The Recall Desk
SevereCPSC·10325·Announced 2010-08-24

Char-Broil Recalls Vertical Gas Smokers Due to Explosion and Injury Hazard

Char-Broil is recalling vertical gas smokers because gas buildup can cause an explosion that bursts the door open, posing a risk of burns and head injuries.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural defect leading to an explosion hazard with reported injuries including burns and head concussions, meeting the criteria for 'Severe' (significant injury reports).

Plain-English summary

Char-Broil LLC is recalling approximately 18,450 vertical gas smokers, model number 07701413, due to a risk of explosion and injury. The recalled units were sold at Walmart and various other retailers nationwide from March 2008 through June 2010 for about $140. The model number is printed on a metal tag on the right rear leg, and a "G" inside a triangle is printed on the regulator.

The hazard occurs when the temperature setting is in "low," causing the hose/valve/regulator assembly to restrict gas flow and extinguish the flame. Gas continues to flow and build up inside the smoker. If the smoker is reignited, the buildup of propane gas can cause an explosion that bursts the smoker's door open.

The company has received five reports of doors bursting open and hitting consumers. Reported injuries include burns to the face and head, head concussion, and cuts. Consumers should stop using the recalled smokers immediately and contact Char-Broil for a free replacement hose/valve/regulator assembly and installation instructions.

The recalled product

Product
Char-Broil vertical gas smokers
Affected units
18,450

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.