Recall #08-277 · Published May 21, 2008

American Flame Fireplace Gas Valves

American Flame Recalls Fireplaces to Replace Gas Valves Due to Fire and Explosion Hazards

CPSC published a recall notice for Fireplace Gas Valves from American Flame on May 21, 2008. CPSC identifies this hazard: Gas can continue to flow into the fireplace pilot light area after the switch has been turned "off," posing a fire or explosion hazard to consumers. The official remedy states: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled fireplaces and contact their dealer for a free repair. The repair involves replacing the fireplace's valve if it leaks gas in the "off" position when tested by a qualified service technician.

Gas Valve Diagram
Gas Valve Diagram
Image: CPSC recall notice

What to check on the product label

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 CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.

Additional identifying details

The gas valve model number is located on a label on the bottom of each gas valve.

Which products are included?

The recall involves American Flame AF-4000 series fireplace gas valves installed in residential fireplaces made by twelve manufacturers under the following brand names: Pacific Energy, Travis Industries, CFM Corporation, Canadian Heating Products, Portland Willamette, Rasmussen, Chimeneas de Columbia, Twin Eagles, FDM, Inca Metals (Savannah Heating), Even Temp, and Valley Comfort. The valves were installed in some but not all fireplaces. Date codes included in the recall include 0622 through 0718. The gas valve model number is located on a label on the bottom of each gas valve. The date code is located above the label.

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

Why it was recalled

Gas can continue to flow into the fireplace pilot light area after the switch has been turned "off," posing a fire or explosion hazard to consumers.

Incidents and injuries

American Flame has received two reports of incidents involving valve failure and continuous gas flow. No injuries or fires have been reported.

Official remedy

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled fireplaces and contact their dealer for a free repair. The repair involves replacing the fireplace's valve if it leaks gas in the "off" position when tested by a qualified service technician.

Product and sales details

Brand
American Flame
Manufacturer
American Flame Inc., of Fort Wayne, Ind.
Product type
Fireplaces
Recall number
08-277
Units
About 12,000
Manufactured in
Taiwan
Sold at / sales period
Fireplace retailers and distributors nationwide from September 2006 through July 2007 for between $500 and $2,000 for the fireplaces, with additional costs for installation.

Fireplace Gas Valves

CPSC product type: Fireplaces & Accessories

Recall contact information

For additional information, contact American Flame toll-free at (888) 672-8929 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET to determine if your fireplace is included in the recall and to arrange for a free repair, or visit the firm's Web site at www.skytechsystem.com

Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.

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