Glen Dimplex Americas Recalls Cadet Apex72 Electric Heaters Due to Fire Hazard

What was recalled

In the early fall of 2024, specifically on September 12, Glen Dimplex Americas issued a significant safety recall concerning a specific line of high-wall electric heaters. This action was taken by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to address potential fire risks associated with the Cadet-branded Apex72 series of fan-forced heaters. These units are designed for permanent installation in residential or commercial spaces, typically mounted into walls at a height of at least six feet off the ground. The recall targets units that operate between 1200 and 1600 watts, featuring a distinctive white dust cover that blends into most interior decor. Because these heaters are installed directly into the wall structure, they are not portable devices; rather, they are fixed components of a home’s heating infrastructure, which makes verifying their specific identity crucial for homeowners and property managers alike.

The scope of this recall is defined by precise model numbers and manufacturing dates, rather than just the brand name alone. Consumers need to look closely at the rating label, which is visible through the bottom of the air outlet grill on the unit itself. This label displays the "Cadet" brand name, the specific model number, and the manufacturing date in a DD-MM-YY format. The following models are included in this recall if they fall within the specified production windows: the HW128, HW132, and HW151 models, which were manufactured between March 1, 2021, and February 29, 2024. Additionally, the HW162, HW162BP5, HW168, and HW168BP5 models are subject to recall if their manufacturing date is older than March 1, 2024. It is important to note that while the exact total number of units affected globally was not specified in the initial public record, the broad date ranges for several models suggest a substantial volume of products may be involved.

These recalled heaters were sold through various channels across the United States, including but not limited to hardware stores, home improvement centers, and online retailers. They are often purchased by individual homeowners for retrofitting older properties or by apartment complexes and living facilities during renovations. Glen Dimplex Americas has been working directly with property managers to identify and replace these units in multi-family housing situations. For independent consumers who installed these heaters themselves, the recall process requires direct engagement with the manufacturer. If you have a high-wall electric heater that matches these descriptions, it is vital to verify the date code on the label immediately, as the safety risk is tied directly to the specific manufacturing batches of these Cadet Apex72 units.

The hazard, explained

To understand why this recall is necessary, it helps to look at the specific mechanical failure involved. The Cadet Apex72 electric heaters rely on a fan-forced system to operate safely and efficiently. In this design, an internal heating element warms the air, and a fan blows that hot air out into the room. This process is critical for two reasons: it distributes warmth evenly and, more importantly, it prevents the internal components from getting dangerously hot. The fan acts as a cooling mechanism for the unit itself, drawing in cooler air to pass over the heating elements and carrying the heat away before temperatures can escalate to unsafe levels.

The problem identified in this recall is a malfunction in that very fan. Specifically, the fan can fail to turn on when the heater is switched to the "heat" position. If the heating element activates but the fan remains stationary, the unit enters a dangerous state known as overheating. Without airflow to carry the heat away, the temperature inside the casing rises rapidly and uncontrollably. This is not just a matter of the room staying cold; it means the plastic components, wiring insulation, and internal dust accumulations within the heater are being subjected to extreme thermal stress far beyond their design limits.

When these internal temperatures climb too high, they can ignite materials that should remain cool. The CPSC report confirms that this specific failure mode has already led to the unit igniting internally. This is a serious safety concern because the heater is installed in a wall, typically at least six feet off the ground. While this high placement reduces the immediate risk of someone touching a hot surface, it complicates early detection. You might not notice smoke or heat until the fire has taken hold within the wall cavity or behind the white dust cover. Once ignition occurs, the combination of electrical current and combustible materials creates a rapid-fire hazard that can spread to surrounding building structures.

It is important to note that this is a latent defect, meaning the heater may appear to be working normally in other respects. The issue is not necessarily that the heater won't turn on, but that it will heat without cooling. This makes the hazard particularly insidious because users are unlikely to suspect a malfunction until it is too late. The risk is not theoretical; Glen Dimplex has already received one confirmed report of a fan malfunction leading to internal ignition. While no injuries have been reported in this specific instance, the potential for property damage and personal harm from an electrical fire in a wall-mounted unit is significant. Understanding that the fan is the primary safety valve for this device highlights why immediate cessation of use is the only safe course of action.

