STIHL BGA 45 - Battery Handheld Blower Manual

Guide to Using this Manual

Signal Words
This manual contains safety information that requires your special attention. Such information is introduced with the following symbols and signal words:

Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
NOTICE
Indicates a risk of property damage, including damage to the machine or its individual components

Main Parts

Blower and Charger

The blower is powered by an integrated lithium ion battery that cannot be removed from the power tool.

1. Retaining Latch
   Locks/unlocks the trigger switch.
2. Trigger Switch
   Switches the motor on and off.
3. Trigger Switch Lockout
   Must be depressed while the retaining latch is unlocked to allow activation of the trigger switch.
4. Blower LEDs
   Indicate the blower's state of charge and display error messages regarding potential malfunctions in the power tool or its integrated battery.
5. Push Button
   Activates the blower's LEDs.
6. Intake Screen
   Covers the air intake opening and reduces risk of contact with the blower fan.
7. Charging Socket
   Socket for connecting the charger to the blower.
8. Activation Key
   Enables the flow of electrical power from the integrated battery to the motor.
9. Activation Key Socket
   Socket for connecting the activation key to the blower.
10. Housing
    Contains the integrated battery.
11. Control Handle
    The blower's handle.
12. Blower Tube
    Directs the airstream.
13. Nozzle
    Directs and concentrates the airstream.
14. Connector
    Connects the charger to the blower's charging socket.
15. Power Supply Cord
    Supplies electrical charging current when the charger is plugged into an electrical outlet.
16. Plug
    Connects the charger to an electrical outlet.
17. Charger (Power Supply)
    Power supply for charging the blower.

# Rating Plate
Contains electrical information and the product's serial number.

Safety Symbols on the Products

Blower and Charger

The following safety symbols are found on the blower and/or charger:

To reduce the risk of injury, follow the specified safety precautions.

Read and follow all safety precautions in the instruction manual. Improper use can lead to serious or fatal personal injury or property damage.

To reduce the risk of eye injury, always wear proper eye protection.

To reduce the risk of personal injury, keep hair and loose-fitting clothing away from the air intake.

To reduce the risk of injury or property damage from unintended activation, remove the activation key any time the blower is not in use.

To reduce the risk of personal injury or property damage from a short circuit, fire or explosion, keep the blower dry. Protect it from rain, water, liquids and damp conditions. Never immerse the blower in water or other liquids.

To reduce the risk of personal injury from high velocity air flow and blown objects, keep bystanders at least 16 ft. (5 m) away.

To reduce the risk of personal injury or property damage from fire, explosion or burns, including chemical burns, do not disassemble the blower's housing. Never crush, drop, damage or heat the blower above 212°F (100°C). Never expose it to fire or incinerate.

To reduce the risk of personal injury or property damage from fire, use and store the blower only within an ambient temperature range of 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C).

To reduce the risk of personal injury or property damage from fire or electric shock, keep the charger dry. Protect it from rain, water, liquids and damp conditions. For indoor use only.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Introduction

When using an electric blower, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THE BLOWER!
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

• To reduce the risk of fire, explosion, electric shock or other personal injury, read and follow the important safety instructions in this chapter. Additional important warnings and instructions are provided in subsequent chapters of this manual.

Intended Use

• This blower is designed for blowing leaves, grass, and similar lightweight material from yards, gardens, sidewalks, driveways, decks, patios and comparable surfaces in the manner and in the conditions described in this manual. Use of the blower for operations different than intended could result in serious injury or death.
  • Blow leaves, grass, and similar lightweight material only.
• Improper use could result in personal injury or property damage, including damage to the blower.
  • Use the blower and charger only as described in this manual.
  • Never attempt to modify or override the blower's controls or safety devices in any way.
  • Never use a blower that has been modified or altered from its original design.
• The LK 45 charger (power supply) is designed for charging STIHL BGA 45, FSA 45 and HSA 45 power tools only.

Operator

• Working with the blower can be strenuous. The operator must be in good physical condition and mental health. To reduce the risk of personal injury from fatigue and loss of control:
  • Check with your doctor before using the blower if you have any health condition that may be aggravated by strenuous work.
  • Do not operate the blower while under the influence of any substance (drug, alcohol or medication, etc.) that might impair vision, balance, dexterity or judgment.
  • Be alert. Do not operate the blower when you are tired. Take a break if you become tired.
  • Do not permit minors to use the blower.
• According to STIHL's current knowledge, the electric motor of this blower should not interfere with a pacemaker.
  • However, persons with a pacemaker or other implanted medical device should consult their physician and device manufacturer before operating this blower.

