Fire Pit Tables Sold Exclusively at Big Lots Recalled Due to Fire Hazard; Manufactured by Sunjoy

What was recalled

If you recently purchased a fire pit table from Big Lots, it is important to pause and check your product details carefully. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a recall on November 10, 2020, involving Sunjoy brand Oakmont LP fire pit tables. These specific units were sold exclusively at Big Lots stores across the United States. It is crucial to understand that this recall applies strictly to these manufactured items and does not extend to other fire pits or brands you might own.

The affected products are square-shaped fire pit tables featuring a natural tile top. They measure approximately 38 inches wide, 38 inches deep, and 25.6 inches high. The construction includes a powder-coated steel frame with an all-weather wicker base that is designed to conceal a 20-pound liquid propane (LP) tank. These tables operate using a push-button ignition system and come with an adjustable flame feature along with a steel burner cover.

While the recall announcement does not specify the exact number of units sold, it highlights that Sunjoy has received 17 reports related to incorrect installation of the burner kit hose. Of those reports, 12 resulted in the fire pit tables igniting unexpectedly, causing minor property damage in four instances. Additionally, there is one reported incident of a consumer suffering a hand burn. These statistics underscore the seriousness of the defect and why immediate action is necessary.

If your fire pit table matches the description above—specifically if it has the natural tile top, square shape, and concealed propane tank—it may be part of this recall. To confirm whether your unit is affected, you should contact Sunjoy directly using the toll-free number provided in the official recall notice or visit their website for further verification steps. Do not attempt to use the table until you have confirmed its status and received proper instructions.

Remember, the key identifier here is the combination of the brand (Sunjoy), the model name (Oakmont LP), the retailer (Big Lots), and the physical characteristics (natural tile top, square shape, concealed propane tank). If any of these elements do not match your product, it may not be subject to this specific recall. However, when in doubt, always err on the side of caution and verify with the manufacturer.

The hazard, explained

When you purchase a gas fire pit table like the Sunjoy Oakmont LP model, there is an invisible network of components working together to bring warmth and ambiance to your outdoor space. One of the most critical parts of this system is the hose that connects the propane tank to the burner assembly. This hose is designed to carry fuel safely under pressure. However, in the specific units affected by this recall, a manufacturing or assembly error can occur during the installation process. Specifically, the burner kit hose may be installed incorrectly. While it might look fine from the outside, this subtle mistake creates a dangerous physical condition that can lead to serious consequences.

The core of the problem lies in what happens when the fire pit is in use. As the burner operates, it generates significant heat. In a properly assembled unit, the hose is positioned or shielded so that it remains cool enough to withstand the environment. However, when the hose is installed incorrectly, it can come into direct contact with hot surfaces of the burner or other heated components. Over time, the intense heat causes the material of the hose to degrade. This isn't just a minor wear and tear; the plastic or rubber lining begins to melt. Once that protective barrier melts away, the structural integrity of the hose is compromised.

This melting is the tipping point for the hazard. A melted hose can no longer contain the pressurized liquid propane effectively. The fuel can leak out into an area where there are open flames or extremely high temperatures. Propane is highly flammable, and when it escapes from a damaged line near a heat source, it can ignite instantly. This creates an uncontrolled fire within the table itself. It is not a slow burn; it is a rapid ignition event that can spread to the surrounding materials, such as the all-weather wicker base or the natural tile top.

The reality of this hazard is underscored by the reports received by Sunjoy. Out of 17 reported instances where the hose was installed incorrectly, 12 resulted in the fire pit tables actually igniting. This high rate of ignition demonstrates that the risk is not theoretical—it is a frequent and likely outcome of this specific defect. The consequences have ranged from minor property damage to personal injury. In one documented case, a consumer suffered a burn on their hand, highlighting that the danger extends beyond just ruining furniture. It poses a direct threat to your physical safety and the safety of anyone sitting nearby.

Understanding this mechanism is crucial because the defect is not visible during normal use. You cannot see the hose melting from a distance, and the table may continue to function normally for a while before the failure occurs. This makes proactive prevention through the recall remedy essential. By replacing the burner kit with the correct, safe version provided by Sunjoy, you eliminate the risk of heat-induced melting and restore the safety engineering that was intended for this product.

