Panasonic ES-LV97 - Rechargeable Shaver Manual

Parts identification

1. Main body
   1. Protective cap
   2. System outer foil
   3. Foil frame
   4. Foil frame release buttons
   5. Power switch
   6. Lamp display
      1. Shaving sensor lamp ()
      2. Battery capacity lamp
      3. Switch lock lamp ()
      4. Charge status lamp ()
   7. Appliance socket
   8. Outer foil section
   9. System outer foil release buttons
   10. Inner blades
   11. Trimmer
   12. Trimmer handle
   13. Main body rear terminals
2. Self-cleaning recharger (RC9-22)
   14. Charging terminals
   15. Cleaning liquid unit removal button
   16. Intake port
   17. Self‑cleaning recharger socket
   18. Lock release lever
   19. Cleaning liquid filter
   20. Cleaning liquid unit
   21. STATUS lamp
   22. LOW lamp
   23. CLEAN lamp
   24. DRY lamp
   25. SELECT button
3. AC adaptor (RE7-87)
   26. Adaptor
   27. Power plug
   28. Cord
   29. Appliance plug

Accessories

4. Travel case
5. Cleaning brush
6. Oil
7. Special detergent
   (Detergent)

There may be water droplets inside the self‑cleaning recharger at the time of purchase, but there is no problem regarding the hygiene or the performance. (It is a residue of the distilled water used for performance test.)

Preparation

Charging the shaver

• Turn the shaver off.
• Wipe off any water droplets on the main body rear terminals.

1. Insert the appliance plug into the self-cleaning recharger.
2. Remove the protective cap while pressing the side of the cap and insert the shaver into the self-cleaning recharger.
   • Slowly insert the shaver into the self‑cleaning recharger taking care not to damage the system outer foil.
3. Plug the adaptor into a household outlet.
   • Check that the charge status lamp () is glowing.
   • Charging is completed after approx. 1 hour.
   • If the shape of the plug does not fit the power outlet, use an attachment plug adaptor of the proper configuration.
4. Disconnect the adaptor after charging is completed.

While charging

glows.
The number of the battery capacity lamp will increase as charging progresses.

After charging is completed

All the battery capacity lamp and will glow and then turn off after 5 seconds.

Notes

• When charging the shaver for the first time or when it has not been in use for more than 6 months, the charging time may change or the charge status lamp () may not glow for a few minutes. It will eventually glow if kept connected.
• Recommended ambient temperature for charging is 10°C – 35°C (50°F – 95°F). It may take longer to charge, or the charge status lamp () will blink quickly and the battery may fail to charge properly in extremely high or low temperatures.
• The shaver can be used for approximately 2 weeks with a full charge.
  (Based on one 3‑minute dry‑shave usages per day in an ambient temperature range of 20°C – 30°C (68°F – 86°F).)
  The number of usable days varies depending on the following conditions.
  • Beard thickness
  • Pressure applied to the skin
  • Usage frequency of the sonic vibration cleaning mode
  • If there is noise from the radio or other sources while using or charging the appliance, move to a different location to use the appliance.

Charging without the self-cleaning recharger

• Turn the shaver off.
• Wipe off any water droplets on the appliance socket.

1. Insert the appliance plug into the shaver.
2. Plug the adaptor into a household outlet.
3. Disconnect the adaptor after charging is completed.

Note
You cannot operate the shaver while charging.

Preparing the cleaning liquid

Cleaning can start right after the usage by preparing in advance.
(See "Cleaning, drying, charging".)

• Remove the AC adaptor from the self‑cleaning recharger.

1. Press the cleaning liquid unit removal button (1) and remove the cleaning liquid unit (2) on a hard, flat surface.
   
   • When the self‑cleaning recharger is lifted, or on the soft surface such as carpets, the lock release lever will not fit in the recharger properly. In that case, the cleaning liquid unit cannot be removed.
2. Pour tap water (1) and detergent (2) into the cleaning liquid unit.
   
