The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·79040·Announced 1979-08-16

Intermatic Temperature Tender Heating Units Recalled for Fire Risk

Intermatic is recalling approximately 53,000 Temperature Tender heating units because an internal carbon resistor may overheat and start fires.

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 (fire hazard) where minor fires have been reported but no injuries or fatalities have occurred, fitting the criteria for a High severity score.

Plain-English summary

Intermatic, Inc. is voluntarily recalling approximately 53,000 Temperature Tender automatic temperature setback controls. The recall affects the heating units sold as part of a two-piece kit that includes an electric timer. These devices were sold nationwide at retail prices of approximately $20 to $25. The units are off-white, measure approximately 1.5 by 3 inches, and were manufactured between September 1976 and August 1977, and between November 1977 and May 1978.

The recall is being issued because an integral carbon resistor in the heating unit may overheat and start fires. CPSC staff have been informed of 14 unit failures causing 11 minor fires in similar thermostat control devices, and Intermatic officials are aware of one fire resulting from the failure of their specific product. No injuries have been reported. Approximately 3,000 units are believed to still be in consumers' possession.

Consumers should check the back of their unit for model numbers FSl00 or FSl and a manufacturer's date code within the ranges 396 through 526, 017 through 327, 427 through 527, or 018 through 218. Only units containing a brown-colored carbon resistor, visible through the key-hole slot in the back, are subject to the recall. Consumers who own an affected unit should return it to their retailer for a full refund. Those needing assistance can contact Intermatic or CPSC's toll-free hotline.

The recalled product

Product
Temperature Tender automatic temperature setback controls
Manufacturer
Intermatic
Category
Consumer Product — Thermostats/Thermometers/Sensors
Hazard

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · fire

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