Johnson Health Tech North America Expands Recall of Matrix T1 and T3 Commercial Treadmills Due to Fire Hazard (Recall Alert)

What was recalled

In April 2024, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a significant expansion of a recall involving specific commercial-grade treadmills manufactured by Johnson Health Tech North America under its Matrix Fitness brand. This action affects users of the Matrix T1xe, T3x, and T3xm treadmill models. These are not standard home gym machines but heavy-duty units designed for high-traffic environments such as hotel fitness centers, corporate wellness rooms, and commercial gyms.

The affected equipment is characterized by a running platform measuring 60 inches in length and 20 inches in width, paired with a console that is 33 inches wide. A key identifier for these units is the presence of "Matrix" printed on the treadmill console masts. Consumers can verify their specific machine by checking the connecting bar at the bottom of the unit, near the power socket, where the model name and serial number are located. The serial number format begins with the letters TM, followed by a three-digit model number, the manufacture date in YY/MM format, and concludes with a five-digit serial sequence.

The recall specifically targets treadmills that lack a power cord bracket. This omission is critical because these units were manufactured between March 2018 and January 2024. The affected models and their corresponding model numbers are as follows:

• Matrix T1xe (Model Number TM522; Serial Numbers starting with TM5221803xxxxx)
• Matrix T3x (Model Number TM523; Serial Numbers starting with TM5231906xxxxx)
• Matrix T3xm (Model Number TM725; Serial Numbers starting with TM7251902xxxxx)

While the recall notice does not specify the exact total number of units involved in this expanded alert, it confirms that Johnson Health Tech North America is actively contacting all known purchasers directly. The company has also made information available online at https://matrixfitness.com/us/eng/recalls or by visiting www.matrixfitness.com and selecting "Recalls" from their menu.

This recall is an expansion of a previous announcement made in January 2022. At that time, the hazard was first identified as the power cord potentially becoming loose from the treadmill's power socket. Since the initial alert, additional reports have come to light, prompting this broader safety measure. The inclusion of units manufactured as recently as January 2024 indicates that the issue persisted in production lines well after the original discovery, affecting a wide range of facilities that may have installed these machines in recent years.

If you manage or use one of these commercial treadmills, it is essential to check the model number and serial number immediately. The lack of a power cord bracket on these specific models is the defining feature that places them in the recall category. By identifying your unit correctly, you can take the necessary steps to ensure safety until a permanent fix is implemented.

The hazard, explained

At the heart of this recall is a seemingly minor mechanical issue that carries significant risk: the power cord can become loose from the treadmill’s power socket. While we often think of electrical connections as secure once plugged in, high-vibration environments like commercial gyms present unique challenges. Treadmills are heavy machines designed to absorb tremendous impact as users run, jump, or walk with force. Over time, this constant pounding and shifting weight creates intense vibration throughout the entire unit. If the power cord is not held firmly in place by a bracket, these vibrations can gradually work the plug loose from its socket.

When a power connection becomes loose, it no longer maintains a solid electrical contact. Instead of a smooth flow of electricity, the connection begins to arc. This arcing manifests as sparking, which generates intense heat at the point of failure. According to reports received by Matrix Fitness, this process has led to smoking and melting of the plastic components surrounding the socket. The heat generated by an electrical arc can easily ignite nearby materials, such as the treadmill’s frame padding, wiring insulation, or even dust and debris that accumulates in commercial fitness facilities. This is the direct mechanism behind the fire hazard identified in this recall.

The severity of this hazard is underscored by the incident data. Since the last recall update, there has been one additional report of a fire in a fitness facility. When combined with the 58 reports from the January 2022 recall, there have been numerous instances of sparking, smoking, and melting, including seven confirmed fires. Two of these incidents resulted in property damage, demonstrating that this is not just a malfunction but a genuine threat to safety. The absence of injuries so far is fortunate, but it does not diminish the risk; electrical fires can spread rapidly and unpredictably.

It is important to understand that this issue affects the structural integrity of the electrical system under normal use conditions. Without the proper bracket to secure the cord, even routine operation can eventually lead to a dangerous disconnect. This is why simply plugging the cord in is not enough; it must be physically restrained against the forces of vibration. The lack of a power cord bracket on the affected Matrix T1xe, T3x, and T3xm models means these units are inherently vulnerable to this failure mode from the moment they are put into service.

Who is most at risk

When we look at the specific details of this recall involving Matrix Fitness treadmills, it is important to understand that the primary group at risk is not necessarily individual homeowners in their living rooms, but rather the staff and members of commercial fitness facilities. These recalled units—the Matrix T1xe, T3x, and T3xm models—are commercial-grade equipment designed for high-intensity, continuous use in gyms and health clubs. Because these treadmills are manufactured to withstand heavy daily wear, they are typically found in institutional settings where they may be operated by dozens of different people every single day. This constant rotation of users creates a unique environment where maintenance checks might not happen with the same frequency or thoroughness as they would in a private home.

