November 26, 2004
Proctor & Gamble is recalling about 175,000 Sweep+Vac by Swiffer vacuum cleaners. When the vacuum cleaner is left in the on position, the rotor can lock up and cause the unit to overheat. This poses a smoke and fire hazard.
The company has received 14 complaints of the Sweep+Vac overheating, including one report of a fire with minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.
The recalled Sweep+Vac by Swiffer is a battery-operated, upright vacuum cleaner used to vacuum floors. The vacuum cleaner stands about 4-feet-tall and has a green base and silver pole. The name Swiffer is printed across the front of the base in white letters. UPC numbers included in this recall are 37000-46522 and 37000-02553. The UPC numbers are printed on the products packaging.
The units were sold at retail and grocery stores nationwide from September 2004 through November 2004 for about $30.
Consumers should stop using the product immediately and disconnect the Sweep+Vac by removing the top section of the pole. To disconnect the vacuum cleaner, press the small green button on the pole, about 12 inches below the handle, then pull the handle straight out. This eliminates any possibility of the unit overheating. Consumers should contact Procter & Gamble for more information on returning the product to receive a refund.
Consumer Contact: Consumers should contact (800) 487-5915 daily between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET or visit www.swiffersweepandvac.com to receive shipping materials to return the Sweep+Vac unit to Procter & Gamble and receive a refund.
The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).