Cordless vacuum displays E8 and will not start; LEDs flash rapidly.

Safety first: If the battery feels swollen, very hot, or emits an unusual smell, stop using it immediately and place it in a non-flammable area away from combustible materials.

• Confirm genuine battery: Check that the battery is a genuine Morphy Richards pack with the correct model number for your vacuum cleaner.
• Inspect charger: Use only the original charger supplied with the vacuum cleaner. If you have used a third-party charger, discontinue its use.
• Cool-down period: If the battery has just finished charging, allow it to cool for 30 minutes and then try again.
• Test with another battery: If available, test with a second compatible battery. If the vacuum cleaner works, the original battery is faulty and should be replaced.
• Persistent E8 with multiple batteries: If E8 appears with more than one known-good battery, the main control PCB (Printed Circuit Board) or voltage sensing circuit in the handle is likely defective and requires professional replacement.