The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·93104·Announced 1993-08-19

Bissell Trio Vac vacuums recalled due to fan breakage and injury risk

BISSELL is recalling 1992 Trio Vac vacuums because the plastic fan may break, propelling sharp pieces from the housing and causing injuries.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product where injuries have been reported (12 injuries, including two at eye level), but no deaths or severe injuries are documented, fitting the 'High' criteria for injury reports without fatalities.

Plain-English summary

BISSELL, Inc. is voluntarily recalling approximately 13,000 BISSELL Trio Vac model 3005 (single speed) and model 3005W (canister kit) vacuums manufactured in 1992. These units were sold nationwide through major retailers through June 1993 for approximately $50 or $60. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

The vacuum's plastic fan may break into pieces, causing the housing to crack open and propelling hard, sharp fan pieces from the unit. BISSELL has received 40 consumer reports of product failures, including 12 reports of injuries. While most injuries were minor cuts and bruises to the lower body, two injuries occurred at eye level.

Consumers who purchased these vacuums through June 1993 should immediately stop using them. To determine if a unit is affected, remove the dirt collection tank and check the six-digit number on the inside of the bottom motor housing. If the first two numbers are 93, the vacuum has a metal fan and does not need to be returned. If the numbers are 92 or no numbers are visible, the vacuum must be returned. Consumers should call BISSELL Customer Service at 1-800-237-7691, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. BISSELL will replace the 1992 vacuums with 1993 models containing a metal fan or provide a full refund, and will reimburse postage for returned units.

The recalled product

Product
BISSELL Trio Vac vacuums
Manufacturer
BISSELL

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.