What was recalled
In a safety action announced on April 13, 2023, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) highlighted a recall initiated by Moen Incorporated regarding a specific accessory for their smart home plumbing technology. The product in question is the Flo Smart Water Monitor Lithium-Ion Battery Back-Up. It is important to clarify right away that this recall does not affect the main Flo Smart Water Monitor or Shutoff unit itself, which remains safe to use if it has not been paired with the recalled battery component. Instead, the focus is entirely on the optional add-on accessory designed to keep your system running during power outages.
This battery back-up was sold as a separate purchase, allowing homeowners to extend certain features of their Moen smart water systems in the event of a disruption to their home’s electricity. The device itself is a dark gray, rectangular unit. To help you identify if you own this specific item, look for two key details on the face of the battery. On the lower right-hand side, you should see the "FLO" logo printed clearly. On the lower left-hand side, there is a sticker that displays the status of the light indicator, along with the specific model number 920-001. If your device matches this description and carries this model number, it is part of the recalled batch.
The recall addresses units that were distributed as an optional component for consumers who wanted added peace of mind for their plumbing monitoring systems. While the exact total number of units sold globally is not specified in the current CPSC records, the scope of the issue is defined by this specific model and its lithium-ion chemistry. The product was marketed to provide continuity for smart home features when grid power fails, but it appears that the design or manufacturing of this particular battery back-up has led to safety concerns that necessitate its removal from homes.
If you purchased this accessory separately from Moen’s primary monitoring hardware, it is crucial to verify whether your unit falls under this specific recall. The identification process relies on the physical characteristics of the device: the dark gray rectangular shape, the FLO logo placement, and the model number 920-001. Do not rely solely on the date of purchase or the packaging, as the defining factor is the product model itself. By confirming these details, you can determine if your smart water system requires immediate attention to ensure it remains safe to operate.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a specific component within your home’s water monitoring system: the lithium-ion battery back-up unit. To understand why this poses a risk, it helps to look at how these batteries work and what can go wrong when they fail. Lithium-ion batteries are designed to store energy efficiently, powering your Flo Smart Water Monitor during outages so you don’t lose track of your home’s water status. However, in the case of the recalled Moen model 920-001, there is a defect that allows these batteries to overheat. While lithium-ion technology is generally safe and reliable when functioning as intended, thermal runaway is a known failure mode for this class of battery. This occurs when internal temperatures rise uncontrollably, often due to manufacturing defects or design flaws in the battery management system that fail to regulate heat properly.
When the battery back-up overheats, it does not just stop working; it becomes an active fire hazard. The CPSC has received three confirmed reports of these specific units catching fire. This is not a minor inconvenience—it is a serious safety event. When a lithium-ion battery enters thermal runaway, it can release flammable gases and reach temperatures high enough to ignite surrounding materials. In the instances reported so far, this overheating led directly to property damage. The heat generated by the defect can melt plastic casings, scorch nearby surfaces, or even start a fire in adjacent furniture or cabinetry if the unit is installed in a confined space.
It is important to note that while no injuries have been reported with this specific recall, the potential for harm is significant. Fire hazards in home electronics are particularly dangerous because they can occur unnoticed, especially if the device is installed behind walls or in utility closets where it is not constantly observed. The smoke and heat produced by a burning lithium battery can spread rapidly to other parts of your home. This is why the recall emphasizes immediate action. The defect is not something that will necessarily "burn out" safely on its own; rather, the risk remains present as long as the defective battery is charged or connected to power. By understanding that this is a physical failure of the energy storage component itself, you can see why simply turning off the smart monitor app is not enough—you must physically disconnect and disable the hazardous battery unit entirely.
Who is most at risk
The primary group of individuals at risk in this recall are homeowners and renters who have installed the Flo Smart Water Monitor system by Moen and, crucially, purchased the optional Lithium-Ion Battery Back-Up accessory. This device was designed as an add-on to maintain monitoring capabilities during power outages, meaning it is typically installed in utility rooms, basements, or near main water lines—areas that are often less frequently visited than living spaces. While this placement might seem like a safety feature, it actually introduces a unique layer of risk. Because the battery back-up is an integral part of the monitoring system rather than a standalone portable device, users may not interact with it daily. They might overlook early warning signs such as slight warmth or unusual odors because they do not routinely handle the unit. Consequently, the risk is highest for those who rely on this specific configuration and have not recently inspected the physical condition of their battery backup.