Personal Protective Equipment

• To reduce the risk of personal injury:
  • Always wear proper clothing and protective apparel, including proper eye protection.
• Loss of control and severe injuries may result if hair, clothing or apparel are drawn into the air intake or otherwise become entangled in the components of the blower. To reduce the risk of severe personal injury:
  • Wear sturdy and snug-fitting clothing that also allows complete freedom of movement.
    
  • Wear overalls or long pants made of heavy material to help protect your legs. Do not wear shorts.
  • Wear a long-sleeve shirt or jacket.
  • Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarves, neckties, flared or cuffed pants, jewelry and any other apparel that could be drawn into the air intake.
  • Secure hair above shoulder level before starting work.
    
• To reduce the risk of eye injury:
  • Always wear goggles or close-fitting protective glasses with adequate side protection that are impact-rated and marked as complying with ANSI Z87 "+".
    
• Good footing is very important. To help maintain a secure footing and reduce the risk of injury while working:
  • Wear substantial footwear with non-slip soles. Do not wear sandals, flip-flops, open-toed or similar footwear.
    
• To help reduce the risk of personal injury caused by loss of control during operation:
  • STIHL recommends wearing heavy-duty non-slip work gloves made of leather or another wear-resistant material when handling the blower.
    

Blower

• To reduce the risk of electric shock:
  • Do not expose the blower to rain, water or excessive moisture.
    
  • Never immerse the blower in water or other liquids.
• This battery-powered blower is intended only for light-duty garden and landscape maintenance around the home. Use for other purposes may increase the risk of personal injury and property damage.
  • Read and follow the operating instructions in this manual for approved applications.
• To reduce the risk of personal injury to the operator and bystanders:
  • Always release the trigger switch and remove the activation key before assembling, transporting, adjusting, inspecting, cleaning, servicing, maintaining or storing the blower, and any other time it is not in use.
    
• Although certain unauthorized attachments may fit STIHL blowers, their use may be extremely dangerous. Only attachments supplied by STIHL or expressly approved by STIHL for use with this specific model are recommended.
  • Use only attachments supplied or expressly approved by STIHL.
  • Never modify this blower in any way.
  • Never attempt to modify or override the blower's controls or safety devices in any way.
  • Never use a blower that has been modified or altered from its original design.
  • Do not put any object into the openings of the blower.
  • Do not use the blower with any openings blocked.
  • Keep the blower free of dust, lint, hair and anything that might reduce air flow.
• If the blower is dropped or subjected to similar heavy impacts:
  • Check that it is undamaged, in good condition and functioning properly before continuing work.
  • Check that the controls and safety devices are working properly.
  • Check the LEDs for error messages.
  • Never work with a damaged or malfunctioning blower.
  • Never use or charge a blower with a housing that is cracked, deformed, excessively hot, leaking battery fluid or otherwise damaged. These could be signs that the battery inside the blower is damaged, increasing the risk of personal injury and property damage from short circuit, fire or explosion. In case of doubt, have the blower checked by your authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
• If the blower is damaged, not working properly, has been left outdoors, exposed to rain or damp conditions or dropped into water or other liquid, its components, including its integrated battery, may no longer function properly and safety devices may be inoperative. To reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage:
  • Take the blower to your authorized STIHL servicing dealer to be checked before further operation.
• Genuine STIHL replacement parts are specifically designed to match your blower and meet safety and performance requirements. Use of parts that are not authorized or approved by STIHL may cause serious or fatal injury or property damage.
  • STIHL recommends that only identical replacement parts be used.

Integrated Battery

• Use of an unauthorized charging device can damage the lithium ion battery inside the blower and result in fire, explosion and personal injury and property damage.
  • Charge the blower only with a genuine STIHL LK 45 charger (power supply).
• The blower's integrated battery contains safety features and devices which, if damaged, may allow it to generate heat, rupture, leak, ignite or explode.
  • Be alert for signs that the battery may be damaged: never use or charge a blower with a housing that is cracked, deformed, excessively hot, leaking battery fluid or otherwise damaged.
  • Do not incinerate the blower even if it is severely damaged. The integrated battery can explode in a fire.
  • Never attempt to remove the battery or open or disassemble the blower's housing for any reason.
  • Never subject the blower to heavy impacts or attempt to crush, drop or otherwise damage it.
  • Never heat the blower above 212°F (100°C) or place it on or near fires, stoves or other high-temperature locations.
    
  • Never expose the blower to microwaves or high pressures.
  • Never insert foreign objects into the blower's charging socket, activation key socket or other openings.
• High temperatures may cause the blower's integrated battery to generate heat, rupture, leak, ignite or explode, resulting in severe or fatal personal injury and property damage. Exposure to temperatures outside the recommended temperature range may also damage the battery.
  • Use and store the blower only within an ambient temperature range of 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C).
    
