February
15, 2001
Controlled
Energy Corporation (CEC), of Waitsfield, Vt., is recalling about 320 AquaStar natural
gas water heaters. The heaters can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide
in the exhaust gas, which can cause serious injuries and death.
Controlled Energy has received reports of two deaths and two injuries in
Manitoba, Canada, reportedly caused by the release of carbon monoxide from the
water heater.
The AquaStar natural gas water heaters were made in Portugal, and were
distributed in the United States as model number AQ38B NG. The water heater is
off-white in color, with the word "AquaStar" in red, on the front of
the unit. The model number can be found on the rating plate, on the right side
of the water heater. The water heaters were sold nationwide through plumbing
supply stores and plumbing contractors from March 1997 to January 2001, for
about $440, plus installation.
Consumers who have the recalled AquaStar unit (model number AQ38B NG),
should turn off the water heater immediately and call Controlled Energy
Corporation toll-free at (800) 642-3111 between 8:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. ET Monday
through Friday. CEC is offering consumers a free on-site repair conducted by a
licensed professional plumber. CEC Media Contact: Becky MacDonald (248)
553-1393