STIHL SE 33 - Vacuum Cleaner 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

1. Container
   Captures and stores collected deprits and/or liquid.
2. Vacuum Intake Port
   For connecting the suction hose to the container.
3. Power Switch
   Switches the motor on and off.
4. Carrying Handle
   For lifting and transporting the vacuum.
5. Upper Housing
   Contains the electric motor, filter and float.
6. Bracket for Power Supply Cord
   For storing the power supply cord.
7. Locking Clips
   For securing the upper housing.
8. Wheels
   For rolling the vacuum.
9. On-board Storage
   For storing the vacuum attachments.
10. Power Supply Cord
    Supplies the vacuum with electricity when connected to an electrical outlet (power supply).
11. Plug
    Connects the power supply cord to an electrical outlet.
12. Air Discharge Opening
    For connecting the suction hose for use as a blower.
13. On-board Storage
    For storing the vacuum attachments.
14. Wing Screw
    For attaching the filter to the motor housing.
15. Filter Cartridge
    For filtering dust and debris.
16. Float
    Reduces the suction power of the vacuum when the maximum fluid level is reached.

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

Device Attachments

1. Floor Tool
   For cleaning smooth surfaces and carpets.
2. Crevice Tool
   For cleaning narrow openings and other areas that are hard to reach.
3. Extension Tube
   Extends the reach of the suction hose.
4. Foam Filter
   For vacuuming liquids.
5. Suction Hose
   For connecting the extension tube with the container.
6. Handle Tube
   Gripping surface for the operator's hand.
7. Filter Bag
   For collecting dry debris and reducing dust during disposal. The filter bag helps keep dust and dirt from the blocking filter.

Before Starting Work

Before starting work:

• Place the vacuum on flat and firm ground or other solid surface in an open area.
• Connect the suction hose.
• If vacuuming dust or dry debris only, insert the filter bag.
• Mount the vacuum attachments.
• Connect the power supply cord to a properly installed electrical outlet that matches the voltage and electrical frequency stated on the vacuum's rating plate.

Assembling the Device

Assembling Parts and Unit Attachments

To reduce the risk of severe injury from unintentional starting, always switch off the vacuum and disconnect it from the power supply any time it is not in use and before starting assembly.

Remove the Vacuum Attachments from the Container
To remove the attachments from the container:

• Make sure the vacuum is off and disconnected from the power supply.
• Release the locking clips (1).
  
• Remove the upper housing (2).
• Take the attachments from the container.
  
• Put the upper housing back on the container.
• Close the locking clips.

Attaching the Wheels

• Slide the front wheels (1) into the openings (2) until you hear an audible click.
• Slide the rear wheels (4) into the openings (3) until you hear an audible click.

Connecting the Suction Hose

To connect the suction hose:

• Make sure the vacuum is off and disconnected from the power supply.
• Push the sleeve (1) into the vacuum intake port (2).
  

Mounting the Device Attachments

To mount the vacuum attachments:

• Make sure the vacuum is off and disconnected from the power supply.
• Connect the attachments (2), (3),and (4) in your preferred combination or as a single part to the handle tube (1).
  

Switching the Unit On and Off

Switching On

Never operate your vacuum if it is damaged, improperly adjusted or maintained, not completely and securely assembled or not functioning properly.

Before switching on:

• Make sure you have a secure and firm footing.
• Always hold the suction hose or vacuum attachment firmly while working.

To switch the vacuum on:

• Set the switch to the I position.
  

Switching Off

To switch the vacuum off:

• Set the switch to the 0 position.

Checking the Filter Cartridge

To check the filter cartridge:

• Make sure the vacuum is off and disconnected from the power supply.
• Release the locking clips.
• Remove the upper housing.
• If the filter cartridge (1) is dirty, it can be cleaned, see "Cleaning the Filter Cartridge" section.
• If the filter cartridge is damaged, replace it.

During Operation

Vacuuming Dust and Debris

The vacuum's electric motor is not waterproof. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury from electrocution or electric shock, do not use in the rain. Use only an extension cord designed for outdoor use.

Vacuuming Dust and Dry Debris
For vacuuming dust and dry debris, use a filter bag to retain more fine dust.

• Switch on the vacuum
• Hold the suction hose or vacuum attachment firmly while working. Vacuum either directly with the suction tube or use one of the attachments.

