What was recalled
If you are responsible for the heating systems in a commercial or industrial building, it is important to know exactly which equipment has been flagged by safety regulators. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a recall alert on March 23, 2023, concerning specific natural gas boilers manufactured by Burnham Commercial. This action was taken because these units pose a significant burn hazard due to potential ignition issues. It is crucial to identify whether your facility’s heating infrastructure includes the precise models affected by this notice, as the risk is tied to specific manufacturing configurations rather than the entire product line.
The recall specifically targets two distinct commercial-grade boiler series. The first group consists of the Burnham Commercial Series 8 EP Natural Gas Boilers. The second group includes the Series 16H boilers, but only those equipped with a CSD-1 control device. Both types are designed for heavy-duty commercial use and rely on natural gas as their primary fuel source. To help you verify if your units are part of this recall, look for brand identification stamped directly in metal on the front cover of the boiler. The Series 8 units will clearly display the "Burnham Commercial" branding, while the affected Series 16H units will bear the "Crown Boiler" name.
Identifying the exact model and serial number is the next critical step. This information is not on the exterior cover but is located on the boiler rating plate. You will need to access this plate by looking at the vestibule panel, which is situated behind the front jacket panel of the boiler. A key technical detail that defines the scope of this recall is the pilot assembly. The recalled units are equipped with the Q3452B2100/B pilot and feature a specific 90-degree mounting bracket. If your boilers have this specific pilot configuration, they are included in the recall regardless of other minor variations.
While the official recall documentation provided does not list the total number of units sold or the exact geographic regions where these boilers were distributed, it is important to note that these systems are predominantly found in industrial or commercial buildings rather than residential homes. If you manage a facility with natural gas heating, take the time to inspect the rating plate and compare the pilot assembly against the details provided above. Confirming whether your equipment matches this specific profile is the necessary first step toward ensuring safety and arranging for the required free repairs.
The hazard, explained
At the core of this recall is a specific mechanical failure involving how the Burnham Commercial boilers ignite and maintain their flame. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), these units are prone to two distinct but related issues: delayed ignition and flame rollout. To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at what happens inside the combustion chamber when these errors occur.
Delayed ignition means that when the boiler attempts to light, there is an unexpected pause. In a properly functioning gas boiler, the fuel ignites almost instantly upon contact with the spark. However, if ignition is delayed, unburned natural gas continues to flow into the chamber for a longer period than intended. This causes a buildup of combustible gas-air mixture. When the flame finally catches, it does not just light the gas gently; it ignites the accumulated pool all at once. This results in a small explosion or "flare-up" inside the boiler.
This sudden pressure surge is what leads to flame rollout. The force of the flare-up pushes the flames out of their designated combustion chamber and into other parts of the boiler where they are not designed to be. Normally, the interior components are made of materials that can withstand extreme heat because they are part of the heating process. However, when flames roll out onto surfaces meant only to channel air or house electrical components, those areas can reach temperatures far beyond their safety limits.
The primary harm from this mechanism is thermal injury. If a person is nearby—perhaps performing routine maintenance, checking gauges, or simply walking past the equipment in a commercial hallway—the intense heat radiating from the boiler can cause severe burns. The CPSC notes that there have already been two reported incidents of flame rollout associated with these models. While no injuries have been confirmed yet, the potential for serious physical harm is significant because the event is sudden and unpredictable.
It is also important to note the context of the environment. These boilers are installed in industrial or commercial buildings. Unlike a home furnace that might be tucked away in a basement, commercial equipment is often located in active work areas or mechanical rooms where staff may be present. The combination of a high-energy gas explosion and proximity to workers increases the risk profile. The hazard is not just about the boiler breaking; it is about the violent release of energy and heat into a space where people regularly operate machinery.
Understanding this physical process underscores why the remedy is so urgent. You cannot fix a delayed ignition or flame rollout issue with a simple software update or a filter change. The internal components that control the timing and containment of the flame are compromised. Until a qualified technician performs the free repair, the boiler remains a source of unpredictable thermal energy that poses a direct burn risk to anyone in the vicinity.
Who is most at risk
Understanding who is most vulnerable to this recall requires looking closely at the specific environment where these boilers operate. The Burnham Commercial Series 8 EP and the Crown Boiler Series 16H are not typical household appliances found in residential basements or attics. Instead, as noted in the product description, these units are designed for commercial use and are mostly found in industrial or commercial buildings. This distinction is crucial because it shifts the risk profile from individual homeowners to employees, maintenance staff, and visitors within large facilities such as factories, warehouses, office complexes, or institutional buildings.
