The Hoover Z was certainly not a great idea but at least looked like it might be. It's main failing for all its feature is the rather small mesh filter between the dust bin and the self-cleaning filter. It can become clogged relatively quickly and bring about a noticable drop-off of its already lackluster suction. The compartmentalized dust collection set-up -- a compartment for incoming dirt and another for dust shed by the rotating filter -- also does no lend to easy emptying. However, that's all old news.
I visited a Home Depot in lower Manhattan about two days ago and was surprised to find the "Z" still for sale -- for $50.00. After all this time, this isn't flattering. It may not be good business, but I wonder why Hoover just didn't do a recall. After all we're talking about a vacuum that hit the market at around $500 or more and that has been allowed to hang around on shelves as its price has plummeted down to ten-percent of what it was initially. Of course a recall would have meant a loss to Hoover but might have meant saving face regarding this particular item. This also might not have been possible due to plans for the company's changing of hands.
Though I hate the fixed prices some manufacturers demand their vacuums must be sold for, I must admit there may be some point to the practice regarding the maintenance of supposed value.
Venson
