Kenmore Oscillating Fan Heater Recall Issued Following Fires, Injuries

After reports of fires and burn injuries, Kenmore is recalling about 42,500 fan heaters sold at Sears and K-mart due to a potential risk that they could cause burns or pose a fire hazard.  

The Kenmore oscillating fan heater recall was announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on January 15, following at least seven reports that suggested the fans may overheat or catch fire.

At least two reports of problems involving the Kenmore fans resulted in injuries, including burns and smoke inhalation.

According to the CPSC, defective motor mounts in the units can break, causing them to overheat. The units themselves may catch fire and they can also ignite nearby items, posing a potentially serious risk of injury and property damage.

The recall includes Kenmore oscillating fan heaters with model number 127.90914310 printed on a silver sticker located on the bottom of the unit. The heaters measure roughly 12 inches tall and nine inches wide and have two dials at the top to adjust fan speed and temperature. The brand name Kenmore is also printed on the front bottom of the units above the red “on-off” button.

The affected heaters were manufactured in China under Collins Co. and were distributed and imported by Sears Holdings, of Hoffman Estates, Illinois. The products were sold at Sears and K-mart stores nationwide from September 2013 through November 2013 for between $35 and $40.

The CPSC recommends that customers stop using any affected heater immediately, unplug the unit, and return it to any Sears or K-mart store for a full refund. Customers may contact Sears/K-mart at 888-820-3341 or visit them online at www.sears.com or www.kmart.com and navigate to the “Product Recall” link for more information.