What was recalled
If you enjoy outdoor projects that require high-heat tools, you may have a specific type of propane hose in your garage or workshop right now that needs to be addressed. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a recall on December 22, 2021, involving propane hoses manufactured by Pearl River. These hoses are not sold as standalone items in most cases; rather, they come pre-installed or bundled with various flame-throwing accessories and torches distributed under the Flame King brand. If you own any of the Flame King products listed below, it is crucial to verify whether your specific unit contains one of the recalled hose models.
The recall specifically targets propane hoses produced during two distinct timeframes: the third quarter of 2020 (labeled as 3Q20) and the fourth quarter of 2020 (labeled as 4Q20). These hoses were integrated into several popular Flame King tools, including the Flame King 500,000 BTU Weed Burner Torch, the Flame King 320,000 BTU Propane Torch Kit, and the Flame King 340,000 BTU Propane Torch Kit with Ignitor. Additionally, a standalone adapter hose, specifically the Flame King 4 ft QCC1 Propane Adapter Hose designed to connect to 1 lb appliances, was also included in this safety notice.
To determine if your equipment is part of this recall, you must look closely at the physical body of the propane hose attached to your device. The recalled hoses are identified by specific item numbers printed directly on them. You should check for any of the following item codes: YSNPQ5000T or YSNPQ5000Ta (associated with the 500,000 BTU Weed Burner Torch), YSNAX1-061 or YSNAX1-061a (associated with the 320,000 BTU Propane Torch Kit), YSNAX1-078 or YSNAX1-078a (associated with the 340,000 BTU Propane Torch Kit with Ignitor), and ALGA09 (the 4 ft QCC1 Propane Adapter Hose). Furthermore, the hose itself will bear the Pearl River File No. 70177655 and specifications indicating it is an LP-GAS HOSE HP14 with a Maximum Working Pressure (M.W.P) of 350 PSIG, sized at 1/4" STANDARD CSA8.3&UL21. If your hose matches these descriptions and bears the 3Q20 or 4Q20 date code, it is part of this recall.
While the official recall record does not specify the exact total number of units sold or distributed globally, the scope is significant enough to warrant immediate attention from consumers who have purchased these Flame King accessories during or after late 2020. The presence of these hoses in your toolkit means you should stop using them immediately until you can obtain a free replacement through the manufacturer's official remedy process.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a failure in the physical integrity of the propane hose itself. According to reports from Pearl River and the CPSC, the specific hoses included in this recall have a tendency to swell up unexpectedly while in use. This swelling is not just a cosmetic issue or a sign that the hose is getting old; it is a critical warning sign that the internal structure of the hose is breaking down. When the material swells, it indicates that the layers holding the propane gas together are separating or weakening. Eventually, this structural failure leads to a rupture—a sudden tear or hole in the hose wall.
Once the hose ruptures, the seal that keeps the pressurized propane inside is broken. Propane is stored under significant pressure, and when that pressure finds an escape route through a rupture, it doesn’t just leak out slowly; it can vent rapidly. This creates an immediate pocket of highly flammable gas around the torch, the burner, or whatever accessory the hose was connected to. Because propane is heavier than air, this leaked gas can settle into low areas or linger near the heat source, creating a dangerous environment where even a small spark or the pilot light of the torch itself can ignite the gas.
The primary danger here is fire. When the leaked propane ignites, it can cause flames to flare up unexpectedly along the length of the hose or back toward the user. This poses a direct risk of burns to anyone holding or operating the equipment. In more severe cases, if the fire reaches the propane tank (such as a standard 1-pound cylinder), it can lead to a much larger explosion or a fireball, potentially causing serious injury to the user and damaging surrounding property.
It is important to note that while Pearl River has received three reports of hoses swelling and rupturing, no injuries have been reported so far. This suggests that for those affected, the hazard was recognized before it led to harm, or that luck played a role in preventing accidents. However, relying on luck is not a safety strategy. The mechanism of failure—swelling leading to rupture—is predictable once it begins. If you notice any bulging, softening, or abnormal expansion in your hose, it is no longer safe. The material has already compromised its ability to contain the gas securely, and a rupture could happen at any moment during use.
