CPSC recall 08-199, announced February 21, 2008, covers Direct-Vent Wall Furnaces, Models RHFE 431 and RHFE 556 (about 52,000 units). A gasket in the unit can fail, posing a risk of poisonous carbon monoxide gas leaking into the home. The notice cites 11 incident reports. Consumers should stop using the furnace immediately and contact the firm to arrange for the installation of a free repair kit. Recall contact: call (866) 746-8344, or go to www.wallfurnacerecall.com.
Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.
The following model numbers are included in the recall: Model RHFE-431 FAIII-N FAIII-P WTA-N WTA-P WTA-72B-N WTA-76B-N Model RHFE-556 FAIII-N FAIII-P WTA-N WTA-P The model number is printed on the top of the rating plate located on the right side of the unit.
Which products are included?
The recall involves Rinnai EnergySaver Direct-Vent Wall Furnaces, Models RHFE 431 and RHFE 556. They are either natural gas or LP gas (propane) fueled. The following model numbers are included in the recall: Model RHFE-431 FAIII-N FAIII-P WTA-N WTA-P WTA-72B-N WTA-76B-N Model RHFE-556 FAIII-N FAIII-P WTA-N WTA-P The model number is printed on the top of the rating plate located on the right side of the unit. The recall includes only those units manufactured from February 2000 through December 2007. The manufacturing date code is the first four digits of the serial number, written as YY MM, and is located at the bottom of the rating plate.
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhy it was recalled
A gasket in the unit can fail, posing a risk of poisonous carbon monoxide gas leaking into the home.
Incidents and injuries
Rinnai has received 11 reports of carbon monoxide leaking from the furnace. No injuries have been reported.
Official remedy
Consumers should stop using the furnace immediately and contact the firm to arrange for the installation of a free repair kit.
Product and sales details
- Brand
- Direct-Vent Wall
- Manufacturer
- Rinnai America Corp., of Peachtree City, Ga.
- Product type
- Furnaces
- Recall number
- 08-199
- Units
- About 52,000
- Manufactured in
- Japan
- Sold at / sales period
- Wholesale distributors nationwide to contractors and dealers from February 2000 through December 2007 for between $1,600 and $1,900.
Direct-Vent Wall Furnaces, Models RHFE 431 and RHFE 556
CPSC product type: Furnaces
Recall contact information
For additional information, contact Rinnai toll-free at (866) 746-8344 anytime, or visit the firm's Web site at www.wallfurnacerecall.com
Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.
Know someone who has one?
Recalls only work when owners hear about them. Send this notice to family or friends who might own the same product.