Who is most at risk

Understanding who is most vulnerable to this specific hazard requires looking beyond the mechanical failure itself and considering the context in which these Sunjoy Oakmont LP fire pit tables are typically used. These units are designed as outdoor furniture, often placed in patios, decks, or backyard gathering spaces where families relax and socialize. The primary group at risk includes anyone who owns or regularly uses an Oakmont LP fire pit table sold exclusively at Big Lots. However, the nature of the defect—an incorrectly installed burner kit hose that can melt and ignite—creates a particularly dangerous scenario for several distinct groups.

First and foremost, children are at significant risk. Fire pit tables are often positioned in areas where children play or gather near adults. The recall notes that 12 of the reported incidents resulted in ignition, which means flames erupted unexpectedly from within the table structure. For a child, who may be curious about the heat source or unaware of the danger, an unexpected flare-up can lead to severe burns. Furthermore, if the hose melts and ignites, it can cause the surrounding materials, such as the all-weather wicker base or nearby furniture, to catch fire rapidly. Children may not have the reflexes or cognitive ability to react quickly enough to escape a sudden blaze, making them disproportionately vulnerable to injury in these scenarios.

Elderly individuals and those with limited mobility also face heightened risks. The recall confirms that there has been one reported incident of a consumer burning their hand. For older adults, whose skin is often thinner and more fragile, even minor burns can lead to serious complications and prolonged healing times. Additionally, if the fire spreads from the table to nearby structures or vegetation, an elderly person might struggle to evacuate quickly due to reduced mobility or slower reaction times. The shock of a sudden fire in what should be a safe, relaxing environment can also pose significant psychological stress and physical danger.

Another group at risk includes homeowners with combustible outdoor furnishings. The Oakmont LP fire pit tables feature an all-weather wicker base that conceals the propane tank. If the hose melts and ignites, the fire can spread to the wicker material or adjacent furniture, such as cushions or curtains. People who place these tables in enclosed patios or near dry landscaping are at greater risk of property damage and potential injury from smoke inhalation or secondary fires. The 4 reports of minor property damage highlight that this is not just a product failure but a genuine threat to personal safety and home integrity.

Ultimately, anyone who has installed the burner kit themselves or had it installed by someone unfamiliar with the correct procedure is at risk. The defect stems from improper installation, meaning users who did not follow Sunjoy’s original instructions closely are more likely to encounter this hazard. It is crucial for all owners, regardless of age or mobility, to recognize that the risk is immediate and serious.

• Children: High risk of severe burns due to curiosity and slower reaction times.
• Elderly individuals: Increased vulnerability to injury from burns and difficulty in rapid evacuation.
• Homeowners: Risk of property damage if fire spreads to wicker bases or nearby combustible materials.
• DIY Installers: Those who installed the burner kit without professional guidance are at higher risk due to potential installation errors.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you purchased a Sunjoy Oakmont LP fire pit table from Big Lots, it is crucial that you verify whether your specific unit is part of this recall before attempting to use it again. Because these items are visually appealing and functional, they can sometimes blend into a patio or backyard setting, making it easy to overlook the fine print. The first step in identification is to check your proof of purchase. This recall applies exclusively to units sold at Big Lots stores. If you bought the table elsewhere, such as through third-party online marketplaces or other big-box retailers, it may not be included in this specific safety notice, though verifying with the manufacturer is always wise.

Once you have confirmed the retailer, you need to inspect the physical characteristics of your fire pit table. The recalled models are specifically the Sunjoy Oakmont LP series. You should look for a square-shaped table design that features natural tile on the top surface. The overall dimensions are quite distinctive: the table measures approximately 38 inches in width and 38 inches in depth, with a height of about 25.6 inches. This specific size is important because similar-looking tables from other collections may have different measurements. Additionally, the frame is constructed from powder-coated steel, which provides durability, while the base is wrapped in an all-weather wicker material. This wicker base serves a dual purpose: it adds aesthetic appeal and conceals the 20-pound liquid propane (LP) tank that powers the unit.

To be absolutely certain you have the recalled item, you must look for specific operational features and branding details. The table should operate using a push-button ignition system, allowing you to light the flame easily. It also features an adjustable flame setting and includes a steel burner cover. If your table lacks any of these features, such as having a different ignition method or a non-steel burner cover, it is likely not part of this specific recall lot. Always check for the "Sunjoy" brand name, which should be clearly visible on the product or its original packaging.

