The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall of about 244,000 GE, GE Profile, GE Monogram, and Kenmore wall ovens made from 2002 to 2003 due to burn and fire hazards. Read more about the recall in this post from our Safety blog and at the CPSC and GE Appliance sites.
Essential information: If you're in the market for a new wall oven, check out our recently updated wall ovens product page and our exclusive Home Improvement Guide interactive.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on October 30, 2008, announced the recall of about 370,000 Homelite chain saws whose chain brake could fail to stop the chain on its first application, posing a risk of laceration ris. For full details, including a list of the 10 Homelite models affected, visit this CPSC recall page.
If you're using a chain saw as part of your fall cleanup, here's what you need to know:
• Our anatomy of a chain saw lists specific performance and safety features on the models included in our latest report on chain saws (ratings are available to subscribers). It's interesting to note that seven models lacked a chain brake. That's significant, since checking the chain brake leads the advice in our primer on chain-saw maintenance.
• Our advice for safer sawing and the video (right) illustrate proper protective equipment and sawing technique.
• Cutting down a tree is a job best left to the pros, particularly for trees larger than about 6 inches around. While trees often fall in the direction they’re leaning, it can be tricky to know where they'll come down. The University of Missouri’s extension center's Web site is among several with illustrated tree- felling techniques.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on October 9, 2008,
announced the recall of 45,000 automatic gas-vent dampers manufactured
by Effikal LLC, of Orion, Michigan, that could fail and cause gas boilers
to emit carbon monoxide if the blocked vent switch does not activate.
For full details—including a list of the 14 different brands of gas boilers that could be affected—visit the CPSC recall page and the manufacturer's own Web site.
Essential information: With winter heating season upon us, read about carbon-monoxide detectors and smoke alarms. You can also review our guides to buying a new gas furnace or wood- or pellet-burning stove and brand-history repair for gas furnaces. You'll also find advice on maintaining your heating systems and head-to-head efficiency comparisons of major appliances.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on July 23, 2008, announced the recall of 987,000 tool attachments for Dirt Devil vacuums (shown) because of a laceration-hazard risk. For full details on the recall, read this entry on the Consumer Reports Safety blog.
Essential information: When you're in the market for a new vacuum, read our latest report and visit our vacuum product page, where you'll find our expert buying advice for the different types of vacuums, like those featured in our video shopping guide. And did you know that the vacuum cleaner turned 100 this year?
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on July 9, 2008, announced the recall of abut 20,5000 Honda lawn mowers due to a laceration hazard. The rear shield on the affected mowers can break off, possibly allowing debris to be thrown toward the person mowing. As of the recall date, no injuries have been reported.
The mowers, made in the United States by American Honda Motor Corp. of Torrance, California, have the model number HRX217(K)2HXA or HRX217(K)2HMA with a serial number MAGA-1500001 through MAGA-1520532. You'll find the model and serial numbers on a label on the upper rear of the mower deck. The mowers, $900, were sold at Honda dealers and Home Depot stores nationwide from October 2007 to June 2008.
If you own a recalled mower, stop using it immediately and call your local Honda dealer to arrange for a free repair. For more information, call Honda (800-426-7701, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday) or go to Honda's recalls page.
Essential information: Get more information about electric and gas mowers and lawn tractors, read our latest mowers report, and use the expert advice in our Complete Lawn & Yard Guide to help your lawn look its best.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recently issued a recall of about 24,000 containers of Cabot Composite Deck Cleaner #3502 because of an inhalation and fire hazard.
The cleaner, made by Cabot Stains of Newburyport, Massachusetts, contains an ingredient that can react with metal foil residue on the packaging, releasing heat and chlorine gas, according to the CPSC.
If you bought any of the cleaner, which comes in a 2-pound plastic container (shown), do not use it and return the product to the store where you bought it for a refund. If the container appears misshapen or feels hot, call Cabot (877-755-3336, 24 hours a day) to arrange for the safe handling of the cleaner.
For more details on the recall, read the CPSC’s notice or download a PDF from the Cabot Web site.
Essential information: Look for our report on deck materials and deck stains in the July 2008 issue of Consumer Reports. And follow these tips to get a great-looking deck.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on April 25 announced the recall of the LawnBott LB2000, LB2100, LB3000, and LB3200 robotic lawn mowers, all made by Zucchetti Centro Sistemi S.p.A., of Italy.
Read more about the LB3200 Evolution mower in this story from the May 2008 issue of Consumer Reports, learn about the recall in this post from our Safety blog, and watch our video (right).
