Craftsman Blower/Vac Recall Issued Following Reports of Fires, Injury

Almost 75,000 electric lawn blowers and vacuums have been recalled, after the manufacturer received over half a dozen reports of the motors catching on fire, posing a risk of serious injuries and burns for consumers. 

A Craftsman electric blower/vac recall was announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on December 9, after at least seven consumer reports indicate that the blowers’ motor may catch on fire during use, resulting in one burn injury. Customers are being asked to stop using the products immediately.

Craftsman did not say why the motors were catching fire, but indicates that the overheating blower/vacs may cause burn injuries. The CPSC’s recall statement estimates there were about 74,000 units sold nationwide throughout the U.S.

The recall includes Craftsman 12 amp electric blower/vacs with model numbers 138.74898 and 138.74899. Both units have a red motor housing, black blower tube, and restrictor nozzle measuring 12 inches tall by 34 inches long. Model 138.74898 has a variable speed switch and contains a serial number ranging between SES0100001 and SES1951280. Model number 138.74899 is equipped with a two-speed switch and contains serial numbers ranging between SER3561101 and SES2141280. The model number, serial number, brand name “Craftsman”, and the words “AC BLOWER/VAC” can be found printed on the side of the motor housing.

The recalled blower/vacs were manufactured in China under the Craftsman brand name and imported and sold at Ace Hardware Corporation, Orchard Supply Hardware, and Sears, Roebuck & Co. stores nationwide and online from January 2013 through October 2015 for between $50 and $100.

Customers are being asked to stop using the recalled blower/vacs immediately and contact the Craftsman brand hotline at 888-266-7096 for a full refund. Customers may also visit them online at www.craftsman.com and navigate to the Product Recalls tab for more information.