   • Be careful not to let the water rise above the maximum water line (a).
   • Pour the entire packet of detergent.
3. Slowly insert the cleaning liquid unit into the selfcleaning recharger until it clicks.
   

Notes

• See "Replacing the cleaning liquid".
• Only use self‑cleaning recharger detergent for Panasonic shavers.
  Not doing so may cause malfunction or failure.
• Do not tilt the self‑cleaning recharger.
  Doing so may cause spill or the number of days that cleaning liquid can be used reduce.
• You can use the cleaning liquid for approximately 30 days if used once per day.
  (This will differ depending on beard thickness and the ambient temperature.)

How to use

Shaving beard

1. Press and shave.
   
   • The "shaving sensor", which automatically adjusts the power depending on the beard thickness, will operate.
     It will shave with high power on areas where the beard is heavy, and reduce the power on areas where the beard is thin, to reduce burden on the skin.

Tips for better shaving
Apply the whole system outer foil perpendicularly against the skin and shave by slowly gliding the shaver over the face against the grain of the beard.

• The beard under the chin and around the throat can be shaved better by stretching the skin so the beard will stand.
• To prevent damaging the system outer foil, do not shave with only a part of the system outer foil.
  

2. Press when finished.

While using

The remaining battery capacity are shown and then turn off after 5 seconds.

• Approximate amount of battery capacity is displayed as 20 ‑ 100.
• The shaving sensor lamp () blinks.

After use

The remaining battery capacity blink and then turn off after 5 seconds.

When the battery capacity is low
"20" blinks when operating the shaver.

• You can shave 2 to 3 times after "20" blinks.
  (This will differ depending on usage.)

Notes

• The appliance may not operate in an ambient temperature lower than approximately 5°C (41°F).
• The shaving sensor may not respond depending on the type and quantity of the shaving gel. This is not abnormal.
• Depending on the beard thickness or the amount of beard trimmings in the shaver head, the shaving sensor may not react and the driving sound may not change. This is not abnormal.
• To prevent erroneous operation, place your fingers on the thumb rest while using the shaver.
• The sonic vibration cleaning mode is activated when the power switch is pressed for more than 2 seconds while the shaver is not operating.
  You cannot shave in this mode.

Operation and display of the switch lock

Locking the power switch

1. Press once and then release.
   • The shaver starts operating.
     
2. Press for more than 2 seconds until the switch lock lamp () turns on.
   • The shaver will stop operating.
     
3. Release .
   • The switch lock lamp () will light up for 5 seconds and turn off.
     

Unlocking the power switch

1. Press for more than 2 seconds until the switch lock lamp () turns off.
   
2. Once the shaver starts operating, release .
   • The switch lock lamp () will turn off.
     
     • The power switch is locked when the switch lock lamp () blinks for 5 seconds and the shaver does not operate even though the power switch is pressed.

Switching the shaver head
You can change the pivot action.

FREE
The shaver head is moved to prevent missed spots.

LOCK
You can lock the shaver head.

Using the trimmer

1. Slide the trimmer handle up to the "" position so that the trimmer stands upright.
2. Press and use.
   
   Press and hold the top knob (a) and slide the trimmer handle down to lower the trimmer.
   

Tips for better usage
Apply the trimmer edge perpendicular to skin gently and move downward slowly.
Trimming sideburns

Pre‑shave of long beards

Cleaning, drying, charging

We recommend cleaning the shaver after each use.

1. Insert the shaver into the self-cleaning recharger and plug the adaptor into a household outlet.
   • Check that the charge status lamp () is glowing.
   • When the LOW lamp or the STATUS lamp lights up.
2. Press .
   The CLEAN lamp and the DRY lamp glow, and the "AUTO" mode will start after approximately 6 seconds.
   • It is not possible to change the mode after the "AUTO" mode has started.
     
