Important Recall Notice for Home Heating System Vent Pipes

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Russ Rader
February 24, 1998 (301) 504-0580 Ext. 1166
Release # 98-072

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a recall program involving 250,000 high-temperature plastic vent (HTPV) pipe systems used in gas or propane furnaces and boilers. These pipes, which may crack or separate and leak carbon monoxide (CO), pose a deadly risk. Consumers should inspect their systems for gray or black plastic vent pipes labeled “Plexvent,” “Plexvent II,” or “Ultravent.” If their systems are affected, they should contact the provided toll-free number for free replacements.

This recall, a collaborative effort among furnace and boiler manufacturers and HTPV pipe makers, is unprecedented in its industry-wide scope and mediation-facilitated execution. The program aims to enhance consumer safety by preventing CO poisoning, which can cause symptoms similar to the flu and even death at high exposure levels. Consumers are also encouraged to have annual inspections of fuel-burning appliances and to install CO detectors that meet current safety standards.

For more information, consumers can call the special toll-free number (800) 758-3688, available daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. EST, to verify if their systems are eligible. Eligible consumers will receive professionally installed venting systems free of charge, and those who have already replaced their HTPV pipes may be eligible for reimbursement.

Understanding Vent Pipes

Vent pipes are integral components of home heating systems. They are designed to expel combustion gases, including CO, from the furnace or boiler to the outside atmosphere. Proper venting is essential for preventing these harmful gases from accumulating inside the home, where they can pose serious health risks.

Types of Vent Pipes:

  1. Metal Vent Pipes: These are traditionally used and are highly durable. They are less prone to damage but can be more expensive and require more complex installation.
  2. Plastic Vent Pipes: These include materials like PVC, CPVC, and HTPV. While generally cost-effective and easier to install, certain types, such as HTPV, have been found to be susceptible to cracking and separating, leading to safety recalls.

Risks Associated with Faulty Vent Pipes

The primary risk associated with faulty vent pipes is CO poisoning. CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal at high levels. Symptoms of CO poisoning include dizziness, fatigue, headaches, nausea, and irregular breathing. Because these symptoms mimic those of the flu, CO poisoning can often go undetected until it becomes severe.

Health Impact of CO Exposure:

  • Low-Level Exposure: This can cause chronic health issues such as headaches, fatigue, and respiratory problems.
  • High-Level Exposure: This can result in unconsciousness, brain damage, or death within minutes.

Given these risks, homeowners must regularly inspect their venting systems and ensure they function correctly.

Identifying HTPV Pipe Systems

To determine if your home heating system is subject to the recall, inspect the vent pipes attached to your gas or propane furnace or boiler. The vent pipes in question are plastic and either gray or black in color. Look for names like “Plexvent,” “Plexvent II,” or “Ultravent” stamped on the pipes or printed on stickers used to connect them. For furnaces, only HTPV systems with vent pipes that go through the sidewalls of structures (horizontal systems) are subject to this recall. For boilers, all HTPV systems are subject to the program.

Steps for Homeowners

  1. Inspection: Regularly inspect vent pipes for signs of wear, damage, or separation. Pay special attention to the joints where pipes connect, as these are common points of failure.
  2. CO Detectors: Install CO detectors in your home, particularly near sleeping areas and fuel-burning appliances. Ensure they meet the latest safety standards.
  3. Professional Inspection: Schedule annual inspections of your heating system by a qualified technician. This can help identify potential issues before they become serious.
  4. Participate in Recall Programs: If your vent pipes are subject to the recall, contact the provided toll-free number to arrange for a free replacement of the venting system. Keep records of any repairs or replacements done.

The Role of Manufacturers and Safety Commissions

The collaboration between the furnace and boiler industry, HTPV pipe manufacturers, and the CPSC to initiate this recall program marks a significant step in consumer safety. This is the first time the CPSC has used a mediator to coordinate an industry-wide recall, highlighting the importance of addressing widespread safety issues proactively.

Manufacturers Involved in the Recall:

  • Armstrong Air Conditioning Inc.
  • Bard Manufacturing Co.
  • Burnham Corp.
  • Consolidated Industries
  • Crown Boiler Co.
  • The Ducane Co. Inc.
  • Dunkirk Radiator Corp.
  • Evcon Industries Inc.
  • Hart & Cooley Inc.
  • Heat Controller Inc.
  • International Comfort Prod. Corp.(USA)
  • Lennox Industries Inc.
  • Nordyne Inc.
  • Peerless Heater Co.
  • Pennco Inc.
  • Plexco Inc.
  • Raypak Inc.
  • Rheem Manufacturing Co.
  • Slant/Fin Corp.
  • Thermo Products Inc.
  • The Trane Co.
  • Trianco-Heatmaker Inc.
  • Utica Boilers Inc.
  • Vaillant Corp.
  • Weil-McLain
  • Westcast Inc.
  • York International Corp.

These manufacturers are taking responsibility by offering free replacements and ensuring that consumers are protected from the dangers of faulty vent pipes.

Conclusion

Maintaining the safety and efficiency of home heating systems is paramount. The recall of HTPV vent pipes reminds homeowners of the critical role that proper maintenance and timely replacements play in safeguarding against CO poisoning. Homeowners should take immediate action to inspect their heating systems, participate in recall programs, and ensure their homes are equipped with functioning CO detectors. By staying vigilant and informed, we can prevent tragedies and provide a safer living environment for everyone.