The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·04072·Announced 2004-01-28

Sta-Rite and AquaTools Pool Filters Recalled for Locking Ring Defect

Sta-Rite Industries is recalling 8,500 System 2 and AquaTools pool filters because the locking ring can disengage, allowing the top shell to blow off and cause injury.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product where injury has been reported (minor scratches and bruises), fitting the 'High' severity criteria for products where injury has not yet been reported as severe or fatal, but actual minor injuries occurred.

Plain-English summary

Sta-Rite Industries, Inc. is recalling approximately 8,500 units of System 2 and AquaTools modular pool filters. These filters are designed for above-ground and small in-ground pools to remove particles from water. The affected units were sold at pool equipment retail stores, wholesale distribution branches, or installed by professional installers nationwide between January 2003 and October 2003 for between $400 and $800.

The recall is due to a defect in the Posi-Lok locking ring, which secures the filter's upper tank shell to the lower tank shell. The ring can disengage, allowing the top shell to blow off and cause injury to nearby consumers. Sta-Rite has received three reports of the upper tank shell blowing off, including two reports of minor scratches and bruises to the hands and arms of individuals servicing the filters.

Consumers should check the filter model plates for model numbers beginning with PLM or PLD (Sta-Rite) or AT84100, AT84150, or AT82130 (AquaTools). Affected serial numbers begin with 1A03, 1B03, 1C03, 1D03, 1EH03, 1F03, 1G03, 1H03, or 1J03. If the locking ring has the phrase "Lubricate Tank 'O' Ring - see instructions" molded into it, it has been updated and no action is necessary. Consumers should not disturb their filters and should contact Sta-Rite toll-free at (866) 681-9148 to confirm the identity of their filter and receive a free replacement locking ring and installation instructions. Sta-Rite will also reimburse consumers $10 for each returned ring and provide a pre-paid shipping box, or arrange for professional repair at no cost.

The recalled product

Product
Sta-Rite System 2 and AquaTools Filters and Filter Systems
Manufacturer
Sta-Rite Industries, Inc. of Delavan, Wis.
Category
Consumer Product — Pool Equipment
Hazard
Affected units
8,500

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same manufacturer · Sta-Rite Industries, Inc. of Delavan, Wis.

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