     * When the ambient temperature of the self‑cleaning recharger is low (approx. 15°C (59°F) or lower), the drying process will take up to 170 min.
3. Remove the adaptor after the selected mode is completed.

Clean the shaver with water or with the cleaning brush once per month.
The main unit neck section (a), inner blade attachment part (b), trimmer, system outer foil gaps, etc. cannot be cleaned with the self‑cleaning recharger.

Changing the mode of self-cleaning recharger

The "Charge" mode starts when attaching the shaver, and the mode can be changed by pressing the SELECT button.

Notes

• Do not press the cleaning liquid unit removal button during cleaning as the cleaning liquid may spill causing a malfunction.
• The drying time may increase in an ambient temperature approximately 15°C (59°F) or lower.
  The Clean or Dry function may not operate under extreme low temperatures (approximately 0°C (32°F) or lower).
• A lubricant constituent is included in the detergent, so smooth shave is maintained without applying oil.

Cleaning thoroughly

Cleaning with water

• Turn the shaver off and disconnect the AC adaptor.

1. Apply some hand soap and some water to the system outer foil.
   
2. Press for more than 2 seconds to activate the sonic vibration cleaning mode.
   
   • Splashing of foam is suppressed.
   • The battery capacity lamps blink in order.
   • After about 20 seconds, it will be automatically turned off, or you can turn it off by pressing the power switch.
3. Remove the outer foil section and clean with running water.
   
   • See "Replacing the system outer foil and the inner blades" for removing the outer foil section.
   • Splashing is reduced by rinsing the shaver in sonic vibration cleaning mode.
   • After rinsing with water, shake the shaver up and down for a few times to remove excess moisture and then wipe off any drops of water with a dry cloth.
4. Attach the outer foil section and dry with the 1 self-cleaning recharger.
   
   1. Insert the shaver into the self‑cleaning recharger and plug the adaptor into a household outlet.
      • Check that the charge status lamp () is glowing.
   2. Press twice.
      The DRY lamp glows, and the "Dry/Charge" mode will start after approximately 6 seconds.
      • It is possible to change to the "AUTO" mode even after the "Dry/Charge" mode has started.
        
   3. Remove the adaptor after the selected mode is completed.
5. Lubricate the shaver.
   It will keep the movement of the blade smooth and maintain a comfort shave.
   
   1. Apply one drop of oil to each of the system outer foils.
   2. Raise the trimmer and apply a drop of oil.
   3. Switch the shaver on, and run it for approximately five seconds.
   4. Switch off the shaver, and wipe off any excess oil from the system outer foil with a soft cloth.

Drying the shaver without the self-cleaning recharger
Dry in a shade and apply oil.

Notes

• Be careful not to hit the main body on the sink or any other object while draining the water. Failure to do so may cause malfunction.
• Do not wipe with thinners, benzine, alcohol etc.
  Doing so may cause malfunction, or cracking or discoloration of the parts.
  Wipe with diluted soapy water.
• Do not use any kitchen or bathroom detergents other than hand soap.
  Doing so may cause malfunction.
• Do not use the self‑cleaning recharger while droplets or soap remain on the shaver.
  Doing so may change the concentration level or composition of the cleaning liquid in the cleaning liquid unit, which may degrade cleaning, sterilization, lubrication and drying performance. This may also cause cleaning liquid to spill from the self‑cleaning recharger.

Cleaning with the brush

Remove the outer foil section and the inner blades.
(See "Replacing the system outer foil and the inner blades".)
Clean the system outer foil in the areas indicated by the circles every time you use the shaver.

Cleaning with the long brush
Clean the foil frame, system outer foil, the main body and the trimmer using the long brush.

Cleaning with the short brush

• Clean the inner blades using the short brush by moving it in direction as illustrated.
  
• Do not move the short brush perpendicularly against the blades as it will damage the inner blades and affect their sharpness.

