Shark LA481 Series Vacuum Cleaner Manual

The Shark LA481 Series is a versatile upright vacuum cleaner featuring powerful suction, advanced swivel steering, a HEPA filtration system, multiple cleaning modes, and specialized attachments for floors, carpets, and above-floor surfaces. It includes a dust cup with easy-empty mechanism, washable filters, LED headlights, and a lightweight design for maneuverability. 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 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Motorized brush roll, Swivel steering handle, Dust cup with release button, HEPA filter, LED headlights, Hose with wand, Crevice tool, Upholstery tool, Dusting brush.

Feature	Description
Motorized brush roll	Deep cleans carpets and agitates debris
Swivel steering	Allows 180-degree turning for easy navigation
Dust cup release	One-touch button for emptying debris
HEPA filtration	Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens
LED headlights	Illuminates dark areas under furniture
Cleaning modes	Hard floor, carpet, and above-floor settings
Washable filters	Reusable foam and felt filters
Lightweight design	Easy to carry up stairs
Hose and wand	Extends reach for ceilings and corners
Specialized tools	Crevice, upholstery, and dusting brushes included

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a flat surface.

Attach handle: Insert handle into body until it clicks securely.
Connect hose: Snap hose into port on front of vacuum.
Install wand: Extend wand and lock into hose connector.
Attach tools: Store tools on dock or connect as needed.
Plug into AC power outlet.

WARNING! Ensure all parts are firmly connected to prevent detachment during use. Keep fingers away from brush roll during assembly.

First-Time Use

Power on vacuum; select appropriate cleaning mode.

Check filters: Ensure foam and HEPA filters are installed.
Select floor type: Use switch to set for hard floor or carpet.
Adjust height: For carpets, set brush roll height to match pile.
Empty dust cup: Press release to empty before first use.
Test attachments: Connect crevice tool for tight spaces.

CAUTION! Do not vacuum large objects, liquids, or hot ashes. Keep hair and strings away from brush roll.

Specifications

Model: Shark LA481 Series Upright Vacuum.
Power: 120V AC, 60Hz, 8.5 amps.
Suction Power: Adjustable via floor settings.
Filtration: HEPA filter with washable pre-motor foam filter.
Cord Length: 25 feet retractable cord.
Dust Cup Capacity: 1.2 dry quarts.
Weight: 12.5 lbs.
Warranty: 5-year limited warranty.
Attachments: Crevice tool, upholstery tool, dusting brush.

Controls and Settings

Power switch on handle; floor selector switch near base.

Handle Controls: POWER ON/OFF, Suction control slider, Hose release button.

Floor Settings: Hard Floor (brush roll off), Low Pile Carpet, High Pile Carpet. Suction Control: Adjust suction power for delicate rugs. Brush Roll On/Off: For hard floors to prevent scattering debris. LED Lights: Automatically illuminate in dark areas.

Using Attachments

For above-floor cleaning: detach hose and connect tools.

Turn off vacuum before changing attachments.
Remove wand: Press release button on hose connector.
Attach tool: Insert crevice, upholstery, or dusting brush.
Select suction: Use slider on handle for appropriate power.
Clean surfaces: Use tools for ceilings, corners, furniture.

Tip: Store attachments on dock to keep them accessible.

Cleaning Modes

Three primary modes for different surfaces.

Hard Floor Mode: Brush roll off to prevent debris scatter.
Low Pile Carpet: Standard suction and brush roll agitation.
High Pile/Area Rugs: Increased suction and brush roll height.
Above-Floor Mode: Use hose and tools for furniture and drapes.
Spot Cleaning: Use hose with upholstery tool for spills.

WARNING! Do not use hard floor mode on carpets; may reduce cleaning effectiveness.

Maintenance & Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Empty dust cup: After each use; press release button.
Clean filters: Wash foam filter monthly; air dry completely.
Check brush roll: Remove tangled hair and strings weekly.
Inspect hose: Clear clogs with long object if suction reduces.
Store properly: Wrap cord around hooks; store upright.

CAUTION! Unplug before maintenance. Do not use damaged filters or brush rolls.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B device; complies with residential interference limits. Copyright © SharkNinja Operating LLC. ETL listed for safety. For support, visit www.sharkclean.com or contact 1-800-798-7398.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Loss of suction	Full dust cup or clog	Empty dust cup; check hose and wand for blockages.
Brush roll not spinning	Tangled debris or belt	Turn off, unplug, and remove hair/strings from brush roll.
Vacuum won't turn on	Power cord or outlet	Check power outlet; ensure cord is fully plugged in.
Overheating	Clogged filters or full cup	Clean filters; empty dust cup; allow to cool for 30 minutes.
LED lights not working	Connection or bulb	Ensure handle is fully connected; contact support if needed.

Reset: Unplug for 10 minutes; restart if motor overheats.

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