Hoover Recalls 142,000 Vacuums Due to Fire Hazard

February 9, 2011

Risk of fire and shock prompts recall of Hoover WindTunnel Canister Vacuums.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today that Hoover Inc., of Glenwillow, OH has voluntarily recalled 142,000 WindTunnel Canister Vacuums because the company received 69 reports of overheating or electrical malfunction. One incident resulted in fire and smoke damage and two reports involved damage to user’s carpet. One minor injury occurred.

According to the manufacturer, the power cord between the power nozzle and the wand connector on these units can short circuit, posing fire and shock hazards to users. This may happen even if a consumer turns the vacuum off and leaves it plugged into an electrical outlet.

The silver and black Hoover WindTunnel Canister Vacuums affected by this recall are model #S3755 and the following serial numbers.

Affected Model Serial Numbers (First Four Digits):

Consumers may have purchase this vacuum at Mass merchandisers, department stores and independent vacuum retailers nationwide and online from March 2003 to December 2008 for between $250 and $280. They can find the model and manufacturing date code on the product data label located on the lower rear part of the vacuum.

Anyone with this recalled vacuum should stop using it immediately and call Hoover Inc. at (888) 564-2066. The manufacturer will send a carton and self-addressed, prepaid label in which to return the nozzle and hose to the repair center, who will fix the power nozzle and hose and ship it back to the consumer at no charge.