Recall Alert: Home Heating and A/C Components

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with The Trane Company, a division of American Standard Inc., has announced a voluntary recall of 9,900 accessory electric heaters used in heat pumps or electric heating systems. These heaters provide supplemental heat and have been identified as a potential fire hazard due to incorrectly routed wires causing continuous cycling. This can lead to excessive heat and potentially ignite nearby combustibles.

Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ken Giles
August 18, 1999 (301) 504-0580 Ext. 1184
Release # 99-158 Trane Contact: Sharon Brogdon
(903) 581-3568

Details of the Recall

The Trane Company, in collaboration with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), is recalling 9,900 accessory electric heaters due to wiring issues that can cause overheating and potential fire hazards. These heaters, used in Trane and American Standard air handlers, continually cycle on and off. The affected models are BAYHTR1419A and B. Consumers should stop using these heaters and contact Trane for free repairs, which include installing a new blower assembly with an improved heating element. Although four reports of malfunctioning heaters exist, no injuries or property damage have been reported.

The model numbers for air handlers that may contain the recalled heater units are:

Subject Model Numbers
TWG048A140A* TWG060A150A*
TWV036B140A* TVF036A140A*
TWE030C140A,B* TWE030C140F* TWE030C14FB*
TWE036C140A,B* TWE036C140F* TWE036C14FB*
TWE042C140B,C* TWE042C14FB,C*
TWE048C140A,B* TWE048C140F* TWE048C14FC*
TWE060C15FC,D*
TWE060D150A,B*
TWE030P130A,B* TWE030P13FA,B*
TWE036P130A,B* TWE030P13FA,B*
TWE042P130A,B* TWE042P13FA,B*
TWE048P130A,B* TWE048P13FA,B*
TWE060P130A,B* TWE060P13FA,B*
TWE063P130A,B* TWE063P13FA,B*
TWE031E13FA,B*
TWE037E13FA,B*
TWE040E13FA,B*
TWE065E13FA,B*

*All models have a single Arabic digit after this final letter

Safety Measures and Consumer Actions

To mitigate fire risk, consumers who own these air handlers should immediately remove any combustible materials from around the units. It is crucial to contact a local independent Trane or American Standard dealer for a free inspection and necessary repairs. Dealers can be located through the Yellow Pages, by visiting Trane’s website, or by calling Trane at (888) 556-0125.

Statistics on Heating Equipment Safety

Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires in the United States. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment was involved in an estimated 48,530 reported home structure fires in 2018, resulting in 500 deaths, 1,350 injuries, and $1.1 billion in direct property damage. These fires accounted for 15% of all reported home fires. Ensuring that your heating system is operating correctly and free from defects can significantly reduce these risks.

Potential Fire Hazards

Faulty wiring and continuous cycling of heating components are common causes of household fires. The NFPA states that nearly half of all home heating fires occur in December, January, and February. Ensuring that your heating system is properly maintained and that any recalls are addressed promptly can help mitigate these risks.

Consumer Safety Tips

  • Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual checks with a certified HVAC technician to ensure all components function properly, detect potential hazards, and improve efficiency. For optimal performance, perform these checks before the heating and cooling seasons.
  • Clear Surroundings: Keep the area around heating equipment free from combustible materials like paper, clothing, and cleaning supplies to prevent fire hazards and ensure proper airflow.
  • Smoke Detectors: Install and test smoke detectors monthly in key areas. For early smoke and fire detection, replace batteries annually and the entire unit every ten years.

Importance of Proactive Measures

Taking proactive measures like these can significantly enhance the safety of your home environment. Regular maintenance and inspections help identify potential hazards and extend your HVAC system’s life. Keeping surroundings clear of flammable materials reduces the fire risk, while smoke and CO detectors provide early warnings that can save lives. Investing in these simple safety practices ensures a safer, more efficient home heating system.

The Role of CPSC in Consumer Safety

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) plays a crucial role in protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of consumer products. The CPSC oversees the safety of more than 15,000 consumer products, including home heating and cooling equipment. The Commission’s efforts have significantly reduced the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 40 years.

How to Handle a Recall

If you receive a recall notice for your HVAC or home appliance, following specific steps to ensure your safety and compliance is crucial. Here’s a detailed guide on how to handle a product recall:

Stop Using the Product

Immediately stop using the recalled product, as it poses a risk to your safety. Continuing to use it could result in injury, fire, or other hazards. Disconnect it from any power sources and ensure that all household members know about the recall and the need to avoid using the product.

  • Check for Model Numbers: Verify if your appliance is included in the recall by checking the model number on the product and cross-referencing it with the recall notice.
  • Contact the Manufacturer: Contact the manufacturer or dealer using the provided customer service number or visit their website for further instructions. To expedite the process, provide your product’s model and serial numbers.
  • Schedule Repairs: Arrange for necessary repairs or replacements through authorized service centers, usually free of charge. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely.
  • Document the Process: Keep records of all communications and documents related to the recall, including emails, receipts, and notes from phone calls for future reference.

Conclusion

Independent installers sold Trane and American Standard accessory electric heaters nationwide from October 1997 to May 1999 for $250 to $400. Consumers should remove combustible materials around recalled air handlers and contact local dealers for a free inspection and repair. For assistance, call Trane at (888) 556-0125 or visit their website. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission protects against product hazards and can be reached at (800) 638-2772 or via email at info@cpsc.gov for more information or to report product-related injuries.

References

  • U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
  • National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
  • U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)