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recently issued the following
recalls of small kitchen appliances.
For more information, read this item from the Consumer Reports Safety blog and click on each item for details from the CPSC.
Hamilton Beach and Proctor Silex toasters (shown) recalled due to fire hazard.
Cooks deep fryers (sold at JCPenney) recalled due to fire and hazards.
QVC and Tristar electric contact grills recalled due to fire hazard.
Essential information: To learn how to stay informed about product recalls, read “CPSC Steps Out With Million-Consumer March.” And be sure to subscribe to the Consumer Reports Safety blog for the latest on product-safety news.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued the following recalls of home-related products for the week of February 18, 2008. Click on each item for detailed
information from the CPSC.
Aloha Housewares portable electric heaters recalled due to fire hazard
Louisville Ladder extension ladders recalled due to fall hazard
Rinnai wall furnaces (shown) recalled due to carbon-monoxide hazard
Read this entry from our Safety blog for further details on ladders and portable heaters.
Essential information: To learn how to stay informed about product recalls, read “CPSC Steps Out With Million-Consumer March.” And be sure to subscribe to the Consumer Reports Safety blog for the latest on product-safety news. See all recent CPSC product recalls here.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recently announced these
home-related product recalls. Click on each item for detailed
information from the CPSC.
To learn how to stay informed about product recalls, read “CPSC Steps Out With Million-Consumer March.” And be sure to subscribe to the Consumer Reports Safety blog for the latest on product-safety news. See all recent product recalls here.
Recall of 233,000 Campbell Hausfeld and Husky air compressors (shown)
Recall of 253,000 Crafters Square hot-melt mini-glue guns
Vornado Trust will pay a $500,000 civil penalty for failing to report defects and hazards with electric heaters
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recently announced these home-related product recalls. Click on each item for detailed information from the CPSC.
To learn how to stay informed about product recalls, read “CPSC steps out with million-consumer march.” And be sure to subscribe to the Consumer Reports Safety blog for the latest on product-safety news. See all recent product recalls here.
Recall of 346,000 DeWalt cordless drills due to fire hazard (shown)
Recall of 50,000 North American Breaker Co. counterfeit circuit breakers due to fire hazard
Recall of 43,000 Lenox covered warmer dishes due to fire and burn hazards
Recall of 38,250 Manttra Inc. pressure cookers due to burn hazard (shown)
Recall of 8,500 Intermatic digital timers due to shock hazard
Recall of 90,000 L G Sourcing, Inc. incandescent torchère lamps due to fire hazard
Recall of 6,300 A.O. Smith exhaust fan electric motors due to fire hazard
Recall of 1,300 Wick & Petal Co. jar candles due to fire hazard
Recall of 185,000 Pottery Barn round and egg-shaped decorative Candles due to fire hazard
The U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission on December 19, 2007, announced the recall of about 167,000 Honda walk-behind lawn mowers due to a laceration hazard. The cutting blade on the mower could continue to rotate under power even after the user has released the control lever, posing a serious risk. The recalled models do not comply with mandatory federal safety standards for lawn mowers, says the CPSC.
Recalled models, made in the U.S. by American Honda Motor Corp., of Torrance, California, include all HRB217HXA mowers and HRX217HXA and HRX217HMA with serial numbers 1000001 to 1513628. You’ll find the model and serial numbers printed on a label on the upper rear of the mower deck. The mowers ($760 to $900) were sold at Honda dealers and Home Depot stores nationwide from January 2003 through November 2007.
If you own a recalled mower, stop using it immediately. To arrange for a free repair, call Honda (800-426-7701) from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. For more information, go to the company’s recall page.
The recalled HRX217HXA (shown) was the top-scoring self-propelled mower in our Spring 2007 report on lawn mowers and tractors. (Ratings are available to subscribers.) This 21-inch, 6.5-hp, variable-speed rear-wheel-drive mower features a blade-brake clutch and an advanced-formula plastic deck and can side-discharge, mulch, and bag.
For more information on mower safety, read our expert advice.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on December 12, 2007, announced the recall of about 1,600 Billy Goat MultiVac outdoor vacuums because of a fire and burn hazard. And on December 13, 2007, the CPSC announced the recall of about 1,100 Venmar heat-recovery ventilators because of a fire hazard.
The fuel tank on the Billy Goat vacuum (shown), made in the United States by Billy Goat Industries Inc, of Lee's Summit, Missouri, could crack and leak fuel.