Vacuuming Fine Dust
For fine dust, use a filter bag to retain more dust and prevent the filter cartridge from becoming blocked.

• Release the locking clips.
• Remove the upper housing.
• Place the filter bag (1) in the container.
  
• Push the sleeve (2) over the suction connector (3).
  
• Unfold the filter bag (1) inside the container.
• Put the upper housing back on the container.
• Close the locking clips.
• Switch on the vacuum.
• Hold the suction hose or vacuum attachment firmly while working.

Vacuuming Slightly Damp Dirt
For slightly damp dirt, the filter bag must be removed. Use the filter cartridge only.

• Release the locking clips.
• Remove the upper housing.
• Turn the container to the side.
• Pull the sleeve (2) off the suction connector (1).
  
• Remove the filter bag (3) from the container. Dispose of the filter bag (3) in accordance with the applicable regulations and in an environmentally responsible manner.
• Return the vacuum to an upright position.
• Put the upper housing back on the container.
• Close the locking clips.
• Switch on the vacuum.
• Hold the suction hose or vacuum attachment firmly while working.

Vacuuming Liquids

• Switch off the vacuum.
• Disconnect the vacuum from the power supply.
• Release the locking clips.
• Remove the upper housing and turn it over.
• Remove the filter bag.

To remove the filter cartridge:

• Turn the wing screw (1) counterclockwise.
  
• Remove the filter cartridge (2).
  

To check the float:

• Move the upper housing back and forth. The float (3) is moving.
  
• If the float is not moving: Clean the float with a soft brush.
• If the float is still not moving: Take the vacuum to an authorized STIHL servicing dealer to be repaired before use.

To attach the foam filter:

• Attach the foam filter (5) over the motor housing (4).
  
• Put the upper housing back on the container.
• Close the locking clips.
• Switch on the vacuum.
• Hold the suction hose or vacuum attachment firmly while working.
• If the suction power drops noticeably, the float is activated and the maximum fluid level is reached: Switch off the vacuum and empty the container.

NOTICE
Remove the filter bag and check operation of the float before vacuuming liquids or wet materials.

NOTICE
When vacuuming liquids, foam may be produced that prevents proper operation of the float, allowing water to reach the motor. To reduce the risk of damage of the vacuum:

• Turn off the vacuum and disconnect it from the power supply if you see foam or liquids escaping from the vacuum.
• Take the vacuum to your authorized STIHL servicing dealer to be checked before further operation.

NOTICE
Vacuuming liquids with the filter cartridge and filter bag can damage the vacuum's motor. Always remove the filter cartridge and filter bag and insert the foam filter before vacuuming liquids.
The float protects the motor by automatically switching off the vacuum when the container becomes full of liquids. To reduce the risk of damage to the motor, make sure the float moves freely and is working properly before starting work.

Working with the Floor Attachment

Depending on the application, the following position on the floor attachment must be adjusted:

• To clean carpets: Set the rocker switch on the floor attachment to the position (1).
  
• To clean smooth floors: Set the rocker switch on the floor attachment to the position (2).
  

Using as a Blower

Keep bystanders away from the work area. Wear proper eye protection, while working with the vacuum in blower mode. Work carefully and maintain proper control of the vacuum.

The vacuum can be used as a blower to blow away dirt or dust.

• Make sure the vacuum is off and disconnected from the power supply.
• Disconnect the suction hose of the vacuum intake port.
• Insert the suction hose (1) into the air discharge opening (2).
  
• Switch on the vacuum.
• Hold the suction hose or vacuum attachment firmly while working.

After Finishing Work

Preparing for Transportation or Storage

To prepare the vacuum for transportation or storage:

• Make sure the vacuum is off and disconnected from the power supply.
• Empty the container.
• Remove and clean the attachments.
• Clean the vacuum.
• Clean the filter cartridge.
• Close all locking clips.
• Wind up the power supply cord and stow it on the bracket (1).
  
• Wrap the suction hose around the vacuum and secure it on the bracket (3).
• Insert the attachments on the brackets (2) or the brackets (4).

Empty the Container

When emptying the container, cleaning the filter cartridge or removing the vacuum bag, wear appropriate respiratory protection approved by NIOSH/MSHA to reduce inhalation hazards.

