Recall: Gas-Fired Products Inc. Recalls Water Heaters

April 10, 2002 Alert #02-533

CPSC and Gas-Fired Products Inc. Announce Recall of Water Heaters

PRODUCT: Outdoor Gas Water Heaters - Gas-Fired Products Inc., of Charlotte, N.C., is voluntarily recalling about 1300 Seahorse® and 25 "Bradford & White" Outdoor Gas-Powered Water Heaters. The Seahorse® brand had model numbers WH60-N1, WH60-N3, WH60-N5, WH60-L1, WH60-L3, WH60-L5, WHT60-N1, WHT60-N3, WHT60-N5, WHT60-L1, WHT60-L3, WHT60-L5. The "Bradford & White" brand had models HE-15N and HE-15X.The water heaters were sold nationwide by retailers and also by public gas companies in North Carolina and South Carolina between August 1992 and November 2000 for about $900.

PROBLEM: Over time the heat exchanger could become blocked creating a potential ventilation and cracking problem, posing a fire hazard if nearby combustibles ignite.

INCIDENTS/INJURIES: CPSC and Gas-Fired Products Inc have received reports of 2 incidents involving minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.

WHAT TO DO: Consumers should stop using the water heaters immediately and contact the recall hotline toll-free at (800) 438-4936 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday to receive a free repair kit. Most consumers were sent direct mail notification of this recall.