The primary hazard associated with these models involves delayed ignition and flame rollouts. While a flame rollout might sound like a technical glitch, in a commercial setting, it represents a significant safety threat to the people working in close proximity to the equipment. Employees who work near boiler rooms or mechanical areas are at the highest immediate risk. Unlike a residential setting where a family can quickly evacuate their home, commercial buildings often have complex layouts with restricted access points. If a flame rollout occurs due to the delayed ignition issue, individuals nearby may be exposed to sudden bursts of heat, open flames, or hot gases before they can react or move to safety.
While no injuries have been reported in the two incidents documented by the firm so far, the potential for harm is serious. The risk is not limited to just those who are physically touching the unit. In industrial environments, boiler rooms can be noisy and busy. Workers might be focused on other tasks and could be caught off guard by a sudden combustion event. Furthermore, the nature of commercial HVAC systems means that these boilers often run for extended periods or cycle frequently to maintain temperature control in large spaces. This constant operation increases the window of opportunity for the delayed ignition defect to manifest, thereby increasing the exposure time for anyone working in the vicinity.
It is also important to consider the maintenance personnel themselves. The individuals responsible for servicing these boilers may be inspecting them during normal operations or troubleshooting minor issues when a flame rollout occurs. These professionals are often closer to the machinery than general staff, placing them in the direct line of fire if the safety mechanisms fail. Although the recall remedy involves contacting an installer or distributor for a free repair, the period between recognizing the hazard and completing the fix is a critical window where risk remains elevated.
Therefore, the group most at risk consists of building occupants who are regularly present in commercial or industrial facilities housing these specific Burnham Commercial Series 8 EP or Crown Boiler Series 16H units. This includes factory workers, facility managers, janitorial staff, and any contractors or visitors who enter mechanical rooms. Because these boilers utilize natural gas, the combination of a potential flame rollout and an enclosed industrial space can create dangerous conditions quickly. Vigilance is particularly important for those who spend their workday in or near the boiler room, as they are the first to experience the physical effects of a burn hazard should the unit malfunction.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you manage a commercial or industrial building that relies on natural gas for heating, verifying whether your equipment is part of this specific recall requires careful attention to detail. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified two distinct lines of boilers manufactured by Burnham Commercial that are affected: the Burnham Commercial Series 8 EP Natural Gas Boiler and the Crown Boiler Series 16H equipped with a CSD-1 control system. Because these units are designed for commercial applications rather than residential homes, they are typically found in larger facilities such as factories, warehouses, or large office complexes. The first step in identification is to look at the branding stamped directly into the metal of the boiler’s front cover. You should see either "Burnham Commercial" associated with the Series 8 or "Crown Boiler" associated with the Series 16H clearly etched into the steel.
Simply seeing the brand name is not enough to confirm if your unit is part of this recall, as many other models may share similar branding. The critical factor that determines whether your boiler is included in this safety alert is a specific internal component: the pilot assembly. You must verify that the recalled units are equipped with the Q3452B2100/B pilot which features a distinctive 90-degree mounting bracket. If your boiler does not have this specific pilot configuration, it is not part of this particular recall action. However, because these components are internal, you will likely need to consult the documentation or contact a professional to confirm the exact pilot model installed.
To find the definitive proof that your unit is affected, you need to locate the boiler rating plate. This metal tag contains the unique model and serial numbers that allow the manufacturer to track exactly what was produced and when. On these specific Burnham Commercial units, the rating plate is not on the outside; it is located behind the front jacket panel, on the vestibule panel. You will need to carefully remove or open the front jacket panel of the boiler to access this area safely. Once you locate the plate, compare the model number against the Series 8 EP and Series 16H identifiers mentioned above. If your unit matches these models and is confirmed to have the Q3452B2100/B pilot with the 90-degree bracket, it is part of the recall.
Because this recall was announced on March 23, 2023, any units installed prior to or around that date in commercial settings should be treated with caution until verified. These boilers are not typically sold through standard retail stores but are distributed directly to installers and distributors for use in industrial environments. If you are unsure about the age or origin of your boiler, do not guess. The safest approach is to stop using the equipment immediately and contact Burnham Commercial directly at 888-791-3790 during their stated hours (7:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. ET Monday through Thursday, and 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. ET on Friday) to provide them with the serial number from the rating plate for confirmation.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Burnham Commercial boilers, your immediate priority is safety. The recall notice explicitly states that these units pose a burn hazard due to delayed ignition or flame rollout issues. Because of this risk, the first and most critical step is to stop using the affected equipment immediately. Do not attempt to operate the boiler for heating or any other purpose until it has been inspected and repaired by a qualified professional. This is not a situation where you should wait for a scheduled maintenance window or try to troubleshoot the issue yourself. The potential for injury is real, so treating the unit as inactive is the only safe choice.
