The Recall Desk
Our severity:HighCPSC·07569·Announced 2007-08-13

Eastern Illini Electric Cooperative Recalls Water Heater Junction Boxes for Fire Hazard

Eastern Illini Electric Cooperative is recalling about 2,800 unmarked junction boxes used with water heaters because loose wiring connections can overheat and cause fires.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 3/5 (High).

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 fire hazard with 25 reports of overheating or melted wiring, but no injuries have been reported, which aligns with the 'High' severity criteria for risk-of-harm products where injury has not yet been reported.

Plain-English summary

Eastern Illini Electric Cooperative is recalling approximately 2,800 metal junction boxes installed between water heaters and load management switches. These unmarked boxes, measuring about 4 inches by 4 inches, were sold by the cooperative from June 1989 through late 2002.

The recall was issued because wiring connections within the boxes can become loose, creating an overheating and fire hazard. The cooperative has received 25 reports of overheating or melted wiring and connectors, though no injuries have been reported.

Consumers with these junction boxes should immediately contact Eastern Illini Electric Cooperative to schedule a free re-wiring appointment. The cooperative has already contacted affected consumers directly. For additional information, consumers can call (800) 824-5102 or visit www.eiec.coop.

The recalled product

Product
Junction Boxes Used with Water Heaters
Category
Consumer Product — Electrical Outlets & Accessories
Hazard
Affected units
2,800

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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