What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a significant safety recall involving specific window opening control devices manufactured by Andersen Windows. This action affects two distinct groups of products: those sold individually as replacement kits and those that were installed at the factory as original accessories on new windows. The core issue centers on 100 Series casement windows, specifically those units that were manufactured prior to November 19, 2025. If you own an Andersen window from this era, it is crucial to verify whether your unit includes one of these affected control devices, as the mechanism itself is the primary component under scrutiny.
To determine if your window is part of this recall, you need to locate the Product ID number. This identifier is printed on a label situated in the upper right-hand corner of the window frame. Andersen Windows has established this specific location to make identification straightforward for homeowners and technicians alike. By sharing this Product ID with their support team, consumers can definitively confirm whether their specific unit is included in the recall scope. The recall encompasses devices that were either sold separately as kits or applied during the initial manufacturing process, meaning the age of the window installation is less critical than the manufacturing date of the component itself.
The timeline of this recall officially began on February 26, 2026. Prior to this announcement, Andersen Windows had received eight reports concerning these devices. These reports detailed instances where the control mechanisms broke, detached from the window frame, or experienced significant malfunctions. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for serious harm is substantial enough to warrant immediate action. The scope of this recall is limited to the specific malfunctioning components rather than the entire window structure, allowing homeowners to resolve the issue without replacing the whole unit. For those seeking confirmation, Andersen Windows provides multiple channels for inquiry, ensuring that consumers can easily access the necessary information to proceed with safety measures.
The hazard, explained
When you think of a window, you likely picture a sturdy barrier that keeps your home secure and comfortable. With Andersen 100 Series casement windows, that sense of security relies heavily on the window opening control device (WOC)—the mechanical arm or crank system that allows you to open and close the glass pane. In these recalled units, manufactured prior to November 19, 2025, a critical failure point exists within that mechanism. The issue is not necessarily with the glass itself, but with the structural integrity of the control device under stress. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), these devices can break or detach entirely after sustaining an accidental impact or other physical force. This might happen from everyday use, a bump against the arm, or even vibration. When that happens, the mechanical link between your hand and the window pane is severed.
The danger arises immediately after this detachment. Once the control device fails, the window is no longer held firmly in place by its intended locking mechanism. While the glass may still be physically present in the frame, it can become unstable or unexpectedly openable. For a casement window, which typically projects outward from the house like a wing, an uncontrolled opening is particularly risky. If the window is located on an upper story, a detached control device effectively removes the primary restraint that keeps the heavy glass unit secured. This creates a direct path for the window to swing open unexpectedly, potentially due to wind pressure or even its own weight if it is not properly latched.
This mechanical failure translates into two distinct types of harm: falls and serious injury. If the window opens while someone is near the sill—whether they are cleaning it, looking out, or simply standing nearby—the sudden movement can cause them to lose their balance. In worst-case scenarios, particularly with windows above ground level, a person could fall through the opening. Even if a fall does not occur, the force of a heavy casement window swinging open uncontrollably can strike and injure anyone in its path. The CPSC notes that Andersen Windows has received eight reports of these devices breaking, detaching, or malfunctioning. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for severe harm remains high because the hazard is unpredictable. It does not require a dramatic event to trigger; a minor impact that would normally be harmless can be the tipping point for this specific defect.
Understanding this mechanism helps clarify why leaving the window in its current state is dangerous. If you have one of these windows and the control device begins to feel loose, makes unusual noises, or shows signs of stress, it is a warning sign that the internal components may be nearing failure. The design flaw means that the window can transition from a secure, closed position to a hazardous, openable state with little to no warning. This is why immediate action is required: you cannot rely on the broken device to keep the window safe, and you cannot assume the glass will stay put without it.
