What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a significant recall involving specific models of Amana brand air conditioning and heat pump units manufactured by Daikin Comfort Technologies Manufacturing, Inc. This action, dated June 25, 2026, addresses a critical safety defect in certain window-room-air-conditioners and through-the-wall units. These products are designed to provide room climate control and are frequently installed in settings such as hotels, apartment buildings, and various commercial spaces where reliable temperature regulation is essential for comfort and operational continuity.
The recalled items are white-colored units with the brand name prominently printed on most of the control covers. Identification is key because the recall does not cover all Amana products, only those with specific model numbers. The model number can be found on a white sticker located on the front edge of the base pan on the front of the unit. Directly under this model number is a barcode, and beneath that barcode is the serial number, which serves as additional verification for consumers.
The recall specifically targets units with model numbers beginning with PB, AH, or AE. For through-the-wall (TTW) heat pumps, the affected models include the PBH113J35AA, PBH093J35AA, and PBH073J35AA. Also included in this category are the PBE123J35AA and PBE093J35AA air conditioners. For window-room-air-conditioners (WRAC), the recall covers heat pump models AH183J35AA, AH123J35AA, and AH093J35AA, as well as air conditioner models AE183J35AA, AE123J35AA, and AE093J35AA. If your unit’s model number does not match one of these eight specific codes, it is not part of this recall.
While the exact number of units sold globally is not specified in the current record, the scope of the recall is significant given the widespread use of these models in multi-unit residential and commercial properties. These products were likely sold through various distributors and retailers specializing in HVAC equipment for both residential and commercial installation. Consumers who purchased these units are advised to check their model numbers immediately against the list provided above. If you own any of these specific models, it is crucial to take the steps outlined in this recall notice to ensure your safety and secure a full refund.
The hazard, explained
To understand why this recall is necessary, it helps to look closely at what is happening inside the unit when something goes wrong. The core issue involves the heating element, a critical component in heat pumps and many air conditioners that provides warm air during cooler months. Under normal circumstances, this element turns on and off safely based on your thermostat settings. However, in the affected Amana units, a specific electrical failure mode has been identified: if a ground fault occurs—a situation where electricity escapes its intended path and flows to the metal casing or other grounded parts—the heating element fails to shut off completely.
In simpler terms, even if you have turned the unit off or if the thermostat calls for cooling only, the heating element can remain energized. This means it continues to generate heat despite no one actively requesting it. This is not a minor glitch; it is a persistent source of energy buildup in a place that may not be designed to handle continuous high-temperature operation once the safety protocols fail. Because the unit appears to be off or operating normally from the outside, consumers are unlikely to notice that internal components are still running hot.
This lingering heat creates two distinct and serious dangers. First, there is the risk of fire. Electrical components that remain energized when they should be cold can overheat surrounding materials, including insulation, wiring, and plastic housings. If these materials reach their ignition temperature, a fire can start inside the unit or spread to nearby curtains, furniture, or walls, especially since these units are often installed in tight spaces within hotels and apartments.
Second, there is the direct risk of burn injuries. Since the heating element stays active, the exterior surfaces of the unit, particularly near vents or access panels, can become significantly hotter than standard operating temperatures. If a consumer touches these hot spots, or if a child or pet brushes against the unit while it is in this faulty state, severe thermal burns can occur instantly. This hazard is particularly insidious because it can happen without warning during sleep or when the room is unoccupied, making prevention difficult without immediate awareness of the defect.
It is important to note that this is a fundamental design or manufacturing flaw related to how the system handles ground faults, rather than user error. No matter how carefully you use the air conditioner, you cannot prevent this specific electrical behavior through normal operation. This is why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has deemed it a serious safety risk requiring immediate action.
Who is most at risk
The primary group of individuals affected by this recall consists of property managers, hotel operators, and facility maintenance staff who oversee the installation and upkeep of Amana brand through-the-wall air conditioners and heat pumps. Because these units are specifically designed for commercial and multi-unit residential settings such as hotels, apartment complexes, and office buildings, the people most directly exposed to the hazard are often guests, tenants, or employees who may not have a direct line of communication with the manufacturer. These individuals rely on the equipment to maintain safe indoor temperatures, unaware that the internal heating element could remain energized even when the unit is switched off.
