Vacuum Cleaners Discussions

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

Hi Venson:

I'ver repaired and returned the HOOVER Z400.  It is as good as new.  Dustpack in the nozzle opening behind the agitator.  Had to remove 4 screws and the soleplate to remove the dustpack.  It was caused by a nail and Christmas tree needles that packed up.  Several things impressed me in the repair.  One WRT your question.  The HEPA exhaust filter, after over 18 months of commercial use, is still pristine.  No doubt in large part due to the plastic shroud that surrounds the motor.

Next, the pre-motor filter, despite the repeated cleat cleaning, is intact.  No wear at the pressure points from constant cleaning.  I cleaned the old filter and reinstalled.  The chamber behind the pre-motor filter was amazing clean despite the usage.  Tho I don't care for the self-cleaning cleat mechanism, the filter size is not smallish as some may think/say.  Quite the contrary once removed and examined.  I'd prefer a teflon coated filter so as to be washable.

The underside of the vacuum with the brush motor and belt was amazingly clean.  The belt still very good and I could not stop the revolving by applying pressure.  Some hairwrap on the agitator was removed quickly by using a wire brush while the agitator brush revolves. 

I don't like the cord/tool cover.  It tends to flop open/closed while in use.  And, constantly needs to be closed and locked. 

Not worth the original MSRP.  Probably a $250 seller at best.  I especially like the slow start and the finger tip electronic controls for low/medium/high and barefloors.  Excellent feature. 

Carmine D.

Hi Venson:

I left the first HOOVER Z400 I bought from BEST BUY at my house in Virginia, so the realtor had a vacuum to use to keep the house in showroom condition.  I suspect the new home owners got it, tho I understand the house went into foreclosure recently and is now owned/for sale by the bank.

I'll add another reason for not gifting vacuums [besides the Shakespearian quote neither a lender nor a borrower be].  Seems the Maintenance Supervisor and custodian at the Church are petitioning the pastor for Commercial grade vacuums.  Domestic are not good enough.  The Custodian wants a back pack vacuum.  The Maintenance supervisor wants an upright Commercial, no tools on board.  Hence, my scoping out the EUREKA/ELECTROLUX Sanitaire at Sam's Club. 

Seems people are never satisfied with what they have even if free.

Carmine D.

Very true. 

Carmine D.

regards

MOLE

Hi Venson et al:

HOOVER/TTI Web Site has the Z400 and Z900 in stock and new with 2 year warranty for $289 and $365 respectively.  Down from MSRP but a far cry from discontinued and cheap.  Ironically, reviewers give it 4 of 5 stars.  Not the least bit surprised.  It has its fans just like all vacuums.  Easy to work on.  Does and excellent job on floors and rugs and has some neat features for the prices. 

Carmine D.