Replacing the system outer foil and the inner blades

Removing the outer foil section
Press the foil frame release buttons and lift the outer foil section upwards.

Attaching the outer foil section
After turning the foil frame mark () to the front, securely attach the outer foil section to the shaver until it clicks.

Replacing the system outer foil

1. Press the system outer foil release buttons and pull down the system outer foil.
   
   • Do not press the system outer foil release buttons with excessive force. Doing so may bend the system outer foil, preventing complete attachment to the foil frame.
2. Align the foil frame mark () and the system outer foil mark () and securely attach together until it clicks.

Replacing the inner blades

1. Remove the inner blades one at a time.
2. Insert the inner blades one at a time.
   

Note
Do not throw away the foil frame.

Replacing the cleaning liquid

If the STATUS lamp glows for 5 seconds when the SELECT button is pressed, the cleaning liquid needs to be replaced.

• Even if the STATUS lamp does not light up, replace the cleaning liquid after 6 months have passed.

1. Remove the AC adaptor and remove the cleaning liquid unit.
   
2. Wash away the old cleaning liquid.
   • It can be drained as sewage.
3. Rinse the cleaning liquid unit
   • Pour water as illustrated while tilting the cleaning liquid unit and shaking it gently.
     
   • You can clean with the cleaning liquid filter removed.
     After washing, be sure to attach the cleaning liquid filter.
4. Gently wipe off any beard trimmings attached to the inside of the cleaning tray (a) with a cloth or tissue paper dampened with water.
   
   • Clean the corners and uneven parts of the cleaning tray with a cotton swab dampened with water.
5. Prepare the new cleaning liquid.

Notes

• The cleaning liquid will decrease every time it is used, but do not add detergent and water except when replacing the cleaning liquid. Doing so may deteriorate the cleaning function.
• Do not wash the self‑cleaning recharger unit with water.
• Do not wipe with thinners, benzine, alcohol etc. Doing so may cause malfunction, or cracking or discoloration of the parts. Wipe with diluted soapy water.
• Some cleaning liquid components and skin oil may separate and adhere to the cleaning liquid unit and cleaning liquid filter. This does not indicate a problem.

When the water does not drain from the cleaning tray

• Do not tilt the self‑cleaning recharger to pour out water. Doing so may cause the cleaning liquid in the cleaning liquid unit to spill or cause the self‑cleaning recharger to malfunction.
• Beard trimmings may clog the drain at the bottom of the cleaning tray. In this case, you cannot clean or dry the shaver.

1. Be sure to remove the AC adaptor from the self‑cleaning recharger.
2. Place the self‑cleaning recharger on a flat surface, and push the beard trimmings down through the drain (b) with a toothpick etc.
   

Replacement parts
Replacement parts are available at your dealer or Service Center.

When the LOW/STATUS lamp glows

It indicates that the cleaning liquid is due for replacement when the LOW lamp or STATUS lamp glows for approximately 5 seconds when the SELECT button is pressed.

FAQ

Troubleshooting

Perform the following actions.
If the problems still cannot be solved or all self‑ cleaning recharger's lamps blink, contact the store where you purchased the unit or a service center authorized by Panasonic for repair.

Specifications

This product is intended for household use only.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

When using an electrical appliance, basic precautions are required to always be followed, including the following:
Read all instructions before using this appliance.

To reduce the risk of electric shock:

1. Do not reach for an appliance that has fallen into water. Unplug immediately.
2. Do not place or store appliance where it can fall or be pulled into a tub or sink. Do not place in or drop into water or other liquid.
3. Except when charging, always unplug this appliance from the electrical outlet immediately after using.
4. Unplug this appliance before cleaning.

