Water Heaters Recalled by Controlled Energy Corporation

NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 15, 2001
Release # 01-085

Water Heater Recall Hotline: (800) 642-3111
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: Ken Giles, (301) 504-7052
CEC Media Contact: Becky MacDonald, (248) 553-1393

CPSC, Controlled Energy Corporation Announce Recall of Water Heaters

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Controlled Energy Corporation (CEC), of Waitsfield, Vt., is recalling about 320 AquaStar natural gas water heaters. The heaters can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in the exhaust gas, which can cause serious injuries and death.

CPSC and Controlled Energy have received reports of two deaths and two injuries in Manitoba, Canada, reportedly caused by the release of carbon monoxide from the water heater.

The AquaStar natural gas water heaters were made in Portugal, and were distributed in the United States as model number AQ38B NG. The water heater is off-white in color, with the word "AquaStar" in red, on the front of the unit. The model number can be found on the rating plate, on the right side of the water heater.

The water heaters were sold nationwide through plumbing supply stores and plumbing contractors from March 1997 to January 2001, for about $440, plus installation.

Consumers who have the recalled AquaStar unit (model number AQ38B NG), should turn off the water heater immediately and call Controlled Energy Corporation toll-free at (800) 642-3111 between 8:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. ET Monday through Friday. CEC is offering consumers a free on-site repair conducted by a licensed professional plumber.