Aquarium Heaters Recalled due to Electrical Shock

PetSmart has announced a recall of Top Fin plastic aquarium heaters because of an electrical problem that poses a risk of fire or electrical shock. There have been 13 reports of incidents, including four reports of minor shock, seven reports of the water tanks overheating and one report of property damage from a fire caused by an electrical shortage. This recall includes 117,000 heaters, adding to 33,000 units that were recalled in August 2014. The aquarium heaters were sold exclusively at PetSmart stores from August 2014 to April 2015 for between $25 and $40.

The defective products are 50-, 100-, 150-, 200- and 250-watt Top Fin brand plastic aquarium heaters with model numbers: HT50, HT100, HT150, HT200 or HT250. The heaters are black, rod-shaped, and about 13 inches tall. “Top Fin Premium Aquarium Heater,” the model number and the heater’s wattage are printed on the side of the heater near the top. The lot number is printed beneath the words “Made in China.” All lot numbers are included in this recall.Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled heaters and return them to any PetSmart store for a full refund.

Source: CPSC