When using an electrical appliance, basic precautions should always be followed, including
the following:
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE
USING THIS APPLIANCE
The manufacturer cannot accept responsibility for damage
IMPoRtAnt:
To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock or injury:
caused when the appliance is not used according to the
instructions or for uses other than those for which it
was intended.
• Do not leave appliance when plugged in.
Unplug from outlet when not in use and
before servicing.
• Do not use outdoors or on wet surfaces.
• Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close
attention is necessary when used by or
near children.
• Use only as described in this manual.
Use only manufacturer’s recommended
attachments.
• Do not use with damaged cord or plug.
If appliance is not working as it should,
has been dropped, damaged, left
outdoors, or dropped into water, return
it to your Authorized Simplicity Retailer
for service.
• Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as
a handle, close a door on the cord, or pull
cord around sharp edges or corners. Do
not run appliance over cord. Keep cord
away from heated surfaces.
• Do not handle plug or appliance with
wet hands.
• 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.
• Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers and all
parts of body away from openings and
moving parts.
• Do not pick up anything that is burning or
smoking, such as cigarettes, matches or
hot ashes.
• Do not use without vacuum bag and/or
filters in place.
• Turn off all controls before unplugging.
• Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
• Do not use to pick up flammable or
combustible liquids such as gasoline or
use in areas where they may be present.
• Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To
unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
sAVe tHese InstRUCtIons.
• Do not attempt to service the unit while
appliance is plugged in.
2
PolARIzAtIon InstRUCtIons
Power Cord, 2-Wire Polarized Cord
To reduce the risk of electric shock, this product is equipped with a polarized alternating
current line plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other). This plug will fit into the
power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully
into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact a qualified
electrician to replace the obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the
polarized plug.
State of California Proposition 65 Warnings:
WARNING: This product contains one or more chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer.
WARNING: This product contains one or more chemicals known to the State of California to
cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.
3
DesCRIPtIon oF tHe VACUUM
1
2
11
3
12
14
4
5
17
18
19
6
13
15
16
10
7
8
9
20
4
DesCRIPtIon oF tHe VACUUM
1 Ergonomic Handle
2 Main On/Off Power Switch
3 Power Cord
4 Carrying Handle
5 Bag Compartment Latch (to Replace Vacuum Bag and Filters)
6 Xenon Headlight
7 Brushroll Jam Indicator (models S20P and S20UP)
8 Vacuum Nozzle
9 Furniture Guard
10 Carpet/Floor Selector (models S20D, S20P and S20UP)
11 Quick Release Upper Cord Hook
12 Wand Release Button
13 Telescopic Wand
14 Full Bag Indicator (models S20D, S20P and S20UP)
15 Suction Control Dial
16 Wand Extension Button
17 Crevice Tool
18 Combination Dusting/Upholstery Brush
19 Thermal Motor Protection Reset Button
20 Handle Release Pedal
5
AsseMBlInG tHe VACUUM
Attaching the Handle to the Vacuum
NOTE: Do not plug in the vacuum until it
is completely assembled.
The vacuum cleaner and the handle are
packed separately.
• Remove the handle screw (Fig.1).
Then position the handle behind the
vacuum cleaner and level with the top of
the unit. Hold the power cord down and
away from the vacuum while the handle is
being attached. Make sure that the switch
on the handle is positioned toward the
front of the vacuum cleaner.
• On the bottom of the handle are two
“T-shaped” rails that slide forward onto
two guides located on the top of the
vacuum cleaner. Line up the handle so
that the “T-shaped” rails will slide into
the guides and push the handle
downward into the vacuum (Fig. 2).
Fig. 1
• Insert the handle screw and tighten
securely (Fig. 3).
• Remove the bag compartment cover to
ensure a vacuum bag is in place.
• Your vacuum is now ready for use.
• If storing the vacuum, wrap the cord
clockwise around the top and bottom cord
hooks. Fasten the plug to the wrapped
cord using the channel on the plug.
