The Recall Desk
SevereCPSC·11121·Announced 2011-02-08

Lasko Recalls Portable Electric Heaters Due To Fire Hazard

Lasko is recalling about 107,500 portable electric heaters because an electrical connection can overheat and cause a fire. Consumers should stop using the units and contact Lasko for a free replacement.

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 fire hazard with reported property damage (burn damage to floors or carpets), which aligns with the rubric criteria for 'Severe' severity involving significant property-damage reports.

Plain-English summary

Lasko Products Inc. is recalling about 107,500 portable electric tower heaters, including the Lasko Model 5540 and the Air King Model 8540. These units were manufactured in 2002 and have date codes beginning with the number "2." The heaters are 20.5 inches tall, 8.25 inches wide, and 9.25 inches deep, featuring dark grey bodies with silver front covers and black vent slats.

The recall is due to a fire hazard. An electrical connection in the base of the unit can overheat, causing it to melt and expose the electrical connection. Lasko received 36 reports of the electrical connection overheating, with no reports of personal injury. There were 18 reports of minor burn damage to floors or carpets.

The Lasko Model 5540 was sold at Sam's Club and other retailers from September 2002 through early 2004 for $39 to $49. The Air King Model 8540 was sold primarily through W.W. Grainger Inc. from late 2002 to 2004 for approximately $80.00. Consumers should stop using the heaters immediately and contact Lasko to receive a free replacement heater. For more information, visit Lasko's website or call (800) 233-0268.

The recalled product

Product
Portable electric heater
Manufacturer
Lasko Products Inc., of West Chester, Pa.
Category
Consumer Product — Heating Equipment
Hazard
Affected units
107,500

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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Same manufacturer · Lasko Products Inc., of West Chester, Pa.

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Same hazard · fire

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