September 9, 2002
Valor Heating Announces Recall of Wall Mount Gas Fireplaces

Valor Heating Ltd., of Birmingham, United Kingdom, is voluntarily recalling about 730 direct vent wall mount gas fireplaces. A design defect in the gas control assembly can allow main burner gas to prematurely enter the firebox during lighting. The ignition of this excess gas can cause the glass window to shatter, presenting the risk of burns or cuts from broken glass.

Valor has received one report of cuts to the consumer's face when the glass front of the fireplace shattered after excess gas ignited.

This recall includes model 837AN (natural gas) and 837AP (propane) direct vent wall mount fireplaces made in the United Kingdom. The fireplaces have a glass front and an imitation wooden log set. The "Valor" logo is printed on the bottom front of the fireplace. The model number is printed on a plate in the lower control area. Specialty fireplace dealers sold these fireplaces nationwide from September 1997 through January 2002 for between $1,700 and $2,400.

Consumers should stop using these fireplaces and shut off the gas immediately. To arrange for a free repair, consumers should contact Valor at (866) 541-0930 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm's web site at http://www.valorflame.com/837SafetyNotice.htm