Bissell PowerForce Helix Turbo Bagless User manual

2Thank You
USER'S GUIDE
REMANUFACTURED 12B1, 68C7 SERIES
Safety Instructions
3
Product View
4-5
Assembly
6
Operations
7-8
Maintenance and Care
9-12
Troubleshooting
13
Replacement Parts
14
Warranty
15
Product Registration
16
Consumer Care
16
product
images
may vary

2
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 powerful,
high-tech home vacuuming system.
Your BISSELL vacuum is well made, and we back it with a limited 90-day
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

3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
When using an electrical appliance, basic
precautions should be observed, including
the following:
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
BEFORE USING YOUR
UPRIGHT 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 modify the polarized plug to t a
non-polarized outlet or extension cord.
■Do not leave vacuum cleaner unattended
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 children to operate vacuum
cleaner or use 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 manufacturer’s recommended
attachments.
■Do not use with damaged cord or plug.
■If 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 vacuum cleaner or plug 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 air ow.
■Keep hair, loose clothing, ngers, and all
parts of body away from openings and
moving parts.
■Turn o all controls before plugging or
unplugging vacuum cleaner.
■Use extra care when cleaning stairs.
■Do not pick up ammable materials
(lighter uid, gasoline, kerosene, etc.) or
use in the presence of explosive liquids or
vapors.
■Do not pick up toxic material (chlorine
bleach, ammonia, drain cleaner, etc.).
■Do not use vacuum cleaner in an enclosed
space lled with vapors given o by oil
base paint, paint thinner, some moth
proong substances, ammable dust, or
other explosive or toxic vapors.
■Do not pick up hard or sharp objects such
as glass, nails, screws, coins, etc.
■Do not pick up anything that is burning or
smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or
hot ashes.
■Do not use without lters in place.
■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 TurboBrush® Tool.
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.

4
Product View
68C7 Model Shown
Handle
Powerfoot Furniture
Protection
Guard
Height
Adjustment
Knob
Post-Motor Filter
(HEPA Media Filter*
in select models)
Lock ’n Seal™ Lever
Inner and Outer
Circular Filters
Upper Tank
Quick Release™
Cord Wrap
Power Cord
Primary Separator
TurboBrush® Tool
(select Models)
Easy Empty™
Dirt Container
Lower
Filter Cup
*The filter media, not the vacuum as a whole, complies
with IEST-RP-CC001.5 HEPA standard.

5
Product View
Carrying
Handle
Power Switch
Crevice Tool
Handle
Release
Pedal
Stretch Hose
68C7 Model Shown
Extension Wand
Combination
Dusting Brush/
Upholstery Tool
Hose Wand
Hose
Wand Base
Foot Hose
Hose Clip
Cord Clip

6
Assembly
Attach handle to vacuum
1. Locate handle and remove screw packet
taped to the user's guide.
2. Stand the vacuum upright and place the
base of the handle firmly into the grooves
at the top of the vacuum body.
3. Insert the two (2) screws into the existing
holes on each side and tighten securely.
Attach vacuum hose and tools
4. Line up tabs on the base of the Twist
‘n Snap™ hose with the corresponding
notches on the hose collar. Turn the hose
to the right to lock into place.
5. Grasp the hose wand and slide the end
of the hose into the hose wand base.
Snap the hose into the upper hose clip
on handle.
6. Slide the extension wand and crevice tool
together into storage clip.
7. Snap the combination tool into the
storage clip.
Select models only:
8. The TurboBrush® Tool bracket slides into
the front of the handle. Attach the bracket
by aligning the pegs with the holes on
the handle and pulling down until it locks
into place.
9. Place the TurboBrush® Tool in the bracket
by aligning the bottom of bracket with
the opening of the brush roll and snap
the TurboBrush® Tool into place.
!WARNING:
Plastic packaging can be
dangerous. To avoid danger
of suffocation, keep away
from babies and children.
4
8 9
2

7
Operations
Power Switch
The red power switch is located on the
bottom left of the back side of the unit.
Press gently with foot to turn power ON
and OFF.
Power Cord
When you are nished vacuuming, return
to upright position and store power cord.
1. Turn vacuum OFF.
2. Unplug power cord by grasping the
polarized plug (NOT the cord) and
disconnect from outlet.
3. Loop power cord around cord wraps on
side of vacuum and clip molded plug to
power cord to secure.
Handle Positions
The handle release pedal is located just
under the red power switch on the bottom
left of the back of the vacuum. Press the
black handle release pedal with foot to
place vacuum into one of three cleaning
positions:
1. Upright: for storage, transporting, and
above floor cleaning with tools.
• Transport in upright position by tilting
vacuum on rear wheels and push
forward or use carrying handle on
back of handle base.
2. Normal Cleaning: Press handle
release pedal once for most
household floor cleaning.
3. Low Cleaning: From normal
cleaning position, press handle
release pedal once for cleaning
under low furniture.
1
2
3

