NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 18, 2001 Release # 02-020

Water Heater Hotline: (800) 999-9515 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Ken Giles, (301) 504-0580 Ext. 1184

CPSC, American Water Heater Co. Announce Recall to Replace Burners in Gas Water Heaters

WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the American Water Heater Co., of Johnson City, Tenn., is voluntarily recalling about 16,000 gas-fired water heaters to replace the gas burners. The burners could produce excess carbon monoxide (CO), posing a risk of CO poisoning to consumers.

CPSC and the American Water Heater Co. have not received any reports of injuries or incidents relating to these water heaters. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries. The firm discovered the problem with the burners on these water heaters during routine testing.

Only natural gas water heaters sold under the following brand names are included in the recall: American Proline, Envirotemp, Mor-Flo, Powerflex, Premier Plus and US Craftmaster. The serial number, located on the data plate on the front of the water heater, starts with 0124 through 0127. The water heaters were sold in both short and tall profiles, and have 30, 40, 50 and 75 gallon capacities. Other model water heaters sold by the American Water Heater Co. are not included in this recall.

Home center stores and contractors sold and installed these water heaters nationwide from June 2001 through September 2001 for between $200 and $500.

Consumers should contact the American Water Heater Co. immediately to arrange for a free repair. Contact the firm at (800) 999-9515 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET on Saturday. Consumers also can reach the firm by fax at (800) 999- 5210 or by email at support@americanwaterheater.com.