Carrier is recalling Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners (PTAC) and Heat Pumps (PTHP) because the power cord plug can overheat and pose a fire hazard. About 285,000 units are being recalled, (about 185,000 were previously recalled in November 2007). Carrier has received reports of approximately 47 incidents of overheating, two of which involved hotel fires. One of the reported fires involved a consumer suffering burns and smoke inhalation. The other incidents involved scorched or melted cord heads or wall outlets with no injuries reported.
The recalled units were made in Mexico and sold at HVAC dealers and factory-direct sales from January 2002 through December 2009 for between $425 and $675. The PTACs and PTHPs were sold under the Bryant, Carrier and Fast brand names. Recalled units include those with original power cords and those that received a supplemental power cord as part of the 2007 recall. See the CPSC notice to check model and serial numbers. Consumers should stop using and unplug the recalled units, and contact Carrier to receive a free replacement cord.
