American Flame Recalls Fireplaces to Replace Gas Valves Due to Fire and Explosion Hazards
CPSC recall 08277 · announced May 21, 2008 · American Flame · 12,000 units affected
The product
The recall involves American Flame AF-4000 series fireplace gas valves installed in residential fireplaces made by twelve manufacturers under the following brand names: Pacific Energy, Travis Industries, CFM Corporation, Canadian Heating Products, Portland Willamette, Rasmussen, Chimeneas de Columbia, Twin Eagles, FDM, Inca Metals (Savannah Heating), Even Temp, and Valley Comfort. The valves were installed in some but not all fireplaces. Date codes included in the recall include 0622 through 0718. The gas valve model number is located on a label on the bottom of each gas valve. The date code is located above the label.
The hazard
Gas can continue to flow into the fireplace pilot light area after the switch has been turned "off," posing a fire or explosion hazard to consumers.
What to do (per CPSC)
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled fireplaces and contact their dealer for a free repair. The repair involves replacing the fireplace's valve if it leaks gas in the "off" position when tested by a qualified service technician.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): American Flame has received two reports of incidents involving valve failure and continuous gas flow. No injuries or fires have been reported.
Sold at: Fireplace retailers and distributors nationwide from September 2006 through July 2007 for between $500 and $2,000 for the fireplaces, with additional costs for installation.
Consumer contact: For additional information, contact American Flame toll-free at (888) 672-8929 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET to determine if your fireplace is included in the recall and to arrange for a free repair, or visit the firm's Web site at www.skytechsystem.com
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.