Who is most at risk
While the Andersen Window recall affects a specific subset of homeowners with 100 Series casement windows manufactured prior to November 19, 2025, the physical danger posed by these defective opening control devices does not discriminate based on age or size. However, certain groups face disproportionate risks due to their physical relationship with the window and their ability to react to sudden mechanical failure. The primary group at risk includes anyone who regularly interacts with these windows for ventilation, cleaning, or emergency egress, but the severity of potential harm is heavily influenced by vulnerability factors such as mobility, balance, and cognitive awareness.
Cheildren are arguably the most vulnerable demographic in this scenario. Casement windows operate like hinged doors, swinging outward from the side. For a child, these large glass panes can appear as inviting play spaces or portals to the outside world. The recalled control devices are designed to hold the window open at various angles, but if the mechanism breaks or detaches unexpectedly, the window can swing shut with significant force or fall completely out of its frame. A child’s smaller stature and developing motor skills mean they may not understand the danger until it is too late. If a window falls while a child is near it, the risk of crushing injuries, lacerations from broken glass, or falls from height increases dramatically. Furthermore, children are less likely to recognize the subtle signs of a failing mechanism—such as loose handles or unusual noises—until the device has already compromised its structural integrity.
Elderly individuals and those with mobility impairments also face heightened risks. Many homeowners rely on these windows for fresh air circulation without the need for physical exertion, making the ease of operation crucial. If the control device fails while an elderly person is attempting to open or close the window, they may be caught off guard by the sudden loss of resistance or the unexpected movement of the heavy glass pane. This can lead to balance issues, particularly if they are standing on a step stool or near the edge of a deck or porch. The fear of falling from a second-story window is not just about the height; it is about the unpredictability of the failure. A sudden detachment removes the only barrier between the interior living space and the exterior drop, creating a fall hazard that can be catastrophic for those with weaker bones or slower reflexes.
Additionally, homeowners who live in areas prone to high winds or storms are at greater risk. Casement windows are designed to withstand weather when properly secured, but a broken control device leaves the window vulnerable to being blown open or torn from its frame by gusty conditions. This not only poses a fall hazard if someone is near the window but also creates a secondary risk of water damage and structural compromise to the home. The recall highlights that the failure is often triggered by accidental impact, which can happen during normal use, such as leaning against the handle or cleaning the glass. Therefore, the risk is not limited to a specific time of day but is present whenever the window is in its open state, making immediate repair essential for all users, regardless of their physical profile.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your window is part of this specific recall requires a bit of detective work, but the process is straightforward once you know exactly where to look. The primary factor determining eligibility is not just the brand, which is Andersen Windows, but the specific series and the manufacturing date. This recall applies exclusively to 100 Series casement windows. If your windows are from a different series—such as the 400, 200, or Custom Classic lines—they are not affected by this particular safety notice. Furthermore, the clock stops at a specific point in time: only units manufactured prior to November 19, 2025, are included. Windows made on or after that date were produced with updated controls and are safe.
To confirm your status, you need to locate the Product ID number, which acts as the definitive proof of inclusion. This identifier is found on a label attached directly to the window frame itself. Specifically, look at the upper right-hand corner of the window frame when you are standing inside your home looking out. The label should be clearly visible there. If you cannot find this label, or if it has been painted over or removed during previous renovations, do not guess. Instead, contact Andersen Windows directly with any available information about your window’s location and appearance to help them verify the unit.
Additionally, keep in mind that the recalled devices may appear in two forms: sold individually as repair kits or installed at the factory as accessories. The recall covers both scenarios because the hazard lies in the mechanism of the opening control device itself, regardless of how it was initially applied to the frame. There are no specific color or size restrictions listed for the affected units; the model series and date are the critical filters. If your window is a 100 Series casement type and was made before November 19, 2025, you should proceed with the remedy steps immediately. Do not attempt to remove or repair the device yourself. Leave the window in its current closed and locked position to prevent any accidental opening or detachment until an authorized technician arrives.
