Got a question about your Oreck? Please call Oreck Customer
Service on 0845 603 0153. Or, scroll through the Frequently asked Questions below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Oreck XL Vacuum Cleaner weigh?
Oreck XLs are truly lightweight vacuum cleaners. Many vacuum cleaners that claim to be lightweight actually weigh twice as much as an XL! The Classic and Standard Models weigh 3.8kg/8.5lbs, the XL5 4kg/8.9lb while the XL7 weighs 4.3kg/9.5lbs, in use.
What does the Helping Hand® Handle actually do?
It is ergonomically designed to reduce muscle fatigue, arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. It allows anyone to push the vacuum cleaner with ease.
What does "top-fill" mean?
"Top-fill" enables the dirt to enter the vacuum through the lower tube and drop down into the vacuum cleaner bag - it actually fills from the top, not the bottom. This allows the machine to maintain suction power while the vacuum cleaner bag is filling, as today's dust is not being drawn through yesterdays.
What's the difference between the Oreck XL7, XL5 and Classic Vacuum Cleaners?
The Oreck XL7 is our top of the range model. Years of research and development have been invested to give you the best Oreck clean to date. The fundamental differences between the XL7 and other XL models are the unprecedented 7 year warranty*, decreased noise and increased suction power. The air watt suction of the XL7 is 38.62. For all other Oreck XLs the air watt suction is 19.44. Like all Oreck XLs, the XL7 also employs the fundamental top-fill design and pile lifting roller brush that grooms and cares for your carpet. The XL7 features HEPA standard filtration. The XL5 and Classic models also have an advanced 7-stage filtration system. All models feature a long 30ft / 9m cord. The XL5 comes with a 5 year warranty*, the Classic model come with a 3 year warranty*. All upright models have a Helping Hand Handle.
*Domestic use only.
If the vacuum is so light, how strong is it?
The Oreck is manufactured with state of the art materials; therefore it is tough AND very light.
Does it sweep up to the skirting board?
Yes, the Oreck's side brushes dislodge skirting board dust which is then drawn up by the vacuum. For any dirt that is difficult to reach the Compact Canister is the answer.
Is the Oreck Manoeuvrable?
Yes, it is very light but also is designed to glide across your carpet. Very little effort is needed to push and pull the Oreck XL. The handle conveniently folds down so you can reach under furniture and all models come with 30ft cables so more than one room can be vacuumed without switching plugs.
I have always used a cylinder vacuum cleaner, what’s better about an upright?
A standard cylinder vacuum is heavy work to drag around and the Oreck is easier on your back as you don’t need to bend down.
How fast does the roller brush spin?
This varies slightly between models. The brush turns at roughly 5,450 RPM.
What is "Microsweep®"?
Microsweep® is a feature on the baseplate of the vacuum cleaner (a tiny "flap") that sweeps along the floor while you're vacuuming. This ensures that when vacuuming from carpet to hard flooring, particles do not escape from the suction path.
Why have I heard that the Oreck vacuum cleaner is a "commercial" vacuum?
Oreck vacuum cleaners have been used in a variety of hotels, motels, airports and restaurants because of their durability and light weight. If our vacuum cleaners work so well in thousands of hotel rooms, you can imagine how well they will clean your home.
Why doesn't the Oreck XL vacuum cleaner have "tools on board"?
We want to keep the upright vacuum as light as possible. That's why we provide a free compact canister vacuum with all of the attachments for above-the-floor cleaning. This machine is designed to reach all areas that the upright can not, i.e. stairs, curtains and upholstery.
How many vacuum cleaner bags do I get with the vacuum? How about vacuum belts? Air tablets?
You receive 2 bags for the upright and 2 bags for the canister, 2 belts and 1 fresh air tablet.
Won't it be difficult to find vacuum bags and supplies for my Oreck?
Not at all - simply come back to the web site where you can purchase everything you need online under the bags and belts section, call free 0800 684684, or go to one of the local dealers in your area. You can find your nearest dealer by selecting your location on "locate a dealer" page.
Where are Oreck vacuums made?
Oreck designs, engineers and assembles the upright vacuum cleaner range in America, at their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.
