Recall: Rinnai Recalls Wall Furnaces Due to Carbon Monoxide Hazard

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 21, 2008
Release #08-199

Firm’s Recall Hotline: (866) 746 8344
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908


Rinnai Recalls Wall Furnaces Due to Carbon Monoxide Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Direct-Vent Wall Furnaces, Models RHFE 431 and RHFE 556

Units: About 52,000

Manufacturer: Rinnai America Corp., of Peachtree City, Ga.

Hazard: A gasket in the unit can fail, posing a risk of poisonous carbon monoxide gas leaking into the home.

Incidents/Injuries: Rinnai has received 11 reports of carbon monoxide leaking from the furnace. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The recall involves Rinnai EnergySaver Direct-Vent Wall Furnaces, Models RHFE 431 and RHFE 556. They are either natural gas or LP gas (propane) fueled. The following model numbers are included in the recall:

Model RHFE-431 FAIII-N FAIII-P
  WTA-N WTA-P
  WTA-72B-N WTA-76B-N
     
Model RHFE-556 FAIII-N FAIII-P
  WTA-N WTA-P

The model number is printed on the top of the rating plate located on the right side of the unit. The recall includes only those units manufactured from February 2000 through December 2007. The manufacturing date code is the first four digits of the serial number, written as YY MM, and is located at the bottom of the rating plate.

Sold through: Wholesale distributors nationwide to contractors and dealers from February 2000 through December 2007 for between $1,600 and $1,900.

Manufactured in: Japan

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the furnace immediately and contact the firm to arrange for the installation of a free repair kit.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Rinnai toll-free at (866) 746-8344 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.wallfurnacerecall.com



Picture of Recalled Wall Furnace   Picture of Recalled Wall Furnace

Picture of Recalled Wall Furnace Labeling