  • Never store the blower in direct sunlight or inside a vehicle in hot weather.
• To reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage in the event the blower emits smoke, an unusual smell or feels unusually hot while using, charging or storing:
  • Immediately discontinue using or charging the blower. Contact the authorities in the event of fire or explosion.
• To reduce the risk of electric shock:
  • Never bridge the electrical contacts of the activation key socket with wires or other metallic objects (e.g., paper clips, nails, coins, keys).
  • Keep the blower dry. Protect it from rain and ensure that the blower and its battery are never exposed to water, liquids or damp conditions.
    
  • Never immerse the blower in water or other liquids.
  • Store the blower indoors in a dry room.
  • Never store the blower in damp or corrosive environments or in conditions that could lead to corrosion of its metal components or battery.
  • Protect the blower from exposure to corrosive agents such as garden chemicals and de-icing salts, which may damage its battery and increase the risk of short circuit, fire and explosion.
  • Do not attempt to repair, open or disassemble the blower. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
• If the integrated battery is damaged, battery fluid can leak out of the blower. Leaking battery fluid can cause skin and eye irritation or chemical burns.
  • Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
  • Use an inert absorbent such as sand on spilled liquids.
  • In the event of accidental contact, immediately rinse the contact area thoroughly with mild soap and water.
  • If fluid gets into your eye(s): Do not rub. Rinse water over the open eye(s) for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
• A battery fire can be dangerous. To reduce the risk of severe personal injury and property damage in the event of fire:
  • Evacuate the area. Fire can spread rapidly. Stay clear of any vapors generated and maintain a safe distance.
  • Contact the fire department.
  • Although water can be used to put out a battery fire, use of a multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher is preferable.
  • Consult the fire department regarding proper disposal of the burned battery.

Using the Blower

Before Operation

• Misuse or unauthorized use may result in personal injury and property damage.
  • Use the blower only as described in this instruction manual.
• Using a blower that is modified, damaged, improperly adjusted or maintained, or not completely and securely assembled can increase the risk of serious personal injury.
  • Never operate a blower that is modified, damaged, improperly maintained or not completely and securely assembled.
  • Always check your blower for proper condition and operation before starting work, particularly the retaining latch, trigger switch lockout and trigger switch.
  • Ensure that the retaining latch, trigger switch lockout and trigger switch move freely and spring back into place when released. The trigger switch must not engage until the retaining latch is unlocked and the trigger switch lockout is depressed.
  • Never attempt to modify or override the controls or safety devices in any way.
  • If your blower or any part is damaged or does not function properly, take it to your authorized STIHL servicing dealer. Do not use the blower until the problem has been corrected.
• Before inserting the activation key:
  • Check the electrical contacts of the activation key and activation key socket for corrosion or other foreign matter. Keep clean.
  • Never insert a damaged, deformed or corroded activation key.
  • Read and follow the instructions on switching on the blower.
• To help reduce the risk of serious personal injury from unintentional starting:
  • Be sure the retaining latch is in the locked position and the trigger switch is in the off position before inserting the activation key.
  • Never carry the blower with your finger on the trigger switch.
  • Release the trigger switch before removing the activation key.
  • Remove the activation key before assembling, transporting, adjusting, inspecting, cleaning, servicing, maintaining or storing the blower and any other time it is not in use.
    
  • Never leave the blower unattended when the activation key is inserted.
  • Never store the activation key in the blower.

Holding and Controlling the Blower

• To maintain a firm grip and properly control your blower:
  • Keep the handle clean and dry at all times. Keep it free of moisture, pitch, oil, grease and resin.
• To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries to the operator or bystanders from loss of control:
  • Always hold the blower firmly with one hand when you are working.
  • Wrap your fingers tightly around the handle, keeping the handle cradled between your thumb and forefinger (see illustration).
• To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries to the operator or bystanders from loss of control, keep proper footing and balance at all times:
  • Never work on a ladder, roof, in a tree or while standing on any other insecure support.
  • Take special care in overgrown or wet terrain and always watch for hidden obstacles such as tree stumps, roots, rocks, holes and ditches to avoid stumbling or falling.
  • Be extremely cautious when working on slopes or uneven ground.
  • Use extra care when working on stairs.
  • For better footing, always clear away fallen branches, scrub, cuttings and other material, objects or vegetation that can increase the danger of slipping, tripping or falling.
  • Never operate the blower above shoulder height.
  • Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.