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
6
Unwinding the Power Cord
• The Quick Release Upper Cord Hook
rotates to allow for quick access to the
power cord. Turn the Upper Cord Hook
downward and you can quickly drop the
power cord to the floor without unwinding
it from the cord hooks (Fig. 1).
• When storing the vacuum cleaner turn the
Quick Release Upper Cord Hook to the
upright position and wrap the power cord
around the cord storage hooks.
Reclining the Handle
• Press the Handle Release Pedal with your
foot to recline the handle (Fig. 2).
oPeRAtIon
This vacuum is intended for household use only.
Fig. 1
Turning the Vacuum On/Off
• To turn the vacuum cleaner on, press the
On/Off Switch located on the handle
to the “On” position (Fig. 3).
• To stop the vacuum cleaner, press the
On/Off switch to the “Off” position.
• Always turn the vacuum cleaner off before
unplugging it from the electrical outlet.
Fig. 2
Off
OFF
On
ON
Fig. 3
7
oPeRAtIon
Using the Carpet/Floor Selector
(models S20D, S20P and S20UP)
To Vacuum Carpet:
For carpet cleaning, slide the
Carpet/Floor Selector toward the
back of the nozzle so that it reads
“Carpet” (Fig. 1).
To Vacuum Hard Surfaces and
Use Tools:
For cleaning bare floors or using tools, slide
the Carpet/Floor Selector toward the front
of the nozzle so that it reads “Floor & Tools”.
This prevents the brushroll from spinning and
potentially damaging your floor (Fig. 2).
Edge Cleaning
The edge cleaning feature provides improved
cleaning of carpets near walls and stationary
furniture. For maximum edge cleaning, place
the right side of the nozzle against the wall
or furniture.
CARPET
Carpet
Fig. 1
FLOOR &
TOOLS
Floor & Tools
Fig. 2
Automatic Carpet Height Adjustment
Your vacuum cleaner is designed with an
automatic self-adjusting nozzle. No manual
adjustments are required. The height of the
nozzle automatically adjusts to the carpet
pile height. This self-adjusting feature allows
the nozzle to float evenly over all carpet
pile surfaces.
8
Vacuuming Under Furniture
Your vacuum will lie flat on the floor for
effective cleaning under beds and tables.
• Press the Handle Release Pedal once
for normal vacuuming (Fig. 1).
• Press the Handle Release Pedal a
second time to enable the vacuum to
lie flat on the floor (Fig. 2).
oPeRAtIon
Fig. 1
Carrying the Vacuum
To safely transport your vacuum, especially
when carrying the vacuum up and down
stairs, use the Carrying Handle located at the
top of the bag compartment (Fig. 3).
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
9
AttACHMent CleAnInG
Your vacuum is a comprehensive cleaning
system equipped with an upholstery tool,
dusting brush, crevice tool, telescopic wand
and a stretch hose.
Wand Cleaning
• Remove the Telescopic Wand from the
body of the vacuum by pulling it up and
out of the holder.
• Extend the wand by sliding the Wand
Extension Button forward while extending
the wand to desired length.
• Attach any of the tools to the end of the
Telescopic Wand.
• When finished with wand cleaning, insert the
wand back into the vacuum and secure it by
pushing the curved handle into the holder.
Adjusting the Suction Power for
Tool Cleaning
Full suction power may be too strong for
some cleaning situations. For example,
reduced suction power would be
appropriate for cleaning sheer curtains.
• On the back of the vacuum, locate the
Suction Control Dial and turn it to the
desired position. This reduces the suction
power coming through the hose. Close
the Suction Control Dial when finished to
restore full suction power.
10
Cleaning Tools
Your vacuum is equipped with a dusting brush,
upholstery brush and crevice tool.
• Turn the Carpet/Floor Selector on the nozzle
to the “Floor & Tools” position (models S20D,
S20P and S20UP only) and remove the
cleaning wand from the vacuum.
