In windy weather, the flame can be directed to the rear of the unit, which can melt the “tip switch” safety shut off feature at the rear of the heater. This poses a risk that the heater will not turn off if it tips over, posing a burn hazard to consumers.
The firm has received reports of nine incidents of flame redirection to the rear of the heater and/or the tip switch safety feature melting. Three of these incidents resulted in minor burn injuries when the consumers attempted to turn off the unit.
This recall involves the One Stop Gardens 15,000 BTU Tank Top Propane Heater (Item #63073), and the One Stop Gardens 30,000 BTU Tank Top Propane Heater (Item #63072).
The heaters are designed to mount on top of a standard 20 lb. propane tank, and have an “easy start” with variable heat control valve, high efficiency heat reflector, and safety shutoff.
The heaters, manufactured in China, were sold at Harbor Freight Tools stores nationwide and online at www.harborfreight.com from December, 2015, through April, 2021, for about $45 for the 15,000 BTU model and about $75 for the 30,000 BTU model.
What to do
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled tank top propane heaters and return them to their local Harbor Freight Tools store for a full refund of the purchase price, plus applicable tax, in the form of a Harbor Freight Tools gift card.
Harbor Freight Tools is contacting all known purchasers directly.
Consumers may contact Harbor Freight Tools at (800) 444-3353 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (PT) Monday through Friday, by email at recall@harborfreight.com or online at www.harborfreight.com and click on “Recall & Safety” at the bottom of the page for more information.