Working Conditions

• Operate your blower only under good visibility during favorable daylight conditions.
  • Postpone the work if the weather is windy, foggy, rainy or inclement.
• Your blower is a one-person machine.
  • Bystanders, especially children, and animals should not be allowed in the area where it is in use.
  • Switch off the blower immediately if you are approached.
• To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders and unauthorized users:
  • Never leave the blower unattended when the activation key is inserted.
  • Switch off the blower and remove the activation key during work breaks and any other time the blower is not in use.
• Operating the blower in certain dry, dusty conditions may cause static electricity to build up in the blower tube, nozzle and housing. This static electricity may discharge suddenly with a spark. To reduce the risk of personal injury following static discharge:
  • Never operate the blower in a location where combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or other combustible materials and substances are present.
• Sparks generated from operation of the blower may be capable of igniting combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or other combustible materials and substances. To reduce the risk of fire and explosion:
  • Never operate the blower in a location where combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or other combustible materials and substances are present.
  • Read and follow recommendations issued by government authorities (e.g., OSHA) for identifying and avoiding the hazards of combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or other combustible materials and substances.
• Use of this blower can generate dust and other substances containing chemicals known to cause respiratory problems, cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm.
  • Consult governmental agencies such as EPA, OSHA, CARB and NIOSH and other authoritative sources on hazardous materials if you are unfamiliar with the risks associated with the particular substances with which you are working.
• Inhalation of certain dusts, especially organic dusts such as mold or pollen, can cause susceptible persons to have an allergic or asthmatic reaction. Substantial or repeated inhalation of dust or other airborne contaminants, especially those with a smaller particle size, may cause respiratory or other illnesses.
  • Control dust at the source where possible.
  • To the extent possible, operate the blower so that the wind or operating process directs any dust, mist or other particulate matter raised by the blower away from the operator.
  • When respirable dust or other particulate matter cannot be kept at or near background levels, always wear a respirator that is approved by NIOSH and rated for worksite-specific conditions. Follow the recommendations of governmental authorities (e.g., OSHA/NIOSH) and occupational and trade associations.
• If the surrounding ground is coated with a chemical substance, such as pesticide or herbicide:
  • Read and follow the instructions and warnings that accompanied the substance coating the vegetation or surrounding ground.

Operating Instructions

• In the event of an emergency:
  • Switch off the motor immediately and remove the activation key.
• The blower fan between the air intake and output opening rotates whenever the motor is running. To reduce the risk of injury from contact with the blower fan:
  • Never operate the blower with a missing, cracked or worn intake screen or housing.
  • Never operate the blower without a properly mounted blower tube and nozzle.
  • Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers and all parts of the body away from openings and moving parts of the blower.
• The air flow from the blower can propel small objects at high speed. To reduce the risk of eye or other serious personal injuries to bystanders from blown objects:
  • Keep bystanders and pets at least 16 ft. (5 m) away when the blower is running.
  • Never direct the air flow toward bystanders or pets.
  • Do not allow the blower to be used as a toy.
  • Switch off the blower immediately if you are approached.
• A missing, cracked or worn intake screen or housing may result in an increased risk of injury from thrown objects.
  • Never operate a blower that has a missing, cracked or worn intake screen or housing.
• Inserting any foreign object into the air intake or nozzle may result in property damage, including damage to the blower itself, and serious injury to the operator or bystanders as a result of the object or broken parts being blown at high speed.
  • Never insert any objects into the nozzle or air intake of the blower.
  • Immediately switch off the blower if it starts to vibrate abnormally.
• Using the blower to spread herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers or other chemical substances can be dangerous and may cause serious or fatal injury to persons and damage to the environment.
  • Never use the blower to disperse or spread chemicals of any kind.

Charger Safety

Warnings and Instructions

• To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and other personal injury or property damage:
  • Read and follow all cautionary markings on the charger and blower and all instructions in this manual before using the charger.
  • Use the STIHL LK 45 charger (power supply) only for charging STIHL BGA 45, FSA 45 and HSA 45 power tools. Using the STIHL LK 45 for other purposes is prohibited and may lead to fire, explosion or electric shock, resulting in serious or fatal personal injury and property damage.
  • For indoor use only.
  • Keep the charger dry. Protect it from rain, water, liquids and damp conditions. Never charge a wet blower or use a wet charger.
    
