Square D and Nelco Electric Baseboard Heaters Recalled for Fire and Shock Hazards

Plain-English summary

Square D Company, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), is voluntarily recalling approximately 920,000 electric baseboard heaters. The recall affects units sold between 1970 and 1986 under the Square D and Nelco Corporation brand names. These are permanently installed, tan-colored heaters measuring two to ten feet in length, with model numbers beginning with 18, 25, or 30, followed by four numbers ending in series A or B.

The recall is issued because the insulation of a wire inside the heater may deteriorate over time, causing sparking that could lead to a fire. Additionally, if the heaters are not properly grounded, a shock hazard exists if the uninsulated wire contacts the metal enclosure. Square D has received at least 100 complaints or claims of overheating, with allegations of 90 incidents of property damage, three deaths, and five injuries, though the involvement of the heaters in these specific incidents has not been confirmed.

Consumers should check for discoloration on the heater cover. If discolored, they should immediately turn off the power and stop using the heater until it is replaced. To obtain a 50 percent discount on a replacement heater, consumers must remove the identification label from the recalled unit and present it at the time of purchase. For more information, call (877) 202-9046.

The recalled product

Product

Nelco electric baseboard heaters

Manufacturer

Nelco

Category

Consumer Product — Electric Heaters

Hazard

• fire
• electric-shock

Distribution

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