Skip to content

CPSC, Cadet Recall In-Wall Heaters; Settle Lawsuit

U.S. CPSCFireBurnsElectric shockFeb 17, 2000
Recalled electric heater: model FW and RW
Recalled electric heater: model FW and RW
Recalled electric heater: model FX and RX
Recalled electric heater: model FX and RX
Recalled electric heater: model LX and RLX
Recalled electric heater: model LX and RLX
Recalled electric heater: model RA, Z, ZA, and ZC
Recalled electric heater: model RA, Z, ZA, and ZC
Recalled electric heater: model TK and RK
Recalled electric heater: model TK and RK

Photos from the official notice: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission · image rights

Hazard

Flames, sparks or molten particles can spew through the front grill cover of the heater into the living area of a residence, putting consumers at risk from fires, including burn injuries, smoke inhalation and property damage. The heaters also can become energized creating a risk of electric shock.

Remedy

Cadet is offering consumers replacement heaters at a significantly reduced cost. Each heater will cost between $25 and $57, depending on the model. Consumers who already have replaced the recalled units from October 23, 1997, until today can file a claim for partial reimbursement for $25 per heater. Consumers must register to participate in this recall by February 17, 2002.

Incidents & injuries

CPSC is aware of more than 320 reports of heaters that smoked, sparked, caught fire, emitted flames, or ejected burning particles or molten materials. These incidents have allegedly resulted in three deaths, two serious burn injuries and property damage claims exceeding $1.2 million, which include five partial or total house fires.

Product description

The heaters that are part of today's recall announcement are the following models of Cadet and Encore brands: FW, FX, LX, TK, ZA, Z, RA, RK, RLX, RX, RW and ZC. The brand and model are located on a label on the front of the heat box, behind the grill. Before removing the grill to check the identification label, consumers must disconnect the power supply to the heater at the circuit breaker. If power is not disconnected, consumers risk electrocution and shock.

Sold on

These heaters were distributed mainly in California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington.

Contact the company

Consumers may contact Cadet anytime at (800) 567-2613 or at http://www.cadetco.com/upgrade_program.php#recall

What should I do?

Stop using the product and follow the remedy below. Contact the company for a refund, repair or replacement — recall remedies are free.

More from this brand

See all →

Recent alerts in this category

See all →