What was recalled
In March of 2019, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall initiated by Interline Brands concerning a specific line of industrial plumbing components. The products at the center of this safety alert are the ProPlus Brass Flare Swivel fittings. These are not your typical household hardware store items found on a standard shelf; they are specialized connectors designed primarily for professional use, specifically within the realm of LP gas (propane) applications. If you are a professional installer or have worked in commercial or industrial settings involving propane systems, these parts may be familiar to you as critical junction points in your work.
The specific issue lies with brass fittings that feature a distinctive gold-colored finish. These swivels are engineered to connect two male flare nuts that are positioned opposite to each other, creating a secure pathway for gas flow between copper tubing segments. The recall covers multiple sizes of these fittings, each identified by a specific model number that denotes the dimensions of the connections. It is important to note exactly which models were affected, as the safety risk applies to all of them regardless of size. The recalled inventory includes the following configurations:
- Model 39-4: A 1/4" x 1/4" fitting
- Model 39-6: A 3/8" x 3/8" fitting
- Model 39-8: A 1/2" x 1/2" fitting
- Model 39-8-6: A specialized 1/2" x 3/8" fitting
- Model 39-10: A 5/8" x 5/8" fitting
- Model 39-10-8: A specialized 5/8" x 1/2" fitting
While the official recall notice does not specify the exact total number of units sold or the precise geographic locations where these items were distributed, it is clear that these fittings were widely used by professional installers. The products were marketed under the Interline Brands umbrella, and consumers who purchased them directly from Interline’s website or through their distribution channels are the primary group affected. The recall was officially dated March 28, 2019, marking the point at which Interline Brands acknowledged the potential defect and began the process of notifying customers. If you have any of these brass swivel fittings in your inventory, whether they are still in the box or already integrated into a propane system, it is crucial to identify them immediately using the model numbers listed above.
The hazard, explained
To understand why this recall is taken so seriously, it helps to look at what these specific brass fittings are actually doing and how a small leak can escalate into a dangerous situation. The Interline Brands ProPlus Brass Flare Swivel fittings are designed to act as a bridge between two pieces of copper tubing. Think of them like a specialized elbow joint in your plumbing or gas line system. Their primary job is to allow installers to connect pipes at an angle while maintaining a tight, sealed connection that can handle the pressure of flowing gas. These swivels are gold-colored and feature male flare nuts on opposite ends, which screw onto corresponding female fittings to create a seal.
The core issue identified in this recall is that these seals can fail. When a fitting leaks, it means that the tight barrier between the metal components has broken down, allowing the contents of the pipe—the gas—to escape into the surrounding environment. In this case, the fittings were primarily used for LP gas, which is propane. Propane is an invisible, odorless gas when pure (though an odorant is added for detection) that is highly flammable. A leak doesn't just mean you lose pressure in your system; it means fuel is being released directly into the air around your home or business.
The danger here is twofold: accumulation and ignition. When propane leaks from a swivel fitting, especially one that might be located inside a wall, under a floor, or near other building materials, it can pool in low-lying areas because propane is heavier than air. If this gas accumulates to a certain concentration, it creates an invisible cloud of fuel. All it takes is a tiny spark—a pilot light from a water heater, the hum of a refrigerator compressor, static electricity, or even a nearby vehicle engine—to ignite that cloud.
The result of such an ignition can be a rapid fire or, in severe cases, an explosion. This is why the CPSC and Interline Brands are urging immediate action. The two reported incidents involved leaks occurring at the time of installation, which suggests that the defect might be present right out of the box. For professional installers and homeowners alike, a leak during setup is a clear warning sign that the component may not hold up under normal operating conditions. Understanding this mechanism highlights why ignoring a suspected leak or continuing to use a potentially defective fitting is not just an inconvenience, but a significant safety risk.
