The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·78085·Announced 1978-10-18

Rhinehart Miti-Mite Portable Water Heaters Recalled for Shock Hazard

Rhinehart is recalling Miti-Mite portable immersible electric water heaters due to a risk of electrocution. Consumers should stop using the heaters and return them for a refund.

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

Plain-English summary

Rhinehart Manufacturing Co. is recalling approximately 15,000 to 25,000 Miti-Mite portable, immersible electric water heaters in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The heaters, which have been in production for 15 years, are primarily used in rural areas without hot water facilities to heat small quantities of water. They are sold in outlets such as hardware stores for about $4 to $5, and distribution may be nationwide.

The recall is issued because the heaters present a dangerous shock hazard. The appliance consists of an exposed, resistive heating element inside a perforated aluminum case that allows water to flow directly into contact with the element. If the heater is turned on and immersed in water, consumers may be electrocuted if they touch the water container or the water itself. To date, CPSC knows of no injuries involving these heaters.

The heaters do not bear a model number but can be identified by the label "Miti-Mite" embossed on top. Consumers should immediately stop using these heaters and return them to Rhinehart Manufacturing Co. in Spencerville, Indiana, for a refund. Rhinehart no longer manufactures or repairs the Miti-Mite heaters.

The recalled product

Product
Miti-Mite portable immersible electric water heaters
Manufacturer
Rhinehart
Category
Consumer Product — Small Appliances
Hazard

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · electrocution

See all →