What was recalled
In May of 2021, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving specific submersible water pumps manufactured by Scott Fetzer Consumer Brands. This action was taken to address safety concerns related to the WAYNE WaterBUG GLOW model, specifically the WWB Glow 1/6 HP Multi-Use Pump. It is important to understand exactly which units are affected, as this recall does not cover every pump sold under the Wayne or WaterBUG brand names, but rather focuses on a distinct subset of products designed for residential use.
The recalled items are residential submersible water removal pumps equipped with an automatic shut-off feature. These devices were marketed with a unique visual indicator system: when the pump is actively running, the plug glows green, and when it shuts off, the plug glows red. The unit also features a black strap designed to help consumers carry and place the pump in various locations where water removal is needed. While these pumps are generally reliable tools for home maintenance, the specific units involved in this recall contain a manufacturing defect that poses serious safety risks.
To identify if you own one of the recalled pumps, you must check two specific labels on the device. First, look for the SKU number 57732-WYN1, which is printed on a yellow specification decal located on the side of the pump. Second, verify the model number on the warranty tag attached to the power cord. This recall includes all units that match these identifiers. The company estimates that thousands of these pumps were sold across the United States and online channels between January 2019 and March 2021. If you purchased a WAYNE WaterBUG GLOW pump during this timeframe, it is crucial to verify its model number immediately.
The scope of this recall is defined by the specific electrical circuitry within these pumps. The defect lies in the potential for water to enter the electrical circuit board, which can lead to short circuits. This is not a minor issue; it creates an environment where fire, burns, and electrical shocks can occur. Scott Fetzer Consumer Brands initiated this recall to ensure that consumers do not inadvertently expose themselves or their homes to these hazards. By identifying the exact product line—WAYNE WaterBUG GLOW with SKU 57732-WYN1—the company aims to prevent further incidents while providing a safe alternative for those who need to remove water from their basements or other areas.
If you are unsure whether your pump is part of this recall, do not guess. The identification process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Check the yellow decal on the side and the warranty tag on the cord. If the numbers match the recalled SKU and model, stop using the device immediately. This product was intended for safe, dry indoor or outdoor use where water levels are controlled, but the defect undermines that safety. By being precise about what was recalled, consumers can take the correct next steps without unnecessary worry or confusion. The recall is specific, but the consequences of ignoring it are serious, making accurate identification the first and most critical step in protecting your home and family.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a fundamental conflict between water and electricity that occurs inside the pump’s control system. The Wayne WaterBUG GLOW model pumps are designed to automatically remove water from basements, sump pits, or other residential areas. To achieve this convenience, they rely on an internal electrical circuit board that monitors water levels and controls the pump’s motor. Under normal conditions, these components are well-sealed and protected. However, in the specific units included in this recall, there is a vulnerability where water can penetrate the housing and come into direct contact with the live electrical parts of that circuit board.
When water enters the electrical circuitry, it creates an unintended path for electricity to flow. This phenomenon is known as a short circuit. Instead of traveling through the designed wires to power the motor safely, the electrical current jumps across components where it should not exist. This sudden surge generates excessive heat very quickly. In many cases, this heat is intense enough to melt plastic parts, damage insulation, or even ignite nearby materials, which directly leads to the fire hazard identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). For homeowners, a fire starting inside a pump located in a basement or utility area can spread rapidly, threatening property and safety.
Beyond the risk of fire, the short circuit creates a severe electrical shock hazard. Normally, the metal casing or external parts of an appliance are kept at a safe voltage level. But when water bridges the gap between high-voltage internal components and the outer shell or power cord, that protective barrier is compromised. If a user touches the pump while it is malfunctioning in this way—especially if they are standing on a wet surface like a flooded basement floor—their body can become the path of least resistance for the electricity. This can result in painful burns or serious, potentially life-threatening electrical shocks. The fact that there have already been reports of minor burn injuries underscores how quickly these theoretical risks can become physical realities.
The "GLOW" feature of this particular model adds another layer of complexity to the hazard. While the green and red LED lights are intended as helpful indicators for status, they require additional electrical connections within the plug assembly. If water infiltrates the circuit board or the plug interface due to the design flaw, it can compromise not just the pumping mechanism but also the integrity of the power connection itself. This means the hazard is not limited to when the pump is actively moving water; it can occur whenever the unit is plugged in and exposed to moisture, making immediate disconnection critical.