  • Do not handle the charger, including power supply cord and plug, with wet hands.
  • Never use a damaged or improperly functioning charger.
  • Never use or charge a blower with a housing that is cracked, deformed, excessively hot, leaking battery fluid or otherwise damaged. These could be signs that the battery inside the blower is damaged, increasing the risk of personal injury and property damage from short circuit, fire or explosion.
  • Operate the charger only indoors, in dry rooms and within an ambient temperature range of 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).
  • Keep the charger out of the reach of children.
  • Always plug the charger into a properly installed electrical outlet matching the voltage and electrical frequency stated on the charger.
  • Never use power strips to operate multiple chargers or other devices from the same outlet or on the same circuit.
  • Do not operate a charger that has received a sharp or heavy blow, has been dropped or is otherwise damaged or not functioning properly in any way.
  • Do not attempt to repair, open or disassemble the charger. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
• To reduce the risk of electric shock or fire from a short circuit:
  • Make sure the blower and charger are completely dry before starting the charging process.
• The charger heats up during the charging process. To reduce the risk of fire:
  • Do not operate on a combustible surface (e.g., paper, cardboard, textiles) or in a combustible environment.
  • Allow the charger to cool down normally. Do not cover it.
• Chargers can produce sparks which may ignite combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or other combustible materials. To reduce the risk of fire and explosion:
  • Do not operate in a location where combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or other combustible materials are present.
• Using a damaged power supply cord or plug may result in fire, electric shock and other personal injury or property damage. To reduce these risks:
  • Check the charger's power supply cord and plug regularly for damage. If damaged, immediately disconnect the plug from the electrical outlet.
    
  • Replace the charger if the power supply cord becomes damaged. The power supply cord cannot be repaired or replaced.
  • Unplug the charger from the electrical outlet when not in use.
  • Never jerk the power supply cord to disconnect it from the electrical outlet. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the power supply cord.
  • Do not use the power supply cord for carrying or hanging up the charger.
  • Make sure the power supply cord is located or marked so that it will not be stepped on, tripped over, come in contact with sharp objects or moving parts, or otherwise be subjected to damage or stress.
• An extension cord should not be used unless absolutely necessary. Overloading an extension cord can result in overheating and fire. If an extension cord must be used:
  • Use only a properly wired 16 gauge (AWG 16) or heavier gauge extension cord.
  • Never connect more than one charger or other device to an extension cord.
  • Never use an extension cord with a wattage rating lower than the wattage on your charger's rating plate.
  • Never use an extension cord if the blades on its plug are different from the blades on the charger plug in number, size or shape.
  • Do not link (chain) extension cords.
• In case of fire, or if the charger or blower it is charging emits smoke, an unusual smell, feels hot or appears abnormal in any other way:
  • Immediately disconnect the charger from the outlet. Contact the authorities in the event of fire or explosion.
  • Have the charger and blower inspected and repaired by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer before use.
• Operation of the blower is disabled during the charging process to reduce the risk of electric shock.
  • Do not attempt to operate the blower during the charging process or any time it is connected to the LK 45.

Maintenance, Repair and Storage

Warnings and Instructions

• There are no user-authorized repairs for the blower or charger. To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock or other personal injury and property damage:
  • Users may carry out only the cleaning and maintenance operations described in this manual.
  • Strictly follow the cleaning and maintenance instructions in the appropriate sections of this instruction manual.
  • STIHL recommends that all repair work be performed by authorized STIHL servicing dealers.
• Unintentional starting may result in personal injury or property damage.
  • Remove the activation key before inspecting the blower or carrying out any cleaning, maintenance or repair work, before storing, and any other time the blower is not in use.
    
• Use of parts that are not authorized or approved by STIHL may cause serious or fatal injury or property damage.
  • STIHL recommends that only identical STIHL replacement parts be used for repair or maintenance.
• To reduce the risk of electric shock:
  • Unplug the charger from the electrical outlet before inspecting or cleaning the charger.
  • Regularly check the electrical contacts of the charger and ensure that the insulation of the power cord and plug are in good condition and show no signs of aging (brittleness), wear or damage.
  • Replace the charger if the power supply cord becomes worn or damaged. The power supply cord cannot be repaired or replaced.
• To reduce the risk of short circuit and fire:
  • Keep the charging socket and power supply cord connector free of foreign matter. Clean as necessary.
• Improper storage can result in unauthorized use, damage to the blower and charger and an increased risk of fire, electric shock and other personal injury or property damage.
  • Remove the activation key from the blower before storing. Store the activation key away from the blower in a safe place that is inaccessible to children and other unauthorized users.
  • Never store the blower with the activation key inserted.
  • Before storing, always unplug the charger from the electrical outlet.
  • Store the blower and charger indoors in a dry, secure place that cannot be accessed by children or other unauthorized users.
  • Store the blower only within an ambient temperature range of 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C).

General Warnings and Instructions

General Safety Warnings and Instructions for Battery-Powered Products

This section contains the general safety warnings and instructions for battery-powered products contained in UL 2595 / CSA C22.2 No. 0.23.

