Qualcast GHT500A1 User manual

Qualcast
500W Electric Hedge Trimmer
Assembly Manual GHT500A1
Important- Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
These instructions contain important information that will help you get the best from your
hedge trimmer, ensuring it is assembled correctly and safely
If you need help or have damaged or missing parts, call the Customer Helpline
on 0344 801 0979.
After Sales Support
UK/Ireland 0344 801 0979
Web WWW.ARGOS.CO.UK
ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Contents
Safety information……………………………………………………….................................……………........3
Warning Symbols…………………………………………………………..............................................….. 3
General safety…………………………………………………………......................................…………….3
Personal safety………………………………………………………......................………………………….3
In the Box………………………………………………………………….......................................…………….4
Parts…………………………………………………………………......................................………………..4
Assembly…………………………………………………………………...................................……………….. 5
Preparing to assemble the hedge trimmer…………………………...............................................…......5
Step 1………………………………………………………………………………................................…….. 5
Operation……………………………………………………………………………….............................………..6
Getting help……………………………………………………………………………...............…………………6

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Warning Symbols
The following warning symbols appear throughout this assembly manual and indicate the
appropriate safety measures you should take when assembling and operating the hedge trimmer.
Keep this assembly manual in a safe place following assembly for reference at a later date.
Always ensure anyone intending to operate this hedge trimmer is fully conversant with the con-
tents of this assembly manual prior to assembling, maintaining or operating the hedge trimmer.
Perform assembly operations as described in this manual. Failure to observe this warning may lead
to serious injury, death, or damage to the hedge trimmer.
Always take care when removing the packaging to prevent damage to you or to the hedge trimmer.
IMPORTANT! Before assembling the hedge trimmer, check all the parts indicated in the manual
are in the box. Inspect all the parts for signs of damage. Do not assemble the hedge trimmer if you
observe any damaged components.
Only operate the hedge trimmer if you are wearing the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
as described in the following warnings.
This symbol indicates there is a danger of serious personal injury or death if you do not observe the
warning.
Read operator’s manual
Do not expose to moisture
General Safety
Personal Safety
WARNING!
WARNING!

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
A
B
In the Box
Parts
Machine body
Blade sheath
A
B

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Assembly
Preparing To Assemble The Hedge Trimmer
Always take care when removing the packaging to prevent damage to you or to the hedge trimmer.
IMPORTANT! Before assembling the hedge trimmer, check all the parts indicated in the manual
are in the box. Inspect all the parts for signs of damage. Do not assemble the hedge trimmer if you
observe any damaged components.
NOTE: Before using the tool, read the instruction book carefully.
Remove all parts of the hedge trimmer from the box and carefully remove all packaging. Take care
not to lose any instructions which may be attached to the tool, these provide important information
which will be required while assembling the hedge trimmer.
Remove blade sheath.
WARNING! Take great care when doing this as the blade has a very sharp cutting edge .
Step 1
ba

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Operation
Getting Help
WARNING! Before using the tool, read the instruction book carefully.
INTENDED USE
The product is intended for trimming hedges, bushes and shrubs. Observe the technical data for
the maximum cutting capacity. Do not cut branches exceeding the stated maximum capacity. This
product is intended for private domestic use only, not for any commercial trade use. It must not be
used for any purposes other than those described.
Customer Helpline 0344 801 0979

Qualcast
500W Electric Hedge Trimmer
Operation and Maintenance Manual GHT500A1
Important- Please read these instructions fully before operating or maintaining your hedge trimmer
These instructions contain important information that will help you get the best from your
hedge trimmer, ensuring it is assembled correctly and safely
After Sales Support
UK/Ireland 0344 801 0979
Web WWW.ARGOS.CO.UK

