free shipping on future purchases.
Faster Service
Supplying your information now saves you time should you need to contact us with
questions regarding your product.
Product Support Reminders and Alerts
We’ll contact you with any important product maintenance reminders and alerts.
Special Promotions
Optional: Register your email to receive notice of offers, contests, cleaning tips and more!
Visit www.bissell.com/registration now!
Don't forget to register your product!