Who is most at risk

The primary group of individuals currently facing potential danger consists of residents living in high-rise apartments, condominiums, or luxury rental complexes that feature the specific Cadet Apex72 electric heaters installed as part of their permanent wall units. Because these heaters are mounted high on the wall—typically at least six feet off the ground—they are designed to be out of immediate reach for most adults during daily activities. However, this very design feature creates a unique vulnerability for those who need to interact with them. The risk is not just about owning the device; it is about the specific environment in which it operates and the people who might inadvertently trigger or fail to notice its malfunction.

While the recall affects all owners of the affected models manufactured between March 2021 and February 2024, certain demographics face heightened consequences should the heater ignite. Elderly residents or individuals with limited mobility are particularly vulnerable for two key reasons. First, the heaters are installed high on the wall, making it difficult to visually inspect them for early warning signs like unusual noises, discoloration, or smoke without using a step ladder. Second, if a fire were to start inside the wall cavity or within the unit itself, reaction time is critical. For seniors who may live alone or have slower response capabilities, even a small delay in noticing the hazard can drastically increase the risk of serious injury or property damage.

Families with young children also face significant, though different, risks. Although the heaters are mounted high up, curious toddlers might climb on furniture to touch the warm surface or the air outlet grill. If the fan malfunctions and the unit overheats, the external casing could become dangerously hot, leading to severe burns. Furthermore, if a child were to accidentally knock something into the air intake or obstruct the airflow, it could exacerbate the overheating issue before the internal safety mechanisms fail. The fear of electrical fires is especially potent in households with children because they may not recognize the danger signs and cannot independently shut off the power or evacuate quickly.

Additionally, tenants who have installed these heaters independently or live in older buildings where maintenance response times are slower are at a prolonged risk. Unlike standard plug-in space heaters that can be unplugged instantly by anyone, wall-mounted units often require a professional technician to disconnect the power safely. This means that even after identifying the problem, there is a window of time where the hazard persists until help arrives. Therefore, anyone who has recently moved into a building with these specific Cadet Apex72 models—particularly those in high-density housing complexes—should consider themselves at immediate risk and act quickly to verify their unit's status.

It is also important to note that while no injuries have been reported so far, the single incident of ignition described in the recall highlights that the failure mode is unpredictable. It can happen during normal operation, regardless of how carefully the user maintains the device. This unpredictability means that no amount of careful use eliminates the risk entirely; only removal or replacement does. Therefore, every occupant in a building with these heaters, regardless of age or mobility, shares this baseline level of risk until the manufacturer confirms their specific unit is safe.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you are unsure whether your home contains one of these recalled heaters, the first step is to locate the unit itself and examine its physical characteristics closely. Glen Dimplex Americas has issued this recall for specific Cadet-branded Apex72 high wall electric heaters. These units are distinct in their design and installation method. You should look for a heater that is mounted directly into a wall, positioned at a minimum height of six feet off the ground. This "high wall" installation is a key identifier, as these units are designed to heat rooms from above rather than sitting on the floor or resting on a table. The exterior of the unit features a white dust cover, which should be clearly visible when you locate it in your living space.

Once you have identified a heater that matches this general description, the next critical step is verification through the rating label. This is where many consumers might miss the mark, so please pay close attention to the details. The label containing the necessary information is not on the top or side of the casing in an easily accessible spot; instead, it is located on the unit itself and is visible only by looking through the bottom of the air outlet grill. You will need to peer down into this grill to see the sticker clearly. On this label, you will find three crucial pieces of information: the brand name "Cadet," the specific model number, and the manufacturing date.

The manufacturing date is printed in a DD-MM-YY format (Day-Month-Year), which can sometimes be confusing if you are used to the standard U.S. month-day-year convention. It is vital to read this date carefully. The recall covers several specific models, so you must compare the model number on your label against the list of affected units below. If your model and date fall within these ranges, your unit is included in this safety notice.

• Models HW128, HW132, and HW151: These units are recalled if they were manufactured between 01-Mar-21 (March 1, 2021) and 29-Feb-24 (February 29, 2024).
• Models HW162, HW162BP5, HW168, and HW168BP5: These units are recalled if they were manufactured on any date older than 01-Mar-24 (March 1, 2024).