• Insert any of the tools onto the end
of the wand.
Dusting Brush
Ideal for table tops, shelves, blinds or
hard surface floors.
Upholstery Tool
Remove the dusting brush clip for
upholstery cleaning. Ideal for soft surfaces
like chairs and couches.
AttACHMent CleAnInG
Wand with Dusting Brush
Crevice Tool
Ideal for tight places like between seat
cushions or corners.
Crevice Tool
11
Dusting Brush
Dusting
Brush Clip
Upholstery Tool/Dusting Brush
MAIntenAnCe AnD CARe
Annual Checkup
To keep your vacuum in peak operating
condition, it is recommended you bring
your vacuum to an Authorized Simplicity
Retailer for an annual checkup. Your retailer
will conduct a comprehensive examination
to ensure your vacuum is in top operating
condition.
Power Cord Care
• If cord or plug has any apparent damage,
refrain from using the vacuum. Please visit an
Authorized Simplicity Retailer for a new cord
or plug.
• When vacuum is in use, hold the cord to
keep from running over it.
• Avoid obstructions and do not pull cord
around sharp edges or corners.
• Always keep cord away from heated
surfaces and never close doors on it as
this may cause damage to the wiring.
• To unplug, always grasp the plug, not
the cord.
12
When to Change the Vacuum Bag
(models S20D, S20P and S20UP)
The Full Bag Indicator Light is designed to
show when the bag is full or when there is
a clog in the vacuum.
The system measures airflow and alerts the
user when airflow is significantly reduced –
most commonly from a full bag or a clog.
The light could also come on when
vacuuming fine powders such as flour or
drywall dust. These materials can quickly
block the bag pores, significantly reducing
airflow before the bag is actually full. The
vacuum bag should still be changed.
The light may also come on during
attachment cleaning. If the light goes off
when attachments are no longer in use, the
vacuum bag does not need to be changed.
MAIntenAnCe AnD CARe
For model S20S:
To maintain optimal performance change
your vacuum bag once a month or when the
bag is two-thirds full.
NOTE: The vacuum bags are disposable
and intended to only be used once. Do not
attempt to reuse the bag as suction and
filtration performance will be greatly reduced.
13
MAIntenAnCe AnD CARe
Replacing the Vacuum Bag
NOTE: Unplug the vacuum cleaner from the
electrical outlet before changing the bag.
• Open the bag compartment by lifting up
the latch on the bag compartment cover.
• Remove the used vacuum bag by pulling
the red bag collar tab away from the
vacuum (Fig. 1). Slide the used bag out of
the holder which automatically seals the
bag (Fig 2). Discard the used bag.
• To install a new bag, slide the bottom of
the red bag collar into the bag holder until
it “snaps” into place (Fig. 3).
• Push the top of the bag collar upward until
the bag holder “snaps” into place on the
vacuum (Fig. 4).
• Tuck the bag corners into the bag
compartment before replacing the bag
compartment cover.
• Replace the bag compartment cover.
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3Fig. 4
14
When to Change the Filters
At minimum, it’s recommended to replace
the filters once a year or after using 12
vacuum bags, whichever comes first.
If someone in your household is
sensitive to airborne allergens, it is
recommended to change the filters
after every six vacuum bags.
Replacing the HEPA Media or
Foam Filter
Depending on the model, your vacuum is
equipped with either a HEPA media filter or
a foam filter.
NOTE: Unplug the vacuum cleaner from the
electrical outlet before changing the filters.
MAIntenAnCe AnD CARe
• Remove the bag compartment cover.
• Locate the filter on the front of the vacuum.
• Remove the used filter and throw away.
Filters cannot be washed and reused.
• Press a new filter into place on the front
of the vacuum.
• Replace the bag compartment cover.