In terms of vulnerability, while no specific demographic has been identified as more likely to be injured in these incidents, the nature of the hazard—a lithium-ion battery overheating and catching fire—creates a heightened risk for individuals who may have limited mobility or slower reaction times. For elderly residents or those with physical disabilities, the ability to quickly recognize a thermal event and evacuate safely is critical. A fire starting in a utility area or behind a wall can spread rapidly before it is visually detected. Furthermore, households with young children present in the home face increased risk during the initial stages of an incident if the smoke or heat becomes apparent only after significant damage has occurred. The recall notes that three incidents have resulted in minor property damage but no injuries, which suggests that while the physical threat to life has been mitigated so far by early detection or contained fires, the potential for severe harm remains a serious concern for all occupants.
Additionally, individuals who are particularly reliant on the continuous operation of their smart home systems may be at risk due to delayed response times. Because the battery back-up is intended to keep the system running during power disruptions, users might assume that any issue with the device is merely a technical glitch rather than a safety hazard. This psychological comfort can lead to procrastination in reporting or addressing the problem. The risk is therefore compounded for those who do not actively monitor their home’s physical environment and depend entirely on digital alerts, potentially missing the early physical cues of battery failure such as swelling or heat until it is too late.
- Homeowners with the optional Flo Smart Water Monitor Battery Back-Up (Model 920-001).
- Elderly individuals or those with mobility challenges who may need more time to react to a sudden fire.
- Families with young children where rapid evacuation is essential in case of smoke inhalation or flame spread.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Prioritizing your safety starts with a calm, methodical check of your home’s plumbing infrastructure. Because this recall targets a specific optional accessory rather than the main water monitor unit itself, it is crucial to know exactly what physical object to look for. The Moen Flo Smart Water Monitor Lithium-Ion Battery Back-Up is not the primary device mounted on your pipe; it is a separate, dark gray rectangular battery pack designed to plug into the system. If you do not have an add-on battery backup installed, your device is safe and not part of this recall. However, if you purchased this optional accessory separately to ensure your smart water monitor continues to function during power outages, you need to verify its identity carefully.
The most reliable way to confirm whether your unit is included in this recall is by examining the physical labels on the device itself. You should locate the battery back-up, which is typically connected near your main water shutoff valve or the Flo Smart Water Monitor base. Turn your attention to the surface of the dark gray rectangular unit. On the lower right-hand side, you will find the "FLO" logo printed clearly. This branding helps distinguish it from other generic power banks or accessories. However, logos alone are not sufficient for identification in a recall situation.
The definitive proof lies on the lower left-hand side of the battery. Here, Moen has placed a sticker that displays the status of the light indicator and, most importantly, the specific model number. You must look for model number 920-001 printed on this sticker. If your device bears this exact model number, it is part of the recalled batch. The presence of this specific identifier confirms that the lithium-ion battery inside is subject to the overheating risks described in the safety notice. There are no other colors or sizes associated with this specific recall; the unit is consistently dark gray and rectangular. While you might remember buying it as an add-on to extend features during power disruptions, relying on memory can be risky. The visual confirmation of the "FLO" logo on the right and model number 920-001 on the left is the only way to be certain.