To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury to persons:

1. Close supervision is required when this appliance is used by, on, or near children or invalids.
2. Use this appliance only for its intended use as described in this manual. Do not use attachments not recommended by the manufacturer.
3. Never operate this appliance when it has a damaged cord or plug, when it is not working properly, after it has been dropped or damaged, or after it has been dropped into water. Return the appliance to a service center for examination and repair.
4. Keep the cord away from heated surfaces.
5. Never drop or insert any object into any opening.
6. Do not use outdoors or operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.
7. Do not use this appliance with damaged shaving blades and/or foil, as it has the potential to result in facial injury.
8. Always attach plug to appliance first, then to outlet. To disconnect, turn all controls to "off" then remove plug from outlet.

Safety precautions

To reduce the risk of injury, loss of life, electric shock, fire, and damage to property, always observe the following safety precautions.

Explanation of symbols

The following symbols are used to classify and describe the level of hazard, injury, and property damage caused when the denotation is disregarded and improper use is performed.

	Denotes a potential hazard that will result in serious injury or death.
	Denotes a potential hazard that could result in serious injury or death. Denotes a hazard that
	Denotes a hazard that could result in minor injury or property damage.

The following symbols are used to classify and describe the type of instructions to be observed.

	This symbol is used to alert users to a specific operating procedure that must not be performed.
	This symbol is used to alert users to a specific operating procedure that must be followed in order to operate the unit safely.

This product
	This product has a built-in rechargeable battery. Do not throw into fire, apply heat, or charge, use, or leave in a high temperature environment. Doing so may cause overheating, ignition, or explosion.
	Do not modify or repair. Doing so may cause fire, electric shock, or injury. Contact an authorized service center for repair (replace battery etc).
	Never disassemble except when disposing of the product. Doing so may cause fire, electric shock, or injury.
In case of an abnormality or malfunction
	Immediately stop using and remove the adaptor if there is an abnormality or malfunction. Failure to do so may cause fire, electric shock, or injury. <Abnormality or malfunction cases> The main unit, self-cleaning recharger, adaptor or cord is deformed or abnormally hot. The main unit, self-cleaning recharger, adaptor or cord smells of burning. There is an abnormal sound during use or charging of the main unit, self-cleaning recharger, adaptor or cord. Immediately request inspection or repair at an authorized service center.
Power supply
	Do not connect or disconnect the adaptor to a household outlet with a wet hand. Doing so may cause electric shock or injury.
	Do not immerse the AC adaptor and the selfcleaning recharger in water or wash with water. Do not place the AC adaptor and the self-cleaning recharger over or near water filled sink or bathtub. Never use the appliance if the AC adaptor is damaged or if the power plug fits loosely in a household outlet. Do not damage the cord or the power plug. Do not deface, modify, forcefully bend or pull the cord or the power plug. Also, do not place anything heavy on, twist or pinch the cord. Doing so may cause electric shock or fire due to a short circuit.
	Do not use in a way exceeding the rating of the household outlet or the wiring. Exceeding the rating by connecting too many plugs to one household outlet may cause fire due to overheating.
	Do not use anything other than the supplied AC adaptor and the self-cleaning recharger for any purpose. Also, do not use any other product with the supplied AC adaptor and the self-cleaning recharger. Doing so may cause burn or fire due to a short circuit.
	Always ensure the appliance is operated on an electric power source matched to the rated voltage indicated on the AC adaptor. Fully insert the adaptor. Failure to do so may cause fire or electric shock.
	Disconnect the AC adaptor when cleaning the main body with water. Failure to do so may cause electric shock or injury.
	Regularly clean the power plug and the appliance plug to prevent dust from accumulating. Failure to do so may cause fire due to insulation failure caused by humidity.
Preventing accidents
	Persons using an implanted medical electronic device, such as a pacemaker, should not allow this unit to touch the skin where the medical electronic device is implanted. Doing so may cause an accident or illness.
	Do not place within reach of children or infants. Do not let them use it. Putting parts or accessories in the mouth may cause an accident or injury.
	Do not use or store the self-cleaning recharger on top of other electrical devices. Doing so may cause electric shock due to liquid spill or fire due to a short circuit.
	If detergent or oil is consumed accidentally, do not induce vomiting, drink a large amount of water and contact a physician. If detergent or oil comes into contact with eyes, wash immediately and thoroughly with running water and contact a physician. Failure to follow these instructions may result in physical problems.
	If detergent contacts skin, wash immediately and thoroughly with soap. If you experience skin irritation anywhere on the body, stop using immediately and contact a physician. Failure to follow these instructions may result in physical injury or injury to the skin.
Note the following precautions
	This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance. Failure to do so may cause an accident or injury.
	The supply cord cannot be replaced. If the cord is damaged, the AC adaptor should be scrapped. Failure to do so may cause an accident or injury.

