Gas Fireplace Recall Issued Due to Explosion Risk

Nearly 16,000 gas fireplaces and fireplace inserts are being recalled following reports that they may allow gas to buildup in the burner area, potentially leading to an explosion.

The gas fireplace recall was announced by the U.S. Consumers Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on April 4, impacting Kozy Heat, Ambiance and Stellar Hearth gas fireplaces and inserts.

At least nine reports of problems with the gas fireplaces have been received, where gas was prematurely released into the burner area and caused the gas to explode. Several of the cases resulted in property damage and injuries for consumers.

The recall involves Hussong Manufacturing direct vent gas fireplaces and gas fireplace inserts that use American Flame brand main control modules.

Twenty-two different models feature this module, which were sold under the brand names Kozy Heat Fireplaces, Ambiance Fireplaces, and Stellar Hearth Products.

All of the recalled gas fireplace models were manufactured in the United States under Hussong Manufacturing Co. Inc., d/b/a Kozy Heat Fireplaces, of Lakefield, Minnesota, where they were sold through fireplace dealers and distributors from October 2009 to April 2013 for between $1,450 and $3,325.

The CPSC recommends that customers with affected fireplace units stop using them immediately and turn of the gas to the units and contact Hussong Manufacturing at 800-253-4904 or by visiting them online at www.kozyheat.com, www.ambiancefireplace.com, or www.stellarhearth.com, and navigate to the “Recall Information” link for information on how to schedule a free repair of the fireplaces ignition board in the main control module. Customers may also contact their dealer or store of purchase to obtain recall information.