Customer Helpline 0344 801 0979
8
ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Contents
Safety Information.......................................................................................................................................9
Warning Symbols...................................................................................................................................9
General Power Tool Safety Warnings...................................................................................................10
Hedge trimmer Safety Warnings........................................................................................................ .12
Maintenance And Storage...................................................................................................................14
Preparing to Operate the Hedge trimmer................................................................................................ 14
Step 1 – To start or stop your hedge trimmer.....................................................................................14
Step 2– Top cutting...............................................................................................................................14
Step 3 – Slide cutting...........................................................................................................................15
Maintenance..............................................................................................................................................16
Maintenance ........................................................................................................................................16
Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................................ 16
General Troubleshooting......................................................................................................................16
Technical Data..................................................................................................................................... .....17
Technical Data Table............................................................................................................................17
Noise and technical date.................................................................................................................... 17
Accessories...............................................................................................................................................18
Environmental Protection.........................................................................................................................18
Plug Replacement(UK & Ireland Only)..................................................................................................... 19
Getting Help..............................................................................................................................................20
Guarantee..................................................................................................................................................20

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Warning Symbols
The following warning symbols appear throughout this assembly manual and indicate the
appropriate safety measures you should take when assembling and operating the hedge trimmer.
Read operator’s manual
Double insulation
Warning
Wear eye protection
Wear ear protection
Wear dust mask
Remove plug from the mains immediately if the cable is damaged or cut
Do not expose to moisture.
This product has been marked with a symbol relating to removing electric and electronic waste. This
means that this product shall not be discarded with household waste but that it shall be returned to
a collection system which conforms to the European Directive 2002/96/CE. It will then be recycled
or dismantled in order to reduce the impact on the environment. Electric and electronic equipment
can be hazardous for the environment and for human health since they contain hazardous sub-
stances.
Keep hands away

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and
instructions may result in electric shock, re and/or serious injury.
Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.
The term“power tool”in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery-
operated (cordless) power tool.
1) WORK AREA SAFETY
a) Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
b) Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of
flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or
fumes.
c) Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can
cause you to lose control.
2) ELECTRICAL SAFETY
a) Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do
not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodied plugs and
matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
b) Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radiators,
ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or
grounded.
c) Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will
increase the risk of electric shock.
d) Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the
power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or
entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
e) When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor
use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
f) If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a residual current
device (RCD) protected supply. Use of an RCD reduces the risk of electric shock.
3) PERSONAL SAFETY
a) Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a
power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs,
alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in
serious personal injury.
b) Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment
such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate
conditions will reduce personal injuries.
c) Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before
General Power Tool Safety Warnings
Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
General Power Tool Safety Warnings (continued)
Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool.
Carrying power tools with your nger on the switch or energising power tools that have the switch
on invites accidents.
d) Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a
key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.
e) Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better
control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
f) Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing and
gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught in moving
parts.
g) If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities,
ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust collection can reduce dust-
related hazards.
4) POWER TOOL USE AND CARE
a) Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The
correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
b) Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power tool that
cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
c) Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or the battery pack from the power
tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools.
Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
d) Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons
unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power
tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
e) Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage
of parts and any other condition that may affect the power tool’s operation. If damaged,
have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power
tools.
f) Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting
edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
g) Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in accordance with these
instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed.
Use of the power tool for operations dierent from those intended could result in a hazardous
situation.
5) SERVICE
a)Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical
replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Hedge Trimmer Safety Warnings
Additional Safety Rules For Hedge Trimmer
1. Keep all parts of the body away from the cutter blade. Do not remove cut material or hold material
to be cut when blades are moving. Make sure the switch is o when clearing jammed material. A
moment of inattention while operating the hedge trimmer may result in serious personal injury.
2. Carry the hedge trimmer by the handle with the cutter blade stopped. When transporting or storing
the hedge trimmer always t the cutting device cover. Proper handling of the hedge trimmer will
reduce possible personal injury from the cutter blades.
3. Keep cable away from cutting area. During operation the cable may be hidden in shrubs and can be
accidentally cut by the blade.
4. Hold the power tool by insulated gripping surfaces only, because the cutter blade may contact
hidden wiring or its own cord. Cutter blades contacting a“live” wire may make exposed metal parts of
the power tool “live” and could give the operator an electric shock.
5. Check the hedge for foreign objects, e.g. wire fences.
6. Use both hands when operating the hedge trimmer. Using one hand could cause loss of control and
result in serious personal injury.
7. Recommendation for the use of a residual current device with a tripping current of 30 mA or less.
1. Use the Hedge trimmer only in daylight or good articial light.
2. Know how to stop the Hedge trimmer quickly in an emergency.
3. Never hold the Hedge trimmer by the guard.
4. Never operate the Hedge trimmer with damaged guards or without guard in place.
5. Remove the plug from mains before passing the hedge trimmer to another person.
6. Avoid operating while people especially children are nearby.
7. Whilst using the Hedge trimmer always be sure of a safe and secure operating position.
8. Keep hands and feet away from the cutting means at all times and especially when switching on the
motor.
9. Do not use step ladders whilst operating the Hedge trimmer.
10. Remove the plug from the mains:
a) Before leaving the Hedge trimmer unattended for any period,
b) Before cleaning a blockage,
c) Before checking, cleaning or working on the appliance,
d) If you hit an object, do not use your Hedge trimmer until you are sure that the entire Hedge trimmer
is in a safe operating condition,
e) If the Hedge trimmer starts to vibrate abnormally, check immediately. Excessive vibration can cause
injury before passing to another person.
11. Do not expose to rain. Do not operate your Hedge trimmer on a wet hedge.
12. Always ensure the safety guard supplied is tted before using the Hedge trimmer. Never attempt to
use an incomplete machine or one tted with an unauthorized modication.
13. Check cutting blades regularly for damage, and if damaged repair immediately.