If you cannot find the label or read the date clearly, do not guess. The safest approach is to stop using the unit immediately and contact Glen Dimplex Americas for assistance. They can help you verify whether your specific serial number and model are part of this recall. Remember, these heaters have a power output between 1200 and 1600 Watts, but wattage alone will not tell you if it is recalled; the model number and date are the only definitive identifiers. By taking the time to check that label through the air outlet grill, you ensure that you know exactly what you are dealing with before taking further action.

What to do — step by step

1. Stop using the heater immediately. Unplug the unit from the wall outlet if it is a portable model, or simply cease operating it if it is hardwired. Do not attempt to use the heater again until Glen Dimplex Americas has confirmed it has been replaced. Continuing to use a potentially faulty fan motor invites the very fire hazard this recall aims to eliminate.
2. Verify your model and manufacturing date. Look at the rating label visible through the bottom of the air outlet grill. Confirm that the unit is a Cadet-branded Apex72 high wall electric heater (1200–1600 Watts) with a white dust cover. Check the manufacturing date in DD-MM-YY format against the recall list:
   • HW128, HW132, or HW151 manufactured between 01-Mar-21 and 29-Feb-24.
   • HW162, HW162BP5, HW168, or HW168BP5 manufactured any date older than 01-Mar-24.
   If your dates fall within these ranges, your unit is included in the recall.
3. Contact Glen Dimplex Americas for a free replacement. The company is providing a complete remedy at no cost to you. This includes both the new heater and professional installation. You can reach their dedicated support team by calling 866-673-9880 between 8 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may email them at apex@glendimplexamericas.zendesk.com or visit their product safety notice page online at glendimplexamericas.com. Navigate to "Product Safety Notices/Recall" at the bottom of the page for detailed instructions.
4. Coordinate the installation process. The remedy depends on how your heater was originally installed. If you live in an apartment or managed facility, Glen Dimplex is working directly with property management to handle replacements and installations. If you purchased and installed the heater yourself, Glen Dimplex will arrange for a qualified technician to come to your home to remove the recalled unit and install the new one free of charge. Do not attempt to install the replacement yourself.
5. Keep records of your communication. Save any confirmation emails or reference numbers provided by Glen Dimplex Americas. This ensures you have proof that you participated in the safety recall and helps track the status of your free installation service.

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you own one of the recalled Cadet Apex72 electric heaters, Glen Dimplex Americas is offering a comprehensive remedy designed to remove the fire hazard entirely from your home. It is important to understand that this is not a partial fix or a simple refund; the company is providing a complete, free service package. This includes the supply of a brand-new replacement heater and the professional installation of that unit at absolutely no cost to you. The goal here is to ensure that your heating system remains safe and functional without burdening you with any financial or logistical hurdles.

The process for obtaining this remedy depends slightly on how your original unit was installed, but Glen Dimplex Americas has streamlined the steps for both scenarios to make it as easy as possible. If you purchased the heater yourself and had it installed independently, the company will arrange for a qualified technician to come to your home. This technician will remove the recalled unit and install the new, safe replacement heater for free. You do not need to find your own contractor or pay for labor; Glen Dimplex Americas is handling the entire installation process directly.

If you live in an apartment complex or another managed living facility where the heater was installed by the property management, the approach is slightly different but equally thorough. Glen Dimplex Americas is working directly with these apartment complexes and other living facilities to replace the recalled heaters and install the new units on their behalf. This means that if you are a tenant, you likely do not need to take any action regarding the installation logistics yourself; the facility management is coordinating the replacement as part of this recall effort. However, it is still wise to confirm with your landlord or property manager that they have received the notice and are participating in the program.

To initiate the process for individual homeowners or to get specific details about the replacement model and installation schedule, you need to contact Glen Dimplex Americas directly. You can reach their dedicated recall support team by calling their toll-free number at 866-673-9880. The customer service representatives are available from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer to communicate in writing or need additional documentation, you can also email them at apex@glendimplexamericas.zendesk.com.

For those who prefer to manage the process online, Glen Dimplex Americas has created a dedicated page for this recall. You can visit https://www.glendimplexamericas.com/en-us/product-safety-notices/2024-APEX72-Important-Recall-Information for all the specific details. Alternatively, you can go to their main website at www.glendimplexamericas.com and scroll to the bottom of the page to click on "Product Safety Notices/Recall." These resources will provide you with the most up-to-date information on how to schedule your free replacement and installation, ensuring that you can resolve this safety issue quickly and confidently.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable to want to avoid the hassle of a recall. Perhaps your apartment complex hasn’t contacted you yet, or maybe you are busy and simply don’t have the time to schedule an installation right now. You might think, “The heater has been working fine for months,” or even years. After all, it isn’t smoking, sparking, or making strange noises. The silence of the problem can be deceptive. However, ignoring this specific recall carries a serious, potentially life-threatening risk that goes far beyond mere inconvenience.

