Toastmaster Recalls 13,000 Edison Humidifiers

Washington, D.C. -- In cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Toastmaster Inc. of Columbia, Missouri today announced the voluntary recall of approximately 13,000 'Edison Compact Tabletop Humidifiers, Models 534041B and 534042. These electrically operated humidifiers may contain a defective motor which could overheat and present a fire hazard. The Commission staff believes that product ignition could create an increased risk of injury, since humidifiers are often operated at night or while consumers are asleep.

In 1984 and 1985, Toastmaster received five reports which indicated that a defective humidifier caught fire or failed. The incidents occurred in the States of Michigan and Wisconsin. There' were no reported injuries.

The humidifiers in question were manufactured in June and July, 1984, and were sold to consumers since "June", 1984 in all but Hawaii and the southeastern United States. The product sold retail for about $40 to $45 in certain department stores, chain stores, and a variety of other retail outlets.

The model no. 534042 humidifier has an almond cabinet with a pecan wood grain front panel, and the model no. 534041B humidifier has a solid chestnut brown cabinet. Both cabinets are plastic with dimensions of 16 S/8 inches by 14 inches by 8 5/8 inches. The "Edison Humidifier" label appears on the left front panel of each model.

Owners can determine if their Edison Humidifier is recalled by checking the metal bracket on the rear for Model No. 534041B or 534042 and any date code from DF152 through DF212. All date code numbers between 152 and 212 are included. No other Edison humidifier models or date codes are involved.

Owners of affected humidifiers should stop using their unit and contact Toastmaster Inc. for further instructions. Toastmaster will repair all suspect units free of charge. Owners should write directly to the company's National Service Manager, Second and Vine . Streets, Boonville, Missouri 65233, or call toll free at 800-247-5527. Consumers may also call CPSC's toll free number at 800-638-CPSC for information about this recall. A teletypewriter for the hearing impaired is 800-638-8270.