Chicago, IL: A class action suit has been filed against Oreck that alleges that the Oreck Halo vacuum does not have the "germ killing" abilities as was advertised on TV and in infomercials. The lawsuit alleges that Oreck aggressively advertised and marketed the Halo vacuum's as a "Flu Fighter" with the ability to "kill and reduce virtually all bacteria, viruses, germs, mold, and allergens that exist on carpets and floor surfaces" including the flu and common cold.
In truth, according to the lawsuit, such claims were not substantiated. The lawsuit alleges Oreck charged consumers a substantial premium for the "germ killing" Halo vacuum, and seeks remedies under state consumer protection laws related to false advertising, including refunds for Halo purchasers.
After Oreck refused to cooperate in an investigation by the National Advertising Division of the Council of Better Business Bureaus, the National Advertising Division referred the matter to the FTC. As part of its continuing effort to protect consumers from bogus health claims, the Federal Trade Commission charged Oreck with making false and deceptive health claims regarding its Oreck Halo vacuum and ProShield Plus air cleaner products.
The FTC action was resolved last month with Oreck agreeing to pay the FTC $750,000. After the FTC' referral, Oreck stopped selling the Halo vacuum on its website, but it has not recalled the vacuums from franchise stores or other retailers. Oreck continues to sell its ProShield Plus air purifier, which Oreck also claimed to have the ability to kill germs, viruses and bacteria. Oreck further has agreed to cease making misrepresentations and numerous unsubstantiated claims about its Proshield Plus air purifier, the Oreck Halo vacuum and all its other air cleaning and vacuum cleaner products.
