Urgent Recall Notice: Rheem Electric Furnaces and Air Handlers

Critical Safety Alert: Rheem Electric Furnace and Air Handler Recall

Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Rheem Manufacturing Co. have announced a significant recall involving approximately 135,000 electric furnaces and air handlers. This recall addresses a serious fire hazard due to disintegrating heating elements that can expel molten metal particles, potentially igniting nearby combustibles. Rheem has received 16 reports of fires, resulting in various levels of property damage, including one total house fire. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported. This proactive measure aims to prevent further incidents and ensure consumer safety.

Fire Hazard Details

The disintegration of heating elements can lead to the expulsion of molten metal, igniting nearby combustibles and causing fire hazards. The affected units are specific downflow and horizontal installations, with model numbers RBEA, UBEA, WBEA, and WBEMA for electric furnaces and RBHA, UBHA, WBHA, and WBHMA for electric air handlers. Units with date codes between 3592 and 4595 are included in this recall. The model and date code are on an identification plate affixed to the front of the unit, providing easy identification for consumers. The date code is the four digits following the letter “M” in the unit’s serial number.

Product Identification and Sales Information

The physical dimensions of the units are 35 inches in length, 22 inches in depth, and varying widths of 14, 17.5, 21, or 24.5 inches, depending on model size. These units, sold nationwide from August 1992 through December 1995, were distributed to HVAC dealers with consumer prices ranging from $600 to $950. The units have cabinets constructed of sheet steel painted beige or platinum, housing a circulating air blower, electric heating elements, mechanical controls, and an air filter.

Immediate Actions for Consumers

Consumers should check if their unit is among the recalled models by locating the model number and date code on the identification plate on the front of the unit. If you identify your unit as one of the recalled models, contact Rheem’s toll-free number at (877) 749-6035, available 24/7, to confirm if your unit is affected and arrange for a free repair. Rheem will send a qualified service technician to install a new blower assembly with improved reliability at no cost, ensuring the safety and efficiency of your heating system.

Consumer Safety Tips

Regular Maintenance: Annual checks by a certified HVAC technician ensure all components function properly, detect potential hazards, and improve efficiency. These checks are especially crucial before the heating and cooling seasons. Regular maintenance not only prevents unexpected breakdowns but also extends the lifespan of your equipment.

Clear Surroundings: Maintain a clear area around heating equipment, free from combustible materials like paper, clothing, and cleaning supplies, to prevent fire hazards and ensure proper airflow. Proper airflow around the HVAC system is essential for its efficiency and can prevent overheating. Ensure that no items block vents or air returns, which can strain the system and reduce efficiency.

Smoke Detectors: Install smoke detectors in key areas of your home, such as near bedrooms, the kitchen, and hallways. Test these detectors monthly to ensure they are working correctly. Replace the batteries at least once a year and the entire unit every ten years. Smoke detectors are critical for early detection of fires, providing valuable time to evacuate and reducing the risk of injury and property damage. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), having working smoke alarms reduces the risk of dying in a reported home fire by 55%.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled in large quantities. Install CO detectors near sleeping areas and on each level of your home. Test these detectors regularly and replace the batteries at least annually. Ensure proper ventilation for your heating system and be vigilant for signs of CO leakage, such as yellow burner flames or soot around appliances. Address any potential CO leaks immediately by contacting a professional. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that CO poisoning results in more than 400 deaths and 20,000 emergency room visits annually in the U.S.

Additional Tips:

  • Educate Household Members: Ensure everyone in your household knows the location of smoke and CO detectors, understands the importance of maintaining clear surroundings, and knows the need for regular maintenance.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Develop a fire evacuation plan and practice it regularly. Ensure all household members know how to safely exit the home and where to meet outside.
  • Professional Services: Always use certified professionals to install, maintain, and repair your HVAC systems to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.

Conclusion

This recall highlights the proactive steps taken by Rheem and the CPSC to protect consumers from potential hazards. Ensuring your heating and cooling systems are safe and reliable is crucial. If you have one of the recalled units, act immediately to arrange for a free repair. Your safety and peace of mind are paramount.

For more information or to report a dangerous product, visit the CPSC website or email info@cpsc.gov. Consumers can also call the CPSC hotline at (800) 638-2772 or use the teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270. To order a press release through fax-on-demand, call (301) 504-0051 and enter the release number. 

References:

  1. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). “Smoke Alarms in U.S. Home Fires.” NFPA Report.
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.” CDC Report.