The individuals most vulnerable to the consequences of this hazard are those who work in close proximity to these machines, particularly fitness facility employees and maintenance staff. The reported incidents involve the power cord becoming loose from the socket, leading to sparking, smoking, and melting. For an employee who is inspecting, repairing, or simply walking near a unit that has begun to overheat or spark, the risk is immediate physical danger. While the recall data notes no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for electrical shock or burns from touching a compromised socket or cord is significant for anyone handling the equipment. The fact that Johnson Health Tech North America has received reports of property damage underscores that these fires can start and spread before they are noticed, putting nearby personnel in harm's way.

For the general public using these treadmills, the risk is primarily related to the sudden failure of the machine during use. If a power cord disconnects while a user is running, it could cause the treadmill to shut down abruptly, potentially leading to falls or injuries from losing balance. Furthermore, the hazard involves components melting and smoking, which can release harmful fumes in an enclosed gym environment. While the elderly or those with mobility issues might be more prone to falling from a sudden stop, the broader risk here is environmental: anyone in the facility could be exposed to smoke inhalation or fire if the electrical fault ignites nearby combustible materials like mats, clothing, or structural elements of the gym.

It is also worth noting that while this is a commercial product recall, it does not rule out private ownership. Some individuals may have purchased these heavy-duty units for large home gyms. In those cases, the risk extends to the entire household. A fire starting in a power cord inside a wall socket or near flammable furniture can escalate quickly. Children and pets are particularly vulnerable because they may be unaware of the electrical danger and could approach a sparking unit out of curiosity, leading to severe burns or electrocution. Therefore, while the primary target of this alert is facility owners, the safety implications reach anyone who operates or shares a space with these specific treadmill models.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you operate a commercial gym or fitness facility, identifying whether your equipment is part of this recall requires careful attention to specific physical details and documentation. This recall involves Matrix Fitness treadmills manufactured by Johnson Health Tech North America. To determine if your machine is affected, you must verify the brand name, the specific model, and the serial number. The process begins with a visual inspection of the console and the structural frame.

First, look at the vertical supports on either side of the display screen. These are known as the console masts. You should see the word "Matrix" printed clearly on these masts. This confirms the brand lineage but does not yet confirm the recall status. Next, focus on the running platform itself. The recalled units feature a specific footprint: a running surface that measures exactly 60 inches in length and 20 inches in width. Additionally, the console attached to this platform is 33 inches wide. If your treadmill has different dimensions, it may not be part of this specific batch, but you should still verify the model number.

The most critical step is locating the identification labels. You need to find the connecting bar at the very bottom of the machine, situated near the power socket. On this bar, you will find two essential pieces of information: the model name and the serial number. The model names for this recall are T1xe, T3x, or T3xm. Below the model name is the serial number, which follows a strict format. It starts with the letters "TM," followed by a three-digit model number, then the manufacture date in a YY/MM (year/month) format, and finally a five-digit serial code.

You can cross-reference your findings with the following specific combinations to confirm if your unit is included:

• Model T1xe: The model number will be TM522. The serial number will begin with TM522 followed by a date from 18/03 (March 2018) through 24/01 (January 2024).
• Model T3x: The model number will be TM523. The serial number will begin with TM523 followed by a date from 19/06 (June 2019) through 24/01.
• Model T3xm: The model number will be TM725. The serial number will begin with TM725 followed by a date from 19/02 (February 2019) through 24/01.

If your treadmill has a straight power cord and lacks a bracket to hold that cord in place, it is highly likely to be one of the recalled units. These treadmills were manufactured between March 2018 and January 2024. If you cannot find these labels or are unsure about the dates, do not guess. Contact Johnson Health Tech North America directly for verification.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you own one of the affected Matrix Fitness treadmills, the good news is that Johnson Health Tech North America has established a clear and accessible remedy to resolve this safety issue. The company is not asking you to simply live with the risk; they are offering a free repair to correct the defect. Specifically, the remedy involves the installation of a power cord bracket. This small but critical component helps secure the power cord in place, preventing it from becoming loose and separating from the treadmill’s power socket—a situation that can lead to sparking, smoking, or even fire.

The process for getting this fix is straightforward, though it differs slightly depending on your preference and setup. Johnson Health Tech North America has two primary ways to get you sorted out. First, they are actively contacting all known purchasers directly to arrange the service. If you have been reached out to by them, follow their instructions carefully. However, if you haven’t heard from them yet, or if you prefer to take proactive steps, you can initiate the process yourself. You have the option to schedule a free installation of the power cord bracket. A technician will come to your location to install it properly, ensuring that the connection is secure and safe for daily use.

If you are more comfortable handling repairs yourself or if traveling time is a concern, Johnson Health Tech also allows you to order the power cord bracket for self-installation. This means they will send you the necessary hardware at no cost. The company provides the parts, and you handle the physical installation. While this option offers flexibility, it does require that you or your facility’s maintenance staff feel confident in following the installation steps securely.