Who is most at risk
When evaluating who bears the greatest burden from this specific recall, it is crucial to distinguish between the immediate physical danger and the demographic that is most likely to encounter the product in the first place. Based on the details provided by Interline Brands and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the primary group at risk is not necessarily a specific age or health cohort, but rather professional installers and homeowners who have engaged licensed tradespeople for LP gas system modifications. The recalled ProPlus Brass Flare Swivel fittings were designed specifically for use with copper tubing in propane applications, a niche that typically falls outside the realm of casual DIY projects. Consequently, the individuals most at risk are those who have recently had their residential or commercial LP gas lines installed, serviced, or modified by professionals utilizing Interline Brands’ inventory.
The vulnerability here is less about physical frailty and more about exposure context. Professional installers face the highest immediate risk during the installation phase itself. The recall notice explicitly states that there have been two reported incidents of these swivels leaking at the moment of installation. For a technician holding, tightening, or testing these connections, a leak during this critical window poses an immediate ignition risk before the system is ever sealed or put into regular service. These professionals are working in close proximity to open flames, spark-producing tools, and confined spaces where gas accumulation can occur rapidly. Therefore, the mechanic or plumber who physically handles these fittings is the first line of defense and the first potential victim if a leak occurs.
For end-users—homeowners, restaurant owners, or facility managers—the risk profile shifts from immediate handling to long-term occupancy. These individuals are at risk because they may be unaware that their gas infrastructure contains a defective component. The fittings in question connect male flare nuts opposite each other, creating a joint that is essential for the integrity of the gas line. If this joint fails due to a leak, it can lead to an uncontrolled release of propane. Propane is heavier than air and can pool in low-lying areas, basements, or crawl spaces, creating a significant explosion hazard. Homeowners are particularly vulnerable because they lack the technical expertise to visually inspect these internal connections for manufacturing flaws that might cause future leakage.
Furthermore, while the recall does not specify incidents involving children or the elderly directly, any household with an LP gas system containing these fittings places all occupants at risk. In the event of a leak leading to ignition, the consequences are severe. Families with young children or elderly members may have reduced mobility or reaction times in an emergency, making prevention through immediate remediation even more critical. The "who" in this scenario is anyone who relies on propane for heating, cooking, or power, regardless of age, but specifically those who cannot easily verify the safety of their installed components without professional help.
It is also important to note that the risk extends beyond just the immediate leak. A leaking fitting can cause corrosion over time, potentially weakening adjacent connections and leading to multiple failure points. This means that even if a system appears functional today, the presence of these specific model numbers—39-4, 39-6, 39-8, 39-8-6, 39-10, and 39-10-8—represents a latent threat. The most vulnerable individuals are those who assume their gas system is safe because it is working, unaware that the swivel fittings within could fail without warning.
- Professional Installers: At highest risk during installation due to reported leaks at the time of setup.
- Homeowners with Recent Gas Work: At risk of long-term exposure if defective fittings were installed in their homes.
- Commercial Property Owners: Risk includes potential business interruption and higher occupancy loads in case of fire.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your swivel fitting is part of this specific recall requires a careful look at both its physical characteristics and its documentation. The primary brand to look for is Interline Brands, specifically under their ProPlus line. These items are brass fittings with a distinctive gold color, designed to connect two male flare nuts that face opposite directions. If you have installed or purchased copper tubing connectors for an LP gas (propane) application, there is a strong possibility your fitting falls within this recall scope. However, visual inspection alone is not enough; you must verify the model number to be certain.
The Interline Brands recall covers multiple sizes of these ProPlus Brass Flare Swivel fittings. You need to check the packaging or the fitting itself for one of the following specific model numbers: 39-4, which corresponds to a 1/4" x 1/4" size; 39-6, for 3/8" x 3/8"; 39-8, for 1/2" x 1/2"; 39-8-6, for 1/2" x 3/8"; 39-10, for 5/8" x 5/8"; and finally 39-10-8, which is a 5/8" x 1/2" fitting. These components are primarily intended for use by professional installers in propane systems, so if you are a homeowner who recently had work done on a grill, heater, or furnace, ask your installer to confirm these details.
