Shark APEX DUOCLEAN POWERED LIFT-AWAY AX951 Vacuum Cleaner Manual

The Shark APEX DUOCLEAN POWERED LIFT-AWAY AX951 is a versatile upright vacuum cleaner featuring DuoClean technology for deep carpet cleaning and hard floor pickup, a Powered Lift-Away pod for above-floor cleaning, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology with a HEPA filter, LED headlights, and a variety of specialized attachments. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Using Attachments 7. Cleaning Modes 8. Maintenance & Care 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main vacuum body with DuoClean floor head, Powered Lift-Away pod, Handle with controls, Dust Cup, HEPA Filter, Crevice Tool, Upholstery Tool, Pet Multi-Tool, Duster Crevice Tool.

Feature	Description
DuoClean Technology	Dual brush rolls for carpets and hard floors
Powered Lift-Away	Detachable pod with motorized brush for stairs and furniture
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal	Sealed system with HEPA filter traps 99.9% of dust and allergens
LED Headlights	Illuminates dust and debris under furniture
Fingertip Controls	On-handle buttons for power and surface settings
Large Capacity Dust Cup	Easy-empty, bagless design
Multi-Attachment Set	Tools for pet hair, upholstery, crevices, and dusting
Adjustable Floor Selector	Switch between carpets and hard floors
POWER Button	Turns vacuum on/off
LIFT-AWAY Release	Detaches the cleaning pod

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Assemble on a flat, stable surface.

Attach the handle: Insert the handle into the main body until it clicks securely into place.
Install the floor nozzle: Align the nozzle with the front of the vacuum and push until it locks.
Connect the hose: Attach the hose end to the port on the vacuum body.
Store attachments: Clip the provided tools onto the accessory caddy or storage pods.
Plug into a standard 120V AC power outlet.

WARNING! Ensure all parts are securely connected before use. Keep fingers away from brush rolls during assembly.

First-Time Use

Before first cleaning, perform a quick setup check.

Clear the area: Remove large debris or obstacles from the floor.
Select floor setting: Use the handle switch for "CARPET" or "HARD FLOOR".
Power on: Press the POWER button on the handle.
Test suction: Vacuum a small, visible area to ensure proper operation.
Empty dust cup: After initial use, check and empty the dust cup if full.

CAUTION! Do not vacuum wet spills, burning materials, or sharp objects. Ensure the filter is installed correctly.

Specifications

Model: Shark APEX AX951.
Technology: DuoClean with Powered Lift-Away.
Filtration: Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with HEPA filter.
Attachments: Crevice Tool, Upholstery Tool, Pet Multi-Tool, Duster Crevice Tool.
Power Cord: XX feet length (refer to product label).
Dust Cup Capacity: XX liters (refer to product label).
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Weight: Approx. XX lbs (refer to product label).

Controls and Settings

Primary controls are located on the handle for easy access.

Handle Controls: POWER button, FLOOR SELECTOR switch (Carpet/Hard Floor), LIFT-AWAY release button.

Settings: Floor selector adjusts brush roll speed and suction for optimal cleaning on different surfaces. Use the LIFT-AWAY button to detach the pod for cleaning stairs, furniture, or ceilings. The main body power switch must be ON for the Lift-Away pod to operate.

Using Attachments

For above-floor cleaning, detach the hose and connect the desired tool.

Ensure vacuum is powered OFF.
Detach the hose from its dock on the vacuum body.
Press the desired attachment onto the end of the hose or extension wand until it clicks.
Turn vacuum ON and begin cleaning.
Common uses: Crevice Tool for tight spaces; Upholstery Tool for sofas; Pet Multi-Tool for pet hair; Duster for shelves.

Tip: For best pet hair removal, use the motorized brush Pet Multi-Tool on the Lift-Away pod.

Cleaning Modes

The AX951 offers two primary cleaning modes: Upright and Powered Lift-Away.

Upright Mode: For whole-floor cleaning. Use the floor selector. The DuoClean head automatically adjusts.
Powered Lift-Away Mode: Press the release button to detach the pod. The hose provides extended reach. The pod's motorized brush remains active for deep cleaning stairs, furniture, and drapes.
To return to upright mode, align the pod with the main body and push until it clicks back into place.

WARNING! Keep the hose, cord, and vacuum away from heated surfaces and rotating fan blades.

Maintenance & Care

Regular maintenance ensures peak performance and longevity.

Empty Dust Cup: Press the release button and empty contents into trash. Do not overfill.
Clean Filters: Rinse the HEPA filter and pre-motor filter with cold water every month. Air dry completely for 24 hours before reinstalling.
Clear Brush Rolls: Turn off and unplug vacuum. Use scissors or the cleaning tool to remove hair and fibers wrapped around the brush rolls.
Check for Blockages: If suction is low, inspect the hose, wand, and air pathways for clogs.
Wipe Exterior: Use a dry cloth to clean the vacuum body and attachments.

CAUTION! All filters must be completely dry before reinsertion to prevent motor damage. Do not use damaged filters.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with relevant FCC standards. Copyright © SharkNinja Operating LLC. SHARK, DUOCLEAN, APEX, and LIFT-AWAY are trademarks of SharkNinja Operating LLC. For support, registration, and warranty information, visit sharkclean.com or contact 1-800-798-7398.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Vacuum won't turn on	Power cord/outlet	Ensure plug is securely in outlet; check household circuit breaker.
Loss of suction	Full dust cup/clogged filter	Empty dust cup; check and clean filters; clear hose/air path blockages.
Brush roll not spinning	Overload/blockage	Turn off and unplug. Remove debris wrapped around brush roll.
Lift-Away pod not powering	Connection/main switch	Ensure pod is clicked into base; main body power must be ON.
Vacuum is overheating	Blocked airflow	Turn off and unplug. Let cool for 60 minutes. Check and clear all filters and blockages.
Unusual noise	Foreign object in brush roll or airway	Turn off immediately. Inspect floor head, hose, and dust cup for obstructions.

Reset: Unplug vacuum for 60 minutes to reset thermal cutoff if overheated.

Service: 1-800-798-7398; sharkclean.com