Ritchie Immersion Heaters Recalled By Springfield Wire Due to Shock Hazard
CPSC recall 09141 · announced March 4, 2009 · Springfield Wire Inc. (swi) · 13,000 units affected
The product
This recall involves the Ritchie Immersion Heaters with model numbers 17863 (120v/250w), 17939 (240v/250w or 240v/325w), and 17940 (240v/325w). The immersion heater is designed to be submerged in a cattle trough to keep the water from freezing. The model number along with "SWI" is printed on one side of the heating element and a sticker reading "Ritchie Specialty Products" is found on the other side.
The hazard
The outer cover of the immersion heater can crack and expose the heating element to water, posing a shock hazard to consumers.
What to do (per CPSC)
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled immersion heater and return it to the place of purchase for a free replacement heater.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): SWI has received 44 reports of covers cracking. No injuries have been reported.
Sold at: Ritchie distributors nationwide from February 2007 through March 2009 for about $60 to $70.
Consumer contact: For additional information, contact Ritchie Industries at (800) 747-0222 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday, visit the firms' Web sites at www.springfield-wire.com or www.ritchiefount.com, or contact the dealer from which the heater was purchased.
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.