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Additional Safety Rules For Hedge Trimmer (continued)
14. Keep cable away from the cutting area, check the cable for damage before starting work.
15. Do not start the Hedge trimmer with the blade cover tted.
16. Take care not to overload the Hedge trimmer and do not use it on jobs for which it is not intended,
i.e. you are allowed to use the Hedge trimmer only to cut hedges, shrubs and perennials.
17. Always be sure of your footing when using steps and when using your hedge trimmer.
18. Never run when using your hedge trimmer.
19. Heavy duty gloves should always be worn when using the Hedge trimmer.
20. Be careful during adjustment of placing your ngers between moving blades and xed parts of the
machine
21. During transportation and storage of the Hedge trimmer, keep the blades covered at all times with
the blade cover/storage.
22. The use of a Residual Current Device (R.C.D.) with a tripping current of not more than 30mA is
recommended.
23. Do not try to grasp or remove hedge clippings when the hedge trimmer is running. Only remove
hedge clippings when the appliance is switched o and disconnected from the mains supply.
24. Carry the hedge trimmer at the handle while the cutter blade is not running. Always ensure guard
supplied is tted when transporting or storing the hedge trimmer. Careful operation reduces the injury
by the cuter blade.
25. Keep cable away from the cutting area. Be aware that during operation the cable may be covered in
hedge clippings and could be cut inadvertently.
26. If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent or similarly
qualied persons in order to avoid a hazard.
27. Remove the main plug from socket before carrying out any maintenance or repair.
28. Do not switch the hedge trimmer on and o frequently over a short period of time, and in particular
do not play with the ON/OFF switch.
WARNING! Never use water for cleaning your Hedge trimmer. Do not clean with chemicals,
including petrol, or solvents as this can damage your hedge trimmer.
1) Never use water to cleaning the unit.
2) Always clean the hedge trimmer immediately after use. Brush the blade using a sti nylon brush to
remove any debris.
3) Inspect the hedge trimmer before each use.
4) Have the unit professionally repaired if any damage occurs.
5) The blade rail should be cleaned and treated with ne oil after each use.
6) Use the blade sheath for transportation and storage.
Maintenance And Storage