To empty the container:

• Make sure the vacuum is off and disconnected from the power supply.
• Release the locking clips.
• Remove the upper housing.
• Dispose of all contents in accordance with local regulations and environmental requirements.
• If liquids were vacuumed:
  • Clean the float.
  • Allow the filter and the container to dry.

Transporting the Product

When transporting the vacuum:

• Roll the vacuum into position or use the carrying handle to move the vacuum. Make sure the locking clips are closed and locked.
• When transporting the vacuum in a vehicle, make sure it is standing upright, secured with lashing straps, belts or a net and cannot topple over or move.

Storing the Product

Store the vacuum 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 vacuum.

When storing the vacuum:

• Clean the vacuum.
• Store the vacuum indoors in a dry and secure location, out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons.

Cleaning

Cleaning the Device

Before carrying out any of the cleaning work specified in this chapter, take certain measures to reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended activation: Switch off the vacuum and disconnect it from the power supply.

To clean the vacuum:

• Clean the vacuum's polymer components and attachments with a slightly dampened cloth. Do not use abrasives or solvents.
• Do not use a pressure washer to clean the unit or otherwise spray it with water or other liquids.

Cleaning the Filter Cartridge

When emptying the container, cleaning the filter cartridge or removing the vacuum bag, wear appropriate respiratory protection approved by NIOSH/MSHA to reduce inhalation hazards.
Very fine dust can collect in the filter cartridge and block proper air flow. This dust cannot be removed by simply knocking it out.

To clean the filter cartridge:

• Remove the coarse dirt on the outside of the filter cartridge.
• Rinse the cartridge filter under running water.
• Allow the filter cartridge to dry.

Inspection and Maintenance

Inspection and Maintenance Chart

The following maintenance intervals are examples and apply for normal operating conditions. Actual use and your experience will determine the frequency of required inspection and maintenance.		Before starting work	After finishing work	Weekly
Complete Machine	Visual inspection	X
	Clean		X
Filter cartridge and foam filter	Clean		X
Suction hose and attachments	Visual inspection	X

Inspecting and Maintaining the Device

Before carrying out any of the maintenance work specified in this chapter, take certain measures to reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended activation: Switch off the vacuum and disconnect it from the power supply.

Proper maintenance of the vacuum includes the following activities:

• Inspecting suction hoses attachments periodically and having a worn component replaced.
• Having 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 Guide

Before troubleshooting, switch off the vacuum and disconnect it from the power supply.

Condition	Possible Cause	Remedy
The unit does not start when switched on The electric motor hums	The power supply cord is not connected to an electrical outlet.	Connect the power supply cord to a properly installed electrical outlet.
	The electric motor is too warm.	Allow the vacuum to cool at ambient temperatures for approximately 5 minutes.
	The mains voltage is too low.	Switch off other loads connected to the same electrical circuit.
The unit switches off while in operation	The power supply cord is not connected to an electrical outlet.	Connect the power supply cord to a properly installed electrical outlet.
	The electric motor is too warm.	Allow the vacuum to cool at ambient temperatures for approximately 5 minutes.
The suction power is too low	The filter bag or container is full.	Empty the container
	The float is activated. The container is too full with liquid.	Empty the container
	The filter cartridge or foam filter is dirty.	Clean the cartridge or foam filter
	The suction hose or the attachment is blocked.	Clean the suction hose and the ttachments,
Liquid comes out of the unit	The container is full. The float is blocked.	Empty the container, Check the float

Safety Symbols on the Product

The following safety symbols are found on the vacuum:

	To reduce the risk of injury, follow the specified safety precautions.
	To reduce the risk of injury or property damage, immediately disconnect the vacuum from the power supply if the power supply cord is damaged.
	To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not expose the vacuum to rain. Store indoors. Do not handle the plug or the unit with wet hands.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

General Safety Warnings and Instructions

This section contains the prescribed general safety warnings and instructions for electric vacuum. Additional important warnings and instructions are provided in subsequent sections of this manual.