8
Operations
Height Adjustments
Turn knob on Powerfoot to adjust to
one of 5 Height Adjustments. If knob
is dicult to turn, tilt the cleaner back
slightly to take the weight o the foot
while turning.
Lowest Setting: For low pile carpet and
barefloors.
Medium Setting: For medium pile carpet.
Highest Setting: For high pile and most shag
carpet. Adjust to high setting if difficult to push.
Tools
Attach desired tool to hose for cleaning
above oor surfaces.
1. Remove Hose: With vacuum in upright
position, grasp the hose wand to separate
from suction intake opening.
2. Attach tools by firmly pushing onto
vacuum hose or extension wand.
A. Combination dusting brush/
upholstery tool: Rotate for desired
use. Use brush side to dust, blinds,
books, lamps, shelves, and baseboards.
Use upholstery side to for furniture,
drapes and, fabrics.
B. Crevice Tool: Use in tight narrow
spaces.
C. Extension Wand: Use with desired
attachment for longer reach.
D. TurboBrush® Tool (Select Models):
Use rotating brush action for small flat
areas such as stairs, and cushions.
Press down gently and pull towards you
in a raking motion. Too much pressure
will cause the brush to stop rotating.
A
B C
D
1
2

9
Maintenance and Care
To maximize performance and extend life
of your vacuum, it is very important to
perform the following maintenance steps.
Empty Easy Empty™
Dirt Container
Empty when dirt reaches the “Full” line on
the container
1. Turn power OFF. Unplug power cord from
electrical outlet.
2. Slide Lock ‘n Seal lever to “Unlock” position.
3. Grasp dirt cup portion handle and pull
straight out to remove from vacuum and
empty.
4. Place dirt container back in the vacuum and
slide lever to lock position.
NOTE: The dirt container may be
washed in warm water with mild
detergent. Make sure it is completely
dry before replacing.
Cleaning Inner & Outer
Circular Filter
1. Turn power OFF. Unplug vacuum cord from
electrical outlet
2. Remove dirt container. Grasp the filter
located at the bottom of the dirt container,
lift and pull straight out. DO NOT PULL
CIRCULAR FOAM FILTER OUT OF THE FILTER
CUP WHILE IT IS STILL IN THE VACUUM.
3. Grasp the plastic tab on the top of the circular
foam filters. Twist to unlock and pull out.
4. Separate the outer foam filter and inner
pleated circular filter. Wash each individually
by hand in warm water. Mild detergent may
be used if desired. Rinse well, let filters
completely air dry before replacing in filter
cup.
5. Wash filter cup in warm water with mild
detergent. Completely air dry before
reassembling with filters. DO NOT PUT IN
DISHWASHER.
6. The upper tank and louvers can be wiped
clean with a damp cloth. Reach underneath
the upper tank and turn the rim of the
louvers to the left to unlock. Pull straight
down and remove. Make sure all parts are
completely dry before replacing.
7. To replace louvers, position top of louvers
inside clear center cavity and turn toward
the right to lock tabs into place.
2 3
4
6

10
Maintenance and Care
Cleaning the pre-motor filter
The pre-motor lter protects the motor
from debris.
1. Turn power OFF. Unplug vacuum cord
from electrical outlet.
2. The pre-motor filter is located underneath
the filter cup in the center of the round
part of the Lock ‘n Seal lever.
3. Remove the small round filter and any
debris on top of it. Rinse under warm
water; air dry completely before replacing.
Replacing the post-motor filter
(HEPA Media filter* included
in select models only)
The HEPA Media lter* assists in the ltration
process to return clean air to the room.
1. Turn power OFF. Unplug vacuum cord
from electrical outlet.
2. Locate filter behind the filter door on the
front of the vacuum. Remove and replace
when filter becomes dirty. The white,
pleated HEPA Media filter* is NOT washable.
3. Replace the door by inserting the tabs on
the left side and snapping the right side
into place.
Checking rotating floor
brush and drive belt
Check your vacuum’s rotating oor brush
and drive belt regularly for wear or damage.
1. Turn power OFF. Unplug vacuum cord from
electrical outlet.
2. Place handle in low position and turn
vacuum over so bottom side is facing up.
3. Using a screwdriver, remove the four screws
and lift brush cover off.
4. Grasp rotating floor brush at both
ends and lift.
5. Clean strings, hair and other debris from
rotating floor brush, motor pulley, and drive
belt areas.
6. Check drive belt for wear, cuts, or
stressed areas.
7. Check air passageway for obstructions.
Remove debris from this area.
8. Reposition brush cover and fasten four
screws back into place.
pre-motor filter
2
3
HEPA Media filter*
*The filter media, not the vacuum as
a whole, complies with IEST-RP-CC001.5
HEPA standard.
4

