I need some help.  I recently purchased an Electrolux renaissance vacuum from ebay (mistake?)... This is my first electrolux vacuum...I collect mostly Kirbys...anyway...when I plug the vacuum in, it turns on without turning on any switches and the only way to turn it off is to unplug it.  Is there supposed to be an on/off control in the hose handle?  My second concern is on the control panel there is that part that looks like the speed control (the small bar to the larger bars, with the picture of the fan).  Is that a speed control, because it doesn't seem to do anything when I press it.  I took the control panel apart revealing the circuit boards underneath.  All of the buttons have a little switch saudered to four contact points except the speed control part...is there supposed to be a switch for this?  Additionally...is the hose just a piece of s***, and if I get a new one...which one will work?  I've seen several on Ebay.  Does the hose have to be specifically for a renaissance or can I use the epic 8000 hose that looks similar?  I hope all this makes sense...any help is appreciated.
 
Thank you.
 
TC

Forgot to mention, at some vac shops, depending on how creative the repair person is, they have by passed the circuit board in the handle, by doing this, I think the handle  just has the on off switch, but no suction control.  Haven't seen one, but have been told of it.  Don't know how long the fix lasts either.

Golden1,
 What you bought is a cleaner that came out over 10 years ago. I sold quite a few and my customers are still happy with them.  
 The 8000 hose will work. The improvements came in the way the controls work to shut the cleaner on and off and the three speed control. I have heard of problems with the motor but I haven't had any of my customers having problems.
 The model 8000 on have improved motor systems.  
 The Guardian when bought from the manufacturer gives you a 25 year warranty on the motor and unit including labor. The hose and attachments has a 5 year warranty.
 If the one you bought your cleaner from gave you a warranty I would say use it. Your warranty might not be any good. Buyer beware.  
  I read where some are saying comparable to what is selling now for $2000. Sorry, no comparison.