If you cannot find this specific dark gray unit with these markings, or if your Flo system operates without a separate battery backup, you do not need to take immediate action regarding this recall. However, if you locate the device matching this description, please proceed to the next steps for safe handling. Do not attempt to open the casing or test the battery yourself. The identification process is complete once you have visually confirmed the model number on the sticker.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Flo Smart Water Monitor Lithium-Ion Battery Back-Up, the most critical action you can take right now is to prioritize safety over convenience. Because this device contains a lithium-ion battery that has been identified as capable of overheating and catching fire, you must treat it with immediate caution. Please do not wait for further instructions or try to diagnose the issue yourself. Instead, follow these concrete steps to secure your home and initiate the remedy process provided by Moen. First, immediately unplug the recalled battery back-up from any power source. Do not attempt to keep it connected "just in case" you might need it later, as the risk of thermal runaway increases with time and usage. Once disconnected, stop using the device entirely. It is essential that you do not try to charge it, install it, or integrate it into your home’s water monitoring system again. The hazard lies within the battery cell itself, so simply powering down the system does not eliminate the risk if the backup unit remains plugged in or connected. Second, contact Moen Incorporated to receive specific instructions on how to disable the battery back-up before you dispose of it. You can reach their dedicated product safety team toll-free at 844-633-8356. Their representatives are available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, and from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET on Saturdays. Alternatively, you can visit their website at https://www.moen.com/product-safety-recalls/flo-lithium-ion-battery-backup-model-920-001 or navigate to the "Product Safety Recalls" section on Moen’s main site for detailed guidance. When you contact them, have your model number ready; this specific recall applies only to the dark gray rectangular battery with the FLO logo on the lower right-hand side and a sticker on the lower left-hand side showing the light status and model number 920-001. Third, follow Moen’s instructions carefully to disable the battery back-up. This step is crucial because lithium-ion batteries can remain hazardous even when disconnected from power if they are damaged or improperly handled. Moen will guide you through the proper method to ensure the battery is rendered inert and safe for handling. Do not attempt to open the device, puncture the battery, or expose it to extreme temperatures during this process. Finally, dispose of the unit in accordance with applicable local laws for the disposal of lithium-ion batteries. This typically means taking it to a designated e-waste recycling center or a hazardous waste collection facility. Do not throw the recalled battery back-up in your regular household trash, as this poses a significant fire risk to sanitation workers and facilities. By following these steps precisely, you ensure that the hazard is neutralized safely and responsibly.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
When a recall involves a fire hazard, the primary goal of the manufacturer is not necessarily to send you a shiny new replacement part immediately, but rather to neutralize the risk entirely. In this specific case involving Moen’s Flo Smart Water Monitor Battery Back-Ups, the remedy provided by the company is quite distinct from typical product recalls where you might expect a refund or a direct swap for a newer model. Instead, Moen has instructed consumers to contact them specifically for instructions on how to disable the battery back-up function within your device. This is a critical distinction because the recalled component—the lithium-ion battery—is the source of the potential danger. By disabling this feature, you effectively remove the hazard from your home while still allowing you to retain the core monitoring capabilities of your Flo system, provided you have access to consistent power.
To initiate this process, you must reach out directly to Moen Incorporated. They have established a dedicated toll-free line for this recall at 844-633-8356. It is important to note their availability hours: they are available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time Monday through Friday, and on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time. If you prefer to handle this digitally, you can visit the official product safety recalls page for this specific item at https://www.moen.com/product-safety-recalls/flo-lithium-ion-battery-backup-model-920-001. You can also navigate there by going to Moen’s main website and clicking on "Product Safety Recalls." These are the only official channels you should use; do not rely on third-party retailers for these specific instructions, as they may not have the technical guidance required to safely disable the unit.
Once you have contacted Moen and received their instructions, the next step involves the safe disposal of the recalled battery back-up. You cannot simply throw this device in your regular household trash. Because it contains a lithium-ion battery that has been reported to overheat and catch fire, it must be disposed of in accordance with applicable local laws for the disposal of lithium-ion batteries. Many communities have specific e-waste recycling centers or hazardous waste drop-off locations designed precisely for this purpose. Following these local regulations ensures that even if a unit were to activate unexpectedly during transport, the risk is minimized by professionals equipped to handle such materials.
In summary, your options here are limited to disabling the battery function as guided by Moen and safely discarding the hazardous component. There is no mention in the recall facts of a full product replacement or a monetary refund for the accessory itself. The focus is strictly on safety: removing the fire risk so you can continue using your water monitoring system without fear. Please act promptly to contact Moen, follow their disablement instructions, and dispose of the unit responsibly.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable to feel hesitant about pulling a device out of the wall, especially one that has been integrated into your home’s infrastructure for peace of mind. You might tell yourself that the risk is theoretical, or that you will simply "watch it" until you have time to call Moen. However, ignoring this recall is not a passive choice; it is an active acceptance of a known danger. The Flo Smart Water Monitor Lithium-Ion Battery Back-Up was designed to be a silent guardian, stepping in during power outages to keep your smart water system alive. But in the rare cases where this specific unit fails, it stops being a guardian and becomes a significant threat to your home’s safety.