Understanding this mechanism helps explain why the remedy is so urgent. You cannot simply dry out the pump and resume use, as the internal damage to the circuit board may have already created permanent weak points or carbon tracking that will lead to future failures. The only safe resolution is to replace the entire unit with a new model that does not share this specific design vulnerability.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at risk in this recall consists of homeowners and renters who rely on the WAYNE WaterBUG GLOW model WWB Glow 1/6 HP Multi-Use Pump to manage water accumulation in their living spaces. Because these pumps are designed as residential submersible units, they are typically deployed in environments where water intrusion is unexpected and frequent, such as basements, crawl spaces, utility rooms, or sump pits. The specific hazard here stems from the internal electrical circuit board; when water penetrates this component, it creates a short circuit. This malfunction does not just render the pump useless—it transforms a tool meant for safety into a source of fire, burns, and electrical shock. Therefore, anyone who has installed this pump in a damp or wet area is potentially exposed to these dangers every time the device operates.
While any user can encounter the mechanical failure described, certain individuals face heightened vulnerability due to their physical interaction with the environment where the pump is located. People living in older homes or those prone to flooding are at greater risk because they may use these pumps more frequently and for longer durations. The recall notes that the firm has received twenty-eight reports of circuit board malfunctions, including two reports of minor burn injuries. These injuries likely occurred when a user was in close proximity to the pump while it was actively malfunctioning. For elderly individuals or those with limited mobility, the risk is compounded by the potential for falls caused by wet floors or electrical shocks that could disrupt balance and coordination.
Children are particularly vulnerable in scenarios involving electrical hazards near water. If a child were to approach a recalled pump that has developed a leak or short circuit, they might not recognize the danger of the glowing plug or the potential for electrocution. The WaterBUG GLOW model features a unique automatic shut-off feature and a plug that glows green when running and red when off. While this visual cue is helpful for normal operation, it does not indicate an internal electrical fault. A child might be attracted to the light or the black carrying strap used to place the pump, bringing them dangerously close to a unit that is electrically compromised. Furthermore, because the pump is designed for submersion, it is often placed in areas where water levels can rise unexpectedly, increasing the likelihood of contact between the user and the electrical components if the enclosure fails.
Additionally, individuals who attempt to handle or move the pump without fully understanding its electrical state are at risk. The pump includes a black strap for carrying and placing it, which encourages physical handling. If the unit has been exposed to water ingress that is not visible on the exterior, touching the pump or its cord while it is malfunctioning could lead to direct electrical shock. This is especially concerning for those who may be working alone in isolated areas like basements, where help might not be immediately available in the event of an accident. The combination of wet environments, electrical components, and physical handling makes this specific model a significant concern for anyone relying on it for water removal.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact customer service, it is critical to verify that your specific pump falls within the scope of this recall. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Scott Fetzer Consumer Brands have identified a very narrow set of products affected by this issue. It is not a blanket recall for all Wayne pumps; it targets only one specific configuration: the WAYNE WaterBUG GLOW model, specifically the WWB Glow 1/6 HP Multi-Use Pump. If your pump does not match this exact description, it is likely safe to continue using, but if you are unsure, reading the labels carefully will save you time and worry.
The most reliable way to confirm whether you own a recalled unit is by checking two distinct locations on the device itself. First, look for the yellow specification decal located on the side of the pump’s body. On this yellow label, you need to find the Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) number. The recall specifically includes units with the SKU number 57732-WYN1. If your pump has a different SKU printed on that yellow sticker, it is not part of this particular safety notice. Second, you must check the warranty tag, which is physically attached to the power cord of the pump. This tag displays the model number. Ensure that the model listed here corresponds to the WaterBUG GLOW series. Both pieces of information—the SKU on the side decal and the model on the cord tag—must align with the details provided in this recall for the pump to be considered part of the lot.
To help you identify the correct unit visually, keep in mind that the recalled pumps are residential submersible water removal units designed with an automatic shut-off feature. They have a distinctive visual characteristic: the plug on the power cord glows green when the pump is actively running and turns red when it shuts off. Additionally, these units come equipped with a black strap, which is intended to help you carry and place the pump in hard-to-reach spots like sump pits or crawl spaces. If your pump lacks this glowing plug feature or the black carrying strap, it may be a different model entirely. However, because visual cues can sometimes be misleading due to wear or lighting conditions, always prioritize the text on the labels over the general appearance of the device.