• Read all safety warnings and instructions.
• Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire, explosion and/or serious injury or property damage.
• Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the trigger switch is in the off-position before inserting the activation key, picking up or carrying the blower. Carrying the blower with your finger on the trigger switch or inserting the activation key with the trigger switch engaged increases the likelihood of unintended starting and possible accidents.
• Remove the activation key from the blower before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the blower accidentally.
• Recharge only with the charger specified by STIHL. A charger that is suitable for one type of power tool may create a risk of fire when used with another power tool.
• Use the blower only with the integrated battery. Use of any other battery may create a risk of fire or explosion and personal injury or property damage.
• When the power tool is not in use, make sure that paper clips, coins, keys, nails and other similar metal objects are not stored near the blower's charging socket, activation key socket or other openings. Short circuiting the blower's battery or charging system may cause burns or a fire or explosion.
• Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation, chemical burns or respiratory illness from inhalation.
• Do not use a blower that is damaged or modified. A damaged or modified blower or integrated battery may exhibit unpredictable behavior resulting in fire, explosion and risk of injury or property damage.
• Do not expose the blower or its integrated battery to fire or excessive temperature. Exposure to fire or temperatures above 212°F (100°C) may cause fire and explosion.
• Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the integrated battery outside of the ambient temperature range specified. Charging improperly or outside the specified range may damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
• Have servicing performed by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts.
• Do not modify or attempt to repair the blower or the integrated battery. Follow the instructions for use and care.

Before Starting Work

Preparing the Blower for Operation

Before starting work:

• Fully charge the blower.
• Mount the blower tube and nozzle.
• Check the controls for proper function and condition.

Charging the Blower

Charging

Read and follow the blower and charger safety precautions and instructions in this manual. Be alert for signs that the integrated battery may be damaged. To reduce the risk of fire and explosion, never use or charge a blower with a housing that is cracked, deformed, excessively hot, leaking battery fluid or otherwise damaged.

Since the blower and charger heat up during the charging process, do not charge the blower on a combustible surface or in a location where combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or other combustible materials or substances are present.

To charge the blower:

• Remove the activation key.
  
• Insert the charger plug into a properly installed electrical outlet (1) with the same voltage and electrical frequency stated on the charger's rating plate (2).
• Push the connector (4) into the blower's charging socket (5) until it stops.
  The LEDs on the blower (6) glow green during charging and show the state of charge.
  When the LEDs on the blower go out, the charging process is complete and the charger will shut itself off.
• Remove the charger from the blower and disconnect the charger plug from the electrical outlet when charging is complete.

A blower is not fully charged when it ships from the factory. STIHL recommends that you fully charge the blower before using it the first time.
Operate the charger only indoors, in dry rooms and within an ambient temperature range of 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).
The blower heats up during operation. The charging process begins only after the blower and its integrated battery have cooled down sufficiently.
Charging time depends on a number of factors, including the condition of the integrated battery and the ambient temperature. For a complete list of approximate charging times, see www.stihl.com/charging-times.
Operation of the blower is disabled during charging and any time the blower is connected to the charger.

LED Diagnostics

Blower Status

LEDs on the blower show the status of the power tool and its integrated battery.
If three LEDs glow red continuously: the integrated battery is either too hot or too cold. Allow the blower to warm up or cool down gradually at an ambient temperature of about 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C).
If three LEDs flash red when you activate the trigger switch: the blower has an electrical malfunction. Do not operate or charge the blower. Have it checked by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer before use or storage.

Charge Status

The LEDs also show the blower's state of charge.
To determine the blower's state of charge:

• Press the push button (1) on the blower.
  The LEDs on the blower will glow or flash green for about 5 seconds and indicate the state of charge (see illustration).

For example:
If four green LEDs glow continuously: full charge.
If one green LED is flashing: less than 20% charge.

Assembling the Blower

Mounting the Blower Tube and Nozzle

Make sure the activation key is removed before starting assembly. Never operate your blower without a properly mounted blower tube and nozzle. Use only attachments supplied or expressly approved by STIHL.
To mount the blower tube and nozzle:

• Align the holes on the nozzle (2) with the lugs on the blower tube (3).
• Push the nozzle (1) onto the blower tube (4). The nozzle will engage with an audible click. Once the nozzle and blower tube are assembled, keep them connected during use and storage.
• Align the blower tube mounting lugs (6) with the grooves on the blower tube (5) and push the parts together.
• Rotate the blower tube toward the symbol until it stops. The blower tube should lock in position.

Inserting and Removing the Activation Key

Inserting the Activation Key

To reduce the risk of severe personal injury from unintended activation, never store the activation key in the blower.
To insert the activation key:

• Place the blower on a level surface.
• Insert the activation key (1) into the activation key socket (2) with even, steady pressure until it stops. Inserting the activation key enables the flow of electrical power from the integrated battery to the motor.

