Hoover is recalling 142,000 WindTunnel Canister vacuums because the power cord can short circuit, posing fire and shock hazards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says Hoover has received 69 reports of overheating or electrical malfunction, including one report of fire and smoke damage, two reports of carpet damage, and one minor injury (a blister).
The recall involves the silver and black-colored WindTunnel Bagless Canister Vacuum model S3755. The model number is located on a label at the bottom of the canister, along with the serial numbers and manufacturing date codes. Units manufactured between February 2003 and May 2008 are included in the recall. Hoover’s web site shows a chart with the affected date codes.
The company determined that some power cords between the power nozzle base and the wand connector may experience a short circuit. If that occurs, the canister hose may melt and fire or shock hazard may result if the brush roll switch is left on while the vacuum is plugged into an electrical outlet.
The vacuums were sold at mass merchandisers, department stores and independent vacuum retailers and online from March 2003 through December 2008 for $250-$280.
Consumers should stop using the vacuum cleaners and contact Hoover at 1-888-564-2066 to obtain a free repair. Hoover will send customers a carton with a pre-paid label in which to return the power nozzle and hose, which Hoover will fix and return.
