A.O. Smith Recalls Unsafe Water Heaters

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Washington, D.C./April 3, 2008 - Release #08-241

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with A.O. Smith Water Products Co., of Ashland City, Tenn., today announced a voluntary recall of approximately 1,500 natural and propane gas water heaters because the water heater's flue gas temperatures can exceed safe limits and produce excessive temperatures in the venting unit, posing a fire hazard. Also, the water heater's exhaust can leak into the surrounding room, posing a carbon monoxide hazard. To date, no injuries have been reported.

This recall involves 75 gallon natural and propane gas water heaters. "A.O. Smith" or "State" is printed on the side of the unit and the model and serial numbers are printed on the water heater's rating plate. These water heaters were manufactured in the United States and sold by independent contractors and plumbers nationwide from November2007 through January 2008 for between $1,000 and $2,500.

The A.O. Smith brand units that are involved are the model FCG-75 300 and FCG-75 301 and the State brand units that are involved are the model GS6 75 XRR S and GS6 75 CRR S, with serial numbers ranging from L07A071460 through L07A144966 or M07A009387 through M07A072884.

Home inspectors are in a unique position to spot these units and make people aware of these issues. Inspectors seeing any of these units should advise the homeowners to immediately stop using the recalled water heater and contact A.O. Smith to arrange for a free repair.

For more information, contact A.O. Smith toll-free at (866) 880-4661 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT, or visit the firm's Web site at www.hotwater.com.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, click here.