The vacuum ($1,500 to $1,850) was sold at outdoor-power-equipment and rental dealers nationwide from June 2007 through November 2007.
The black-and-green vacuum has a red motor housing and the words Billy Goat appear on the vacuum bag; it is powered by a Honda engine. Affected models are the MV650H and MV650SPH, with the following serial numbers: 061107xxx, 061807xxx, 062507xxx, 070907xxx, 072407xxx, 073007xxx, 080607xxx, 081307xxx, 082007xxx, 082707xxx, 090407xxx, and 091007xxx.
If you own a recalled vacuum, stop using it immediately and contact a Billy Goat or Honda Lawn and Garden dealer for a free fuel-tank replacement. For more information, call Honda (800-426-7701) from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or visit the company’s recall page.
On the Venmar heat-recovery ventilators (shown), the thermal protector units can fail, posing a fire hazard.
The ventilators ($700 to $2,500), made in Canada by Venmar Ventilation Inc., of Quebec, were sold at heating-, plumbing-, and building-supply distributors nationwide from January 1991 through December 2001. A number of different brands and models are affected. Go to the CPSC’s recall page to see if your heat-recovery ventilator is affected.
If you own a recalled model, turn off and unplug the unit and stop using it immediately. Venmar will provide you with a free safety device that will shut off the ventilator if the motor overheats. Contact the manufacturer (866-441-4645) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, for more information or go to the company’s recall page.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on December 6, 2007, announced the recall of about 20,000 oscillating ceramic heaters because of a fire hazard. The heaters can overheat, smoke, or ignite. Read “With space heaters, safety is essential” for more information on heater safety and to watch our CRTV report.
The 1,500-watt heater (shown), made in China and imported by Collins International Co., Ltd., of Fair Lawn, New Jersey, was sold for about $25 at Menards stores nationwide from September 2006 through March 2007. The heater has a white-plastic housing with the name Heat-Wave on the top. You’ll find the model number (EB38005) and control number (ETL 3090262) on the bottom of the heater.
If you own a recalled heater, stop using it immediately and return it to a Menards store for a full refund. For more information, call Collins (866-877-1889) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or go to the company’s Web Site.
Following the death of a 19-month-old child who was killed when an entertainment center collapsed
on her, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on December 5 announced the recall of about 138,000 entertainment centers
sold by Ameriwood Industries under the Ridgewood/Charleswood brand.
The $200 unit (shown), which carries model number 93956, was sold at mass merchandisers nationwide, including Kmart, from June 2000 through May 2005.
Read the details of this recall in our Safety blog and find out what to do if you own one of the recalled units.
As this video from our March 2006 safety alert
shows, unstable furniture can pose a real risk, and tip-overs often
occur because consumers are not taking necessary safety precautions at
home. Here's what you can do to prevent a dangerous, even fatal,
accident:
• Ensure that the furniture on or in which you place your
TVs is stable. Do not place TVs on dressers, chests, or other types of
furniture with drawers that young children can pull out and use to
climb.
• Place your TV as far back as possible on or in the furniture--tip-over is more likely if the set is too far forward.
•
Do not store items on top of the TV that will grab a child's
attention--a small kid might try to climb on a piece of furniture in an
effort to get the remote. "The predictable thing about kids is that
they are unpredictable," says Julie Vallese, director of public affairs
for the CPSC. She adds that parents should never assume that their
children who tend not to be "climbers" won't use the drawers in a
dresser as a stepladder, for example.
• Keep all cables and wires
behind the TV or furniture. This way, no one will trip over them and
potentially pull over the TV or furniture.
• Anchor any potentially
unstable furniture more than 30 inches tall to the wall or floor with
straps or other restraints. And keep heavy objects off of dressers.
• Look for TV carts and stands that meet Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on December 5, 2007, announced the recalls of about 92,000 GE, GE Profile, and Kenmore combination wall and microwave ovens and around 70,000 Black & Decker ST2000 Infrawave toasters.
The GE/GE Profile/Kenmore ovens (shown) were recalled because of a fire hazard in the microwave oven. The door switch in the microwave can overheat and ignite plastic components in the control area. The lower oven does not pose a hazard and you can continue to use it, according to the CPSC.
The combination ovens ($1,500 to $2,000), made by GE Consumer & Industrial of Louisville, Kentucky, were sold at department and appliance stores nationwide from January 2000 through December 2003. They came in white, black, bisque, and stainless steel. To find out if you have a recalled model, look for your model number on the CPSC recall page.
