Qualcast QHTLi18 User manual

51cm 18V 1.5Ah
Cordless Hedge Trimmer 484350
Original Instructions
IMPORTANT! Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly.
October 2017
HTLi18
These instructions contain important information that will help you get the best
from your product, ensuring it is assembled correctly and safely. If you need help
or have damaged or missing parts, call the Customer Helpline on 01904 727 500.

2
Contents
General safety warnings 3
Intended use 14
Warning symbols 14
In the box 17
Operating the hedge trimmer 21
Maintenance and storage 23
Troubleshooting 24
Technical data 24
Disposal 25
Getting help 26
Warranty 26

3
General Safety Warnings
General power tool safety warnings
WARNING! Read all safety warnings and
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.
Work area safety
• Keep the work area clean and well lit.
Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
• Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres,
such as in the presence of ammable liquids, gases or
dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the
dust or fumes.
• Keep children and bystanders away while operating
a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose
control.

4
Personal safety
• 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.
• Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Always
wear eye protection. Protective equipment, such as a
dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing
protection used for appropriate conditions, will reduce
personal injuries.
• Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch
is in the off-position before 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.
• 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.
• Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times. This enables better control of the power
tool in unexpected situations.
• 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.

5
• If devices are provided for the connection of dust
extraction and collection facilities, ensure these
are connected and properly used. Use of a dust
collection device can reduce dust-related hazards.
Power tool use and care
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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• Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly
maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are
less likely to bind and are easier to control.
• 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
different from those intended could result in a
hazardous situation.
Battery use and care
• Recharge only with the charger specified by the
manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type
of battery pack may create a risk of re when used with
another battery pack.
• Use power tools only with specifically designated
battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may
create a risk of injury and re.
• When the battery pack is not in use, keep it away
from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins,
keys, nails, screws, or other small metal objects that
can make a connection from one terminal to another.
Shorting the battery terminals together may cause
burns or a re.
• Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected
from the battery; avoid contact. If contact
accidentally occurs, flush immediately with water.
If liquid contacts eyes, additionally seek medical help.
Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or
burns.

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Servicing
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.
Hedge trimmer safety warnings
• 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 off when clearing jammed material.
A moment of inattention while operating the hedge
trimmer may result in serious personal injury.
• Carry the hedge trimmer by the handle with the
cutter blade stopped. When transporting or storing
the hedge trimmer always fit the cutting device
cover. Proper handling of the hedge trimmer will reduce
possible personal injury from the cutter blades.
• Advice to check the hedge for foreign objects, e.g.
wire fences.
• Hold the hedge trimmer properly, e.g. with both
hands if two handles are provided.
• Hold the power tool by the insulated gripping
surfaces only; the cutter blade may contact hidden
wiring. Cutter blades contacting a ‘live’ wire may
make exposed metal parts of the power tool ‘live’
and could give the operator an electric shock.
• Check cutting blades regularly for damage, and if
damaged repair immediately.

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• Always ensure all handles and guards are fitted
when using the tool.
• Do not use the machine when it is raining or on wet
hedges.
• Never allow children to use the tool.
• Choose a stable and safe position, especially on
steps. When operating the machine take great care
and always hold it rmly with both hands.
• Make yourself familiar with your working area and
be alert for possible hazards, which you might not
hear due to the motor noise.
• Never attempt to use a damaged or incomplete
machine or one fitted with an unauthorised
modification.
• When the hedge trimmer is not in use, i.e. for
transport or storage, keep it in a dry place and out
of the reach of children. After use, the tool should be
stored so that the blade is not exposed.
• Only use original spare parts and accessories
supplied with the machine or recommended by the
manufacturer.
• Always wear suitable clothing, e.g. anti-slip shoes
and unrestrictive close-fitting garments that can not
get caught.
• Always wear safety goggles or a face guard,
protective gloves and wear ear guards (PPE).
• Do not use the power tool when it is raining or on
wet hedges.

9
• Within the working area, the person using the
power tool is responsible for any damage or injury
sustained by third parties or their property, which
has been caused by the power tool. Watch your
working area and do not allow third persons or animals
to be around.
• When operating the power tool, take great care and
always hold it firmly with both hands. Adopt a stable
and safe position, especially on slopes.
• Never touch the unprotected blades and never carry
the machine taking hold of the blades.
• Only use original spare parts and accessories
supplied with the machine or recommended by the
manufacturer.
General safety warnings for battery chargers
WARNING! This appliance is not intended
for use by persons (including children)
with reduced physical, sensory or mental
capabilities, or lack of experience and
knowledge, unless they have been given
supervision or instruction concerning the use of
the appliance by a person responsible for their
safety.
WARNING! Children should be supervised to
ensure that they do not play with the appliance.