15
MAIntenAnCe AnD CARe
Replacing the Electrostatic
Secondary Filter
NOTE: Unplug the vacuum cleaner from the
electrical outlet before changing the filters.
The electrostatic secondary filter protects
the motor from dust and dirt. Before
installing a new vacuum bag, check the filter.
Accumulated dirt in the bag compartment
will be collected on this filter and may
restrict motor performance when the filter
becomes dirty.
• Remove the bag compartment cover.
• Locate the secondary filter on the bottom
of the bag compartment.
• Slide the used secondary filter out from
under the bag support.
• Insert a new filter by sliding it under
the bag support.
• Replace the bag compartment cover.
16
Jammed Brushroll
(Models S20P and S20UP)
CAUTION! To Reduce the Risk of Injury From
Moving Parts, Unplug Before Servicing.
If an object, such as a throw rug or
article of clothing is ever picked up into
your vacuum, the vacuum will sense this
Jammed Brushroll condition and turn off
the brushroll. When this happens, the
Brushroll Warning light on the top of the
nozzle will light up in red.
MAIntenAnCe AnD CARe
Brushroll
• Turn off the vacuum.
• Remove the cause of the jam.
• Turn the vacuum back on.
• If the brushroll is free of any object and
the Brushroll Warning light is still lit, please
take it to an Authorized Simplicity Retailer
for service.
Lifetime Belt
(models S20P and S20UP)
Your vacuum belt is covered with a lifetime
warranty. Should the vacuum belt break,
simply bring your vacuum to your Authorized
Simplicity Retailer for a free replacement.
Red Warning Light Indicates a
Jammed Brushroll Condition
17
MAIntenAnCe AnD CARe
Removing and Reinstalling the
Bottom Plate
WARNING! To Reduce the Risk of Electrical
Shock or Injury From Moving Parts, Unplug
Before Servicing or Cleaning.
• Press the handle release pedal twice and place
the vacuum cleaner in the flat position.
• Turn the vacuum cleaner over, exposing the
bottom plate.
• Slide the two locking latches toward the center.
• Press the tabs inward on each side and
remove the bottom plate.
• Reinstall by placing the lower edge of the
bottom plate along the lower edge of the
nozzle. Snap the bottom plate into place. Slide
the locking latches to the outside edges.
18
Unclogging the Nozzle and Hose
WARNING! To Reduce the Risk of Electrical
Shock or Injury From Moving Parts, Unplug
Before Servicing or Cleaning.
The hose located on the back of the vacuum
carries the dirt from the nozzle to the
vacuum bag. The hose also functions as the
attachment cleaning hose. First check to see
that a bag is properly installed.
If the Hose Becomes Clogged
There are three areas to check if you
suspect a clog in the hose:
Suction Dial
• Turn the Suction Dial to the open position.
Remove the clog or blockage (Fig. 1).
MAIntenAnCe AnD CARe
Fig. 1
Inlet Tube
Nozzle Inlet Tube
• Turn the vacuum over and remove the
bottom plate (See page 18). Check the
nozzle inlet tube for obstructions (Fig. 2).
Clear the tube and reinstall the bottom plate.
Nozzle Hose
• Turn the vacuum over and remove the
bottom plate (See page 18). Remove one
screw at the base of the nozzle hose (Fig. 3).
Clear the hose of blockage and replace the
screw. Reinstall the bottom plate.
Fig. 2
Screw
Fig. 3
19
MAIntenAnCe AnD CARe
Thermal Motor Protection
WARNING! To Reduce the Risk of Electrical
Shock or Injury From Moving Parts, Unplug Before
Servicing or Cleaning.
Your vacuum is equipped with a safeguard to
recognize when the vacuum might overheat and
shuts off. Common reasons why a vacuum may
overheat include operating the vacuum with a
full bag or when there is a clog in the vacuum.
Check the headlight to verify that your vacuum
shut off due to the thermal motor protection.
If when the vacuum is turned on, the motor is
off, but the headlight is on then the thermal
motor protection system did shut off the vacuum.