Removing the Activation Key

To reduce the risk of severe personal injury from unintended activation, always remove the activation key before assembling, transporting, adjusting, cleaning, servicing, maintaining or storing the blower and any other time it is not in use.
To remove the activation key:

• Release the trigger switch.
• Place the blower on a level surface.
• Remove the activation key with even, steady pressure.
• Store the activation key away from the blower in a safe place that is inaccessible to children and other unauthorized users.

Switching the Blower On and Off

Switching On

Never operate your blower if it is modified, damaged, improperly adjusted or maintained, not completely and securely assembled or not functioning properly. To reduce the risk of personal injury, always wear proper clothing and protective apparel, including proper eye protection, when operating your blower.
Before switching on:

• Make sure you have a secure and firm footing.
• Stand upright.
• Always hold and operate the blower with one hand firmly on the control handle.

To switch the blower on:

• Insert the activation key.
• Unlock the retaining latch (1) by pushing it forward with your thumb. Hold it in this unlocked position.
• Depress and hold the trigger switch lockout (2).
  The retaining latch can be released and will stay in the unlocked position.
• Squeeze the trigger switch (3) with your index finger.
  Air flow will start.
  The motor will not switch on unless the retaining latch is unlocked and the trigger switch lockout and trigger switch are pressed at the same time.

Switching Off

To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended activation or unauthorized use, switch off the motor and remove the activation key before transporting or putting the blower down.
To switch the blower off:

• Release the trigger switch and trigger switch lockout. Once the trigger switch and trigger switch lockout have been released, the retaining latch will return to its locked position and activation of the trigger switch will be blocked.

Checking the Controls

Testing the Controls

Before starting work, confirm that the retaining latch (1), trigger switch lockout (2) and trigger switch (3) are undamaged and functioning properly.

Retaining Latch (1), Trigger Switch Lockout (2) and Trigger Switch (3)

To help reduce the risk of injury from blown objects, always wear proper eye protection while testing the controls. Keep bystanders at least 16 ft. (5 m) away.
To test the controls:

• Remove the activation key.
• Unlock the retaining latch by pushing it forward with your thumb.
• Hold the retaining latch in the unlocked position.
• Depress the trigger switch lockout and the trigger switch momentarily.
• Release the retaining latch, trigger switch lockout and trigger switch.
  The retaining latch, trigger switch lockout and trigger switch should return to their respective locked positions. If they do not, take the blower to an authorized STIHL servicing dealer to be repaired before use.
  If you are able to activate the trigger switch without first unlocking the retaining latch and depressing the trigger switch lockout, take the blower to an authorized STIHL servicing dealer to be repaired before use.
• Insert the activation key.
• Hold the blower firmly and unlock the retaining latch. Depress the trigger switch lockout and trigger switch momentarily.
  The blower should switch on. If it does not, take the blower to an authorized STIHL servicing dealer to be repaired before use.
• Release the trigger switch.
  The blower should switch off.
  If the blower does not switch off after you release the trigger switch, remove the activation key and take the blower to an authorized STIHL servicing dealer to be repaired before use.

During Operation

Using the Blower

To reduce the risk of personal injury, never work with the blower in the rain or in wet or damp conditions. Always wear proper clothing and protective apparel, including proper eye protection. Never direct the air flow toward bystanders. Keep bystanders at least 16 ft. (5 m) away from the work area. Work carefully and maintain proper control of the blower.
The blower is designed for single-handed operation with either the right or left hand.

• Hold the unit firmly with your hand, keeping the handle cradled between your thumb and fingers.
• Direct the air flow at the edges of the pile of material to be blown.

NOTICE
Never direct the air flow toward objects such as vehicles or windows that are less than 16 ft. (5 m) away.
If the blower is used or stored at ambient temperatures above 86°F (30°C), its runtime and performance may be reduced.
Observe all applicable laws, regulations, standards and ordinances.

After Finishing Work

Preparing for Transportation or Storage

To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended activation or unauthorized use, switch off the motor and remove the activation key before transporting the blower or putting it down.
To prepare the blower for transportation or storage:

• Switch off the blower.
• Remove the activation key.
• If the blower became wet during operation, allow it to dry separately and completely before charging or storing.

Transporting the Blower

Blower

To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended activation, never transport the blower with the activation key inserted.
When transporting the blower:

• When transporting the blower by hand, carry it by the control handle.
• When transporting the blower in a vehicle, secure and position the blower to prevent turnover, impact and damage.