If you are unsure about your window’s model or manufacturing date, the most reliable path is to use the online portal provided by Andersen Windows. Visit www.andersenwindows.com/100seriescasementwocdrecall and enter the Product ID number from that upper right corner label. This digital tool will give you a definitive answer. For further assistance, you can call their toll-free line at 844-815-7332 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday, or email 100Seriescasementwocdrecall@andersencorp.com with your details.
What to do — step by step
If you suspect your window is part of this recall, the most important thing you can do right now is to remain calm but act promptly. Andersen Windows has issued a clear remedy for this situation: they are offering a free in-home repair performed by an authorized technician. This means you do not need to buy new parts, hire a contractor, or attempt any DIY fixes yourself. In fact, attempting to fix the mechanism on your own could worsen the issue or void your warranty. Instead, follow these concrete steps to ensure your safety and secure your free service.
Step 1: Secure the window immediately. Before you do anything else, check the affected windows in your home. If you have any 100 Series casement windows that were manufactured prior to November 19, 2025, treat them with caution. The recall warns that the opening control devices can break or detach after an accidental impact. To prevent the window from swinging open unexpectedly—which poses a fall and serious injury hazard—you should leave these specific windows in the closed and locked position. Do not attempt to open them further for ventilation or inspection. Keeping them securely locked is your primary barrier against the hazard until a professional arrives.
Step 2: Locate your Product ID. To verify if your window is included in this recall and to facilitate the repair process, you will need a specific piece of information from your window frame. Look for the label located on the upper right corner of the window itself. On this label, you will find a Product ID number. You do not need to remove the window or disturb the seal; simply read the number carefully. This ID is crucial because it allows Andersen Windows to confirm whether your specific unit’s opening control device is one of the defective models subject to this recall.
Step 3: Contact Andersen Windows to schedule your free repair. Once you have confirmed that your window matches the description (100 Series casement, manufactured before Nov. 19, 2025) and have your Product ID ready, it is time to initiate the remedy. You can reach Andersen Windows through several convenient channels. Call their toll-free number at 844-815-7332 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can submit a request directly online at www.andersenwindows.com/100seriescasementwocdrecall or email them at 100Seriescasementwocdrecall@andersencorp.com. When you contact them, provide the Product ID from your label so they can verify eligibility and schedule an authorized technician to come to your home.
Step 4: Prepare for the in-home service. Remember that the remedy is a free in-home repair. Do not worry about costs; Andersen Windows has stated this service is complimentary for affected units. When the technician arrives, they will handle the replacement or repair of the faulty opening control device. This ensures the issue is resolved correctly and safely without you needing to navigate complex mechanical parts. After the repair is complete, your window will no longer pose the fall hazard associated with the detached or broken controls.
If you are unsure whether your window is included, or if you need more information about the recall process, you can also visit www.andersenwindows.com and click on "Recalls" at the bottom of the page. This section provides additional details to help you understand the scope of the issue and confirm your next steps with confidence.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that your Andersen 100 Series casement window is part of this recall, the most important thing to know is that you will not be left to fix this problem on your own dime. Andersen Windows has committed to providing a complete, free in-home repair service for all affected units. This means that neither the cost of the new or replacement opening control device nor the labor required to install it by an authorized technician will be charged to you. The company is taking full responsibility for correcting the defect, ensuring that your window functions safely and securely without any financial burden falling on your shoulders.
To initiate this remedy, you must take specific steps to schedule the service. You should not attempt to replace the device yourself or hire a third-party handyman, as the recall terms specifically require an authorized technician to perform the work. You can request this free repair by visiting the dedicated recall webpage at www.andersenwindows.com/100seriescasementwocdrecall. This online portal is designed to streamline the process for you. Alternatively, if you prefer speaking with a representative directly, you can call Andersen Windows toll-free at 844-815-7332. These calls are accepted from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. You may also reach them via email at 100Seriescasementwocdrecall@andersencorp.com. For additional context or updates, you can navigate to www.andersenwindows.com and click on "Recalls" located at the bottom of the page.