If you are unsure about your model number or serial number, do not guess. The safest approach is to contact Sunjoy directly using the toll-free number provided in the recall notice. Their customer service team can help you verify if your specific unit matches the criteria for the free replacement burner kit. Do not rely solely on visual inspection if you have any doubts; getting confirmation from the manufacturer ensures your safety and peace of mind.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you own one of the recalled Sunjoy Oakmont LP fire pit tables sold exclusively at Big Lots, your primary path to resolution is straightforward and designed with your safety as the immediate priority. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has confirmed that Sunjoy, the manufacturer of these units, will provide a free replacement burner kit along with clear installation instructions. This remedy addresses the specific mechanical failure identified in the recall: an incorrectly installed hose on the burner kit that can melt and ignite, creating a serious fire hazard. It is important to understand that this is not a standard repair service where you might pay for parts or labor; instead, it is a complete, no-cost intervention provided by the company to correct the defect.

To initiate this process, you must contact Sunjoy directly. The company has established dedicated channels for consumers affected by this recall. You can reach their support team by calling their toll-free number at 866-578-0101. These lines are staffed from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer to handle the logistics online, Sunjoy has set up specific digital resources for this recall. You can visit http://oakmont.sunjoygroup.com/service or go to www.sunjoyonline.com and click on "Important Safety Information." These online portals are designed to guide you through the verification of your product and the ordering of your free replacement parts.

While the recall notice specifies a free replacement burner kit, it does not explicitly mention cash refunds, store credits at Big Lots, or full unit replacements. Therefore, the official remedy is limited to the provision of the new hardware and the instructions necessary to install it correctly. This approach makes sense from an engineering standpoint because the fire pit table itself—the steel frame, the wicker base, and the tile top—is not defective. The issue lies solely in the gas delivery system's installation flexibility. By providing a new kit with clearer guidance, Sunjoy aims to eliminate the risk of improper hose routing without requiring you to discard a largely functional piece of outdoor furniture.

Please do not attempt to fix this yourself using parts from another source or by guessing how the hose should be routed. The recall was issued because 12 out of 17 reported incidents involved incorrect installations that led to ignition. Following the official instructions provided with the replacement kit is critical to ensuring your safety and maintaining any applicable warranty coverage. If you encounter any difficulties during the ordering process or have questions about the installation, the customer service representatives available at the toll-free number are your best resource for clarification.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is understandable to feel reluctant to stop using a beloved piece of outdoor furniture, especially one that brings family and friends together for warmth and conversation. However, continuing to use the recalled Sunjoy Oakmont LP fire pit tables is not merely an inconvenience; it is a direct invitation to potential disaster. The core issue lies in the specific way the burner kit hose can be installed incorrectly during assembly or maintenance. When this happens, the hose is exposed to temperatures far beyond its design limits. Over time, and with repeated use, that heat causes the material of the hose to break down, melt, and eventually fail. This is not a theoretical risk; it is a physical certainty given enough time and heat exposure.

The consequences of ignoring this warning are grounded in real-world reports gathered by Sunjoy and the CPSC. The hazard does not just remain confined to the equipment itself. As the hose melts, it can ignite nearby combustible materials, leading to uncontrolled fires. Data from the recall indicates that out of 17 reported instances of incorrect installation, 12 resulted in the fire pit tables actually catching fire. This high failure rate underscores that the defect is not a rare edge case but a common outcome when the safety mechanism is bypassed. The result can be minor property damage to your deck, patio furniture, or surrounding landscaping, but it can escalate quickly.

Beyond property loss, the human cost is significant and frightening. There has been at least one confirmed report of a consumer suffering a burn injury to their hand while using these units. Imagine the sudden panic of a flame erupting unexpectedly during a calm evening, or the shock of touching a component that has become searing hot due to internal failure. Fire pit tables are meant to provide comfort, but with this defect, they become unpredictable sources of danger. The heat involved in melting a propane hose is intense enough to cause serious burns instantly.

If you choose to ignore the recall notice, you are essentially gambling with your safety and your home. You might hope that the hose will hold up longer than others, but there is no way to visually inspect the internal integrity of a melted hose before it fails. Once it ignites, the fire can spread rapidly to the all-weather wicker base or the nearby propane tank, turning a small incident into a major emergency. The only way to ensure that your outdoor gatherings remain safe and joyful is to heed the warning immediately. Do not wait for a spark to prove the danger exists. The remedy is simple and free, but the cost of ignoring it could be far greater than the time it takes to call Sunjoy.

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