If you are trying to locate the model number, check the original packaging, invoices, or any documentation provided at the time of purchase. The recall notice specifies that these were sold for use in LP gas applications. If you cannot find the model number on the item itself, it is crucial to contact Interline Brands directly with whatever information you do have. Do not attempt to use the fitting until you have confirmed its status. The risk associated with these specific brass swivels is their potential to leak, which creates a serious fire hazard. Therefore, accurate identification is your first line of defense against potential danger.
If you purchased these fittings for a professional installation, contact the installer immediately and provide them with the model number if known. If you are a DIY enthusiast who bought these for a home project, stop work on the connection right away. Do not attempt to tighten or adjust the fitting, as this could exacerbate a leak. Instead, gather all available information about the purchase date, location, and model number. This information will be vital when you contact Interline Brands to arrange for a free replacement or refund.
Remember that this recall was issued on March 28, 2019, but the fittings may still be in use in homes and businesses. The hazard is not just theoretical; Interline has already received two reports of these swivels leaking at installation. This means the defect is active and dangerous. By correctly identifying your fitting using the model numbers listed above, you can take immediate action to protect your home and family from a potential fire.
What to do — step by step
If you suspect you have one of the recalled Interline Brands ProPlus Brass Flare Swivel Fittings, your immediate priority is to ensure that the potential leak does not escalate into a fire hazard. Because these components are designed for use with LP gas (propane), which is highly flammable, treating this situation with calm but swift action is essential. Please follow these steps carefully to resolve the issue safely and efficiently.
- Stop Using the Fitting Immediately. If the recalled swivel fitting has not yet been installed in your plumbing system, do not install it under any circumstances. The defect involves a potential for leakage, which means that connecting it to a gas line introduces an unnecessary risk of ignitable gas escaping into your home or business environment. Simply set the unused unit aside in a safe, well-ventilated area away from any heat sources or ignition points while you arrange for the remedy.
- Contact Interline Brands to Initiate the Remedy. You must reach out to the company directly to process your refund or replacement. Interline has established specific channels for this recall. Call their toll-free number at 888-704-7324. Their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. through 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can navigate online to www.interlinebrands.com. From the main site, click on the "Learn" section in the menu, which will direct you to www.lerangasproducts.com. Once on that page, scroll to the very bottom and click on the link labeled "product recall." This digital pathway is designed to streamline your entry into their support system.
- Determine Your Specific Installation Status. When you contact Interline, be prepared to describe whether the fitting is currently installed or still in its packaging. The remedy differs slightly based on this status. If the fitting is new and uninstalled, you will likely receive instructions for a full refund or a direct replacement unit sent to your address.
- Arrange Professional Removal if Already Installed. This is a critical safety step for those who have already integrated the swivel into their copper tubing system. Do not attempt to remove or replace the fitting yourself. Because these fittings are used in LP gas applications, improper disassembly can cause a sudden release of gas. Interline has arranged for professional installers to handle the replacement. When you contact them, they will coordinate with a qualified professional to come to your location, safely remove the defective fitting, and install the free replacement fitting at no cost to you. This ensures that the repair is done correctly without putting you or your property at risk during the process.
- Verify Your Model Number. While waiting for confirmation from Interline, double-check the model number on the brass, gold-colored fittings you possess. The recall covers specific sizes: 39-4 (1/4" x 1/4"), 39-6 (3/8" x 3/8"), 39-8 (1/2" x 1/2"), 39-8-6 (1/2" x 3/8"), 39-10 (5/8" x 5/8"), and 39-10-8 (5/8" x 1/2"). Confirming this detail will help the customer service representative locate your record quickly and confirm that your specific unit is part of this recall effort.
By following these steps, you are not only securing a financial remedy or a safe replacement but also actively eliminating a fire hazard from your premises. The process is designed to be straightforward, with Interline handling the technical aspects of the repair for installed units, allowing you to focus on safety rather than DIY plumbing repairs.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have been affected by this recall, the good news is that Interline Brands has established a clear and accessible path to resolve the issue. You are not left to manage this safety concern on your own, nor are you required to bear the financial burden of a defective product. The company has committed to providing two primary remedies: a full refund for the cost of the recalled swivel fittings or a free replacement fitting. This approach is designed to give you flexibility based on your specific situation and how recently you purchased the item.