The core of the danger lies in the nature of lithium-ion batteries. These cells store a high amount of energy in a very small space. When the internal chemistry of the battery malfunctions due to manufacturing defects or material fatigue, it can lead to thermal runaway—a condition where the battery generates heat faster than it can dissipate it. This is not a slow, gradual warming that you might notice with a regular phone charger. It is a rapid escalation. Once the overheating begins, the internal pressure builds quickly, causing the casing to swell, vent toxic fumes, and potentially ignite. Because this device is plugged directly into your home’s electrical system and sits near sensitive water monitoring electronics, a fire starting here can spread with alarming speed to surrounding cabinetry, walls, or other combustible materials.
We are not speaking in hypotheticals here. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has documented three separate incidents where these specific battery back-ups overheated and caught fire. While it is reassuring that no personal injuries have been reported so far, the property damage associated with these events serves as a stark warning. A fire does not care about your good luck; it only cares about fuel and oxygen. In a residential setting, even a small electrical fire can compromise structural integrity, ruin expensive finishes, and release harmful smoke throughout your living space. The "minor" property damage reported in these initial incidents could easily escalate to total loss if the fire reaches curtains, wood framing, or insulation before it is extinguished.
Furthermore, ignoring the recall delays the necessary safety intervention. Moen has provided a clear, free remedy: instructions on how to safely disable the battery component. By waiting, you are denying yourself the chance to resolve this issue while it is still manageable. You are essentially gambling that your specific unit will not be the one to fail, and that if it does, you will react in time. Given that thermal events can occur without warning, often at night or when no one is home, this gamble carries a risk that far outweighs the inconvenience of making a phone call. The consequence of inaction is not just a broken device; it is the potential loss of your home’s safety and security.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defect in Moen’s Flo Smart Water Monitor battery backups, the underlying issue—lithium-ion batteries failing or overheating—is a challenge that extends far beyond kitchen plumbing. As we integrate more smart technology into our homes, understanding how to manage power and heat safety is essential for long-term peace of mind. Lithium-ion batteries are incredible for their energy density, but they are also sensitive to physical damage, extreme temperatures, and age-related degradation. When these batteries fail, the result can be thermal runaway, a condition where the battery heats up uncontrollably until it catches fire. This is why general prevention strategies are just as important as responding to specific recalls.
One of the most effective ways to mitigate risk with any smart home device that relies on internal batteries is regular visual inspection. You do not need to be an engineer to notice warning signs; look for swelling, discoloration, or a strange burning smell coming from your devices. If a battery backup case appears puffy or misshapen, it is a clear sign that the internal cells are expanding due to gas buildup. This is a critical failure point. In such cases, you should stop using the device immediately and dispose of it properly, but never attempt to open or puncture the casing yourself, as this can trigger an immediate fire.
Environment matters significantly for battery longevity and safety. Avoid placing smart water monitors, backup power units, or other electronics in areas with high humidity or extreme temperature fluctuations, such as directly above a hot water heater or in an unconditioned attic during summer months. Heat accelerates the chemical aging of lithium-ion cells, increasing the likelihood of internal short circuits. Additionally, ensure that these devices have adequate ventilation. Do not cover them with towels, place them inside enclosed cabinets without airflow, or stack other heavy items on top of them. Physical pressure can also damage the internal structure of the battery.
Beyond individual device care, broader home safety systems provide a crucial layer of protection. Ensure you have working smoke detectors in every sleeping area and on every level of your home, including the basement. Test these alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. For homes with smart water monitoring systems, consider integrating them with your home’s security or automation system to receive immediate alerts if power is lost or if the device reports an anomaly. This allows you to respond before a minor electrical issue becomes a major hazard.
Finally, make checking for recalls a routine part of home maintenance. Just as you change HVAC filters or service your furnace, set a calendar reminder every six months to check the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website and manufacturer sites for updates on your appliances and electronics. Manufacturers often issue voluntary recalls when they identify potential defects, and acting quickly on these notifications is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents in your home. Staying informed empowers you to keep your living space safe, secure, and comfortable.