I don’t like giving my credit/direct card number over the telephone/Internet.
We keep credit/debit card numbers strictly confidential. The details are only kept on our system for as long as necessary, then they are deleted. See also Safe Shopping.
What if I don’t like the cleaner?
In the unlikely event that you are not convinced of the benefits of our lightweight, powerful cleaner then simply box up both units within 30 days and call our Customer Service Dept and we will arrange a collection. On receipt of the machine, you will receive a FULL REFUND.
How does the Oreck arrive?
It is delivered direct to your home or place of work by our courier.
When do they deliver?
We can deliver Monday to Friday between 9.00am - 5.30pm.
What happens if I am not in?
We can arrange an alternative delivery address when you place your order (see information on delivery to a different address), or alternatively the courier will leave a card at your home. This will have a telephone number than you can call to rearrange a convenient time for delivery.
How quickly will I receive the product?
We will despatch your goods within 28 days, however we aim to deliver within 7 days.
What does delivery include?
All our parcels are insured. This means if your product goes missing we will send you out another. A signature may be required on delivery, however if you are not in, the courier will leave a card which will allow you to call and arrange re-delivery.
How do I release the cord?
Oreck has designed a simple cord release system as retractable cords can be problematic. To release you cord simply twist the catch down.
How powerful is the Oreck XL?
The Oreck XL uses an efficient combination of agitation from a dense pile lifting brush that spins at approximately 6000 times a minute and the top-fill bag design. This means that you will always get good suction. The clever design reduces the load on the motor, giving your Oreck an Xtended Life while reducing wear to your carpet - What's more, it's kinder to your electricity bill.
Oreck XL Vacuum Cleaner Maintenance FAQs
NB: Maintenance note.
User guides should answer all maintenance queries.
How do I get my Oreck serviced?
To ensure the highest possible standard of service we have our own fully trained and equipped dealerships around the UK. In the unlikely event that it goes wrong, we can direct you to your nearest delearship or we will arrange a collection and repair/replace the product in our own workshop.
How do I know when to change the disposable bag?
Check the "fill-line" mark on the vacuum bag. The "pick up" of the machine will decrease if the bag is over-filled.
How often do the bags need changing?
It depends on how often you use your vacuum, the type of dust/dirt you are vacuuming up and the size of your home. One bag should last 6-8 weeks for an average sized 3 bedroomed house.
How do I change the vacuum bag?
If you have a newer model of the Oreck XL Upright, (since 1997), then your Oreck should have the Bag Docking System. With the Bag Docking System, you slide the bag into the bag dock door, and then push and snap it into place. Securing the bag correctly produces a "snap" sound. Older models of the Oreck XL Upright do NOT have the Bag Docking System. These bags simply pop into place.
How often should I change the vacuum belt?
We recommend that you change the vacuum belt at least every 6 months to prevent strain on your motor and to keep the brush spinning at optimum efficiency. As with changing the bags, the time span depends on usage.
To purchase a new pack of three please visit the 'Upright Accessories' page. For a guide on how to replace a motor belt please see the guides available on the servicing page
Where are the fresh air tablets and XL7 scent cartridges inserted?
The fresh air tablets can be placed directly into the outer bag or in the tab pocket (a square piece of fabric near the zip).
The scent cartridges (XL7 only) can be used in both the deluxe canister and upright vacuum. To insert in the deluxe canister, remove the HEPA filter cover from the back of the machine and place on the tab inside. For the XL7 upright, press the two locking tabs on the cartridge cover to release the cover (at the base of the vacuum). Remove the cartridge holder and replace scent cartridge.
I'm having trouble disconnecting the tube assembly from the fan housing assembly.
Locate the silver button under the rubber collar to the back of the vacuum cleaner. Push the button in gently and twist with back and forth motion lifting the tube assembly upward [only applicable to the 9000 series upright].
How do you change the vacuum belts?
Remove side panel and follow instructions in your "product userguide" or visit the Servicing Page for a easy follow guide.
How often should I change the HEPA motor filter? (XL7 only).
As a guide this should be replaced every 2 months and the scent cartridge every month. However this obviously depends on usage.
Am I able to replace parts of my Oreck if they become worn over time?