The first step in accessing these remedies is to initiate contact with Interline Brands directly. They have set up dedicated channels to handle these inquiries efficiently. You can reach their customer support team by calling their toll-free number at 888-704-7324. It is important to note the hours of operation for this service; you can call between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Having these details handy will help you plan your call during business hours when live agents are available to assist you.
Alternatively, if you prefer to handle this process online, Interline provides a digital route for recall information and claim processing. You should visit their main website at www.interlinebrands.com. From there, navigate by clicking on the "Learn" section of the site. This will direct you to the specific portal for Leran Gas Products at www.lerangasproducts.com. Once you are on that page, scroll down to the very bottom where you will find a link labeled "product recall." Clicking this link will provide you with the necessary details and forms to proceed with your claim without needing to speak on the phone immediately.
Your specific remedy may depend on whether the fittings have already been installed. Interline has acknowledged that some consumers may have already integrated these brass, gold-colored swivels into their LP gas systems during professional installation. In these cases, you should still contact Interline as described above. However, the remedy shifts slightly to accommodate the complexity of an installed product. Instead of simply mailing a new part, Interline will arrange for a professional to install a free replacement fitting for you. This ensures that the hazardous component is removed and replaced correctly by someone with the proper expertise, maintaining the integrity and safety of your gas line.
Whether you choose a refund or a replacement, the goal is to eliminate the fire hazard posed by potential leaks in these fittings. By taking action now, you are not only protecting your property but also ensuring that you receive full compensation or a safe, functional product at no additional cost. Do not delay in reaching out, as the sooner you contact Interline, the sooner you can have this issue resolved and your peace of mind restored.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a recall involves a component as critical as a gas fitting, the consequences of ignoring the notice are not merely theoretical—they are immediate and potentially catastrophic. The Interline Brands swivel fittings were recalled because they have a specific defect that allows them to leak. In the context of propane (LP gas) systems, a leak is not just a minor inconvenience; it is a direct pathway to serious danger. Propane is heavier than air, meaning that if it escapes from a faulty fitting and you ignore the warning, the gas will settle into low-lying areas such as basements, crawl spaces, or utility rooms. This accumulation creates an invisible pocket of highly flammable vapor that can linger for hours or even days.
The primary risk here is ignition. Propane has a very low ignition energy requirement, meaning it can be ignited by the smallest spark. If you continue to use these recalled fittings without addressing the defect, any routine activity in the vicinity could trigger a disaster. A simple static discharge from walking across a carpet, the click of an electrical switch, or the pilot light of a nearby water heater could ignite the accumulated gas. This does not require a large leak; even the small leaks reported by Interline can create enough fuel for a flash fire or an explosion if the concentration reaches the lower explosive limit.
While Interline has currently received two reports of these swivels leaking at installation, relying on that number to gauge your personal risk is dangerous. The fact that only two incidents have been reported does not mean others are not occurring unnoticed. Gas leaks can be subtle. Propane is odorless in its natural state, though an odorant is typically added so humans can smell it. However, if the leak is small, or if you are not constantly present in the area where the fitting is installed, you might not detect the gas until it is too late. Ignoring the recall means leaving a potential ignition source in place without realizing it.
Furthermore, continuing to use defective fittings can lead to secondary damage that complicates an already dangerous situation. A leak may corrode surrounding copper tubing or other metal components over time, weakening the integrity of the entire gas line. This can turn a simple fitting replacement into a major structural repair, all while you remain exposed to the ongoing risk of fire or asphyxiation. In worst-case scenarios, a delayed response to a leak can result in property destruction, severe burns, or loss of life. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your gas system is secure is worth far more than the effort it takes to contact Interline today. Do not gamble with the safety of your home or business by assuming that because nothing has happened yet, nothing will happen. The defect exists in the metal itself; it will not fix itself, and the risk only grows with every passing day you choose to ignore it.