The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·22016·Announced 2021-11-03

Usines Giant Factories Gas Water Heaters Recalled for Carbon Monoxide Risk

Usines Giant Factories is recalling about 168 gas water heaters with Emerson control valves that can short circuit, overheat, and release carbon monoxide. The company will replace the control valve free of charge.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a high-risk pathogen (carbon monoxide release) without reported illness in the United States, meeting the High (score 3) threshold. Although 20 incidents were reported in Canada with one requiring medical attention, the source explicitly states "None reported in the United States," and the hazard is not yet manifested as actual harm in the U.S. market.

Plain-English summary

Usines Giant Factories Inc. is recalling approximately 168 propane and natural gas water heaters in 40, 50, and 75 gallon capacities sold in the United States. The recalled heaters are white with a red "Giant" logo decal and contain an Emerson gas control valve (models 37H73A-301P1 for natural gas or 37H74A-301P1 for propane with date codes between 1821 and 1839).

The Emerson control valve's power handle can short circuit and overheat, creating a risk of carbon monoxide release. In Canada, where 10,832 additional units were sold, Usines Giant Factories received 20 reports of incidents involving these control valves, including one report requiring medical attention due to carbon monoxide release. No injuries have been reported in the United States.

The recalled water heaters were sold through BGM Supply in Utica, New York; Central NY Plumbing & Heating Supply in Whitesboro, New York; and Maryland Pipe & Supply Company in Hancock, Maryland from June 2018 through July 2020, priced between $840 and $2,100.

Consumers should immediately contact Usines Giant Factories at 800-363-9354 (Monday–Thursday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET, Friday 8 a.m.–3 p.m. ET), email [email protected], or visit www.giantinc.com to arrange a free replacement of the Emerson control valve by a certified technician. While awaiting repair, consumers should ensure working carbon monoxide alarms are installed outside sleeping areas and on every level of the home.

The recalled product

Product
Usines Giant Factories Gas Water Heaters with Emerson control valves
Manufacturer
White-Rodgers, a division of Emerson Electric Co., Saint Louis, Missouri (control valve)
Category
Consumer Product — Appliance / Water Heater
Hazard
  • carbon-monoxide-release
  • short-circuit
  • fire
  • burn-injury
Affected units
168

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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