Within these environments, specific demographics face heightened vulnerability due to their physical dependence on stable climate control and their potential limitations in responding to emergencies. Elderly residents and individuals with chronic health conditions are particularly at risk. For many older adults, the ability to regulate body temperature is diminished, making them highly dependent on functional heating and cooling systems for survival. If a unit malfunctions or poses a fire risk during extreme weather—either freezing cold or sweltering heat—their inability to quickly evacuate or replace the equipment can lead to severe health complications beyond just the immediate danger of fire.
Furthermore, guests in hotels or temporary housing situations are at a unique disadvantage. Unlike homeowners who might notice wear and tear on their own appliances over time, transient occupants often use these units without inspecting them for damage or recall status. They may assume the device is safe because it appears to operate normally until the moment a ground fault occurs. This lack of familiarity with the specific model number or serial number means they are unlikely to check whether their unit is part of this specific recall, leaving them exposed to the risk of burns or fire while sleeping or resting in a confined space.
Children also represent a vulnerable population within these settings. Young children may not recognize the signs of electrical malfunction or the smell of burning insulation. If a burn injury occurs due to contact with the energized heating element, their thinner skin is more susceptible to severe thermal damage than that of an adult. Additionally, in multi-family housing, children often play near baseboards and wall units where these through-the-wall systems are installed, increasing the likelihood of accidental contact with the exterior surfaces if a fault causes them to become unexpectedly hot.
The risk is further compounded by the fact that these units are often installed in areas where immediate evacuation might be difficult or delayed. In apartment buildings, for instance, a fire originating from an electrical fault in a wall-mounted unit can spread rapidly through shared walls or ductwork, endangering not just the occupant of that specific room but potentially neighboring units as well. Therefore, the "most at risk" category extends beyond the immediate user to include anyone in close proximity who might be trapped by smoke or flame before they can react.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your air conditioning unit is part of this specific recall requires a careful look at the physical labels on the device itself. Because the affected units are primarily installed in hotels, apartment buildings, and commercial spaces, they may not be immediately obvious as consumer-grade appliances found in a typical home. However, if you own or manage one of these white-colored Amana brand Window-Room-Air-Conditioners (WRAC) or Through-the-Wall (TTW) air conditioners or heat pumps, you can verify its status by checking two critical pieces of information: the model number and the serial number.
The first step is to locate the model number. On these recalled units, this identifier is printed on a white sticker located on the front of the unit. Specifically, look at the front edge of the base pan for this sticker. The brand name "Amana" should also be visible on most of the units' control covers, confirming the manufacturer. Once you have found the white sticker, examine the model number closely. The recall applies only to units with model numbers that begin with the letters PB, AH, or AE. If your model number starts with any other combination of letters, it is not part of this specific safety notice.
If your model number does start with PB, AH, or AE, you must then verify the full model code against the official list. The recall includes specific Through-the-Wall (TTW) models: PBH113J35AA (Heat Pump), PBH093J35AA (Heat Pump), PBH073J35AA (Heat Pump), PBE123J35AA (Air Conditioner), and PBE093J35AA (Air Conditioner). For Window-Room-Air-Conditioners (WRAC), the affected models are AH183J35AA (Heat Pump), AH123J35AA (Heat Pump), AH093J35AA (Heat Pump), AE183J35AA (Air Conditioner), AE123J35AA (Air Conditioner), and AE093J35AA (Air Conditioner). Double-check every character in the model number, as even a single digit mismatch means your unit is safe from this particular defect.
Additionally, you should note the serial number for your records. This number is located under the barcode, which is positioned directly under the model number on that same white sticker. While the recall does not list specific serial ranges, keeping this number handy will be essential if you proceed with the refund process. Remember to take clear photos of both the cut cord and the serial number label later, so have your device ready for inspection now.