If you are unable to locate the yellow spec decal or the warranty tag, or if the numbers are faded beyond readability, do not guess. The safest course of action is to stop using the pump immediately and contact Scott Fetzer Consumer Brands for assistance. They can help you verify your unit’s status using other identifiers or purchase records. When in doubt, it is always better to be cautious with electrical devices that come into contact with water, given the serious nature of the fire and shock hazards involved.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Wayne WaterBUG GLOW model pump, the most critical action you can take right now is to immediately stop using the device. This is not a minor recommendation; it is a necessary safety measure because the internal electrical circuit board is vulnerable to water intrusion, which can cause short circuits leading to fire, burns, or electrical shock. Continuing to operate the pump, especially in wet environments where water is already present, significantly increases the risk of these dangerous incidents occurring. Please treat this instruction with urgency and remove the pump from your basement, garage, or any other area where it might be used until you have completed the remediation process outlined below. Once you have ensured the pump is unplugged and no longer in use, you need to initiate the claim for a free replacement. The manufacturer, Scott Fetzer Consumer Brands, has arranged for consumers to receive either a free replacement WaterBUG AUTO or a standard WaterBUG pump at no cost. To begin this process, you should contact their dedicated recall support team. You can reach them by calling their toll-free number at 844-369-2149. The customer service representatives are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. When you call, be prepared to verify your specific model and provide any necessary proof of purchase or serial information if requested, though the recall coverage is based on the specific SKU and model numbers identified in the safety notice. Alternatively, if you prefer digital communication or need to review details before speaking with an agent, you can email the recall team directly at recall@sfconsumerbrands.com. This method allows you to document your inquiry in writing and may be useful if you have questions that require detailed written responses. You can also visit their official website at www.waynepumps.com/waterbugglowrecall for comprehensive instructions and updates regarding the recall. If you find that link difficult to access, you may navigate to the main site at www.waynepumps.com and click on the "Recall" link prominently displayed there. These online resources will guide you through any additional verification steps required to process your free replacement request efficiently. After you have contacted Scott Fetzer Consumer Brands and received confirmation of your replacement eligibility, follow their specific instructions regarding the return of the recalled unit. In most cases, they will provide a prepaid shipping label or detailed directions on how to send the hazardous item back safely. Do not attempt to dispose of the recalled pump in your regular household trash, as it still poses an electrical hazard even when unplugged. Ensure you keep a record of your communication, including case numbers or email confirmations, so you have proof that you acted promptly to mitigate the risk. By following these steps precisely, you ensure your safety and receive the correct replacement product designed to function without the identified circuit board vulnerability.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have confirmed that your Wayne WaterBUG GLOW pump is part of this recall, the good news is that Scott Fetzer Consumer Brands has established a straightforward and generous remedy to resolve the issue. You do not need to pay for any repairs or shipping costs associated with this process. The company is offering a free replacement unit to all affected consumers. Specifically, they will provide either a new WaterBUG AUTO pump or a standard WaterBUG pump at no charge. This decision was made because the recalled units contain a specific circuit board design flaw that cannot be safely repaired in the field; replacing the entire unit ensures that the electrical safety hazard is permanently eliminated.
To initiate this process, you will need to reach out directly to Scott Fetzer Consumer Brands. They have set up dedicated channels to handle these inquiries efficiently. You can call their toll-free number at 844-369-2149. It is helpful to know that their support team is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or want to have your case details documented in real-time, you can send an email to recall@sfconsumerbrands.com. Having your SKU number (57732-WYN1) and model information ready before you contact them will help speed up the verification process, as they need to confirm that your specific unit falls within the recalled batch.
In addition to calling or emailing, Scott Fetzer Consumer Brands has created a specific online resource for this recall. You can visit www.waynepumps.com/waterbugglowrecall for direct information and next steps. Alternatively, if you are already on their main website at www.waynepumps.com, look for the "Recall" link in the navigation menu. These digital resources are designed to guide you through the replacement request process clearly, ensuring you understand exactly what to expect during the exchange.
When you contact them, be prepared to discuss your preference between the WaterBUG AUTO and the standard WaterBUG pump. Both options serve as adequate replacements for the unsafe GLOW model, restoring your ability to remove water from your home safely. The goal of this remedy is to return you to a state of safety without financial burden or inconvenience. By accepting this free replacement, you are effectively removing the risk of electrical shock and fire associated with the malfunctioning circuit boards found in the original units. Do not delay in contacting them; while the recall process is open, acting promptly ensures you have a safe, functioning pump ready for use during any future water removal needs.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a recall notice lands in your inbox or on your doorstep, the natural human response is often to pause, weigh the inconvenience of returning an item against the perceived safety risk, and then decide to keep using it just a little longer. With a water pump like the Wayne WaterBUG GLOW, that hesitation might seem reasonable because the device looks sturdy and functions normally until the moment something goes wrong. However, ignoring this specific recall is not merely a matter of voiding a warranty or missing out on a free upgrade; it is an invitation to engage with a latent electrical danger that does not announce itself with warning signs.