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Preparing to Operate the Hedge trimmer
Your trimmer is equipped with two switch levers (a & b). Both switch levers must be pressed for the
hedge trimmer to start. Depress and hold safety handle switch (b) and press on/o switch (a).
Move hedge trimmer away from cutting area before stopping.
To stop, release either the safety handle switch (b) or on/o switch (a), the Trimmer will stop almost
immediately.
WARNING: If any parts are missing, damaged or broken, do not operate your Hedge trimmer
until all damaged parts have been replaced or repaired. Failure to do so could result in serious
personal injury.
Step 1 – To Start Or Stop Your Hedge Trimmer
Step 2– Top Cutting
Use a wide sweeping motion. A slight downward tilt of the cutting blades in the direction of motion
gives the best cutting results.
WARNING :Inspect the area to be cut before each use, remove objects which can be thrown or
become entangled in the cutting blades. Always hold the Hedge trimmer with both hands and
with the blade away from you before turning it on.Always keep the power cord behind the Hedge
trimmer when in use. Do not place it over the hedge that you are trimming where it may be cut by the
blade. When trimming new growth, use a wide sweeping action so that the stems are fed directly into
the blade. Allow the cutting blades to reach full speed before entering the material to be cut. Always
work going away from people and solid objects such as walls, large stones, trees, vehicles etc. If the
blade stalls, immediately stop the Hedge trimmer. Disconnect the Hedge trimmer from the mains
and clear the jammed debris from the cutting blades. Wear gloves when trimming thorny or prickly
growth. Move the Hedge trimmer to feed the branches directly into the blade cutting edges. Do not
try to cut stems that are too large to feed into the cutting blade.
ba
ba

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Preparing to Operate the Hedge trimmer
When trimming the sides of the hedge, begin at the bottom and cut upwards, tapering the hedge
inward at the top. This shape will expose more of the hedge, resulting in a more uniformed growth.
Step 3 – Side Cutting
ba

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Maintenance
Troubleshooting
MAINTENANCE
CLEANING
Disconnect from mains electric supply. Using a soft brush-remove debris from all air intakes and
cutting blade. Wipe over surface of your Hedge trimmer with a dry cloth.
LUBRICATING THE CUTTING BLADE
For easier operation and longer life, lubricate the cutting blades before and after each
use. Before lubricating, make sure your Hedge trimmer is disconnected from the
mains electricity supply. Apply the oil so that it runs between the two blades.
Your trimmer should be stopped, disconnected and oiled occasionally during use.
AT THE END OF THE CUTTING SEASON
Clean your Hedge trimmer thoroughly. Check that all nuts and bolts are secure.
Visually inspect the Hedge trimmer for any worn or damaged parts.
TO STORE YOUR HEDGE TRIMMER
Store the hedge trimmer in a secure, dry place out of the reach of children. Do not
place other objects on top of the machine.
The following chart lists problem symptoms, possible causes and corrective action, if your electric
hedge trimmer does not operate properly. If these do not identify and correct the problem, contact
your service agent.
WARNING! Always switch the product o, disconnect it from power supply and let the product cool
down before performing inspection, maintenance and cleaning work!
Problem Possible Cause Corrective Action
Hedge trimmer does not
operate
1.1 No power
1.2 Mains socket faulty
1.3 Extension cord damaged
1.4 Fuse faulty
1.1 Check power
1.2 Check other socket, replace
1.3 Check cord, replace
1.4 Replace fuse
Hedge trimmer operates
intermittently
2.1 Extension cord damaged
2.2 Internal wiring damaged
2.3 On/O switch defective
2.1 Check cord, replace
2.2 Contact Service Agent
2.3 Contact Service Agent
Motor runs but blades
remain stationary 3. Internal fault 3. Contact Service Agent
Cutting blade hot
4.1 Cutting blade dull
4.2 Cutting blade has dents
4.3 Too much friction, due to
lack of lubricant
4.1 Have blade sharpened
4.2 Have blade inspected/overhauled
4.3 Apply lubricant spray
General Troubleshooting

