washington D.C. – A widespread safety recall has been announced impacting approximately 2.9 million electric motors used in both gable- and roof-mounted attic fans. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued the alert Thursday, following numerous reports of the motors overheating and, in certain specific cases, igniting fires.
Recall Details and Affected Products
Table of Contents
- 1. Recall Details and Affected Products
- 2. Safety Concerns and Reported Incidents
- 3. What Consumers Should Do
- 4. Attic Fan Safety and Maintenance
- 5. Frequently Asked Questions about the Attic Fan motor Recall
- 6. What steps should homeowners take if they believe their attic fan is part of the recall?
- 7. Attic Fans Recalled Over Fire Hazard Concerns Due to Faulty Electric Motors
- 8. Understanding the Recent Recall
- 9. Which Attic Fans Are Affected?
- 10. The Fire Hazard: What You Need to Know
- 11. Potential Consequences of Ignoring the Recall
- 12. What to Do If You Have a Recalled Attic Fan
- 13. Alternatives to Traditional Attic Fans
- 14. preventing Future Attic Fan Issues
- 15. resources for More Information
the recalled motors, manufactured and distributed by Air Vent, were sold across the United States between August 2003 and December 2013.they were available through major retailers, including ABC Supply, Lowe’s, and Beacon, as well as online marketplaces. The retail price of the motors ranged from $74 to $92.
Consumers are urged to check their attic fan motors against the following model numbers: DOW-136-0-34-XIN, DOW-136-0-26-XIN, DOW-136-0-40-XIN, DOW-136-0-40-XIN-3/4″, and D-RE-PSC-127/20-4P1SP. A distinctive vent pattern on the motor end bells also serves as an identifying feature.
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Electric Motors for Attic Fans |
| Units Affected | Approximately 2.9 Million |
| Manufacturer/Distributor | Air vent |
| Sale Dates | August 2003 – December 2013 |
| Price Range | $74 – $92 |
Safety Concerns and Reported Incidents
The CPSC’s investigation revealed a potential malfunction in the motors’ safety cutoff mechanism. This defect could lead to a short circuit and later trigger a fire while the fan is in operation.To date, the agency has received 159 reports of incidents involving burning or fire associated with the recalled motors. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
Did You No? According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical malfunctions are a leading cause of home fires in the United States, accounting for nearly 7% of all incidents.
What Consumers Should Do
The CPSC and Air Vent are advising consumers to immediately cease using any attic fan equipped with a recalled motor. Owners should contact Air Vent to verify if their unit is subject to the recall and to initiate the refund process.A full refund will be provided upon confirmation of the impacted model number.
Pro Tip: Keep your purchase receipts and any product information readily available to streamline the recall process. Taking a clear photograph of the motor’s model number can expedite verification.
This recall underscores the importance of product safety and regular maintenance of home appliances. Do you regularly inspect your home’s electrical systems and appliances for potential hazards? What steps do you take to ensure your family’s safety?
Attic Fan Safety and Maintenance
Attic fans play a crucial role in regulating home temperatures and preventing moisture buildup.However, improper installation or neglected maintenance can compromise their safety and efficiency. Regularly inspect wiring for damage,clean fan blades to maintain airflow,and ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating.Consider professional inspection and maintenance at least every other year to identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Attic Fan motor Recall
- What should I do if I have a recalled attic fan motor? Immediately stop using the fan and contact Air Vent for a refund.
- How can I identify if my attic fan motor is part of the recall? Check the model number on the motor against the list provided by the CPSC and Air Vent,or look for the distinctive vent pattern.
- What if I no longer have my purchase receipt? Air Vent may still be able to verify your purchase through other means, such as the motor’s manufacturing date code.
- Is this recall related to other recent product safety concerns? This recall is separate from other recent recalls, such as the hair dryer recall, but highlights the importance of staying informed about product safety alerts.
- What is Air Vent doing to prevent future occurrences? Air Vent is reviewing its manufacturing and quality control processes to prevent similar issues in the future.
- Where can I find more information about the recall? Visit the CPSC website or contact Air Vent directly.
Share this crucial safety information with your friends and family! Leave a comment below to let us know if you’ve been affected by this recall.