When using an electric vacuum, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury, including the following:

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THE VACUUM

1. Do not leave appliance unattended when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
2. Do not expose to rain. Store indoors.
3. Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
4. Use only as described in this manual. Use only manufacturer's recommended attachments.
5. Do not use with damaged power supply cord or plug. If the vacuum is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to a service center.
6. Do not pull or carry by the power supply cord, use cord as a handle, close a door on cord, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners. Do not run appliance over cord. Do not operate while cord is coiled. Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
7. Do not unplug by pulling on the power supply cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
8. Do not handle plug or appliance with wet hands.
9. Do not put any object into openings. Do not use with any opening blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair, and anything that may reduce air flow.
10. Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.
11. Turn off all controls before unplugging.
12. Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
13. Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids, such as gasoline, or use in areas where they may be present.
14. This vacuum is provided with double insulation. Use only identical replacement parts. See instructions for Servicing of Double-Insulated Appliances.
15. Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
16. Do not use with damaged or missing dust bag and/or filters in place.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

SERVICING OF DOUBLE-INSULATED APPLIANCES

• A double-insulated appliance is marked with one or more of the following: The words 'DOUBLE INSULATION' or 'DOUBLE INSULATED' or the double insulation symbol (square within a square).
• In a double-insulated appliance, two systems of insulation are provided instead of grounding. No grounding means is provided on a double-insulated appliance, nor should a means for grounding be added to the appliance. Servicing a double-insulated appliance requires extreme care and knowledge of the system, and should be done only by qualified service personnel. Replacement parts for a double-insulated appliance must be identical to the parts they replace.

Intended Use

• This vacuum is designed for vacuuming dry, nonflammable materials and non-flammable household liquids.
• Designed for household use. Not intended for commercial or industrial applications.
• Not for use as a water pump.
• To reduce the risk of serious personal injury from fire, explosion or exposure to dangerous airborne particulate, never use around explosive liquids or vapors. Never vacuum:
  • Asbestos or asbestos-containing materials.
  • Hot ashes, coals, glowing cigarettes or other hot particles.
  • Magnesium or aluminium dust, leaded dust, or similar materials.
  • Dust or dirt containing mold or pathogenic agents.
  • Gasoline, oil, paint thinner, solvents or any flammable or combustible liquids.
  • Acids, lyes, or similar materials.
  • Salt water or saline solutions.
• Use the vacuum only as described in this manual. Do not use it for other purposes, since misuse may result in personal injury or property damage, including damage to the vacuum.

Operator

• Working with the vacuum 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 vacuum if you have any health condition that may be aggravated by strenuous work.
  • Do not operate the vacuum 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 vacuum when you are tired. Take a break if you become tired.
  • Do not permit minors to use the vacuum.
  • Bystanders, especially children, and animals should not be allowed in the area where the vacuum is in use.
• According to STIHL's current knowledge, the electric motor of this vacuum 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 vacuum.

Personal Protective Equipment

• Loss of control and severe injuries may result if hair, clothing or apparel are drawn into the vacuum intake port or air discharge opening or otherwise become entangled in the components of the vacuum. To reduce the risk of severe personal injury:
  • Wear sturdy and snug-fitting clothing that also allows complete freedom of movement.
    
  • Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarves, neckties, flared or cuffed pants, jewelry and any other apparel that could be drawn into the vacuum intake port or air discharge opening.
  • Secure hair above shoulder level before starting work.
• To reduce the risk of eye injury while working with the vacuum in blower mode:
  • Always wear goggles or close-fitting protective glasses with adequate side protection that are impact-rated and marked as complying with ANSI Z87 "+".
    

Device

• The vacuum's electric motor is not waterproof. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury from electrocution or electric shock:
  • Do not expose the vacuum to rain.
    
  • Position the vacuum outside any wet work area.
  • Store the vacuum indoors.
  • Never use your vacuum if the housing is cracked or damaged.
• To reduce the risk of personal injury to the operator and bystanders:
  • Never leave the vacuum unattended while running.
  • Unplug the vacuum when not in use.
  • Always switch off the vacuum and disconnect from the power supply before assembling, inspecting, cleaning, maintaining or servicing.
• Although certain unauthorized attachments may fit your STIHL vacuum, 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 vacuum in any way or attempt to use a vacuum that has been modified or altered from its original design.
• If the vacuum 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 that the power supply cord has not been damaged.
  • Never work with a damaged or malfunctioning vacuum. In case of doubt, have the vacuum checked by your authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
• If the vacuum is damaged, not working properly, has been left outdoors or exposed to rain, its components may no longer function properly and safety devices may be inoperative. To reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage:
  • Take the vacuum to your authorized STIHL servicing dealer to be checked before further operation.
• Genuine STIHL replacement parts are specifically designed to match your vacuum 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 STIHL replacement parts be used.

Power Supply Cord

• 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 vacuum's power supply cord or plug regularly for damage. If it becomes damaged, remove it from the power supply. Never use a damaged power supply cord or plug.
    
  • Do not abrade, crush, jerk, or otherwise abuse or misuse the power supply cord. Protect it from heat, oil and sharp edges.
  • If the power supply cord becomes damaged, have it replaced by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer before use. This vacuum is provided with double insulation. Use only identical replacement parts. A damaged power supply cord must be replaced with an identical STIHL replacement part.
  • Unplug the power supply cord whenever the vacuum is not in use.
  • Never yank or jerk the power supply cord to disconnect. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the power supply cord.
  • Make sure the power supply cord is positioned and secured or marked so that it will not be stepped on, tripped over, come in contact with sharp objects, moving parts, or otherwise be subjected to damage or stress.
• This power tool has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). This plug will fit in a polarized electrical outlet only one way. To reduce the risk of electric shock:
  • Do not change the plug in any way.
  • If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, use a different outlet or contact a qualified electrician to install the proper outlet.
• To reduce the risk of electric shock:
  • Use only extension cords that are intended for outdoor use, identified in the U.S. by the following marking: "Suitable for use with outdoor appliances. Store indoors while not in use."
• Overloading an extension cord can result in overheating and fire. To reduce these risks:
  • Be sure to use an extension cord heavy enough to carry the current your vacuum will draw. Read and follow the minimum wire size requirements for 120 Volt appliances set out in.
  • Use of an extension cord not meeting the minimum wire size will cause a drop in wire voltage and result in a loss of power and overheating.
  • Never use an extension cord with a wattage or electrical rating lower than the wattage or electrical rating on your vacuum's rating plate.
  • Never connect more than one vacuum or other device to a single extension cord.
  • Do not link (chain) extension cords.

Using the Device

Before Operation

• Misuse or unauthorized use may result in personal injury and property damage.
  • Use the vacuum only as described in this instruction manual.
• Using a vacuum that is modified, damaged, improperly adjusted or maintained, or not completely and securely assembled can lead to a malfunction and increase the risk of serious personal injury or death.
  • Never operate a vacuum that is modified, damaged, improperly maintained or not completely and securely assembled.
  • Always check your vacuum for proper condition and operation before starting work.
  • Never attempt to modify or override the controls or safety devices in any way.
  • If your vacuum or any part is damaged or does not function properly, take it to your authorized STIHL servicing dealer. Do not use the vacuum until the problem has been corrected.
• Before connecting the vacuum to the power supply:
  • Read and follow the instructions on switching on the vacuum.
  • Ensure that the suction hose is in good condition and not frayed, cracked, deformed or damaged in any way. Never operate the machine with a damaged or worn suction hose.
  • Ensure that the filter cartridge is in place and undamaged.
• To help reduce the risk of serious personal injury or death from unintentional starting:
  • Unplug the vacuum when not in use.
  • Always switch off the vacuum and disconnect from the power supply before assembling, inspecting, cleaning, maintaining or servicing.
  • Always switch off the vacuum before attempting to adjust or change an accessory.
  • Never leave the vacuum unattended when it is connected to the power supply.

Holding and Controlling the Unit

• To maintain a firm grip and properly control your vacuum:
  • Keep the vacuum attachments clean at all times. Keep attachments free of 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 suction hose or vacuum attachment firmly while working.
  • Position the power supply cord so that it will not be damaged while working with the vacuum.
  • Always keep the power supply cord behind the operator and away from the wet working area. Don't let the power supply cord become entangled with obstacles or objects.
• 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:
  • Know where the power supply cord is at all times to avoid tripping or stumbling.
• To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control:
  • Never work on a ladder, roof or while standing on any other insecure support.
  • Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Take special care when working on stairs.
  • Do not walk backwards while using the vacuum.