A Note on Battery Transport
The battery inside this blower complies with the requirements set forth in UN-Manual ST/SG/AC.10/11/Rev.5/Part III, Subsection 38.3.
Commercial air, vessel and ground transportation of lithium ion cells and batteries contained in equipment is regulated. The battery inside this blower is classified as a UN 3481, Class 9, packaging group II product. Shipping it requires compliance with all applicable shipping regulations. Check with the ground, vessel, air cargo or passenger airline to determine if transport is prohibited or subject to restrictions or exemptions prior to shipping or travel.
Normally, no further conditions have to be met by the user in order to transport this blower by road to the operating site. Check and comply with any special regulations that may apply to your situation.
For further information please go to www.stihlusa.com/battery-transportation-safety.

Storing the Blower and Charger

Blower

Store the blower indoors in a dry, secure place that is inaccessible to children and other unauthorized users. Improper storage can result in unauthorized use and damage to the blower. Remove the charger from the electrical outlet once charging is complete.

If the blower is damp or wet, dry it thoroughly before storing to reduce the risk of short circuit and electric shock.

High temperatures may cause the integrated battery to generate heat, rupture, leak, ignite or explode, resulting in severe or fatal personal injury or property damage. Use and store the blower only within an ambient temperature range of 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C). Never store the blower in direct sunlight or inside a vehicle in hot weather.
When storing the blower:

• Switch off the blower.
• Remove the activation key.
• Clean the blower.
• Store the blower indoors in a dry and secure location, out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons.
• Store the activation key away from the blower in a safe place that is inaccessible to children and other unauthorized users.
• Protect the blower against dampness and corrosive agents such as garden chemicals and de-icing salts.
• For maximum battery life, store the blower at an ambient temperature between 50°F and 68°F (10°C and 20°C) with a charge between 40% and 60% (2 green LEDs).
• If the blower is used or stored at ambient temperatures above 86°F (30°C), its runtime and performance may be reduced.
• Never store the blower with the activation key inserted.
• Before storing, always unplug the charger from the electrical outlet.

Charger

To properly store the charger:

• Disconnect the charger from the electrical outlet.
• Disconnect the charger from the blower.
• Store the charger indoors in a dry and secure location.
• Keep it out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons.

Cleaning

Cleaning the Blower and Charger

To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended activation, remove the activation key before carrying out any cleaning work. Users of this blower should carry out only the cleaning described in this manual.
To clean the blower and charger:

• Clean a dirty intake screen carefully with a soft brush whenever required.
• Clean the blower's polymer components with a slightly dampened cloth. Do not use detergents or solvents. They may damage the polymer components.
• Do not use a pressure washer to clean the blower or otherwise spray it with water or other liquids.
• Keep the charger housing and electrical contacts free from foreign matter. Clean as necessary with a soft brush or soft, dry cloth. Always unplug the charger before cleaning.

Inspection and Maintenance

Inspecting and Maintaining the Blower

To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended activation, remove the activation key before inspecting the blower or carrying out any maintenance. Carry out only the maintenance operations described in this manual. There are no user-authorized repairs. STIHL recommends that repair work be performed by authorized STIHL servicing dealers.
To properly maintain the blower:

• Inspect the intake screen of the blower and replace if damaged.
• Have worn, missing or damaged safety labels replaced by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

If you make a warranty claim for a component that has not been serviced or maintained properly, coverage may be denied.

Troubleshooting

Always remove the activation key before carrying out any inspection, cleaning or maintenance.

Condition	LEDs on the blower	Cause	Remedy
	3 LEDs flash red.	Malfunction in blower.	Do not attempt to use. The blower has a malfunction and must be checked by a servicing dealer.
Blower does not start when switched on.		Activation key not fully inserted.	Remove the activation key. Visually check the electrical contacts of the activation key. Reinsert the activation key.
	1 LED flashes green.	Less than 20% charge remaining.	Charge the blower.
	3 LEDs glow red.	Integrated battery too hot.	Remove the activation key. Allow the blower to cool down gradually at ambient temperatures of about 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C).
		Moisture in blower.	Allow the blower to dry.
Blower cuts out during operation.	3 LEDs glow red.	Integrated battery too hot.	Remove the activation key. Allow the blower to cool down gradually at ambient temperatures of about 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C).
		Electrical malfunction.	Switch off the blower. Wait at least 5 seconds and switch it back on.
Run-time is too short.		Blower not fully charged.	Charge the blower.
		Useful life of integrated battery has been reached or exceeded.	Have the blower checked by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
		Integrated battery too hot / too cold.	Allow the blower to warm up or cool down gradually at ambient temperatures of about 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C).
Blower is not being charged.	3 LEDs glow red.	Integrated battery too hot / too cold.	Allow the blower to warm up or cool down gradually at ambient temperatures of about 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C). Operate the charger only in enclosed, dry rooms at ambient temperatures of 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).