Yes. Our DIY Home Service Kit is specially designed for you to ensure the smooth running of your upright Oreck XL by replacing some of the parts at home.
Each pack contains 3 motor belts, 2 corner brushes and a new roller brush. Please go to 'Upright Accessories' to purchase.
Oreck Compact Canister Vacuum Cleaner FAQs
How much does the canister weigh?
The canister weighs just 5lb / 2.3kg and has a handy carry strap to leave your hands free.
What is the wattage of the canister?
500 watts.
Where is the micro filter located?
To find the micro filter, take the disposable dust bag out and look inside to the rear wall.
Is it necessary to replace the micro filter each time I replace the disposable vacuum cleaner bag?
No. However, it is necessary to change the micro filter if it becomes soiled.
Oreck Air Purifier FAQ's
How do Oreck Air Purifiers work?
Oreck Air Purifiers use a five-stage purification process to clean the air. The diagram below illustrates the various purification stages.
The five-stage purification process which Oreck uses effectively filters 95% of particles as minute as 0.1 microns. First, a pre-filter captures large particles such as hair, lint etc. Electricity is used to positively charge smaller particles, which are then locked in by the alternately charged plates of the collector cell. An optional odour absorber uses activated charcoal to absorb common household odours, and finally,an Air Revitaliser emits negative ions to freshen stale air. No other purifier uses this powerful combination of technology.
What are the common types of air purifier technologies?
• Electronic Air Purifiers (Oreck Air Purifiers)
A true electronic air cleaner is a two-stage electrostatic precipitator that allows the air stream to pass through an electric field and particles (regardless of size) receive an electric charge. Once charged, the particles pass through a collecting section that remove the particles from the air stream by oppositely charged collection plates. The collection efficiency is determined by the strength of the electrical field and the time that the particles are exposed to charging and collection areas.
• Negative Ion Generators (also called Ionizers)
An ionizer uses high voltage at low wattage to emit negative ions through needles or fine wire. It does not trap airborne pollutants, but will cause airborne particles to settle out of the air. When included with another air cleaning technology as a final stage in the cleaning process, the negative ions help to create a fresh, clean scent through the production of low levels of ozone.
• HEPA Air Cleaners
HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Arrestance. This filter uses very fine fibers in a dense mat to capture particles.
HEPA filters create high resistance to airflow, which gets worse as the filter loads with dirt. This resistance causes HEPA units to use more energy (and cost more to operate). This filter also causes HEPA unit performance to decline as the filter gets dirty. HEPA units require you to frequently change the expensive filters.
• Ozone Generators
Ozone is a molecule composed of three atoms of oxygen. An ozone generator disperses large amounts of ozone. Ozone is used effectively in various sterilization processes and to neutralize odours.
Some ozone generators are being marketed as air purifiers. Ozone does not remove airborne particles, though some particle removal is accomplished if the ozone generator is used with a negative ion generator. Though an ozone generator will mask odours, it is not designed to purify air.
• Fanless or Silent Air Purifiers
These air purifiers do not use a fan to circulate the air.
Controlled tests using small demonstrator boxes show effectiveness, which may be difficult to replicate in actual rooms. To clean the air in a room, air must be drawnthrough the collection media. If there is no air movement, there can be very minimal air cleaning.
Does the Oreck Air Purifier require replacement filters?
The Oreck Air Purifier does not require any replaceable filters. It uses a permanent pre-filter to filter larger particles and hairs; the pre-filter can be rinsed off and re-used continually.
In addition to air purification, the Oreck Air Purifier provides the additional benefit of odour removal with its charcoal odour absorber. The charcoal odour absorber is optional, and odour absorption effectiveness will gradually deteriorate over time unless the charcoal odour absorber is replaced.The Oreck Air Purifier will continue to remove harmful airborne particles with its permanent electronic collector cell even if you choose not to use the optional charcoal odour absorber.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT wash the charcoal odour absorber. Replace, if necessary.
How does the Air Revitaliser work?
The Air Revitaliser is the fifth stage of the Oreck 5-stage air purification process; it releases negative ions to revitalize the air. The Air Revitaliser can be turned on or off on the Oreck Air Purifier. Turning the Air Revitaliser on provides a pleasant, clean smell, but does not impact the air purifier’s cleaning efficiency.
