The Recall Desk
Our severity:HighCPSC·08277·Announced 2008-05-21

American Flame Recalls Fireplace Gas Valves for Fire and Explosion Hazards

American Flame is recalling approximately 12,000 fireplace gas valves installed in residential fireplaces from twelve manufacturers. The valves may allow gas to flow after being turned off, posing a fire or explosion risk.

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 risk-of-harm product (fire/explosion hazard) where injury has not yet been reported, which aligns with the 'High' severity criteria in the rubric.

Plain-English summary

American Flame Inc. is recalling approximately 12,000 AF-4000 series fireplace gas valves installed in residential fireplaces made by twelve manufacturers. The affected brands include Pacific Energy, Travis Industries, CFM Corporation, Canadian Heating Products, Portland Willamette, Rasmussen, Chimeneas de Columbia, Twin Eagles, FDM, Inca Metals (Savannah Heating), Even Temp, and Valley Comfort. The valves were sold through fireplace retailers and distributors nationwide from September 2006 through July 2007 for between $500 and $2,000, plus installation costs. Date codes included in the recall range from 0622 through 0718.

The recall is due to a defect where gas can continue to flow into the fireplace pilot light area after the switch has been turned "off," posing a fire or explosion hazard. American Flame has received two reports of incidents involving valve failure and continuous gas flow, but no injuries or fires have been reported.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled fireplaces and contact their dealer for a free repair. The repair involves replacing the fireplace's valve if it leaks gas in the "off" position when tested by a qualified service technician. For additional information, consumers can contact American Flame toll-free at (888) 672-8929 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET or visit www.skytechsystem.com.

The recalled product

Product
Fireplace Gas Valves
Manufacturer
American Flame Inc., of Fort Wayne, Ind.
Category
Consumer Product — Fireplaces & Accessories
Hazard
Affected units
12,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · fire

See all →

Similar recalls