What to do — step by step
If you believe you may have one of the recalled Amana air conditioners or heat pumps, your first and most critical action is to stop using the device immediately. This is not a suggestion to wait for a convenient time to unplug it; it is an urgent safety directive. The hazard involves the heating element remaining energized even when the unit is turned off, which creates a persistent risk of fire or burn injury. By disconnecting the power source right now, you effectively remove the energy that could cause harm. Do not attempt to inspect, test, or repair the internal components yourself. These units contain complex electrical systems that can be dangerous to handle without professional training and specialized tools. Your safety depends on treating the unit as a potential ignition source until it is properly processed by the manufacturer. Once you have safely disconnected the unit from the wall outlet, you need to initiate the refund process with Daikin Comfort Technologies Manufacturing, Inc. (DCT). The remedy for this recall is a full refund of the unit, but receiving that refund requires specific steps to verify your ownership and compliance with safety protocols. You must contact DCT directly to submit a formal request. During this interaction, you will be required to provide your personal contact information so they can process your claim. This is standard procedure for warranty and recall claims, ensuring that the refund reaches the correct consumer. After providing your contact details, you must prepare the physical product for verification. You are required to cut the power cord of the recalled unit. This step is crucial because it permanently disables the device, ensuring that no one else in your household or building can accidentally plug it back in and expose themselves to the electrical hazard. Once the cord is cut, take clear photographs of two specific things: the product’s serial number and the severed end of the power cord. The serial number is located under the barcode, which is situated directly under the model number on a white sticker at the front of the unit. These photos serve as proof that you have not only identified the correct model but also taken the necessary safety precautions to neutralize the risk. Finally, upload these photos along with your contact information through the channel provided by DCT. Do not send the physical unit back unless explicitly instructed to do so by their representatives; the current remedy focuses on photo verification for a refund. By following these steps precisely—stopping use, cutting the cord, documenting the serial number and cut cord, and submitting the request—you ensure that you are fully protected from the fire hazard while receiving your full financial reimbursement. If you have any doubts about whether your specific model is included, refer to the list of affected model numbers starting with PB, AH, or AE, and when in doubt, contact DCT for confirmation before proceeding.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that your Amana air conditioner or heat pump is part of this recall, the good news is that Daikin Comfort Technologies Manufacturing, Inc. (DCT) has established a clear and straightforward remedy for affected consumers. Unlike some recalls that offer partial credits or require you to pay for shipping back to a service center, this specific recall provides a full refund of the purchase price. This is a significant benefit because it removes any financial burden from you while resolving a potentially dangerous safety issue. The company has designed the process to be as simple as possible, but it does require you to follow a few specific steps to ensure your refund is processed correctly.
To begin the process, you must contact Daikin Comfort Technologies Manufacturing, Inc. directly to submit a formal request for a full refund. It is important to note that there is no option for a repair or replacement unit in this case; the remedy is exclusively a financial reimbursement. When you reach out to DCT, they will ask you to provide your basic contact information so they can verify your identity and process the payment. This standard administrative step ensures that the refund goes to the correct person who purchased or owns the unit.
The most unique aspect of this remedy involves a specific safety verification step before you receive your money. Because the hazard involves a heating element that could remain energized even when turned off, DCT requires proof that the product is no longer functional in your home. You will be required to physically cut the power cord of the recalled unit. This is not just a formality; it is a critical safety measure to ensure the device cannot accidentally cause a fire or burn injury while you are waiting for the refund or after you have disposed of the unit.
