Shark BU3521 Vacuum Cleaner Manual

The Shark BU3521 is a versatile upright vacuum cleaner designed for deep cleaning on carpets and hard floors. It features advanced swivel steering, a Lift-Away canister for above-floor cleaning, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter, and a variety of specialized attachments. This manual covers safety instructions, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty information to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your vacuum.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Using Attachments 7. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Storage & Care 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main vacuum body with motorized brush roll, Lift-Away pod, wand, hose, and accessory kit.

Feature	Description
Swivel Steering	Provides enhanced maneuverability around furniture and obstacles
Lift-Away Mode	Detachable pod for portable cleaning of stairs, upholstery, and above-floor areas
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal	HEPA filter and sealed system trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum
Motorized Brush Roll	Deep cleans carpets and automatically adjusts to different floor types
Hard Floor Setting	Deactivates brush roll for gentle, effective cleaning on hard surfaces
Accessory Kit	Includes crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, and pet multi-tool
Large Capacity Dust Cup	Easy-empty, bagless design for convenient debris disposal
Power Cord	25-foot cord with cord wrap for extended reach and tidy storage
Wand Release Pedal	Foot-operated button for quick wand detachment
On-Board Storage	Caddy for storing attachments on the vacuum body

Assembly & Setup

Unpack all parts from the box and inspect for any damage.

Attach the Handle: Insert the handle into the top of the vacuum body until it clicks securely into place.
Connect the Hose: Attach the hose end to the port on the front of the vacuum. Ensure it is firmly seated.
Insert the Wand: Slide the wand into the hose grip until it clicks.
Attach Floor Nozzle: Connect the wand to the swivel steering floor nozzle. Press the release pedal to lock it in place.
Install Filters: Remove the dust cup. Install the pre-motor foam and felt filters, then the post-motor HEPA filter in their designated slots.

WARNING! Ensure the vacuum is unplugged during assembly. Do not force parts together.

First-Time Use

Before first use, ensure all filters are installed and the dust cup is empty.

Plug in the power cord to a standard 120V outlet.
Select Floor Type: Use the brush roll switch on the floor nozzle. Set to "CARPET" for carpets or "HARD FLOOR" for bare floors.
Power On: Press the power button on the handle. The headlights on the floor nozzle will illuminate.
Begin Cleaning: Push the vacuum forward and back in slow, overlapping strokes.
Use Lift-Away Mode: Press the Lift-Away release button to detach the pod for cleaning stairs, furniture, or ceilings.

CAUTION! Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and feet away from openings and moving parts.

Specifications

Model: Shark BU3521 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum.
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Amps: 9.5 A.
Cord Length: 25 feet.
Dust Cup Capacity: 1.5 dry quarts.
Filtration: Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with HEPA filter.
Attachments: Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, pet multi-tool.
Warranty: 5-year limited warranty (see manual for details).
Weight: Approximately 14 lbs.

Controls and Functions

Main controls are located on the handle and floor nozzle.

Handle: Power ON/OFF button. Floor Nozzle: Brush Roll ON/OFF switch (CARPET/HARD FLOOR). Body: Lift-Away release button, wand release pedal, dust cup release button.

Settings: Adjust suction power via the suction control slider on the hose handle. Use the handle grip to recline the vacuum for under-furniture cleaning. The headlights automatically turn on when the vacuum is powered.

Using Attachments

For above-floor cleaning, detach the wand and hose or use Lift-Away mode.

Detach Wand: Press the wand release pedal with your foot and pull the wand up.
Select Attachment: Choose the desired tool from the on-board caddy.
Connect: Insert the tool into the end of the wand or hose grip.
Clean: Turn on the vacuum and guide the tool over the surface.
Pet Multi-Tool: Use the motorized brush for pet hair on furniture and stairs.

Tip: For high suction on delicate surfaces, adjust the suction control slider on the hose handle.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures peak performance.

Empty Dust Cup: Press the dust cup release button and remove the cup. Empty contents into trash. Reinstall until it clicks.
Clean Filters:
- Pre-motor Foam & Felt Filters: Rinse with cold water every month. Air dry for 24 hours completely before reinstalling.
- HEPA Filter: Tap gently to remove dust every 3 months. Replace annually or when damaged.
Clear Brush Roll: Turn off and unplug vacuum. Use scissors to cut away wrapped hair, strings, or fibers from the brush roll. Remove the brush roll for a thorough clean if necessary.
Check for Clogs: If suction is weak, check the hose, wand, and air pathways for blockages.

WARNING! Always unplug the vacuum before performing any maintenance. Filters must be COMPLETELY dry before reinsertion to prevent motor damage.

Storage & Care

Store in a cool, dry place. Wrap the power cord around the cord hooks on the rear of the vacuum.

CAUTION! Do not store the vacuum with wet filters. Do not use the vacuum to pick up liquids, burning materials, or sharp objects.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with FCC Part 15. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © SharkNinja Operating LLC. Shark and Navigator are registered trademarks. For support, replacement parts, or warranty service, visit sharkclean.com or contact 1-800-798-7398.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Vacuum won't turn on	Power source/plug	Check if outlet is working; ensure plug is fully inserted; check house circuit breaker.
Loss of suction	Full dust cup/clogged filters	Empty dust cup; clean or replace filters; check hose, wand, and nozzles for clogs.
Brush roll not spinning	Switch setting/obstruction	Ensure brush roll is set to "CARPET"; unplug and clear any debris wrapped around the brush roll.
Vacuum is difficult to push	Height setting/carpet pile	Adjust the height setting on the floor nozzle (if applicable) for your carpet type.
Loud noise or burning smell	Blockage/motor issue	Immediately turn off and unplug. Check for and remove blockages. If smell persists, contact customer service.
Dust escaping from vacuum	Filter not installed/seal broken	Ensure all filters are correctly installed and the dust cup is locked securely.

Reset: Unplug the vacuum for 60 seconds, then plug back in.

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