Rowenta vacuum cleaner batteries recalled over fire risks

Health Canada is advising consumers to stop using a line of cordless vacuum cleaners “immediately” due to fire and burn hazards linked to a recalled lithium-ion battery.

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A consumer product recall notice issued by the agency on Wednesday said the issue concerns two Rowenta cordless vacuum cleaner models sold by Scarborough-based Groupe SEB Canada dba Rowenta Canada.

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“Immediately stop using the recalled product and contact Rowenta Canada to obtain a replacement battery,” the Health Canada notice said.

They said the specific models affected include the X-Force Flex 14.60 Animal (model No. RH99A2U1) and the X-Force Flex 15.60 Animal (model No. RH99F2U1), which are sold in red, black and silver.

Batteries being recalled by Health Canada. Photo by Health Canada

Risk of batteries overheating, igniting

The issue is specifically related to the vacuums’ recalled lithium-ion batteries, which are housed in the handle of the device. Health Canada said the affected batteries can overheat and ignite, potentially causing serious fire- and burn-related injuries and hazards.

“As of July 2, the company has received no reports of incidents or injuries in Canada,” Health Canada said.

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Batteries being recalled by Health Canada. Photo by Health Canada

The batteries, which were manufactured in China and sold between December 2023 and June either with the vacuums or separately, have the model No. ZR0097U2 and a date code that begins with either 23 or 24.

Consumers advised to contact company

The federal department said the company reported that 550 units of the affected products were sold in Canada.

“Health Canada would like to remind consumers to report any health or safety incidents related to the use of this product or any other consumer product or cosmetic by filling out the Consumer Product Incident Report Form,” they said.

They advised contacting Rowenta to obtain a replacement battery at 1-800-418-3325 Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET or by visiting the company’s website.