Once you have ensured the boiler is not in use, your next step is to reach out to the installer or distributor who originally sold or installed the unit. They are the primary point of contact for scheduling a free repair. The company notes that they are contacting distributors directly, which means your installer likely already has information about this recall, but it is best to confirm their status and schedule the repair appointment as soon as possible. When you contact them, provide the specific model details to ensure they understand which part of the inventory is affected.
If you do not have the contact information for your original installer or distributor, you can reach out directly to Burnham Commercial for assistance. You can call their toll-free number at 888-791-3790. Be aware that their customer service hours vary slightly by day: they are available from 7:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday through Thursday, and from 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. ET on Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to info@burnhamcommercial.com or visit their website at www.burnhamcommercial.com. On the homepage, look for the "Safety Recall Information" link near the top of the page to find additional resources and documentation.
During your communications with either the installer or Burnham Commercial directly, have your boiler’s rating plate information ready. This plate is located on the vestibule panel behind the front jacket panel. You will need the model and serial numbers to verify that your specific unit is included in this recall. While the remedy described here focuses on a free repair via an installer or distributor, the recall notice does not explicitly detail options for refunds or replacements if the repair cannot resolve the issue. Therefore, your main action item is securing that free repair service. Keep records of all communications and repair agreements for your files.
Remember, this remedy is specific to the identified burn hazard. Ignoring the recall or continuing to use the boiler puts you at risk of injury from flame rollout or delayed ignition events. By following these steps—stopping use, contacting the installer, or reaching out to Burnham Commercial directly—you ensure that your commercial or industrial property remains safe and compliant with safety standards. The goal is to have a qualified technician fix the issue promptly, restoring safe operation without cost to you for the repair itself.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have identified that your equipment matches the details of this recall, the first and most important step is to stop using the unit immediately. While the urgency comes from the safety hazard, the remedy itself is designed to be straightforward and cost-free for you. Burnham Commercial has committed to repairing the affected boilers at no charge. This means you will not need to pay for parts, labor, or any associated service fees to resolve the issue. The company’s official stance is clear: they want to ensure your commercial heating system is safe to operate again without imposing a financial burden on facility managers, building owners, or property maintenance teams.
To initiate this process, you should contact the installer or distributor who originally provided the boiler. This is often the most efficient route because they are already familiar with your building’s specific setup and may have existing service contracts in place. However, if you cannot reach your original installer, or if you prefer to go directly through the manufacturer, Burnham Commercial has established dedicated channels for this recall. You can call their toll-free number at 888-791-3790. It is important to note their specific operating hours to avoid unnecessary delays in getting a response. They are available from 7:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and from 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Fridays, all in Eastern Time.
In addition to phone support, you have the option to reach out via email at info@burnhamcommercial.com. This can be useful if you need to provide specific serial numbers or photos of the rating plate for initial verification before a technician is dispatched. For those who prefer digital resources, you can visit www.burnhamcommercial.com and navigate to the "Safety Recall Information" section located at the top of the page. There, you will find detailed documentation, including a web notification PDF that outlines the technical specifics of the repair. They have also hosted recall information on an external server at https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/catsy.782/BC+Series+8+EP+web+notification.pdf for easy access to official notices.
The remedy specifically involves a free boiler repair rather than a full replacement or refund. This is likely because the issue stems from a specific component configuration—namely, the Q3452B2100/B pilot with the 90-degree mounting bracket—rather than a fundamental design flaw requiring a new unit. By repairing the existing equipment, the company addresses the delayed ignition and flame rollout risks directly. Please do not attempt to fix this yourself. The hazard involves natural gas combustion and electrical controls, which requires professional handling. Let the authorized service providers handle the repair to ensure the unit is safely restored to compliance.