11
Maintenance and Care
Replace drive belt
1. Turn power OFF. Unplug vacuum cord from
electrical outlet.
2. With rotating brush removed (steps 1-4
of Check rotating floor brush and drive
belt), grasp old drive belt and remove
from motor pulley. Discard old drive belt.
3. Place new drive belt over motor pulley
and stretch other end over rotating floor
brush in the space between the bristles.
Place ends of rotating floor brush down
into slots.
4. Turn rotating floor brush by hand in the
direction of the motor pulley. If properly
installed, drive belt will center itself on
rotating brush.
5. Reposition brush cover and fasten four
screws back into place.
Clearing a Clog
Low suction or poor pickup may be due
to a clog in the vacuum. If you notice
a change in the sound of the vacuum
motor, check for clogs.
1. Turn power OFF. Unplug vacuum cord
from electrical outlet.
2. Empty Dirt Container.
3. Check upper tank and suction inlet
for clogs.
4. Grasp hose wand and remove from hose
wand base to check for clogs in the base,
the wand, and the hose.
5. Remove the screw attaching the hose wand
base to the vacuum. Straighten the hose
wand base and unclog, with long, narrow
object such as broom stick.
6. If the clog persists, follow steps for
checking rotating floor brush on
page 10 and inspect the air passageway
for obstructions.
3
5

12
Maintenance and Care
TurboBrush® Tool
Maintenance (select models only)
1. Turn power OFF. Unplug vacuum cord from
electrical outlet.
2. Remove tool from hose or from clip on
vacuum handle.
3. Twist collar so opening is at the top and lift
clear cover to remove.
4. Remove brush from belt and clean debris.
5. Replace brush inside belt and place ends
into slots on the sides.
6. Reposition top cover making sure to line
up inside tab at the front with the opening
on the cover. Twist collar until opening is
at the bottom to lock into place.
3
5

13
Troubleshooting
Vacuum cleaner won’t turn on...
Possible causes Remedies
Power cord not plugged in Check electrical plug
Blown fuse/tripped breaker in home Check/replace fuse or reset breaker
Vacuum cleaner won’t turn on...
Possible causes Remedies
Hose not properly positioned Make sure hose is fully connected to base
and body
Dirt tank not installed properly Check assembly of upper and lower portions,
correctly position and secure into place
Dirt tank is full Empty dirt tank
Clog in cleaner Follow instructions on pg. 11 for clearing clogs
Filters are dirty Check and clean filter
Hose not properly attached Make sure hose collar is properly installed
Vacuum is not suctioning or blowing Make sure hose collar is properly installed
!WARNING:
To reduce the risk of electric shock, turn power OFF and
disconnect polarized plug from electrical outlet before performing
maintenance or troubleshooting.
Other maintenance or service not included in the manual should be performed by
an authorized service representative.
Thank you for selecting a BISSELL brand
product.
If you should happen to need assistance during assembly
or operation, call BISSELL Consumer Care at 1-800-237-7691.
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.

14
Replacement parts - BISSELL Vacuum
Item Part No. Part Name
1 32074 Style 7/9/10/12 Drive Belt (2-Pack)
2 203-1056 Crevice Tool
3 203-1059 Combination Dusting Brush / Upholstery Tool
4 203-1068 Extension Wand
5a 203-8074 Hose Assembly (12B1 Series)
5b 203-8049 Hose Assembly (68C7 Series)
6a 203-8072 Brush Roll Assembly (12B1 Series)
6b 203-8045 Brush Roll Assembly (68C7 Series)
7 203-7913 Pleated Circular Filter
8 203-1192 Foam Filter
9 203-8037 Post-Motor HEPA Media Filter*
10 203-1215 Pre-Motor Filter
11 203-7170 TurboBrush®Bracket
12 203-7171 TurboBrush®Tool
1
6a/6b
5a/5b
7 8 9 10
11 12
2 3 4
*The filter media, not the vacuum as a whole, complies with IEST-RP-CC001.5 HEPA standard.

15
Warranty - BISSELL 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 Care by E-mail, telephone, or regular mail as described below.
Limited 90-Day Warranty
Subject to the *EXCEPTIONS AND EXCLUSIONS identied 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 90 days 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 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
Use the “Customer Support” tab.
Or Call:
BISSELL Consumer Care
1-800-237-7691
Monday - Friday 8 am - 10 pm ET
Saturday 9 am - 8 pm ET
Or Write:
BISSELL Homecare, Inc.
PO Box 3606
Grand Rapids, MI 49501
ATTN: Consumer Care
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 90-DAY 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.

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!
©2012 BISSELL Homecare, Inc
Grand Rapids, Michigan
All rights reserved. Printed in Mexico
Part Number 310-4444
Rev 2/12
Visit our website at:
www.bissell.com
For information about repairs or replacement parts, or questions about your warranty, call:
BISSELL Consumer Care
1-800-237-7691
Monday – Friday 8 am - 10 pm ET
Saturday 9 am - 8 pm ET
Or write:
BISSELL Homecare, Inc.
PO Box 3606
Grand Rapids MI 49501
ATTN: Consumer Care
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 care
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!