If you own a recalled oven, stop using the microwave immediately and contact GE or Sears. To reach GE, call 888-240-2745 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET, Saturday). To reach Sears, call 888-679-0282 (8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET, Monday through Saturday). For more information, go to the GE or Sears site.
GE is offering a free repair or rebate on a new product, a $300 rebate toward the purchase of a new GE-brand unit, or a $600 rebate toward the purchase of a new GE Profile-brand unit. Sears is offering a free repair or a $300 rebate toward the purchase of a new Kenmore-brand unit.
The Black & Decker Infrawave ST2000 toasters (shown) were recalled because of a fire hazard. An electrical component in the toaster can overheat and ignite the circuit board.
The toasters (about $50), made in China for Applica Consumer Products Inc. of Miramar, Florida, were sold at home-improvement and discount department stores nationwide from March 2007 through November 2007. This two-slice toaster is black with stainless-steel trim and has a digital display below the toaster lever. "Black & Decker" appears on the top of the toaster.
If you own a recalled model, unplug the toaster immediately and don’t use it. contact. To receive a refund, call Applica at 800-556-9439 (8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday) or go to the company’s recall page.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on November 27, 2007, announced the recall of about 7,100 10-inch sliding miter saws and about 6,000 wood-burning metal firepits.
The Performax (shown) and Wilton 10-inch miter saws, made in China by WMH Tool Group Inc. of Elgin, Illinois, were recalled because of a laceration hazard. The switch on the saw handle can fail, causing the tool to smoke, spark, and trip circuit breakers, which might disable its safety brake. What’s more, the saw could keep operating unless the user unplugs it.
The saws ($150 to $250) were sold at home centers and hardware retailers nationwide from August 2006 through March 2007. Recalled saws include the Performax model 90206 and Wilton number 34570 with date code/serial numbers ranging from W062505 to W070405.
If you own a recalled saw, stop using it and contact WMH to get a replacement or a full refund. For more information, call the manufacturer (800-689-9928) from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or go to the company’s Web site.
The Grand Gourmet Firepit (shown), made in Taiwan for Meijer Inc. of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was recalled because of a fire hazard. The legs of the firepit can bend or snap off, causing it to tip over and, if the pit is in use, a burning log or other item to escape.
The four-leg firepit, model FSQ279, measures 27 inches wide x 27 inches deep x 25.5 inches high. The unit ($60) was sold at Meijer retail stores in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, and Ohio from September 2004 through August 2007.
If you own a recalled firepit, stop using it and return it to a Meijer store for a full refund. For more information, call Meijer (866-280-8419) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET or go to the company's Web site.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on November 7 announced the recall of about 185,000 Carrier Corp. packaged terminal air conditioners (PTAC) and packaged terminal heat pumps (PTHP) due to a fire hazard.
For detailed information on the recalled air conditioners and heat pumps, go to the manufacturer’s recall page or read the CPSC's announcement.
If you own one of the affected models, do not use the heating mode until it has been inspected as per Carrier's instructions. You can contact Carrier (800-761-8492, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday) to receive a free repair.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on November 6 announced the recall of about 84,000 Hunter Fan Co. Warm Mist Carefree Humidifiers due to a fire hazard. The humidifiers ($40 to $65) were sold from September 2005 through February 2007 at Lowe's and Wal-Mart stores nationwide as well as at other discount and hardware stores and through mail-order catalogs and Web retailers.
For detailed information on the recalled humidifiers, go to the manufacturer’s recall page or read the CPSC's announcement.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
on October 30 announced the recall of about 40,000 home patio sets
(shown) sold at Target stores nationwide and the recall of about 64,000
counterfeit Square D-brand circuit breakers
For detailed information on these products, read the CPSC's recall announcements for the patio set and the bogus circuit breakers.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on October 18 announced a recall of about 6,000 Kong Maxx Ladder Stands, made by Gorilla Inc. of Flushing, Michigan, because of a fall hazard.
To learn more about this recall, go to the CPSC's or the manufacturer's recall page.
Essential information: Read this blog entry to find tips on using a ladder safely and check out our latest report on ladders.
As we’ve reported in the past, U.S. consumers often are unaware about the recalls of products they own.
An easy way to keep apprised of recalls is to sign up for the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s notification system. You should also subscribe to the Consumer Reports On Safety Blog, whose experts will not only give you their perspective on the latest recalls but also provide their advice and insight on safety matters that affect you.
