The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·79063·Announced 1979-11-06

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

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
Category
Consumer Product — Fireplace Accessories
Hazard

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · burn injury

See all →