CPSC recall 16-056, announced December 9, 2015, covers Ace Hardware Blower/Vac (about 74,000 units). The blower/vac's motor can catch fire, posing fire and burn hazards. The notice cites 7 incident reports and 1 injury. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled blower/vacs and contact the Craftsman brand hotline for a full refund. Recall contact: call 888-266-7096, or go to www.craftsman.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.
Affected model numbers
Blower/vacs with model number 138.74898 or 138.74899 are being recalled.
Which products are included?
This recall involves two models of Craftsman 12-amp electric blower/vacs. The blower/vacs have a red motor housing and a black blower tube and restrictor nozzle, and measure 12 inches high by 34 inches long. Blower/vacs with model number 138.74898 or 138.74899 are being recalled. Model 138.74898 has a variable speed switch and a serial number between SES0100001 and SES1951280. Model 138.74899 has a two-speed switch and a serial number between SER3561101 and SES2141280. The model number, serial number, "Craftsman" and "AC BLOWER / VAC" are printed on the side of the motor housing.
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhy it was recalled
The blower/vac's motor can catch fire, posing fire and burn hazards.
Incidents and injuries
Seven reports of the blower/vacs catching fire have been received. One injury has been reported.
Official remedy
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled blower/vacs and contact the Craftsman brand hotline for a full refund.
Product and sales details
- Brand
- Ace Hardware
- Product type
- Leaf blowers
- Recall number
- 16-056
- Units
- About 74,000
- Manufactured in
- China
- Sold at / sales period
- ACE Hardware, Orchard Supply Hardware, and Sears stores nationwide and online from January 2013 through October 2015 for between $50 and $100.
- Importer
- Ace Hardware Corporation, of Oak Brook, Ill., Orchard Supply Hardware, of San Jose, Calif., Sears, Roebuck & Co., of Hoffman Estates, Ill.
Blower/Vac
CPSC product type: Leaf Blowers
Recall contact information
The Craftsman brand hotline toll-free at 888-266-7096 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST Monday through Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST Friday through Sunday, or online at www.craftsman.com and click on Product Recalls for more information.
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.
