Shark Rotator ZU81 Vacuum Cleaner Manual

The Shark Rotator ZU81 is a powerful upright vacuum cleaner featuring Lift-Away technology, DuoClean floor nozzle, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal, LED headlights, and a large-capacity dust cup. It is designed for deep cleaning on carpets and hard floors, with multiple attachments for above-floor cleaning. 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: Main vacuum body with motor, DuoClean floor nozzle, Lift-Away pod, wand, hose, and accessory attachments.

Feature	Description
Lift-Away Technology	Detachable pod for portable above-floor cleaning
DuoClean Floor Nozzle	Dual brush rolls for carpets and hard floors
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal	Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum
LED Headlights	Illuminates dark areas under furniture
Large Dust Cup	Easy-empty, no-bag design
Power/Fins Control	Adjusts suction power and brush roll speed
Accessory Storage	Built-in caddy for crevice tool, dusting brush, etc.
Wand Release Pedal	Quick-release for converting to handheld mode
Floor Selector Switch	Adjusts for carpet or hard floor cleaning
Hose & Wand	Flexible hose and extendable wand for reach

Assembly & Setup

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

Attach the wand: Insert into the vacuum body until it clicks.
Connect the hose: Attach to the port on the vacuum body.
Install the floor nozzle: Align with the wand and push until secure.
Insert accessories: Store tools in the built-in caddy.
Plug into a standard 120V AC outlet.

WARNING! Ensure all parts are securely connected before use. Keep fingers away from moving parts.

First-Time Use

Power on the vacuum; select appropriate settings for your floor type.

Adjust floor selector: Set to CARPET for carpets, HARD FLOOR for hard surfaces.
Choose suction power: Use the Power/Fins control for desired suction level.
Test on a small area: Ensure proper brush roll operation and suction.
Empty dust cup: Check and empty before first use if needed.

CAUTION! Do not vacuum large objects, liquids, or hot ashes. Keep hair and loose clothing away from brush rolls.

Specifications

Model: Shark Rotator ZU81.
Technology: Lift-Away, DuoClean, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal.
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Cord Length: 25 feet.
Dust Cup Capacity: 1.3 quarts.
Attachments Included: Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, pet multi-tool.
Filtration: HEPA filter (washable).
Warranty: 5-year limited warranty.
Weight: 15.2 lbs.

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on the vacuum body and handle.

On-Body Controls: Power button, Floor selector (Carpet/Hard Floor), Power/Fins control (Low/High).

Handle Controls: Wand release pedal, Hose grip.

Settings: Use Power/Fins control to adjust suction (Low for delicate rugs, High for deep cleaning). Floor selector optimizes brush roll for surface type. LED lights automatically turn on when vacuum is powered.

Using Attachments

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

Press the wand release pedal to detach the floor nozzle.
Remove desired attachment from storage caddy.
Connect attachment to the end of the hose or wand.
Power on and clean upholstery, ceilings, corners, etc.

Tip: Use the crevice tool for tight spaces, dusting brush for shelves, and upholstery tool for furniture.

Cleaning Modes

Three main cleaning modes: Upright, Lift-Away, and Handheld.

Upright Mode: For floor cleaning with floor nozzle attached.
Lift-Away Mode: Press release button to detach pod; carry for stairs or above-floor cleaning.
Handheld Mode: Remove wand and attach tools directly to hose for spot cleaning.
Brush Roll Control: Adjust via Power/Fins for carpets (fins on) or hard floors (fins off).

WARNING! Always turn off vacuum before changing modes or attachments.

Maintenance & Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Empty dust cup: Press release button; empty when full or after each use.
Clean filters: Remove and rinse HEPA filter every 3 months (air dry completely).
Check brush rolls: Remove debris wrapped around brush rolls regularly.
Inspect hose and wand: Clear any blockages.

CAUTION! Unplug vacuum before maintenance. Do not use water on electrical parts.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © SharkNinja Operating LLC. For support, visit sharkclean.com or contact 1-800-798-7398. This product is covered by a 5-year limited warranty.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Vacuum won't turn on	Power cord/outlet	Check plug connection; try different outlet; ensure power switch is on.
Loss of suction	Full dust cup/clog	Empty dust cup; check hose, wand, and nozzle for blockages.
Brush roll not spinning	Debris/tangle	Turn off and remove debris from brush roll; check for obstructions.
Vacuum overheats	Clogged filter/full dust cup	Clean filters; empty dust cup; let vacuum cool for 45 minutes.
Unusual noise	Foreign object in airway	Turn off and inspect hose, wand, and nozzle for objects.

Reset: Unplug for 45 minutes if overheating occurs.

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