The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·97076·Announced 1997-03-04

Sears Water Filter Cartridges Recalled Due to Potential Nickel Contamination

Ecodyne is recalling about 14,000 Sears water filter cartridges because they may contain nickel chloride, which can be harmful if ingested.

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 (ingestible chemical contaminant) where injury has not yet been reported, fitting the criteria for a High severity score.

Plain-English summary

Ecodyne Water Systems is recalling approximately 14,000 Sears water filter cartridges in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The affected products, sold as the "Sears Chemical Contaminant/Taste and Odor Filter" (Sears item 42 34375), were distributed by Ecodyne and sold nationwide in Sears and Sears Hardware stores beginning in March 1996 for about $17. The cartridges are 9 3/4-inch by 3-inch cylinders with a white plastic casing and a green end cap.

The recall is being conducted because an incorrect form of carbon was used in some of the filter cartridges. This carbon could contain nickel chloride, which releases nickel into the water. Ingesting nickel chloride can cause abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. When initially used, affected cartridges may cause the filtered water to taste metallic and turn green. CPSC and Ecodyne are not aware of any injuries involving this product, but the recall is intended to prevent the possibility of injury. Pregnant women, dialysis patients, infants, small children, the elderly, and people with kidney problems or nickel allergies may be more sensitive to the effects.

Consumers should immediately stop using the affected water filter cartridges. They should call Ecodyne Water Systems at (800) 945-0109 for instructions on returning the cartridge for a full refund or replacement. Consumers who have used the affected cartridges and are currently experiencing symptoms should advise a medical professional of possible nickel ingestion. No other Sears water filters are involved in this recall.

The recalled product

Product
Sears Water Filter Cartridges Recall by Ecodyne
Manufacturer
WaterWorks
Category
Consumer Product — Water Filtration
Hazard

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · chemical contamination

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