May was a tough month for two of the nations leading water heater manufacturers as recalls were issued totaling 68,000 electric and gas powered units which were sold nationwide.

Rheem recalled a total of about 54,000 electrical powered units with 40, 50 and 80 gallon capacities with the US Consumer Product Safety Commission describing the hazard as "The control panel on the water heaters can overheat, posing fire and burn hazards".  Although 80 gallon capacity units are not all that common in a multifamily setting, units with both 40 and 50 gallon capacities are very common.  The good news is communities can request a free repair by a Rheem field technician by calling Rheem toll free at 866-369-4786 or online at www.rheem.com and click on Recall Information for more details.  The full details of the recall can also be reviewed on the CPSC website by clicking here.

Rheem was not the only manufacturer that enacted a recall in the month of May.  Water Heating Technologies also placed a recall on about 14,400 of it's gas powered units with capacities of 30, 40, and 50 gallons.  The hazard statement on the CPSC website states "The water heaters have a space between the burner flange and the combustion chamber that allows flammable liquids or gases to contact burning flammable vapors inside the combustion chamber, posing a risk of fire or explosion."  Water Heating Technologies is also offering inspections, repairs, or replacements, free of charge for specific units covered by this recall.  Further information is available by calling the company toll-free at 888-883-0788 or online at www.americanstandardwaterheaters.com and click on the "Recall Information" section of the website.  Full details of the recall can also be reviewed on the CPSC website by clicking here.