You can help us inform the public about consumer products with potential problems, including safety issues, by telling us about your experiences with them. Get started by reading “Report your problem products” and filling out the form here.
When you contact us, please include:
• your name and contact information, including e-mail address;
• information on the product involved, including name and/or type of product, its approximate age, model number, and where and when purchased; and
• a detailed description of your safety-related issue.
Below you’ll find a listing of home-related product recalls the CPSC issued in September and October 2007 (through October 16), including one for the Sequin Glitter Candles shown above. We’ll continue to update you on recalls in the Home & Yard Blog.
If you own a Berko Electric, Emerson Electric, or Environmental Products toe-space electric heater, the following recall could affect you.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on August 30, 2007, announced a recall of about 84,000 electric heaters that are usually installed in a kitchen or bathroom at floor level in the toekick under a cabinet. The fan on the heater could stop working but the heater could continue to run, posing a fire hazard.
As of the recall date, the manufacturer, Marley Engineered Products, of Bennettsville, South Carolina, has received 29 reports of fires that caused property damage. No injuries have occurred.
The recall involves Berko Electric heaters with catalog numbers TS, TS-1 and TS-1A and Emerson Electric Chromalox Comfort Heating and Environmental Products heaters with catalog number KSH2000. The heaters ($70 to $170) were sold by Berko Electric wholesale distributors nationwide from 1972 through February 1985 and by Emerson Electric wholesale distributors from 1980 through February 1985.
If you own a recalled heater, immediately turn it off at the thermostat. If you have access to your electric panel, also turn off power to the heater’s circuit.
For more information, contact Marley at 800-642-4328 (8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday) or go to the company’s recall page.
Essential information: If you’re in the market for a new space heater, read our October 2007 report, “Add comfort with ease.” The story includes Ratings (available to subscribers) of 16 different models as well as important information on safety risks associated with propane and kerosene models.
Also read “Save hundreds on energy costs,” which features simple steps that you can follow to slash your utility bills this winter.
If you own a Skil 5650, 5700, 5750, or 5755 circular saw, the following recall could affect you.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on August 15, 2007, announced a recall of about 811,000 Skil circular saws because of the risk of laceration. The trigger switch can be locked on or the switch can be turned on without the use of the safety lockout. This flaw can cause the saw to turn on unexpectedly. (The recalled Skil 5750 was one of the models tested as part of the August 2005 story "Circular saws: Plug them in," available to subscribers.)
As of the recall date, Skil had received five reports that a saw remained on after the user had released the trigger. No injuries have yet been reported.
The recall involves model number 5650, 5700, 5750, and 5755 saws with the following date codes: 28101 – 29231; 38101 – 39231; 48101 – 49231; 58101 – 59231; and 68101 – 69231. You’ll find the model number and date code on the nameplate on the front of the saw (see illustration above). Saws with the 78101 date code are not affected by this recall.
The saws ($70 to $80), made by Robert Bosch Tool Corp., of Mount Prospect, Illinois, were sold at home centers and independent hardware stores nationwide from January 2002 through December 2006.
Stop using your saw immediately and contact Skil at 866-761-5572 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday) for instructions on getting a free repair. For more information, go to Skil’s Web site.
Essential information: If you’re in the market for a new circular saw, read our buying advice and check our Ratings (both available to subscribers). To stay on top of the latest recalls, see “CPSC steps out with million-consumer march," and subscribe to the Consumer Reports On Safety blog for in-depth news on important product-safety issues.
Each year in the United States, 33.1 million people are injured by consumer products in their homes, reports the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. And sometimes the culprit isn't necessarily a piece of equipment associated with a high risk of injury, like a chain saw or ladder.
"The home is where people feel comfortable and secure, but constant awareness is the key to keeping families safe," said Nancy Nord, the CPSC's acting chair. "[The] CPSC is aiming to increase awareness of the hidden hazards around the home in order to help consumers protect against these dangers." Find out what the the top five hidden home hazards are in this new item from the Consumer Reports On Safety blog.
Essential information: To stay on top of the latest recalls, see “CPSC steps out with million-consumer march,” and subscribe to the Consumer Reports On Safety blog for in-depth news and analysis on important product-safety issues.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on July 25, 2007, announced the recall of about 414,000 Sauder Woodworking television stands (shown). Read more on the recall in the Consumer Reports On Safety Blog.
While this recall was based on the collapsing hazard of the Sauder stands and not on the risk of a furniture tip-over, it highlights the potential danger many television stands pose.
