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CPSC, Electrolux Announce Recall to Repair Top-Corded Vacuum Cleaners

U.S. CPSCBurnsNov 10, 1998
Electrolux Ponytail Vacuum Cleaner
Electrolux Ponytail Vacuum Cleaner

Photos from the official notice: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission · image rights

Hazard

The power cords on these vacuums extend out of the very top of the handle, and the cord is often used as an extension of the handle. The power cord can break inside the handle or the casing around the cord can break, and cause shocks or burns to the user's hand. Even when there is no apparent breaking of the casing around the cord, these vacuums can still cause injuries.

Remedy

Consumers should immediately stop using these vacuums, and return them to an Electrolux store for a free repair. The handle on the vacuum will be replaced with a new model handle.

Incidents & injuries

Electrolux is aware of at least 75 reports of the cords on these vacuums breaking or the casing around the cord exposing wires. About half of these incidents reportedly resulted in burns or shocks to users. Of these reports, there were 11 serious injuries which included consumers suffering second or third degree burns, shocks, or a combination of these injuries.

Product description

The Ponytail vacuums were sold under the following names: Genesis Prolux S/R Genesis LX Prolux Warehouse Genesis LXE Regency Prolux Special Edition Prolux Plus Only Electrolux upright vacuums with the cord coming out of the very top of the handle are included in this recall. "Electrolux" and the model name are written on each vacuum.

Sold on

Most of these vacuums were sold through direct sales and retail stores, including Sam's Club, Service Merchandise and Macy's, between May 1991 and September 1993 for between $150 and $550, depending on the model and accessories. Some vacuums were sold directly to corporate customers.

Contact the company

For more information and to find the Electrolux store nearest to you, call Electrolux at (800) 896-9756 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. EST Monday through Friday.

What should I do?

Stop using the product and follow the remedy below. Contact the company for a refund, repair or replacement — recall remedies are free.

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