Once you have safely cut the cord, you must take a clear photograph of two things: the product’s serial number and the now-cut cord. The serial number is located under the barcode, which is found directly under the model number on the front edge of the base pan. You will then need to upload this photo along with your contact details through the portal provided by DCT. This visual evidence serves as confirmation that you have taken ownership of the safety risk and neutralized it. After DCT reviews and approves your submission, they will issue a full refund for the unit. Please remember that you should stop using the recalled product immediately upon identifying it, regardless of whether you have completed the refund process yet.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is entirely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using your air conditioner or heat pump, especially when the weather turns hot and the comfort of your home feels essential. However, ignoring this recall is not merely an inconvenience; it is a serious safety gamble. The core issue with these recalled Amana units is not that they will simply stop working or become less efficient. The danger lies in a specific electrical failure mode where the heating element remains energized even after you have turned the unit off. This means that the device can continue to generate intense heat internally without any visible indication that it is still active.
If you choose to leave these units installed and operational, you are leaving a potential ignition source in your home unchecked. Because the heating element stays hot due to this ground fault, it can easily ignite nearby combustible materials. This could include dust buildup, insulation within the wall cavity, or even the plastic casing of the unit itself. The result is not just a broken appliance, but a genuine risk of fire breaking out within the device or spreading to surrounding structures.
Beyond the immediate threat of fire, there is a significant risk of burn injuries. If the external surfaces or vents become excessively hot due to this internal energization, anyone who touches the unit or stands close to it could suffer severe burns. This is particularly dangerous in environments like hotels or apartments where guests or tenants may not be aware of the defect and might interact with the unit as a standard, safe appliance. The heat generated does not necessarily require a full-blown fire to cause harm; surface temperatures can rise high enough to cause painful and damaging skin injuries upon contact.
Furthermore, allowing the unit to remain in use prolongs the period during which this hazard exists. Electrical faults often worsen over time as components degrade or connections loosen. What might start as a minor overheating issue could escalate rapidly into a catastrophic failure. By ignoring the recall, you are effectively gambling with your property and personal safety, hoping that the defect will never manifest in a way that causes harm. The CPSC issued this recall because the potential for serious injury is too high to ignore. Taking action now prevents a potentially tragic scenario where a simple electrical glitch leads to fire or physical harm, ensuring that your living space remains a place of comfort rather than danger.
Staying safe: broader tips
Amana window and through-the-wall air conditioners are specialized appliances that operate under significant electrical load while being exposed to the elements. Because these units bridge the interior of your home with the exterior environment, they face unique stressors that general indoor electronics do not. Understanding how to maintain them properly can prevent fires, electrical shocks, and costly damage long after any specific recall has been resolved. The primary danger in these installations is often moisture intrusion combined with high amperage draw. When water enters a unit that is not designed to keep it out, or when seals degrade over time, the risk of short circuits increases dramatically. This is why regular visual inspections are not just good housekeeping; they are a critical safety protocol.
First, always ensure that your unit’s power cord and plug remain in pristine condition. For through-the-wall models, the gasket or seal around the casing must be intact to prevent rain and humidity from reaching internal electrical components. If you notice any fraying on the cord, discoloration on the plug, or a burning smell when the unit first turns on, stop using it immediately. Do not attempt to tape over damaged cords or use adapters that bypass the grounding pin. These shortcuts are common causes of residential electrical fires. Instead, replace the entire power assembly with a manufacturer-approved part or have a licensed electrician evaluate the outlet and wiring.
Secondly, consider the physical installation of the unit. Window and through-the-wall air conditioners can become heavy over time due to accumulated dust, ice, or debris in the filter. If the mounting bracket is loose or the window sash is not secured properly, the unit could fall, causing serious injury to anyone below or damaging the building structure. Use safety cables or straps specifically designed for HVAC units to provide a secondary support mechanism. This adds a crucial layer of protection against accidental dislodgement during high winds or if the primary mounting hardware fails.
Finally, make proactive maintenance part of your seasonal routine. Clean or replace filters monthly during peak usage; clogged filters force the compressor to work harder, generating excess heat that can degrade internal wiring insulation over time. Additionally, keep the area around the exterior vent clear of leaves, snow, or debris to ensure proper airflow. While this recall highlights a specific manufacturing defect, general vigilance—such as checking for loose connections and ensuring proper grounding—is your best defense against electrical hazards in any high-power appliance.