Chim-A-Lator Air Damper Systems Recall for Burn Hazard
Chim-A-Lator is modifying approximately 15,000 air damper systems for fireplaces and wood-burning stoves to prevent smoke or flames from entering rooms.
What this means for you
Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 3/5 (High).
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/burn hazard) where injury has been reported (one minor burn), fitting the criteria for High severity.
Plain-English summary
The Chim-A-Lator Company has announced a voluntary program to modify approximately 15,000 air damper systems for fireplaces and wood-burning stoves in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. These devices, manufactured since 1969, are marketed as energy-saving tools to reduce heat loss from chimneys when not in use.
The recall addresses a hazard where excessively hot chimney temperatures could cause the air damper to close unexpectedly, forcing smoke or flames back into the room. The company attributes this heat build-up primarily to overfueling fireplaces, burning dangerous materials, or failing to have the chimney cleaned. Since 1977, the firm has received a report of one minor burn injury resulting from the damper closing accidentally.
Consumers can obtain a free device from the Chim-A-Lator Company that ensures the damper maintains an adequate opening even in extreme temperatures. This device is designed for self-installation by the consumer. The devices will be available after December 1, 1979, but consumers are advised to write to the company immediately to request them.
The recalled product
- Product
- Chim-A-Lator fireplace and wood-burning stove air damper systems
- Manufacturer
- Chim-A-Lator
- Hazard
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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