10
• Before charging the battery, read all the instructions
carefully.
• After charging, disconnect the battery charger from the
mains supply. Then remove the chassis connection and
then the battery connection.
• Do not charge a leaking battery.
• Do not use chargers for works other than those for
which they are designed and intended.
• Before charging, ensure your charger matches the local
AC supply.
• For indoor use. DO NOT expose to rain. The charging
device must be protected from moisture.
• Do not use the charging device in the open.
• Do not short out the contacts of the battery or charger.
• Respect the polarity (+/-) when charging.
• Do not open the unit and keep out of the reach of
children.
• Do not charge the batteries of other manufacturers or
ill-suited models.
• Ensure that the connection between the battery charger
and battery is correctly positioned, and is not obstructed
by foreign bodies.
• Keep the battery charger’s slots free of foreign objects
and protect it from dirt and humidity. Store in a dry and
frost-free place.
• When charging batteries, ensure that the battery
charger is in a well-ventilated area and away from

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f lammable materials. Batteries can get hot during
charging. Do not overcharge any batteries. Ensure that
batteries and chargers are not left unsupervised during
charging.
• Do not attempt to recharge non-rechargeable batteries,
as they can overheat and break.
• Longer life and better performance can be obtained if
the battery pack is charged when the air temperature
is between 18°C and 24°C. Do not charge the battery
pack in air temperatures below 0°C, or above 45°C.This
is important as it can prevent serious damage to the
battery pack.
• Only charge a battery pack of the same model provided
by the manufacturer or different models recommended
by them.
Safety warnings for battery packs
• Do not dismantle, open or shred cells or battery packs.
• Do not short-circuit a battery pack. Do not store battery
packs haphazardly in a box or drawer where they
may short circuit each other, or be short-circuited by
conductive materials. When battery pack is not in
use, keep it away from other metal objects, like paper
clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal
objects, that can make a connection from one terminal
to another. Shorting the battery terminals together may
cause burns or a re.
• Do not expose the battery pack to heat or re. Avoid
storing in direct sunlight.

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• Do not subject the battery pack to mechanical shock.
• In the event of battery leakage, do not allow the liquid
to come into contact with the skin or eyes. If contact
has been made, wash the affected area with copious
amounts of water and seek medical advice.
• Seek medical advice immediately if a cell or battery
pack has been swallowed.
• Keep the battery pack clean and dry.
• Wipe the battery pack terminals with a clean, dry cloth if
they become dirty.
• The battery pack needs to be charged before use.
Always refer to this instruction manual and use the
correct charging procedure.
• Do not keep the battery pack on charge when it is not in
use.
• After extended periods of storage, it may be necessary
to charge and discharge the battery pack several times
to obtain maximum performance.
• The battery pack gives its best performance when it is
operated at normal room temperature (20°C ± 5°C).
• When disposing of several battery packs, keep battery
packs of different electrochemical systems separate
from each other.
• Recharge only with the charger specied by the
manufacturer. Do not use any charger other than that
specically provided for use with the equipment. A
charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack
may create a risk of re when used with another battery
pack.

13
• Do not use any battery pack which is not designed for
use with the equipment.
• Keep the battery pack out of the reach of children.
• Retain the original product literature for future reference.
• Remove the battery from the equipment when it is not in
use.
• Dispose of safely in an environmentally-friendly manner.
Not with domestic, household waste.

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Intended use
This Li-ion cordless hedge trimmer is intended for trimming hedges, bushes and shrubs.
Observe the technical data for the maximum cutting capacity. Do not cut non plant material
or branches exceeding the stated maximum capacity. For safety reasons it is essential to
read this entire instruction manual before rst operation and to observe all the instructions
herein. 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 in this manual.
Warning symbols on the power tool
Warning!
Conforms to all relevant safety standards.
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read instruction manual.
Wear eye protection.
Wear ear protection.
Wear a dust mask.
Keep ngers away from moving blades!