While waiting for your repair appointment, there is a critical safety condition you must follow regarding the window itself. You are instructed to leave the recalled windows with the opening control devices in the closed and locked position. This is not merely a suggestion; it is a vital interim safety measure. Because the device can break or detach after an impact, leaving the window unlocked could allow it to open unexpectedly, creating a serious fall hazard. By keeping it locked, you maintain a physical barrier that prevents accidental opening until the professional repair is completed.
It is worth noting that the recall notice does not explicitly mention refunds or direct replacements of the entire window unit as standard options for every consumer. The primary remedy outlined is the free in-home repair of the control device. However, the process begins with verification. When you contact Andersen Windows, be prepared to share the Product ID number found on the label located on the upper right corner of your window. This identifier allows them to confirm whether your specific unit was manufactured prior to November 19, 2025, and is therefore included in this recall. Once verified, they will coordinate the free repair service with you. Do not assume a refund is automatically available; focus on securing the scheduled repair to ensure your home remains safe.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to act immediately. The window in question is part of your home’s structure, and inviting a technician into your house requires coordination, time, and often a bit of disruption to your daily routine. You may see the Andersen 100 Series casement window with its opening control device as just another functional fixture, one that has worked fine for months or even years. It is easy to rationalize postponing the repair by telling yourself that since no accidents have happened yet, the risk must be low. However, ignoring a recall notice based on past luck is a dangerous gamble, particularly when the specific hazard involves structural failure that can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
The core issue with these recalled window opening control devices is not merely an inconvenience; it is a latent mechanical failure waiting to happen. The devices are designed to hold the weight and tension of the casement window in place while you open or close it. When the device breaks or detaches due to accidental impact or wear, that critical support vanishes instantly. For a standard casement window, this often means the sash can swing freely or fall outward with significant force. If this happens while the window is open, especially on an upper floor, the primary danger is a fall. A person leaning out to enjoy the view, check the weather, or retrieve a dropped item could suddenly find themselves without stable support. The resulting injury from such a fall can range from minor bruises and sprains to severe fractures, head trauma, or even fatal outcomes. This is not hypothetical fear-mongering; it is the direct physical consequence of removing the safety mechanism intended to keep you anchored.
While Andersen Windows has reported eight incidents of devices breaking, detaching, or malfunctioning, it is crucial to note that no injuries have been reported so far. Do not interpret this silence as a green light to wait. In the world of product safety, unreported injuries are often more common than reported ones, especially when people attribute accidents to their own clumsiness rather than a faulty product. Furthermore, the fact that eight devices have failed indicates a pattern of manufacturing or material defect that is likely to continue affecting other units in the same batch. Each day you delay the free in-home repair increases the statistical probability that one of these failures will occur at an inopportune moment—perhaps when a child is nearby, when it is raining heavily, or when you are distracted.
Beyond the immediate physical risk, there is a secondary layer of danger involving home security and environmental exposure. A window whose opening control device has failed may not stay closed or locked properly. This creates an easy entry point for intruders who can simply leverage the window open without breaking glass or forcing locks. Additionally, a window that cannot be securely latched fails to protect your home from drafts, rain, pests, and extreme temperatures, leading to higher energy bills and potential water damage to your interior walls and flooring over time. Ignoring the recall transforms a simple safety hazard into a multi-faceted problem affecting your physical well-being, your financial security, and the integrity of your home.
The remedy offered by Andersen Windows is free, professional, and designed to eliminate these risks entirely. By scheduling a repair through their dedicated recall line or website, you are not just fixing a window; you are restoring the engineered safety features that were originally intended for your protection. There is no cost to you, and the process is streamlined to minimize your inconvenience. Choosing to act now is an investment in peace of mind, ensuring that your home remains a safe sanctuary rather than a site of potential accident.