Working Conditions

• Your vacuum is a one-person machine.
  • Do not allow other persons in the general work area.
  • Bystanders, especially children, and animals should not be allowed in the area where it is in use.
  • witch off the motor immediately if you are approached.
• To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders and unauthorized users:
  • Never leave the vacuum unattended when it is connected to the power supply.
  • Switch off the vacuum and disconnect it from the power supply during work breaks and any other time it is not in use.
• Sparks generated from the operation of the vacuum 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 vacuum 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 vacuum can disperse dust and other substances containing chemicals known to cause respiratory problems, cancer, birth defects and other reproductive ham.
  • Never vacuum asbestos-containing materials such as asbestos cement or asbestos siding. Hazardous, breathable asbestos fibers may be released in addition to the dirt.
  • 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 you are vacuuming.
• Dust created by sanding, grinding, drilling and sawing may contain chemicals known to the State of California and other authorities to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
  • This vacuum is not designed for the collection of asbestos-containing materials, lead paint, respirable crystalline silica or other harmful or toxic substances. Use for such purposes is prohibited.
• 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 and mists at the source where possible.
  • To the extent possible, operate the vacuum so that the wind or operating process directs any dust, mist or other particulate matter raised by the vacuum 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.
  • When emptying the container, cleaning the filter cartridge or removing the vacuum bag, wear appropriate respiratory protection approved by NIOSH/MSHA to reduce inhalation hazards.
• Breathing asbestos dust is dangerous and can cause severe or fatal injury, respiratory illness or cancer, including mesothelioma. The use and disposal of asbestos-containing products is strictly regulated by OSHA and the EPA.
  • Stop work immediately and contact the relevant state and local authorities and/or EPA, your employer or local OSHA representative if you have reason to believe that you might be disturbing asbestos.

Operating Instructions

• In the event of an emergency:
  • Switch off the motor immediately and disconnect the vacuum from the power supply.
• To reduce the risk of fire/explosion resulting in serious or fatal injury or property damage:
  • Never vacuum flammable or combustible liquids such as gasoline or use in areas where they may be present.
  • Never vacuum anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
  • Never vacuum fluids that contain solvents or acids (e.g., gasoline, heating oil, paint thinner or acetone).
  • Never cover the vacuum or its air intake port. Always ensure adequate motor ventilation to prevent overheating and damage.
  • Only operate the vacuum in an upright position.
  • Switch off the vacuum before changing or adjusting any attachment or accessory.
• If using the vacuum in blower mode, the air flow from the vacuum 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 away from the working area.
  • Never direct the air flow toward bystanders or pets.
  • Do not allow the vacuum to be used as a toy.
  • Switch off the vacuum immediately if you are approached.
• Inserting any foreign object into the vacuum intake port or air discharge opening may result in property damage, including damage to the vacuum itself, and serious injury to the operator or bystanders from the object or broken parts being blown at high speed.
  • Never insert any objects into the vacuum intake port or air discharge opening.
  • Immediately switch off the vacuum if it starts to vibrate abnormally.
• Using the vacuum to spread or vacuum 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 vacuum to spread or vacuum chemicals of any kind.
• Using the vacuum without a filter cartridge or foam filter can damage the vacuum.
  • Never operate your vacuum with a damaged or missing filter cartridge or foam filter.
  • Replace a damaged filter cartridge or foam filter.

Maintenance, Repair and Storage

• There are no user-authorized repairs for the vacuum. 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.
• This electric vacuum is double-insulated. In such an appliance, two systems of insulation are provided as protection against electric shock. No grounding means are provided, nor should means for grounding be added to the appliance. Servicing a double-insulated appliance requires extreme care and knowledge of the system, and should be done only by qualified service personnel. Use only identical replacement parts.
• To reduce the risk of electric shock:
  • Ensure that the insulation of the power supply cord and plug are in good condition and show no signs of aging (brittleness), wear or damage.
  • Never use your vacuum if the housing is cracked or damaged.
• Unintentional starting may result in personal injury or property damage. To reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage from unintentional starting:
  • Switch off the vacuum and disconnect it from the power supply any time it is not in use and before attempting any cleaning, maintenance or repair work.

MOVING AND STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

• Improper storage can result in unauthorized use, damage to the vacuum and an increased risk of fire, electric shock and other personal injury or property damage.
  • Disconnect the vacuum from the power supply before storing.
  • Store the vacuum indoors in a dry, secure place that cannot be accessed by children or other unauthorized users.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

Documents / Resources

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download STIHL SE 33 - Vacuum Cleaner Manual