What can happen if you ignore it
The Burnham Commercial Series 8 EP Natural Gas Boiler and the Series 16H equipped with a CSD-1 are not just standard heating units; they are complex pieces of industrial equipment designed to manage high-energy combustion within commercial and industrial buildings. When these specific models experience delayed ignition or flame rollout, ignoring the recall transforms a manageable mechanical issue into a significant safety crisis. The primary danger lies in the nature of natural gas itself. Natural gas is highly flammable and expands rapidly when ignited. In a properly functioning boiler, this combustion is contained within a sealed chamber. However, if the ignition sequence is delayed, gas can accumulate in the combustion chamber before it finally lights. When that accumulated gas does ignite, it creates a pressure wave far stronger than normal operation—a phenomenon known as a deflagration. This sudden explosion can force flames and hot gases out of their intended path, leading to the "flame rollout" hazard identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
The consequences of continuing to use these recalled boilers without repair are severe and immediate. The most direct risk is physical injury from burns. Flame rollout means that open flames and superheated combustion gases escape the boiler’s internal components and come into contact with external surfaces, surrounding equipment, or potentially people in the vicinity. As noted in the recall data, there have already been two reported incidents of flame rollout associated with these specific units. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for serious thermal burns to maintenance personnel, building occupants, or first responders is real and imminent. The heat generated during a flashback event can reach temperatures capable of causing third-degree burns in seconds.
Beyond the immediate risk of personal injury, ignoring this recall poses a substantial threat to property and structural integrity. Commercial buildings often house sensitive electronics, flammable materials, and complex infrastructure adjacent to boiler rooms. A flame rollout event can easily ignite nearby combustible materials, leading to a secondary fire that spreads beyond the boiler room. In industrial settings, where these boilers are most commonly found, the cost of such a fire can be catastrophic, resulting in total loss of equipment, business interruption, and significant structural damage. Furthermore, the violent pressure waves from delayed ignition can damage the boiler’s internal components, such as heat exchangers and burners, rendering the unit permanently unusable and creating a dangerous situation for anyone who attempts to use it again.
Finally, there is the legal and operational liability to consider. If you are responsible for the maintenance of a commercial or industrial building, continuing to operate known defective equipment violates basic duty-of-care standards. Should an incident occur that results in injury or property damage, the fact that you were aware of the safety defect but chose to ignore it could lead to severe legal consequences, including negligence claims and regulatory penalties. The remedy offered is free and straightforward: stop using the unit and contact the installer or distributor for a repair. Choosing not to act leaves you exposed to unnecessary risk when a solution is readily available.
Staying safe: broader tips
While the specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in certain Burnham Commercial boilers, the broader lesson applies to anyone relying on natural gas appliances for heat and hot water. Safety with gas-fired equipment is less about occasional checks and more about consistent, layered vigilance. The most critical step you can take is ensuring your home or building has functioning carbon monoxide (CO) detectors installed on every level, particularly near sleeping areas. Natural gas combustion produces carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly in high concentrations. Detectors provide the only reliable early warning system for leaks or incomplete combustion issues that might go unnoticed until it is too late. These devices should be tested monthly and have their batteries replaced at least once a year, or when you replace your smoke detector batteries during daylight saving time changes.
Regular professional maintenance is another cornerstone of gas appliance safety. Even if your boiler appears to be working correctly, annual inspections by a qualified HVAC technician can identify wear and tear, corrosion, or venting issues before they become hazardous. Technicians can check for proper draft, inspect heat exchangers for cracks, and ensure that safety controls like flame rollout switches are operating as intended. For commercial buildings, establishing a documented maintenance schedule is not just a best practice but often a legal requirement under occupational safety standards. Keeping detailed records of these inspections can also be valuable if you ever need to verify compliance or troubleshoot future issues.
Understanding the signs of gas appliance trouble can empower you to act quickly. Be alert for unusual odors, such as the "rotten egg" smell added to natural gas to help detect leaks, or any hissing sounds near the unit. If you suspect a leak, evacuate the area immediately and call your gas company or emergency services from a safe distance. Never attempt to fix a gas line or major component yourself unless you are a licensed professional. Additionally, keep the area around your boiler clear of flammable materials like paper, boxes, or cleaning supplies. Proper clearance ensures adequate airflow for combustion and reduces the risk of accidental ignition if a flame were to escape.
Finally, stay informed about product safety by regularly checking recall lists from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and other relevant agencies. Subscribing to email alerts or following official social media accounts can ensure you receive timely notifications about safety issues affecting your specific models. Knowledge is your best defense; understanding how your equipment works and recognizing its limitations helps you maintain a safer environment for yourself, your employees, or your tenants. Remember that safety is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix.