CPSC, Controlled Energy Corporation Announce Recall of Water Heaters
Source: CPSC Recall #01085
Recall Date
2001-02-15
Manufacturer
Controlled Energy Corporation (CEC), of Waitsfield, Vt.
Units Affected
About 320
Products Involved
AquaStar natural gas water heaters
Hazard
The heaters can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in the exhaust gas, which can cause serious injuries and death.
Remedy
Consumers who have the recalled AquaStar unit (model number AQ38B NG), should turn off the water heater immediately and call Controlled Energy Corporation. CEC is offering consumers a free on-site repair conducted by a licensed professional plumber.
Reported Injuries
CPSC and Controlled Energy have received reports of two deaths and two injuries in Manitoba, Canada, reportedly caused by the release of carbon monoxide from the water heater.
Sold At
The water heaters were sold nationwide through plumbing supply stores and plumbing contractors from March 1997 to January 2001, for about $440, plus installation.
Manufactured In
Portugal
Full Recall Description
The AquaStar natural gas water heaters were made in Portugal, and were distributed in the United States as model number AQ38B NG. The water heater is off-white in color, with the word "AquaStar" in red, on the front of the unit. The model number can be found on the rating plate, on the right side of the water heater.
Data source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) via SaferProducts.gov.
For the most current recall information, check directly with CPSC or the manufacturer.
Last verified: 2026-03-28