The Recall Desk
CriticalCPSC·98145·Announced 1998-07-22

Servel Gas Refrigerators Recalled Due to Carbon Monoxide Risk

CPSC warns that Servel gas refrigerators made between 1933 and 1957 pose a deadly carbon monoxide risk. Consumers should stop using them and contact the Servel Corrective Action Committee for disposal instructions.

What this means for you

Highest-severity recall. Risk of serious injury or death is documented or strongly suspected. Stop using the product now and follow the agency's instructions.

Our severity reasoning: The source text explicitly reports 22 carbon monoxide-related deaths in the U.S. and 60 deaths in Canada, which meets the rubric criterion for a score of 5 (Critical) due to known fatalities.

Plain-English summary

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning consumers to stop using Servel gas refrigerators manufactured between 1933 and 1957. These units pose a risk of leaking deadly quantities of carbon monoxide, particularly if the gas burner becomes fouled by dust, dirt, rust, or other obstructions over time. The CPSC reports at least 39 incidents in the U.S. involving these refrigerators, resulting in 22 carbon monoxide-related deaths and 55 injuries. Additionally, incidents in Ontario, Canada, have caused 60 deaths.

Because historical sales records are unavailable, it is not possible to determine exactly who still owns these units. They continue to be used in hunting cabins, vacation cottages, and remote areas without electricity. Since the recall program launched in 1990, more than 22,000 refrigerators have been destroyed, but approximately 100 new rebate requests are received monthly, indicating many remain in use.

Consumers can call the Servel Corrective Action Committee (SCAC) toll-free at (800) 782-7431 to receive a rebate package and disposal instructions. Those who properly dispose of the units will receive a $100 rebate plus reimbursement for reasonable disposal costs. If consumers choose to keep the refrigerators, they should move them to an outdoor shelter, shed, or garage not connected to the house, and restrict access to prevent children from becoming trapped. The CPSC also advises that all gas refrigerators be serviced regularly by licensed technicians.

The recalled product

Product
Servel gas refrigerators
Manufacturer
Servel
Category
Consumer Product — Appliances
Hazard

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · carbon monoxide

See all →