The core issue lies in the fundamental design flaw described by the Consumer Product Safety Commission: if water penetrates the electrical circuit board, it can cause a short circuit. In everyday terms, this means the path where electricity is supposed to flow safely and controllably becomes a chaotic, uncontrolled route. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity. When it bridges contacts that should remain separate, it can create arcs of electricity that generate intense heat. This is not a gradual wear-and-tear issue; it is a sudden failure mode. The result is a dual threat that can occur simultaneously: the risk of an electrical fire starting within your home and the risk of severe electrical shock to anyone in contact with the pump or the water it is moving.
This is not hypothetical speculation. The manufacturer has already documented 28 reports of this circuit board malfunctioning. More concerning still, there have been two confirmed reports of minor burn injuries. While "minor" may sound reassuring, burns are painful, can lead to infection, and often require medical attention. These incidents serve as a stark warning that the hazard is real and active. The pump’s automatic shut-off feature and its glowing indicator lights (green when running, red when off) might give you a false sense of security, but they do not protect against internal electrical failures caused by water intrusion.
If you continue to use this pump without addressing the recall, you are essentially gambling with your home’s electrical system and your personal safety. A short circuit can ignite nearby materials, such as the black carrying strap or surrounding debris in a basement or crawlspace, leading to a house fire that spreads far beyond the pump itself. Furthermore, because this is a submersible pump used in water removal, the likelihood of someone touching the unit while it is malfunctioning is high. The electrical shock hazard is particularly insidious because it can occur even if you are not directly holding the pump, but rather standing in water that has become energized due to the short circuit. The consequences of ignoring this recall range from property damage and injury to life-threatening scenarios. The free replacement offered by Scott Fetzer Consumer Brands is a simple, risk-free solution that eliminates these dangers entirely. Taking five minutes to call their toll-free number at 844-369-2149 or visiting www.waynepumps.com/waterbugglowrecall is the only way to ensure you are not playing Russian roulette with your home’s safety.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing flaw in a particular model of submersible pump, the underlying risks of electrical shock and fire in wet environments are universal. Water and electricity are natural adversaries, and when they meet in our homes—whether through a malfunctioning appliance, a frayed cord, or accidental splashing—the consequences can be severe. Understanding how to proactively manage these risks is just as important as responding to a recall. By adopting a few simple habits and maintaining your home’s electrical safety infrastructure, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of dangerous incidents involving water-pumping equipment and other household appliances.
First, always prioritize proper grounding and the use of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). A GFCI is a life-saving device designed to detect imbalances in electrical current. If it senses that electricity is leaking—perhaps through water or a person—it cuts off power in a fraction of a second, preventing serious shock or electrocution. Ensure that all outlets in areas where water is present, such as basements, garages, outdoors, and near sinks, are GFCI-protected. If your home was built before 1970, you may not have GFCIs installed; consider having a licensed electrician upgrade your panel or install outlet-level GFCIs. Additionally, never use extension cords for permanent installations or submersible pumps unless they are specifically rated for wet locations and heavy-duty outdoor use.
Regular inspection and maintenance of your water removal equipment are also critical. Submersible pumps operate in harsh conditions, constantly exposed to debris, moisture, and temperature changes. Check the power cord regularly for cracks, fraying, or signs of wear. Inspect the pump housing for corrosion or damage that could compromise its seal. If a pump begins to make unusual noises, vibrate excessively, or fail to shut off automatically, stop using it immediately. These are often early warning signs of internal component failure that could lead to overheating or electrical shorts. Do not attempt to repair complex electrical components yourself; instead, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or a professional technician.
Finally, stay informed about product safety through official channels. Recalls happen for many reasons, including design flaws, material defects, or manufacturing errors that only become apparent after widespread use. Sign up for safety alerts from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and monitor their website regularly. When you purchase new appliances, register them with the manufacturer so you can be contacted directly if a safety issue arises. By combining vigilance with general electrical safety practices, you create a layered defense that keeps your home safe long after any single product’s lifespan ends.