What steps should homeowners take if they believe their attic fan is part of the recall?
Attic Fans Recalled Over Fire Hazard Concerns Due to Faulty Electric Motors
Understanding the Recent Recall
A widespread recall has been issued for numerous attic fan models due to a meaningful fire hazard stemming from defective electric motors.Several manufacturers are affected, impacting homeowners across the united States and Canada. This recall isn’t just about inconvenience; it’s a serious safety concern that demands immediate attention. The core issue lies within the motor’s wiring, which can overheat and potentially ignite surrounding materials in the attic space – a particularly dangerous scenario given the presence of insulation and wooden structures.
Which Attic Fans Are Affected?
Identifying whether your attic fan is part of the recall is the first crucial step. While a complete list is constantly being updated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), here’s a breakdown of brands currently involved (as of August 29, 2025):
QualiVent: Several models manufactured between 2018 and 2023. Check the model number located on the fan’s housing.
AirTech: Specific high-velocity attic fans sold through various retailers.
GoldenEar: certain gable-mounted attic fans are included in the recall.
Other brands: The CPSC website (https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls) is the definitive source for the most up-to-date information.Regularly check for additions to the list.
Key identifiers to look for:
Model Number: This is the most reliable way to confirm if your fan is affected.
Manufacturing Date: Fans produced within the specified date ranges are more likely to be part of the recall.
Retailer: Knowing where you purchased the fan can help narrow down the possibilities.
The Fire Hazard: What You Need to Know
The faulty electric motors in these attic fans can experience a short circuit, leading to overheating. This overheating can then ignite dust, insulation, or the wooden framing of your attic, creating a substantial fire risk.
Potential Consequences of Ignoring the Recall
Ignoring this recall could have devastating consequences:
House Fire: The most severe outcome, potentially leading to significant property damage and loss of life.
Smoke Inhalation: Even a small fire can produce dangerous levels of smoke.
Property Damage: Beyond the immediate fire damage, smoke and water from firefighting efforts can cause extensive damage.
Voided Insurance: Failure to address a known safety hazard like a product recall could potentially void your homeowner’s insurance coverage in the event of a fire.
What to Do If You Have a Recalled Attic Fan
If you believe you have a recalled attic fan, here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your safety and compliance:
- Promptly Stop Using the Fan: This is the most crucial step. Do not operate the fan under any circumstances.
- Disconnect Power: Turn off the breaker that controls the attic fan to prevent accidental activation.
- Contact the Manufacturer: Reach out to the manufacturer directly for instructions on receiving a refund, replacement, or repair. Contact information can be found on the CPSC website.
- Register for Recall Updates: The CPSC offers a recall registration system to stay informed about the progress of the recall and any new developments.
- Document Everything: Keep records of your interaction with the manufacturer, the model number of your fan, and any expenses incurred consequently of the recall.
Alternatives to Traditional Attic Fans
While waiting for a resolution or considering a replacement, explore alternative attic ventilation solutions:
Solar-Powered Attic Fans: These fans utilize solar energy, eliminating the risk of electrical malfunctions.They are a great energy-efficient option.
Ridge Vents: These passive ventilation systems allow hot air to escape from the attic without relying on electricity.
gable Vents: Similar to ridge vents,gable vents provide natural ventilation.
Turbine Vents (Whirlybirds): These spinning vents use wind power to draw air out of the attic.
Whole House Fans: While more expensive, whole house fans can provide significant cooling and ventilation benefits.
preventing Future Attic Fan Issues
Even after addressing the current recall, taking preventative measures can definitely help avoid future problems:
Regular Inspections: Have a qualified electrician inspect your attic fan annually.
Professional Installation: Ensure your attic fan is installed correctly by a licensed professional.
proper Maintenance: keep the fan blades and housing clean and free of debris.
Consider Smart fan Controllers: These controllers can monitor motor temperature and shut off the fan if overheating is detected.
Understand Attic Ventilation Needs: Ensure your attic is adequately ventilated to prevent moisture buildup and overheating. Proper ventilation extends the life of your roof and reduces energy costs.
resources for More Information
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC): [https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls](https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls
