Recall #10-176 · Published March 23, 2010

Simpson Dura-Vent DuraTech Anchor Plate with Damper and DuraChimney II Anchor Plate with Damper

Simpson Dura-Vent Recalls Fireplace Dampers Due to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Hazard

CPSC published a recall notice for DuraTech Anchor Plate with Damper and DuraChimney II Anchor Plate with Damper from Simpson Dura-Vent on March 23, 2010. CPSC identifies this hazard: When the consumer attempts to open/close the damper, it can become stuck in its current position. In addition, some of the dampers were assembled backwards and are set to the closed position when the consumer attempts to open the damper. Both pose risk of carbon monoxide poisoning to the consumer. The official remedy states: Consumers should ensure that their damper is in the open position when the fireplace is in use. Consumers or distributors with defective fireplace dampers should contact Dura-Vent to schedule a free repair. The remaining unlocated recalled dampers were distributed in Washington, California, and Colorado. Consumers and distributors whose dampers were previously inspected and repaired do not need to schedule an additional inspection.

Recalled Anchor Plate with Damper in closed and open positions
Recalled Anchor Plate with Damper in closed and open positions
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.

Which products are included?

Read the full CPSC product description and restrictions

This recall involves DuraTech Anchor Plates with Dampers and DuraChimney II Anchor Plates with Dampers. The products are intended for use as a starter section for chimneys in fireplace applications. The dampers allow the chimney to be closed when the fireplace is not in use. Each damper is a short sheet metal vent pipe fitted with a circular damper plate within the vent pipe, and attached to a square anchor plate. The damper plate rotates around an axis rod to control the flow of air through the vent pipe. The damper plates have a weight attached to one side, and a chain attached to the other side. When installed in a fireplace application, the square anchor plate is generally not visible. The DuraTech Anchor Plate with Damper was manufactured in five sizes, as follows: Dura-Vent Product Description Dura-Vent Product Number 10" diameter DuraTech Damper 99142 12" diameter DuraTech Damper 99242 14" diameter DuraTech Damper 99342 16" diameter DuraTech Damper 99442 18" diameter DuraTech Damper 99542 The DuraChimney II Anchor Plate with Damper was manufactured in four sizes, as follows: Dura-Vent Product Description Dura-Vent Product Number 10" diameter DuraChimney Damper 10DCA-APD 12" diameter DuraChimney Damper 12DCA-APD 14" diameter DuraChimney Damper 14DCA-APD 16" diameter DuraChimney Damper 16DCA-APD

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

Why it was recalled

When the consumer attempts to open/close the damper, it can become stuck in its current position. In addition, some of the dampers were assembled backwards and are set to the closed position when the consumer attempts to open the damper. Both pose risk of carbon monoxide poisoning to the consumer.

Incidents and injuries

None reported.

Official remedy

Consumers should ensure that their damper is in the open position when the fireplace is in use. Consumers or distributors with defective fireplace dampers should contact Dura-Vent to schedule a free repair. The remaining unlocated recalled dampers were distributed in Washington, California, and Colorado. Consumers and distributors whose dampers were previously inspected and repaired do not need to schedule an additional inspection.

Product and sales details

Brand
Simpson Dura-Vent
Manufacturer
Simpson Dura-Vent Company Inc., of Vacaville, Calif.
Product type
Fireplaces
Recall number
10-176
Units
About 500
Manufactured in
United States
Sold at / sales period
Dura-Vent distributors to fireplace/chimney contractors and by installers to home builders nationwide from January 2007 through May 2008 for between $100 to $150, depending on the model and size.

DuraTech Anchor Plate with Damper and DuraChimney II Anchor Plate with Damper

CPSC product type: Fireplaces & Accessories

Recall contact information

For additional information, consumers can contact Simpson Dura-Vent at (866) 860-7908 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.duravent.com

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

Related recalls

Selected by shared brand or household-product category.