• family dollar heater

Families rely on household appliances to help them perform tasks or keep their living spaces comfortable.  However, products that are improperly manufactured or designed defectively can pose serious risks to consumers.  Earlier this month, LEM Products Distribution issued a recall of their 5-Tray Food Dehydrator.  After the company received two reports of fan failure that resulted in fire, LEM Products recalled 14,600 dehydrators.

This week, another household appliance is being recalled for a fire hazard.  Family Dollar Stores announced the recall of approximately 19,640 Optimus Tower Quartz Heaters due to potential overheating that could possibly result in a fire.  The recalled heaters, which were sold exclusively at Family Dollar Stores from September 2012 through December 2012, were manufactured in China and cost about $35.

Consumers are urged to identify whether or not the recall affects their heater and to immediately unplug the device.  Family Dollar Stores have already received 10 reports of overheating, including several incidents of melting temperature knobs.

The portable heaters, which are about 10 inches wide, 25 inches tall, and 9 inches deep, have a power light, a caution light, and warnings regarding fire, high temperature, and shock.  The heater is encased in white metal and features a plastic top with two dials that select the heat level and turn the heater power to 750 or 1500 watts.  Consumers can also check the bottom of the heater for model number “H-5232” and the words “Optimus” and “Quartz Heater.”

Individuals with recalled heaters should stop use immediately to avoid the possibility of a unit fire and return the product to a Family Dollar Store for a full refund.  The company can also be contacted at 800-547-0359 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays if consumers have questions or concerns.