We have had exactly the same problems as the other reviewer - cord retrieval device breaks as does the on/off foot switch. Basically, when you see how they are designed inside, the whole mechanism depends on a bit of plastic - which easily breaks. Having had the on/off section replaced under warranty no less than 3 times, I gave up and modified it myself (strengthened it using "plasticx metal" bodyfiller type material). The cord retirieval device I drilled out and replaced with a short length of cord which you pull. None of this should be neccessary of course. WE also had to repair the handle at the head of the suction pipe. All of this is a real shame as ...  Read the complete review

I have just changed my cleaner and with a smile I can say about time. I have lived under a false economy with this product, I have spent far too much money on new pipes (they break at the handle and the cylinder end), I have tried to do running repairs with tape, cut them shorter and reglued them all to no avail as they keep breaking. The cord retreive was never at its best and with age it got more and more unreliable. The angle of the nozzle meant it was very easy to get blocked up. The seals did not last long, maybe I was just unlucky with the one I had, but I doubt that I will buy another Hoover product, such was my disappointment with the overall ...  Read the complete review