The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·09141·Announced 2009-03-04

Ritchie Immersion Heaters Recalled Due to Electric Shock Hazard

Springfield Wire Inc. is recalling Ritchie Immersion Heaters because the outer cover can crack, exposing the heating element to water and posing a shock hazard.

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 (electric shock) where injury has not yet been reported, which aligns with the 'High' severity criteria in the rubric.

Plain-English summary

Springfield Wire Inc. (SWI) is recalling approximately 13,000 Ritchie Immersion Heaters due to a shock hazard. The affected models are 17863 (120v/250w), 17939 (240v/250w or 240v/325w), and 17940 (240v/325w). These heaters are designed to be submerged in cattle troughs to prevent water from freezing. The model number and "SWI" are printed on one side of the heating element, while a sticker reading "Ritchie Specialty Products" is on the other.

The outer cover of the immersion heater can crack, which exposes the heating element to water. This condition poses an electric shock hazard to consumers. SWI has received 44 reports of covers cracking, but no injuries have been reported.

The heaters were sold nationwide through Ritchie distributors from February 2007 through March 2009 for approximately $60 to $70. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled immersion heater and return it to the place of purchase for a free replacement heater. For additional information, consumers can contact Ritchie Industries at (800) 747-0222 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday, or visit www.springfield-wire.com or www.ritchiefount.com.

The recalled product

Product
Ritchie Immersion Heaters
Manufacturer
Springfield Wire Inc. (SWI), of Springfield, Mass.
Category
Consumer Product — Heating Equipment
Hazard
Affected units
13,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · electric shock

See all →