I had a Rowenta focus for 3 years and loved it while it worked. One day it would not heat up. I contacted Rowentas Customer Service. I explained that I was disappointed in the quality of the iron for the price I paid. I expected it to last for more than 3 years.
I was sent a mailing label to ship the iron back (for free). The iron was to be checked as to why it wasn't heating and the results sent back to me.
Surprise! Several weeks later a brand new Rowenta Iron arrived at my door. It was an updated model of the same Iron I had sent in for trouble-shooting.
I believe all irons have lemons in the bunch. Keep your receipt and contact customer service if you are disappointed with your iron purchase no matter what the original cost may be. Large company's want happy customers.. especially quilters who buy a majority of irons on the market. Good luck with your search.