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Do not expose the machine to water or operate it in the rain.
Guaranteed sound power level.
Keep bystanders away.
This symbol is known as the ‘Crossed-out Wheelie Bin Symbol’. When this
symbol is marked on a product or battery, it means that it should not be
disposed of with your general household waste. Some chemicals contained
within electrical/electronic products or batteries can be harmful to health and
the environment. Only dispose of electrical/electronic/battery items in separate
collection schemes, which cater for the recovery and recycling of materials
contained within. Your cooperation is vital to ensure the success of these
schemes and for the protection of the environment.
Warning symbols on the charger
Before use, carefully read through the user manual.
The charger is for indoor use only.
Protection class ll.
94

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Pole orientation.
Fuse.
Warning symbols on the battery
Do not dispose of batteries in rivers or immerse in water.
Do not subject the battery to strong sunlight over long periods, and do not leave it
on a heater (max. 45°C).
Do not dispose of batteries in a re; they will explode and cause injury.
Contains a Li-ion battery. Batteries must be recycled or disposed of properly.
Return exhausted batteries to your local collection or recycling point.
o
C
45
Li-Ion
T2A

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In the box
Parts
A. Blades
B. Guard
C. Safety switch
D. Trigger
E. Battery pack
F. Blade sheath
G. LED charging indicator
H. Charger
I. Charging station
J. Front handle
K. Rear handle
A
B
F
K
E
I
G
H
D
J
C

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WARNING!
Before using the tool, read all instructions carefully.
Blade sheath
Charging the battery
WARNING!
The charger and battery pack are specically designed to work together so do
not attempt to use any other devices. Never insert or allow metallic objects into
your charger or battery pack connections; an electrical failure and hazard will
occur.
The battery needs to be charged before rst use and whenever it fails to produce
sufcient power on jobs that were easily done before.
WARNING! NEVER LEAVE THE BATTERY AND CHARGER UNATTENDED
WHEN CHARGING THE BATTERY.
This product comes with a lithium-ion battery pack. Lithium-ion batteries
don’t lose charge when not in use, and don’t lose charging capacity overtime.
Nevertheless, it is best practice to charge the battery when empty or insufcient
to do the job.
The charging procedure
WARNING!
The battery cannot be charged immediately after use, it should cool off for a
period of time. The LED (G) lights switching from green to red means it can be
charged.
Connect the charger (H) to the charging station (I).
Plug the charger into an appropriate 230-240V~50Hz power outlet. The LED (G) lights
green to tell you that the charger is ready for use.
Slide the charging station (I) into the battery pack (E), make sure the charging station is
fully seated in the battery pack. The LED (G) lights up red to tell you that the battery pack is
on charge.
The battery pack will be fully charged in 1 hour. And the LED (G) lights up green again to
tell you that the battery pack is fully charged.

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E I G H
Important charging notes
Longest life and best performance can be obtained if the battery pack is charged when the
air temperature is between 18-24°C. Do not charge the battery pack in a very low or very
high air temperature. This is important and will prevent serious damage to the battery pack.
When using your tool continuously, the batteries in your battery pack will become hot. You
should let a hot battery pack cool down for approximately 30 minutes before attempting to
recharge.
The charger and battery pack may become warm to touch while charging. This is a normal
condition and does not indicate a problem.
Use the charger in normal room temperatures whenever possible. To prevent overheating,
do not cover the charger and do not charge battery packs in direct sunlight or near heat
sources.
If the battery pack does not charge properly:
1. Check the main socket by plugging in a lamp or other appliance.
2. Move the charger and battery pack to a location where the surrounding air temperature
is approximately 18-24°C.
3. If charging problems persist, take or send the tool, battery pack and charger to your
local service centre.
The battery pack should be recharged when it fails to produce sufcient power on jobs
which were easily done previously. DO NOT CONTINUE to use under these conditions.
Follow the charging procedure. You may also charge a partially used pack whenever you
desire with no adverse effect on the battery pack.
Under certain conditions, with the charger plugged in to the power supply, the exposed
charging contacts inside the charger can be shorted by foreign material. Foreign materials
of a conductive nature, such as, but not limited to, steel wool, aluminium foil, or any build-
up of metallic particles, should be kept away from charger cavities. Always unplug the
charger from the power supply when there is no battery pack in the cavity. Unplug the
charger before attempting to clean it.
Do not immerse the charger in water or any other liquid.

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WARNING!
Don’t allow any liquid to get inside the charger; electric shock may result. To
facilitate the cooling of the battery pack after use, avoid placing the charger or
battery pack in a warm environment, such as in a metal shed, or an un-insulated
trailer.
WARNING!
Never attempt to open the battery pack for any reason. If the plastic housing of
the battery pack breaks or cracks, return it to a service centre for recycling; do not
put it into further use.
Removing or installing the battery pack
WARNING!
Always release the on/off trigger before insertion or removal of the battery pack.
To remove the battery pack: Depress button (A) on the end of the battery pack,
and then remove the pack from the tool.
Install the battery pack: Align the ribs on both sides of the battery pack with the slots in the
housing, and slip it into place. Always insert it all the way until it locks in place with a click
sound. If not, it may accidentally fall out of the tool, causing injury to you or someone around
you.
A