To access either of these remedies, you need to reach out to Johnson Health Tech North America. You can call their toll-free number at 866-218-3674 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can send an email to reworks@johnsonfit.com or visit their official recall page online at https://matrixfitness.com/us/eng/recalls. For broader information, you may also navigate to www.matrixfitness.com and click on the "Recalls" section. Be sure to have your treadmill’s model name and serial number ready when you contact them, as these details are essential for verifying that your unit is part of this specific recall.

It is important to note that while the repair itself is free, the immediate safety step before your bracket arrives or is installed is to manually ensure the power cord is completely inserted into the socket every single time you use the machine. This temporary measure does not replace the need for the official bracket installation but serves as a critical interim safeguard against fire hazards.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is easy to overlook a loose power cord when you are focused on your workout routine or managing the daily operations of a busy fitness facility. However, ignoring the recommended inspection and repair steps for the Matrix T1, T3, and T3xm treadmills carries significant risks that extend far beyond simple equipment malfunction. The core issue is not merely that the cord might fall out; it is what happens in the moments before it fully disconnects. When the power cord becomes loose from the treadmill's power socket, the electrical connection becomes unstable. This instability causes arcing—essentially small, uncontrolled electrical sparks jumping across the gap between the plug and the socket. These sparks generate intense, localized heat that can quickly melt the plastic components of both the plug and the socket, creating a serious fire hazard.

The reality of this danger is not theoretical; it has already manifested in real-world incidents. Johnson Health Tech North America has documented 58 reports of these treadmills' power cords and sockets sparking, smoking, or melting since the initial recall was issued in January 2022. Most recently, a new report of a fire was added to the tally in April 2024. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm is substantial. A fire in a commercial gym environment can escalate rapidly due to the presence of other flammable materials, such as mats, towels, and synthetic flooring. The seven reported fires among the earlier incidents resulted in property damage, but they serve as a stark warning that electrical faults can ignite surrounding structures and equipment.

If you continue to use these treadmills without ensuring the power cord is completely inserted into the socket or installing the free bracket, you are essentially leaving a ticking time bomb in your facility. The lack of a bracket means the cord relies entirely on friction and gravity to stay connected. Any vigorous movement, vibration from the treadmill’s operation, or accidental bumping can dislodge it slightly. This partial disconnect is precisely when sparking occurs. Over time, the repeated arcing degrades the electrical contacts, increasing resistance and heat generation until insulation melts and potentially ignites nearby materials.

Furthermore, ignoring this recall exposes facility owners to severe liability. If a fire occurs due to a known defect that was not addressed, the legal and financial consequences could be devastating. Beyond the immediate cost of rebuilding or repairing damaged property, there is the risk of lawsuits from injured patrons or employees, reputational damage that drives members away, and potential regulatory penalties for failing to maintain safe equipment. The remedy is straightforward and free: install the bracket or ensure strict adherence to pre-use checks. Choosing not to act turns a manageable safety protocol into a catastrophic gamble with people’s lives and your business’s future.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing oversight regarding the connection between the power cord and the treadmill socket, it highlights a critical aspect of home and commercial gym safety: electrical integrity. Commercial-grade treadmills like those from Matrix are high-power devices that draw significant current. Over time, vibration, heat cycles, and physical wear can cause even well-fitted connections to loosen. The general principle here is that any heavy appliance with a flexible power cord needs secure strain relief. If you use high-wattage equipment in your home gym, ensure cords are not stretched taut or pinched under the machine’s weight. Use cable management systems or raceways to keep wires organized and protected from foot traffic and moving parts. Regularly inspect these connections for warmth, discoloration, or signs of arcing, which indicate resistance and potential fire risk.

Beyond the treadmill itself, consider the broader electrical environment in which these machines operate. Dedicated circuits are not just a code preference; they are a safety necessity for motors that start and stop with high inrush currents. If your treadmill shares a circuit with other high-draw appliances like space heaters or microwaves, you increase the risk of overheating outlets and wiring. Always plug directly into a wall outlet rather than using extension cords or power strips, which can overheat if they cannot handle the amperage required by commercial-style equipment. If you notice your home’s breakers tripping frequently when the machine is in use, this is a clear signal that the electrical load exceeds the circuit’s capacity, and professional evaluation is needed.

Finally, proactive hazard detection is your best defense against electrical fires. Install and regularly test smoke alarms in any area where exercise equipment is stored, and consider adding a carbon monoxide detector if you also use fuel-burning heating sources nearby. For anyone with large appliances or complex home gyms, establish a routine maintenance schedule that includes visual inspections of all power cords and plugs for fraying, cracking, or melting. Sign up for recall alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) via their website. These alerts are not just notices; they are vital updates on known defects before they lead to incidents. By staying informed and maintaining your equipment with the same diligence you apply to its physical upkeep, you ensure that your fitness space remains a place of health rather than hazard.