This type of failure is particularly insidious because it often occurs without obvious external damage. The hose might look fine on the outside until it suddenly swells and fails. That is why the recall emphasizes stopping use immediately upon noticing any swelling. General knowledge about propane safety reminds us that gas lines must remain rigid and intact to function safely. Any deviation from that rigidity, such as the swelling described in this recall, signals that the component has failed its primary job: keeping the fuel contained until it is ready to be burned in the flame.
Who is most at risk
The primary group facing potential danger in this recall consists of homeowners, gardeners, and DIY enthusiasts who purchased Pearl River propane hoses bundled with Flame King torches and accessories. These products are typically marketed toward individuals managing landscaping projects, such as burning weeds or clearing vegetation, which requires the high heat output of a 320,000 to 500,000 BTU torch. Because these tools are designed for outdoor use in residential yards, farms, or community gardens, the users are often operating in open spaces where they might feel a false sense of security. However, the specific hazard here—the swelling and rupturing of the hose—transforms a routine yard chore into a potentially volatile situation. The risk is not limited to professional landscapers; it extends to any consumer who bought these items around the third or fourth quarter of 2020 and has since stored them in a shed, garage, or tool cart, ready for seasonal use.
While propane equipment is generally safe when functioning correctly, the mechanical failure mode identified in this recall creates a unique vulnerability for all users. When the hose swells, it indicates internal degradation of the material that can lead to sudden rupture. For the average user who may not inspect their equipment before every single use, this latent defect is particularly dangerous because it does not always present obvious warning signs until it is too late. The risk is amplified if the user is holding the torch at arm's length or leaning over a pile of dry brush, where a sudden leak could ignite immediately upon contact with an ignition source or even ambient heat. There are no reports of injuries to date, but the potential for fire remains significant for anyone relying on this equipment for property maintenance.
Certain demographics may be at higher risk due to how they interact with these tools. For instance, older adults who perform their own yard work might have slower reaction times if a hose ruptures unexpectedly, making it harder to quickly distance themselves from the gas source. Additionally, households with curious children or pets are at greater risk because propane torches are often stored in accessible areas like garages or patios where young ones might play. If a recalled hose is left connected or improperly stored, a leak could create an invisible cloud of flammable gas that poses a severe explosion hazard to anyone nearby, regardless of their proximity to the actual tool. It is also important to note that users who may not be technically inclined—those who do not regularly check for wear and tear on gas lines—are less likely to notice the early stages of swelling before a rupture occurs. Therefore, the most vulnerable individuals are those who own these specific Flame King items, use them periodically rather than constantly, and may overlook routine safety inspections.
- Homeowners using weed burners or propane torches for yard cleanup.
- Gardeners clearing overgrown areas with high-BTU flame tools.
- Individuals who purchased Flame King kits in 2020 and have not yet inspected their hose condition.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before taking any action, it is essential to confirm whether your equipment falls under this specific recall. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Pearl River have identified a very precise set of propane hoses that are affected. These hoses were not sold individually in most cases; rather, they came bundled with Flame King brand torches and accessories. If you purchased a Flame King propane-powered torch or accessory, there is a possibility your unit contains one of the recalled hoses. The primary brands associated with this recall are Pearl River, which manufactured the hose, and Flame King, the brand that sold the final product to consumers.
To determine if you have a recalled item, you need to look closely at the propane hose itself. The critical information is printed directly on the body of the hose. You should look for text that reads "PEARL RIVER FILE NO. 70177655 LP-GAS HOSE HP14 M.W.P 350 PSIG 1/4" STANDARD CSA8.3&UL21". Following this description, you must check the date code printed on the hose. The recall applies only to hoses manufactured in either the third quarter of 2020 (marked as "3Q20") or the fourth quarter of 2020 (marked as "4Q20"). If your hose has a different date code, such as 1Q20, 2Q20, or any date from 2021 or later, it is not part of this specific recall. Additionally, you may find an item number printed on the hose body. The recalled item numbers include YSNPQ5000T, YSNPQ5000Ta, YSNAX1-061, YSNAX1-061a, YSNAX1-078, YSNAX1-078a, and ALGA09.
