FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 10, 1998
Release # 99-017
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Company Phone Number: (888) 887-2959
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: Yolanda Fultz-Morris, (301) 504-7066
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CPSC, Electrolux Announce Recall to Repair Top-Corded Vacuum Cleaners
WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer
Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Electrolux, L.L.C., of
Atlanta, Ga., is recalling about 226,000 Ponytail Top-Corded
Handle Upright Vacuum Cleaners. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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. For more information and to find the Electrolux
store nearest to you, call Electrolux at (888) 887-2959
between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. EST Monday through Friday.
Consumers also can use the on-line Electrolux Dealer Locator
at http://www.callprocess.com/locator/elux/elux_zip_search.htm.
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