As the video from our March 2006 safety alert shows, unstable furniture can pose a real risk, and tip-overs often occur because consumers are not taking necessary safety precautions at home. Here's what you can do to prevent a dangerous, even fatal, accident:
• Ensure that the furniture on or in which you place your TVs is stable. Do not place TVs on dressers, chests, or other types of furniture with drawers that young children can pull out and use to climb.
• Place your TV as far back as possible on or in the furniture--tip-over is more likely if the set is too far forward.
• Do not store items on top of the TV that will grab a child's attention--a small kid might try to climb on a piece of furniture in an effort to get the remote. "The predictable thing about kids is that they are unpredictable," says Julie Vallese, director of public affairs for the CPSC. She adds that parents should never assume that their children who tend not to be "climbers" won't use the drawers in a dresser as a stepladder, for example.
• Keep all cables and wires behind the TV or furniture. This way, no one will trip over them and potentially pull over the TV or furniture.
• Anchor any potentially unstable furniture more than 30 inches tall to the wall or floor with straps or other restraints. And keep heavy objects off of dressers.
• Look for TV carts and stands that meet Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards.—Steven H. Saltzman
Essential information: To learn how to stay on top of the latest recalls, see “CPSC steps out with million-consumer march,” and subscribe to the Consumer Reports On Safety blog for in-depth news on important product-safety issues.
If you own a Black & Decker GH1000 Grasshog XP String Trimmer/Edger, the following recall could affect you.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on July 20, 2007, recalled about 202,000 GH1000 Grasshog corded electric string trimmers/edgers. The spool, spool cap, and pieces of trimmer string can come loose during normal use and become a laceration hazard; the GH1000 can also overheat, posing a burn risk.
As of the recall date, Towson, Maryland–based Black & Decker had received reports of 707 incidents, with 58 serious injuries that included two people receiving cuts on their legs requiring medical attention. Among the minor injuries, says the CPSC, were bruises, lacerations, and facial injuries; the manufacturer also received reports of property damage, including two broken windows.
The trimmers/edgers (about $70), made in China, were sold at major home centers and hardware stores nationwide from November 2005 through January 2007. They have date codes of 200546 through 200645, indicating manufacture dates of November 14, 2005, through November 6, 2006. You’ll find the date code on the underside of the handle. Note that only models with black spools caps are included in the recall; if yours has an orange spool cap, it is not part of the recall.
Stop using your Grasshog immediately and contact Black & Decker at 888-742-9158 (8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday) for a free repair kit. For more information, including details on how to find the date code, go to Black & Decker’s recalls page.
Essential information: If you’re in the market for a new string trimmer, read our free buying advice and our report on this yard tool, “Better electrics for less.” The article includes Ratings of three dozen gas and electric models (available to subscribers). To learn how to stay on top of the latest recalls, see “CPSC steps out with million-consumer march,” and subscribe to the Consumer Reports On Safety blog for in-depth news on important product-safety issues.
If you own a power tool with Milwaukee Power Plus, Chicago Pneumatic, or Extractor battery packs, the following recall could affect you.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on July 11, 2007, announced the recall of about 1 million Milwaukee Power Plus, Chicago Pneumatic, and Extractor 14.4- and 18-volt nickel-cadmium battery packs used with power drills, saws, radios, flashlights, wrenches,and windshield-glass removers. According to the recall, if a vent on the battery cell is damaged or compromised during use, the battery can explode and pose a laceration hazard to users.
As of the recall date, Milwaukee Electric Tool Co. had received 35 reports of incidents, with 11 injuries from battery packs that exploded during use. Injuries included minor cuts, bruises, and some hearing loss.
The battery packs, made in Mexico between 1999 and February 2004, were sold at home centers, hardware stores, industrial distributors, and vehicle-service distributors nationwide from July 1999 through 2005. They were sold with cordless-tool kits and as individual battery packs. (For details on recalled models, download this PDF from Milwaukee.)
If you have a recalled battery pack, stop using it immediately. Call Milwaukee at 800-729-3878 (8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday) to arrange to receive a free replacement. For more information, go to Milwaukee’s Web site.
Essential information: If you’re in the market for a new cordless drill, read “Better cells raise the bar,” which includes Ratings of more than 40 drills (available to subscribers) and advice on how to use a drill. Check out “CPSC steps out with million-consumer march” to learn how to receive product recalls directly from the CPSC, and subscribe to the Consumer Reports On Safety blog for the latest safety news.
