Oreck customers receive refunds
May 28th, 2012
Manufacturer of air purifiers and vacuum cleaners, Oreck, has recently paid out nearly US$700,000 in refunds after allegedly making unsubstantiated claims in its advertising.
Known for its television advertising, Oreck allegedly marketed its Halo vacuum cleaner and ProShield Plus portable air purifier as being able to prevent illness in the home by eliminating 99% of household germs through the use of ultraviolet light in the Halo, and through an electrostatic charge in the ProShield Plus.
According to the 2011 complaint by the US Federal Trade Commission, these claims had not been substantiated by scientific tests, and could thus be considered deceptive:
11. In truth and in fact:
A. Scientific tests do not prove that users of the Oreck Halo will eliminate or virtually eliminate many common germs and allergens found on the floors in their homes; and
B. Scientific tests do not prove that the Oreck ProShield Plus will eliminate or virtually eliminate many common viruses, germs and allergens from a typical household room under normal living conditions.
Therefore, the representations set forth in Paragraph 10 were, and are, false or misleading.
Oreck is now required to pay US$750,000 to the FTC, and refunds of around US$25 to each of its affected customers. It is understood that the 27,339 cheques being sent out last week will total approximately US$698,000. It is also understood that the Halo vacuum retails for approximately US$600 and the ProShield Plus for approximately $400.
When choosing a vacuum cleaner or air purifier for your home to help you hibernate this winter, check out our buying guides to get some advice. Be sure to check the Reviews of each product from your fellow Appliances Online customers so you’ll always understand what you’re buying!
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