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Technical Data
Technical Data Table
Voltage 230-240V~50Hz
Power input 500W
No-load speed 1700/min
Max. cutting length 510mm
Max. cutting diameter 16mm
Protection class / II
Machine Weight 3.44Kg
Noise And Technical Date
A weighted sound pressure 84.9dB(A) K:3.9dB(A)
A weighted sound power 95dB(A)
Wear ear protection when sound pressure is over 99dB(A)
Typical weighted vibration: ah= 4.4m/s² K = 1.5m/s²
The declared vibration value has been measured in accordance with a standard test method and may be
used for comparing one product with another.
The declared vibration value may also be used to evaluate the exposure for the user caused by vibration in
advance.
WARNING: The vibration emission value during actual use of the power tool can differ from the
declared value depending on the ways in which the tool is used dependant on the following
examples and other variations on how the tool is used:
How the tool is used and the materials being cut or drilled.
The tool being in good condition and well maintained
The use the correct accessory for the tool and ensuring it is sharp and in good condition.
The tightness of the grip on the handles and if any anti vibration accessories are used.
And the tool is being used as intended by its design and these instructions.
This tool may cause hand-arm vibration syndrome if its use is not adequately managed
WARNING: To be accurate, an estimation of exposure level in the actual conditions of use should also
take account of all parts of the operating cycle such as the times when the tool is switched off and
when it is running idle but not actually doing the job. This may significantly reduce the exposure level over
the total working period.
Helping to minimise your vibration exposure risk.
ALWAYS use sharp chisels, drills and blades
Maintain this tool in accordance with these instructions and keep well lubricated (where appropriate)
If the tool is to be used regularly then invest in anti vibration accessories.
Avoid using tools in temperatures of 100C or less.
Plan your work schedule to spread any high vibration tool use across a number of days

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Accessories
Blade sheath 1
This product has been marked with a symbol relating to removing electric and electronic waste. This
means that this product shall not be discarded with household waste but that it shall be returned to
a collection system which conforms to the European Directive 2002/96/CE. It will then be recycled or
dismantled in order to reduce the impact on the environment. Electric and electronic equipment can be
hazardous for the environment and for human health since they contain hazardous substances.
Environmental Protection

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19
ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Connect
Blue to N
(neutral)
Outer sleeve
firmly clamped
Cable grip
Brown L (live)
13 Amp fuse approved
to BS1362
If you need to replace the fitted plug then follow the instructions below.
IMPORTANT
The wires in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:
BLUE = NEUTRAL
BROWN = LIVE
As the colors of the wires in the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with the colored
markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows. The wire which is colored blue
must be connected to the terminal which is marked with N. The wire which is colored brown must be
connected to the terminal which is marked with L.
WARNING: Never connect live or neutral wires to the earth terminal of the plug. Only t an
approved 13A BS1363/A plug and the correct rated fuse.
NOTE:If a moulded plug is tted and has to be removed take great care in disposing of the plug and
severed cable, it must be destroyed to prevent engaging into a socket.
Plug Replacement(UK & Ireland Only)

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ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Getting Help
Customer Helpline 0344 801 0979
This product is selected for DOMESTIC USE ONLY and not for business use.
This product is guaranteed against manufacturing defects for a period of 24 months. This does not
cover the product where the fault is due to misuse, abuse, use in contravention of the instructions, or
where the product has been the subject of unauthorised modications or alterations, or has been the
subject of commercial use. In the event of a problem with the product within the guarantee period
please return it to your nearest store. If the item is shown to have an inherent defect present at the
time of sale, the store will provide you with a replacement, Your statutory rights remain unaected.
Guarantee