If both the motor and the headlight are off,
then your vacuum is not working for some
other reason, like a pulled plug for example.
If the Thermal Motor Protection System shuts
off your vacuum, follow these steps:
Thermal Reset
1. Unplug machine
2. Locate problem
source (clogged
hose or full bag)
3. Correct problem
4. Press reset button
If problem persists,
consult owner’s manual
or contact retailer.
• Unplug the vacuum.
• Inspect the vacuum for a full bag condition
or a hose clog and correct the problem.
• Locate the Thermal Motor Protection Reset
Button on the back of the vacuum. Press the
button and resume vacuuming.
If problem continues, contact your Authorized
Simplicity Retailer.
20
PRoBleM solVInG GUIDe
Troubleshooting
WARNING! To Reduce the Risk of Electrical Shock or Injury From Moving Parts, Unplug
Before Servicing or Cleaning.
CAUTION! To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not handle plug or appliance with wet hands.
PROBLEM
Vacuum won’t turn on
Vacuum won’t pick up or
low suction
Dust escaping from
vacuum
Any other service should be performed by an Authorized Simplicity Retailer.
To locate your nearest Authorized Simplicity Retailer, visit our website
at www.SimplicityVac.com or call 888-9-SIMPLY.
POSSIBLE REASON
• Power cord not rmly
plugged in
• Blown fuse or tripped
breaker
• Needs service
• Vacuum bag full
• Clogged lter
• Hose clogged
• Worn brushes
• Bag compartment cover
is not installed properly.
• Filters not installed
correctly
Key Replacement Parts
• Genuine HEPA Media Vacuum Bags: SMH-6
• Genuine Vacuum Belts: S20B-2 (models S20S and S20D)
• Genuine Filters: SF20UP (model S20UP)
SF20DP (models S20D and S20P)
SF20S (model S20S)
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
• Plug unit in rmly.
• Check house fuse or
breaker. Replace fuse /
reset breaker.
• Take to Authorized
Simplicity Retailer
• Replace bag.
• Replace lters.
• Remove obstacle.
• Replace brush strips.
• Attach the bag
com part m ent cove r.
• Review lter installation
(pages 15-16).
For Best Performance
• Keep your vacuum clean and in good operating condition.
• Change vacuum bags once a month or when the full bag light is illuminated to maximize
cleaning performance.
• Always use genuine Simplicity vacuum bags and replacement parts. Use of other products may
result in poor cleaning performance, potential vacuum cleaner damage and may void vacuum
warranty. Genuine products are designed for maximum cleaning performance.
• Have your vacuum checked annually by your Authorized Simplicity Retailer.
• Store your vacuum carefully in a dry area.
• For optimum cleaning performance and safety, follow your owner’s manual instructions.
21
WARRAntY
What is Covered:
This warranty covers any defects in material and workmanship in your new Simplicity
vacuum and applies exclusively to the original purchaser.
How Long Coverage Lasts:
Warranty coverage lasts five years for the S20P and S20UP models. Warranty coverage
lasts four years for the S20S and S20D models. Household models used commercially are
only warranted for 90 days.
What is Not Covered:
• Damage to the vacuum which occurs from neglect, abuse, alterations, accident,
misuse or improper maintenance.
This warranty provides, at no cost to you, all labor and parts to keep this vacuum in
correct operating condition during the warranted period.
How to Get Service:
Warranty service can only be obtained by presenting the vacuum to an Authorized Simplicity
Retailer. A proof-of-purchase and product serial number will be required before service
is rendered. To locate your nearest service center, please call 888-9-SIMPLY or visit
www.SimplicityVac.com.
THIS WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ANY AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES
WHETHER WRITTEN, ORAL, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, (INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY
OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE). THIS WARRANTY
DISCLAIMS LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
How State Law Applies:
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
Register your warranty online at www.SimplicityVac.com