3M Recalls Filtrete Room Air Purifiers

recall, 3M, Filtrete room air purifiers — 3M Filtrete Room Air Purifiers

(Image credit: CPSC.)

About 10,000 Filtrete™ room air purifiers were voluntarily recalled by 3M Company, of St. Paul, Minn., in cooperation with the CPSC.

Manufactured in: Taiwan

Hazard: The ion generator in the air purifiers can overheat, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: 3M has received two incident reports: one of an air purifier overheating and another of an internal room air purifier filter catching fire. No injuries or property damage reported.

Description: This recall involves 3M air purifiers branded Filtrete. The air purifiers are white, made of plastic and plug into the wall. They measure about 19 inches tall by 8 inches wide with a 13 inch tall by 4.5 inch wide air filter. They have a two-speed fan knob with Filtrete embossed on the top. The two recalled models are Ultra Quiet, number FAP00-RS, and Maximum Allergen, number FAP00-L, which was sold only at Lowe's stores. The products serial numbers begin with E, F, G, H, I or J and the model and serial numbers are located on the bottom of the product.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately unplug the recalled air purifier and contact 3M to obtain a prepaid shipping box to return the product for a free replacement.

Sold at: Ultra Quiet at Ace Hardware, Bi-Mart, Do It Best, Fred Meyer, Handy Hardware Wholesale, Nuthouse, Orchard Supply, Orgill Bros., Petco, Rite Aid, Strosniders, Theisen Farm & Home, True Value Hardware stores nationwide, and online at Amazon.com and others. Maximum Allergen sold only at Lowe's stores. The FAP00-RS model was sold from November 2008 through January 2013, and the FAP00-L model was sold from October 2012 through January 2013, both for about $60.

Consumer Contact: 3M Company; at (800) 388-3458 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or online at www.filtrete.com/roomairpurifiers and click on the link FAP00-RS recall for more information.

For the science geek in everyone, Live Science offers a fascinating window into the natural and technological world, delivering comprehensive and compelling news and analysis on everything from dinosaur discoveries, archaeological finds and amazing animals to health, innovation and wearable technology. We aim to empower and inspire our readers with the tools needed to understand the world and appreciate its everyday awe.