If you own a Lasko ceramic space heater, the following recall could affect you.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on June 29, 2007, announced the recall of about 1.2 million Lasko ceramic heaters because of a fire hazard. According to the recall, the electrical cord on the heater can overheat where it enters the base of the unit.
As of the recall date, the manufacturer had received 28 reports of failed power cords, with six reports of minor property damage. No injuries have occurred.
The heaters ($20 to $50) were sold at major retailers, home centers, and discount department stores nationwide from September 2005 through April 2006. The recalled models are the 5132, 5345, 5362, 5364, 5420, 5532, 5534, and 5566; all except the 5420 are “tower” heaters like the one shown above. You’ll find the model numbers on the bottom of the units or at the rear of the base of the heaters, which were made in China for Lasko Products Inc., of West Chester, Pennsylvania. (In 2006, Lasko recalled about 186,000 space heaters because of fire, burn, and shock hazards.)
If you have a recalled heater, unplug it and do not use it again. Call Lasko at 800-984-3311 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) to arrange to get a replacement heater. For more information or to register for a replacement, go to Lasko’s product-recall page.
Essential information: Look for our full report, including Ratings, on portable heaters in the October 2007 issue of Consumer Reports, on sale in September. To learn how to stay informed about product recalls, read “CPSC steps out with million-consumer march.” And be sure to subscribe to the Consumer Reports On Safety blog for the latest on product-safety news.
If you own an Asko DW95 dishwasher or a Thermador CIT302DS/01 or CIT362DS/01 ceramic cooktop, the following recalls could affect you.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on June 14, 2007, announced the recall of about 130,000 Asko DW95 dishwashers because of a fire hazard. According to the recall, an electrical component in the dishwasher can overheat, posing a fire hazard. The appliances were made by Asko Cylinda AB of Vara, Sweden.
As of the recall date, Asko had received 21 notices of fires. Damage to dishwashers and property has occurred, but no injuries have been reported, according to the CPSC.
The dishwashers ($750 to $1,300) were sold at major kitchen-appliance distributors and dealers nationwide from January 1995 through April 2000. The recalled models, made from January 1995 through April 2000, are part of the DW95 series with the following model numbers: 1355, 1385, 1475, 1485, 1555, 1585, 1595, 1655, 1805, 1885, and 1895. You can find the model number, serial number, and manufacture date on the nameplate on the right interior side of the dishwasher door.
If you own a recalled dishwasher, stop using it immediately. Contact Asko at 866-309-9921 (11 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday) to arrange for a free inspection and repair or to participate in a rebate program. For more information, go to Asko's recall page.
On June 7, 2007, the CPSC announced the recall of about 2,000 Thermador CIT302DS/01 and CIT362DS/01 (shown) ceramic cooktops because of a fire hazard. According to the recall, the cooktop can turn on by itself when switched off, creating a fire and safety hazard. The appliances were made in Spain for BSH Home Appliances Corp. of Huntington Beach, California. The cooktops have electric and induction heating elements with a black ceramic-glass surface.
As of the recall date, no incidents or injuries have been reported.
The cooktops ($1,800 and $2,200) were sold at appliance and specialty stores nationwide from October 2006 through March 2007. Recalled cooktops are either model number CIT302DS/01 or CIT362DS/01 with date codes between 8606 and 8612. You’ll find the date code on the underside of the cooktop.
If you own one of the cooktops, disconnect it at the circuit breaker when not in use and avoid leaving anything on the ceramic top when the appliance is not in use.
To arrange for a free in-home repair, call BSH Home Appliances at 800-758-1001 (7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday). Or go to the recall page on Thermador’s site.—Steven H. Saltzman
Essential information: If you’re in the market for a new dishwasher, read our buying advice. For more on recent dishwasher recalls, see the Consumer Reports On Safety blog. If you need a new cooktop, use our buying advice. (Ratings of dishwashers and electric and gas cooktops are available to subscribers.)
Don’t miss Great Kitchens for Less, our 30-page special section on kitchens in the August 2007 issue of Consumer Reports, on sale in July. And be sure to use our kitchen-planning guide before you start your remodel.
If you own a GE dishwasher, the following recall could affect you.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on May 16, 2007, announced a recall of about 2.5 million dishwashers made by Louisville, Ky.–based GE Consumer & Industrial because of a fire hazard.
