Glen Dimplex Americas Recalls Cadet Apex72 Electric Heater Fire Lawsuit Lawyers

Potentially Defective Heater Poses Significant Fire Risk

Glen Dimplex Americas has issued a recall for its Cadet-branded Apex72 electric heaters due to a serious fire hazard. The recall, announced on September 12, 2024, affects approximately 12,900 units sold nationwide. The issue lies with the heater’s fan, which can malfunction and fail to turn on. When this occurs, the unit may overheat, resulting in internal ignition and posing a fire risk to consumers.

These fan-forced heaters are designed to be installed high on walls, at least six feet off the ground, and were sold under various model numbers. The recalled units were manufactured between March 1, 2021, and February 29, 2024. The defective models include HW128, HW132, HW151, HW162, HW162BP5, HW168, and HW168BP5, all of which can be identified by the “Cadet” branding and the model and manufacturing dates visible through the bottom of the heater’s air outlet grill.

So far, Glen Dimplex Americas has received only one report of a heater malfunction, which resulted in a fire, though no injuries have been reported. The recall is proactive, with the company encouraging all consumers who own these heaters to stop using them immediately. The manufacturer is offering a free replacement heater, as well as installation by a qualified technician at no cost to the consumer. This recall applies both to consumers who purchased and installed the heaters independently and those living in apartment complexes or other multi-unit housing.

The heaters were sold primarily through electrical distributors such as Platt, Crescent Electric, and CED for approximately $190 per unit. These recalled products were on the market for a full decade, from February 2014 through February 2024, making it critical for anyone who has purchased a Cadet Apex72 heater during that time to check the model and manufacturing date.

How People Are Harmed by Defective Heaters

Defective products like the Cadet Apex72 electric heater can lead to devastating consequences for consumers. In this case, the primary risk is fire, which poses a threat not only to property but to lives. Fire-related injuries, such as severe burns, smoke inhalation, and respiratory damage, can result in long-term health issues and extensive medical treatment. The financial toll from such accidents is also considerable, with property damage, medical bills, and lost wages from time off work adding to the emotional and physical burden on victims.

In addition to the immediate danger of fire, defective heaters can create an unsafe living environment, especially when installed in homes, apartment buildings, or multi-unit complexes where multiple families may be at risk. A malfunctioning heater in one unit could quickly cause a fire to spread to others, potentially endangering dozens of people.

In many cases, victims of defective products may not immediately realize they are entitled to compensation. Product liability laws allow consumers harmed by faulty or dangerous products to pursue legal action against the manufacturers or sellers responsible. For those affected by the Cadet Apex72 heater, a lawsuit could help cover damages, including medical costs, pain and suffering, and property damage.

Filing a Product Liability Lawsuit: Why You Need an Attorney

For victims injured by defective products, navigating the legal landscape can be complicated. Filing a lawsuit against a large company like Glen Dimplex Americas requires thorough documentation, expert testimony, and a comprehensive understanding of product liability laws. This is why having an attorney to guide you through the process is essential.

The first step in a product liability lawsuit is determining whether the product was, in fact, defective. There are three main types of defects that can form the basis of a claim:

1. Design Defect: The product’s design is inherently dangerous, even when used as intended.
2. Manufacturing Defect: The product was designed safely but became defective due to an error in manufacturing.
3. Marketing Defect: The product was sold without proper instructions or warnings about potential hazards.

In the case of the Cadet Apex72 heater, the issue appears to be a manufacturing defect, as the fan’s malfunction can cause overheating and internal ignition. An experienced attorney can gather evidence, including technical reports, safety notices, and incident reports, to build a strong case that proves the manufacturer’s responsibility.

Once a lawsuit is filed, the discovery process begins, during which both parties exchange evidence and depose witnesses. This stage is crucial for building a comprehensive case and requires the expertise of an attorney who can analyze the facts, consult with experts, and craft legal strategies. After discovery, the case may proceed to trial, or it may be settled out of court. In either situation, the goal is to obtain compensation for the injured parties.

Recovering Damages in a Product Liability Lawsuit

Victims harmed by defective heaters like the Cadet Apex72 may be entitled to recover a variety of damages in a product liability lawsuit. These can include:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any future medical care related to the injuries.
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to time off work for recovery, as well as potential future lost earnings if the injuries result in long-term disability.
• Pain and Suffering: Monetary compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injuries.
• Property Damage: If the defective heater caused a fire, victims may be compensated for the loss of personal belongings, as well as the cost to repair or replace damaged property.
• Punitive Damages: In some cases, if the manufacturer’s actions were particularly egregious, courts may award punitive damages as a way to punish the company and deter future negligence.

Our experience product liability attorneys understand how to calculate the full extent of your damages, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. We will also handle negotiations with the manufacturer’s legal team and insurance companies, which can often be intimidating for individuals without legal representation.