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CPSC, Cadet Recall In-Wall Heaters; Settle Lawsuit

Recalled February 17, 2000 · CPSC recall 00070 · Cadet

Recalled electric heater: model FW and RWRecalled electric heater: model FX and RXRecalled electric heater: model LX and RLXRecalled electric heater: model RA, Z, ZA, and ZC
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.
Units
More than 1.9 million
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.

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.

What to do

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.

Contact

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

Product
Cadet and Encore in-wall electric heaters
Manufacturer(s)
Cadet Manufacturing Co., of Vancouver, Wash.
Retailers
These heaters were distributed mainly in California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington.

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Official recall notice on cpsc.gov →

CPSC, Cadet Recall In-Wall Heaters; Settle Lawsuit | RecallWatchUSA