The core danger lies in the mechanics of the heater itself. The Cadet Apex72 units were designed with a fan to circulate warm air and, crucially, to keep the internal heating components cool during operation. When that fan malfunctions, it stops turning on. Without airflow, the heating element continues to generate intense heat but has no way to dissipate it. This causes the internal temperature of the unit to rise rapidly beyond its design limits. Because the heater is installed directly into the wall, often high up near the ceiling, this trapped heat can easily ignite the surrounding insulation, drywall, or electrical wiring inside the wall cavity. This is not a superficial burn; it is an internal fire that starts behind your walls, exactly where you cannot see it.

While the CPSC reports only one confirmed incident of ignition to date, relying on that statistic for your personal safety is dangerous. One report does not mean the hazard is rare or unlikely; it means only one event has been documented so far. Electric heaters are powerful devices, and a failure in the fan mechanism can happen at any moment, often without warning signs. Unlike a smoke detector that gives you time to escape, a fire starting inside a wall may not produce visible smoke until it has already grown large enough to be catastrophic. By this point, the flames may have spread to your ceiling or adjacent rooms before you even realize there is a problem.

The consequences of ignoring this recall extend beyond property damage. Internal fires in high-wall installations can compromise structural integrity and release toxic fumes into your living space before they are detected. There is also the profound human cost: the risk of injury or loss of life for you, your family, or your guests. No amount of saved time or avoided effort is worth gambling with your safety. The remedy provided—free replacement and professional installation—is designed to eliminate this hidden threat entirely. Continuing to use a unit that could ignite internally is essentially leaving an unlit fuse in your home. It is far safer to address the issue now, while you are in control, than to react to an emergency that leaves no time for preparation.

Please remember that the risk is not theoretical. The manufacturer has confirmed that fan failures do occur and can lead to internal ignition. By acting immediately, you are choosing peace of mind over procrastination. Your safety is worth the short-term effort of making a call or scheduling a visit. Do not wait for a spark to become a flame.

Staying safe: broader tips

Electric heaters are incredibly convenient tools for managing indoor comfort during colder months, but because they rely on high-wattage elements to generate heat, they demand a level of respect and regular maintenance that goes beyond simply turning them on. While the specific recall we discussed addresses a critical manufacturing defect in certain Cadet Apex72 units, adopting broader safety habits can significantly reduce the risk of fire or injury with any heating appliance you own. The most fundamental principle is to never compromise on clearance. Even modern heaters with advanced thermal cutoff switches can overheat if their air intake or exhaust vents are blocked. Always keep a three-foot radius around your heater clear of flammable materials such as curtains, bedding, upholstered furniture, and even piles of laundry. This "safety zone" ensures that hot air circulates freely and does not build up enough intensity to ignite nearby objects.

Regular inspection is another vital practice that many homeowners overlook until it is too late. Over time, dust, pet hair, and debris can accumulate inside the heater’s internal components or on the exterior grill, acting as insulation that traps heat and potentially contributing to electrical fires. Make it a habit to gently vacuum the exterior vents of your unit every few weeks during the heating season. Furthermore, pay attention to the auditory and olfactory cues your appliances provide. If you hear crackling, buzzing, or hissing noises, or if you detect a burning smell that does not dissipate after turning the unit off, stop using it immediately. These are often early warning signs of electrical failure or component degradation that should be addressed by a professional before they escalate into a fire hazard.

Finally, consider upgrading your home’s detection systems to complement your physical safety measures. While smoke detectors are standard in most homes, ensuring you have working carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your house is crucial, especially if you use fuel-burning appliances alongside electric heaters. Additionally, make recall checks a routine part of your household maintenance calendar. Instead of waiting for news alerts, periodically visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website or sign up for their email notifications. By staying informed about industry-wide recalls and practicing diligent daily habits, you create a layered defense that keeps your home safe regardless of individual product failures.