Is the Oreck Air Purifier an ozone generator?
No, the Oreck Air Purifier is not an ozone generator because it does not rely on ozone as part of the cleaning process. Ozone is a natural by-product of many electrical appliances.
The Air Purifier’s Air Revitaliser also produces very low levels of ozone, and can be turned on or off with a switch located on the front of the unit. Any ozone produced by the Air Revitaliser does not impact the Air Purifier’s cleaning efficiency. When the Air Revitaliser is on, the ozone produced by both the Air Revitaliser and the air purifier together is well under Department of Health and World Health Organisation guidelines of 50 ppb (parts per billion).
My Oreck Air Purifier makes sparking or popping noises. Is this normal?
Yes. As a large particle is captured in the collector cell, the Oreck Air Purifier may make a sparking or popping noise. Cleaning the collector cell may help. If your Air Purifier continues to make excessive popping noises, it may be damaged and should be returned.
What are the best ways to clean the collector cell?
The electronic collector cell cleans easily in detergent and water. The collector should be allowed to air dry before re-inserting it. Oreck does not recommend the use of heated or compressed air as part of the drying process.
Oreck offers Assail-a-Cell® cleaner for particularly stubborn dirt and grime (such as tobacco tar); It is the fastest and easiest way to clean the collector cell because the high-action foaming cleanser liquefies dirt, tobacco, tar, and other residue.
Do not try to clean the collector cell by inserting a cloth, brush, or other device between the cell plates. Inserting objects in the collector cell may damage the positive charging wires or collector cell plates.
How often should I wash the collector cell?
How often you need to wash it depends on the environment. A good suggestion is to wash the cell after the initial four weeks of use and once every eight weeks thereafter, though you may find that a different cleaning schedule is better for you over time.
How does the red "Wash Cell" light work?
The red "Wash Cell" light is set off by a high amperage sensor. It is not necessary to wait for the red light before cleaning the collector cell. Very dirty collector cells or arcing will set off the red "Wash Light" cell, but Oreck recommends cleaning the cell on a regular scheduled basis (typically every two months or as desired) before the light goes off.
Can the Air Purifier be used in the presence of oxygen?
Pure oxygen is a combustible gas, and you should take appropriate precautions when using electrical appliances such as the Oreck Air Purifier in the presence of an oxygen machine or tank.
We suggest that you consult with your oxygen and medical equipment providers regarding the use of the Air Purifier in the presence of oxygen or other combustible gases.
What size room can an Oreck Air Purifier clean?
You’ll find best results using the Air Purifier in an appropriately sized room—Oreck suggests not more than a 30’ by 30’ room, though this size may depend on the environment (pets, foot traffic, frequency of opening and closing doors to the outside).
Of course, no air purifier can clean through walls; an air purifier is designed to be room specific.
How long should the Air Purifier run before I’ll notice a difference?
You will likely see a difference as quickly as the first few days of use, but you should definitely begin to see a difference in the first two weeks.
When should I use the "Silence Technology®" mode?
The collector cell cleans as effectively on the Silence setting as it does on the high setting, however the fan moves slower. As a result, the Air Purifier cleans as well on low as on high, but will clean the room more slowly as it circulates less air.
To maximize cleaning effectiveness, you may choose to set the purifier on high or medium while out of the house, and set the purifier on Silence when noise is a potential issue.
Will I still have to dust and clean?
Yes, but you may be pleasantly surprised at how infrequently. Using the Oreck Air Purifier helps to protect home furnishings from damaging pollutants and will keep the house looking cleaner longer.
How do I register my Oreck Air Purifier?
Oreck products can be registered by filling out a form online. Click here to complete a product registration.
Does the Oreck Air Purifier come with a warranty?
Yes. New models come with a 2 year parts and labour warranty.
Where can I find Accessories and Supplies for Oreck Air Purifiers?
You can get all the accessories and supplies you need for your Oreck Air Purifer, right here on Oreck.co.uk. call 0800 684 684.
Oreck Orbiter FAQs