You can also identify the recalled product by looking at the Flame King equipment it came with. The recall covers specific models of propane torches and adapters. If you have one of the following items, check the hose for the details mentioned above: Flame King 500,000 BTU Weed Burner Torch (Item # YSNPQ5000T or YSNPQ5000Ta), Flame King 320,000 BTU Propane Torch Kit (Item # YSNAX1-061 or YSNAX1-061a), Flame King 340,000 BTU Propane Torch Kit with Ignitor (Item # YSNAX1-078 or YSNAX1-078a), or the Flame King 4 ft QCC1 Propane Adapter Hose to 1 lb Appliance (Item # ALGA09). If you are unsure about the manufacturing date on the hose, it is safest to assume it might be recalled and contact Pearl River for verification. Do not attempt to use the equipment until you have confirmed whether your specific hose is part of this safety notice.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Pearl River propane hoses sold with Flame King torches and accessories, your immediate safety is the top priority. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is clear: you must stop using these items right away. Do not attempt to fix the hose yourself, and do not try to use it for any other purpose. The risk of the hose swelling and rupturing is real, and that rupture can lead to a dangerous propane leak. By disconnecting the hose from your torch or accessory immediately, you remove the source of the hazard from your environment. This simple first step is the most effective way to protect yourself and your family from potential fire hazards while you arrange for the replacement. Once you have safely stored the recalled hose out of reach of children and pets, you need to initiate the remedy process provided by Pearl River. The company has established a specific, no-cost method for you to receive a free replacement hose. This process requires you to take a few deliberate actions to ensure your old hose is permanently disabled and cannot be accidentally used again. First, you must cut the recalled propane hose in half. This physical destruction ensures that the defective component is no longer operable and cannot pose a risk to anyone else. It is a crucial step in the safety protocol because it guarantees the hazardous part is removed from circulation. After cutting the hose, you need to document this action for Pearl River. Take a clear photograph of the cut hose, making sure the image shows that it has been severed and is no longer functional. Next, prepare an email to recall@pearlriverhose.com. In this email, attach the photograph of the cut hose. Along with the photo, you must include your full return mailing address where you would like to receive your free replacement hose. This step allows Pearl River to verify that you have followed the safety instructions and to send the new, safe component directly to your home. You do not need to ship the old hose back to them; simply keeping it discarded after confirmation is sufficient. If you have questions about this process or need assistance, Pearl River offers dedicated support channels. You can call their toll-free number at 855-855-8874 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can visit their website at www.pearlriverhose.com for additional information. Following these steps carefully ensures that you resolve the issue efficiently and safely, allowing you to continue using your propane equipment with confidence once the new hose arrives. Remember, this remedy is free of charge, so there is no financial barrier to getting your equipment back in safe working order.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
The good news is that Pearl River has designed a straightforward and free remedy for this recall. You do not need to pay anything out of pocket to get your equipment back in safe working order. The company is offering a complimentary replacement propane hose to anyone who purchased the affected items. However, their process is unique compared to many standard recalls. Instead of mailing you a return shipping label or asking you to send the defective part back physically, they have implemented a digital verification step. This approach is designed to speed up the process for you while ensuring that the recalled hoses are properly disposed of and cannot be accidentally reused.
To get your free replacement hose, you need to follow these specific steps carefully. First, you must safely disable the recalled hose so it can no longer function. The recall instructions require you to cut the propane hose in half. This is a critical safety measure; by cutting the hose, you ensure that the compromised material is completely destroyed and cannot cause a leak or fire hazard for anyone else. Once the hose is cut, take a clear photograph of the severed end. This photo serves as your proof of compliance with the recall instructions.
Next, you will need to send this photograph along with your return mailing address to Pearl River via email. You can reach their recall support team at recall@pearlriverhose.com. In your email, please include the photo of the cut hose and clearly state where you would like the replacement hose sent. Once Pearl River receives your email and confirms that the hose has been cut in half, they will ship the new hose to you at no cost. After they send you this confirmation, you are free to throw away the old, cut hose.
