Question 1

Is there a new recall on this product as of August 3, 2023?

Accepted Answer

No, this is a re-announcement of the voluntary recall first communicated through CPSC and Health Canada press releases on June 22, 2023.

The timing of the re-announcement coincides with the typical “clean and check”  servicing schedule for the Steam Humidifier.

Question 2

Is this a recall?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is a voluntary recall. Our priority is customer safety.

Research Products Corporation has determined a specific type of electrode wire with a “D” shaped connector used in Steam Humidifiers produced from June 2010 – January 2015 may loosen causing arcing and/or overheating at the interface of the connector and canister, posing a fire hazard.

Research Products Corporation voluntarily notified and is working with the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission and Health Canada on the issue.

Question 3

Exactly what is being recalled?

Accepted Answer

Steam Humidifier electrode wires with a “D” shaped connector are being recalled.

Question 4

The recall mentions a fire hazard. Does replacing the “D” shaped electrode wire connectors eliminate the fire hazard?

Accepted Answer

Research Products Corporation has developed an electrode wire with an “O” shaped connector that eliminates the risk of fire. The wire repair kit contains two “O” shaped connector electrode wires. In addition, following the maintenance instructions will ensure the product continues to operate safely and to its designed specifications.

Question 5

How many Steam Humidifier units are affected?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 36,200 affected units were installed in the U.S. and 3,800 were installed in Canada.

Question 6

Are other products affected?

Accepted Answer

No other products are affected

Question 7

How many incidents have occurred?

Accepted Answer

Research Products has received 103 reports of the recalled humidifiers overheating, including 10 incidents resulting in smoke or residential fires.

Question 8

Is this a different issue than the safety notice issued in 2022?

Accepted Answer

No, We anticipate this proactive approach will help us reach our goal of changing out “D” shaped wires by engaging more homeowners and contractors than we reached with the safety notice.

Question 9

When will wire repair kits begin shipping?

Accepted Answer

June 26, 2023.

Question 10

What is the difference between a “D” shaped connector and an “O” shaped connector and which connectors have an issue?

Accepted Answer

The electrode wires are powered from a connection on the panel and are connected to a post on the canister. At the end of the wire there is a rubber insulation boot surrounding the metal connection that comes in contact with the canister post. The design of that metal connection is either in the shape of a “D” or an “O”. The “D” shaped design is recalled, and the “O” shaped connector is the current design and has been used in units produced since January 2015.

Question 11

Does annual maintenance include the electrode wires?

Accepted Answer

Yes, maintenance of the Steam Humidifier includes checking the electrode wires annually and replacing the electrode wires if the connections are loose, damaged, or have been in service for 3 or more years. Following the maintenance procedures will ensure the Steam Humidifier operates safely and to its designed specifications.

Question 12

Are the “O” shaped electrode wire connector parts covered under the warranty?

Accepted Answer

No. Replacement of electrode wires are considered regular maintenance of the Steam Humidifier. Regular maintenance parts are not covered under warranty.

Question 13

How long does it take to install the wire repair kit?

Accepted Answer

Replacing the two electrode wires and canister typically takes 15 – 20 minutes.

Question 14

The canister looks different. Did something change?

Accepted Answer

Yes, through continuous improvement efforts we have made improvements to the canister material. All canisters utilize a new plastic material that contains self-extinguishing additives meeting UL standard 94 achieving V2 rating.

Frequently asked questions