Waupaca Recalls Residential Elevators Due to Unexpected Cab Fall Hazard
Waupaca Elevator is recalling about 8,000 residential elevators because the cab can fall unexpectedly, posing an injury hazard.
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 vehicle defect (elevator cab falling) with significant injury reports, including broken bones, which aligns with the criteria for a Severe rating.
Plain-English summary
Waupaca Elevator Company of Appleton, Wis., is recalling about 8,000 residential elevators, specifically the Custom Lift 450# and Custom Lift 500# models. These units were shipped and installed between 1979 and 2008 and are used in consumers' homes. The recall involves specific serial numbers found on the controller box or powerhead, which can be located in various areas of the home such as the attic, closet, or garage.
The recall is being conducted because the elevator cab can fall unexpectedly to the bottom of the elevator shaft and abruptly stop. This malfunction poses an injury hazard to consumers inside the cab. The firm has received 12 reports of the elevator cab falling unexpectedly, which resulted in 10 reported injuries. These injuries included strained or sprained knees and ankles, as well as broken bones.
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled elevators and contact Waupaca Elevator to schedule a free gearbox inspection and the installation of a free overspeed braking device. If the gearbox inspection reveals that the gears have worn down, Waupaca Elevator will also provide the installation of a free gearbox. Consumers can contact Waupaca Elevator toll-free at 833-850-7981 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or via email and their website.
The recalled product
- Product
- Residential elevators
- Manufacturer
- Waupaca Elevator Company of Appleton, Wis.
- Affected units
- 8,000
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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