If you have questions about this process or need further assistance, Pearl River is available to help. You can call their toll-free number at 855-855-8874. Their customer service representatives are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can visit their website at www.pearlriverhose.com for additional information. Please do not attempt to use the hose while waiting for your replacement, as it remains a fire hazard until you have received and installed the new one.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using your torch right away. Perhaps you are in the middle of a landscaping project and need that weed burner to clear overgrown patches, or maybe you have a large outdoor cooking event coming up where the propane torch is essential for searing steaks. The inconvenience of pausing your work to deal with a recall is real, but it is important to understand that ignoring this issue does not just create a minor annoyance; it introduces a serious and immediate danger into your home or workspace.
The core problem with the recalled Pearl River propane hoses is not a simple leak that you can easily detect by smell alone. According to the CPSC, these specific hoses have a design flaw that causes them to swell under normal operating pressure. This swelling indicates that the internal structure of the hose is failing. As the material stretches and weakens, it eventually ruptures. When this rupture occurs, high-pressure propane gas is released rapidly into the surrounding area. Because propane is highly flammable, any spark—even a tiny one from static electricity, a nearby pilot light, or even the friction of metal tools—can ignite the escaping gas.
The consequences of ignoring this hazard can escalate quickly. While the manufacturer has only received three reports of hoses swelling and rupturing so far, and no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for severe harm is significant. A ruptured hose in an enclosed or semi-enclosed space, such as a garage, shed, or even around outdoor furniture where wind might not disperse the gas quickly enough, can lead to a flash fire or explosion. This puts not only you at risk but also your family members, neighbors, and pets who may be nearby when the incident occurs.
Beyond the immediate physical danger, there is a practical reason to act now: the hose will likely fail completely during use. If you are using a Flame King torch for a critical task, having the hose suddenly rupture can damage your equipment, ruin your work, and potentially cause secondary fires if the gas ignites nearby combustible materials like dry grass, wood chips, or fabric. The cost of replacing the hose now is free, but the cost of dealing with a fire-related accident—whether it involves medical bills, property damage, or lost time—is far higher than the few minutes it takes to send an email and cut the old hose in half.
Remember, safety recalls are proactive measures taken before tragedies occur. The fact that three incidents have already been documented is a warning sign that more could happen without intervention. By acting now, you are not just following a rule; you are taking control of your safety environment and ensuring that your outdoor projects remain enjoyable rather than dangerous.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in a particular batch of propane hoses, the underlying principle remains universal: propane equipment requires consistent, proactive maintenance to remain safe in your home or workshop. Propane is an invisible, odorless gas that becomes dangerous when it accumulates in confined spaces or encounters an ignition source. Because you cannot see a leak with your naked eye, relying on routine checks and proper safety infrastructure is far more effective than reacting after an incident occurs. Here are some general best practices for handling propane-powered tools and accessories safely.
First, always inspect the connection points before every use. The hose is often the weakest link in the chain of safety because it is subject to bending, twisting, and environmental wear. Look for signs of aging such as cracking, brittleness, or discoloration on the rubber or polymer surface. If a hose feels soft, spongy, or swollen under pressure, do not attempt to use it even if there are no visible holes. These internal structural changes can lead to sudden failure under the high pressure typical of torch applications. Never modify a hose or use adapters that were not specifically designed and certified for propane service, as improper fittings can create gaps that allow gas to escape.
Second, ensure you have appropriate detection systems in place. While many modern propane appliances have built-in safety valves, a standalone carbon monoxide (CO) alarm is essential if you use any fuel-burning equipment indoors or in semi-enclosed areas like garages or sheds. Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of incomplete combustion and can be deadly without warning. Place alarms on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. Additionally, because propane is heavier than air, it tends to settle in low spots. If you store large quantities of propane cylinders, ensure the storage area is well-ventilated and never in a basement or pit where gas could pool.
Third, treat your equipment with respect by following the manufacturer’s instructions for storage and transport. Propane tanks should always be kept upright to prevent liquid propane from escaping through the valve, which can cause rapid expansion and freezing. Never store spare cylinders inside your home unless they are immediately ready for use in a properly vented appliance. Finally, stay informed about product safety by periodically checking the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website. Manufacturers sometimes discover defects after a product has been on the market, and signing up for recall alerts can help you identify potential risks early, ensuring that your tools remain safe companions rather than hidden hazards.