Protecting the skin
	Do not use excessive pressure to apply the system outer foil to your lip or other part of your face. Do not apply the system outer foil directly to blemishes or injured skin. Do not touch the blade section (metallic section) of the inner blade. Doing so may cause injury to skin or hand.
	Do not forcefully press the system outer foil. Also, do not touch the system outer foil with fingers or nails when in use. Do not use this product for hair on head or any other part of the body. Doing so may cause injury to skin or reduce the life of the system outer foil.
	Do not remove the shaver from the selfcleaning recharger while using the "AUTO" mode or "Dry/Charge" mode. Doing so may cause burn due to high temperatures around the blades.
	Check the system outer foil for cracks or deformations before use. Failure to do so may cause injury to the skin.
	Be sure to place the protective cap on the shaver when carrying around or storing. Failure to do so may cause injury to skin or reduce the life of the system outer foil.
Note the following precautions
	Do not wrap the cord around the adaptor when storing. Doing so may cause the wire in the cord to break with the load, and may cause fire due to a short circuit.
	Do not allow metal objects or trash to adhere to the power plug or the appliance plug. Doing so may cause electric shock or fire due to a short circuit.
	Do not disconnect the adaptor or the appliance plug by holding onto the cord. Doing so may cause electric shock or injury.
	Do not share your shaver with your family or other people. Doing so may result in infection or inflammation.
	Do not drop or hit against other objects. Doing so may cause injury.
	Do not use detergent for any purpose other than washing the shaver blades. Using it with other products may cause discoloration or cracking.
	Immediately wipe up any cleaning liquid that has been spilt. Prolonged contact may cause discoloration of leather products or wooden floors.
	Disconnect the adaptor from the household outlet when not charging. Failure to do so may cause electric shock or fire due to electrical leakage resulting from insulation deterioration.
	Use caution when opening detergent as spout is sharp. Failure to do so may cause injury.

• This WET/DRY shaver can be used for wet shaving using shaving lather or for dry shaving. You can use this watertight shaver in the shower and clean with water. The following symbol means suitable for use in a bath or shower.
  
• Treat yourself to wet lather shaves for at least three weeks and notice the difference. Your Panasonic WET/DRY shaver requires a little time to get used to because your skin and beard need about a month to adjust to any new shaving method.
• Do not bring the system outer foil into contact with hard objects.
  Doing so may damage the blades as they are very thin and deform easily.
• Do not dry the main unit with a dryer or a fan heater.
  Doing so may cause malfunction or deformation of the parts.
• Do not leave the shaver exposed to direct sunlight with the foil frame detached.
  Doing so may deteriorate the waterproof rubber and degrade waterproof function, which may cause to malfunction.
• Store the shaver in a place with low humidity after use.
  Failure to do so may cause malfunction due to condensation or rust.
• Do not leave the detergent in location of high temperatures.
  Doing so may cause deterioration.
• Keep both the inner blades inserted. If only one of the inner blades is inserted, the shaver may be damaged.
• If you clean the shaver with water, do not use salt water or hot water. Do not soak the shaver in water for a long period of time.
• The following symbol indicates that a specific detachable power supply unit is required for connecting the electrical appliance to the supply mains. The type reference of power supply unit is marked near the symbol.
  

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