The dishwashers (about $400) were sold at department and appliance stores nationwide from September 1997 through December 2001 under the Eterna, GE, GE Profile, GE Monogram, Hotpoint, and Kenmore (Sears) brands. They came in white, black, almond, bisque, black, stainless steel, and white.
To determine whether you own a recalled model, visit the CPSC recall page or the GE recall page. If you have a recalled dishwasher, stop using it immediately, says the CPSC.
Liquid rinse aid leaking from the dispenser can come in contact with internal wiring and cause short circuits that start a fire, says the CPSC. This recall might sound familiar. In February, Maytag and Jenn-Air recalled 2.3 million dishwashers for a similar problem.
GE is offering a free repair of the problem or a rebate on the purchase of new dishwasher ($150 for a GE model and $300 for a GE Monogram or GE Profile model). For more information about the recall, a repair, or a rebate, call GE (877-607-6395, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Saturday) or go to the GE recall page. Be sure to have the model and serial numbers on hand when you call. You’ll find them inside the dishwasher tub on the front left side of the appliance.
Essential information: If you’re in the market for a new dishwasher, read our report on and buying guide to dishwashers. (Ratings are available to subscribers.) Look for a brand-new dishwashers report, including updated Ratings, in the August 2007 issue of Consumer Reports, on sale in July. For more on this recall, see the Consumer Reports On Safety blog.
If you own a Perfect Flame Four-Burner Gas Grill, model 2518SL, the following recall could affect you.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on May 3, 2007, announced a recall of about 36,500 Perfect Flame gas grills manufactured by Sagittarius Sporting Goods. Some of the affected grills are missing a hose that connects the grill manifold to the side burner, resulting in a risk of fire and burn injuries. As of the recall date, 30,000 grills still in inventory had been inspected; 17 that were missing the hose underwent repair. According to the CPSC, no injuries or incidents have been reported.
The grill (about $400) was sold at Lowe's stores nationwide from September 2006 through February 2007. The words Perfect Flame appear on its hood. The model number (2518SL) and the date code (JU, JV, JW, JX, JY, or JZ) are located on a label inside the left front door of the grill.
If you own one of the recalled grills, immediately inspect it to determine whether the side-burner hose is missing. If it is, stop using the grill and call the manufacturer at 888-804-7455 (8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday). The company will inspect the grill and install a free replacement hose.
Essential information: If you’re in the market for an outdoor cooker, be sure to read our latest report on and buying guide to gas grills. (Ratings are available to subscribers.) And don’t miss our stories on setting up a kitchen on your deck, patio, or terrace. For more information on outdoor living, visit our Complete Lawn & Yard Guide. You'll also find grilling-safety advice on the Consumer Reports On Safety blog.
If you own a Holmes model number HOH2505 (shown) or HOH2520 oil-filled electric heater, the following recall could affect you.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on April 26, 2007, announced a recall of about 300,000 Holmes oil-filled electric heaters. A poor electrical connection in the heater can lead to overheating, resulting in fire and burn hazards. As of the recall date, the manufacturer had received reports of 59 incidents, among them 12 reports of minor and 36 reports of property damage, including four fires.
The heaters ($40 to $50), made in China, were sold at discount department stores, hardware stores, and other retailers nationwide from September 2005 through February 2007. The model number and "Holmes ®" are printed on the side of the unit near the bottom.
You should immediately stop using the heater and contact the Holmes Group to arrange for a free replacement heater. For more information, call 800-306-2471 or go to www.holmesoilfilledheaterrecall.com to register your heater for the recall.
Essential information: Use our expert advice to learn how to heat your home safely. If you’re looking for the type of supplemental heating a space heater can provide, read our buyer's guide to pellet- and wood-burning stoves. You might be able to get a deal on a stove at this time of year. And to sign up for CPSC recalls, read our recent blog entry the agency's new consumer-awareness initiative.
If you own a Craftsman 71/4-inch circular saw, the following item could affect you.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on April 5, 2007, announced a hazard warning for about 308,000 Craftsman saws because of a laceration hazard. The label with the Craftsman logo on the upper blade guard can become partially detached and interfere with the operation of the lower blade guard, exposing the blade. As of the warning date, Sears had received one injury report.
The saws ($40 to $60) were sold at Sears, Kmart, and Orchard Supply Hardware stores nationwide and through their Web sites from November 2004 through February 2007. The saws were made by Positec Power Tools (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., of Charlotte, N.C.
The following model numbers are part of the warning: 172.108550, 172.108560, 172.108650, and 172.108660. You’ll find th