Thousands of householders warned - don’t risk injury by ignoring vacuum cleaner recall

Owners of Shark vacuum cleaners are putting themselves at risk of burns and electric shock, by ignoring a major voluntary safety recall, warns their New Zealand reseller, Brand Developers.

Three models of Shark vacuum were voluntarily recalled earlier this year after identification of a potential manufacturing issue that may affect their cord and cord assembly. While the issue can be remedied with a simple repair free of charge, response numbers in New Zealand are alarmingly low. Anyone with one of the three affected models is advised to stop using the cleaner immediately to ensure their safety and register for a free repair.

Continuing to use these vacuum cleaners without this repair could pose a risk of burn and electric shock to users if they are holding the cord whilst vacuuming.

Despite nationwide safety notices and letters to all direct response TV purchasers, only 30 per cent have been returned for repairs.

“We take the safety of our customers very seriously. Knowing a simple repair is all that is needed, we would be devastated if someone got hurt because they didn’t know about the recall, or simply didn’t take the time to get it repaired,” Brand Developers CEO Simon Fraser said.

The models being recalled are:

· The Shark Navigator Lift-Away (model number NV350NZ) units manufactured prior to 18 October 2014 (which bear a production code 4811A to 4114A inclusive)

· All Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional (model number NV356NZ) units

· Shark Rocket Ultra-Light HV300NZ (production code 0314A though to 4614A) manufactured from 16 January to 15 November 2014

Brand Developers Ltd., the exclusive Australasian distributor of Shark products, implemented the voluntary recall earlier this year in conjunction with Euro-Pro (now known as SharkNinja), owner of the popular floorcare brand Shark, and in consultation with the New Zealand regulators.
“We know it’s an extremely busy time of the year, but family safety must come first,” Fraser said.
“If you own one of the affected Shark vacuum cleaners we are strongly advising you register and return it for repair. We are urging all New Zealand customers to observe this recall to ensure your safety and everyone in your household,” Mr Fraser said.

Consumers are advised to unplug their vacuum cleaner at the wall and not to use it again until it has been repaired.

Brand Developers has a Shark Recall helpline and website for customers to register their product for a free repair. Once registered, customers will receive a box to pack up the motor unit of their vacuum so it can be dropped off to the nearest Australian Post Shop.

The affected Shark products were sold through the TV Shop and electrical retailers including Harvey Norman, Big W, Target, The Good Guys, Masters, Bing Lee and Betta Electrical.

Only the three models listed above are subject to this voluntary recall. All other Shark vacuums, steam mops, and floor cleaning products are unaffected. Shark Navigator Lift-Away (model number NV350NZ) units manufactured on or after 18 October 2014 are also unaffected by this recall and do not require cord replacement.

Consumers are advised to visit www.sharkclean.co.nz/recall for guidance on identifying the affected models and for instructions on how to return for repair. A dedicated Shark customer service team is available for any consumer queries on 0800 109 009.

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