January 28, 2004
Name
of product:
Sta-Rite System 2 and AquaTools Filters and Filter Systems
Units: 8,500
Manufacturer: Sta-Rite Industries, Inc. of Delavan, Wis.
Hazard: The Posi-Lok™ locking ring, which secures the filter’s upper
tank shell to the lower tank shell (see diagram below), can disengage from the
lower tank shell allowing the top shell of the filter to blow off causing
injury to nearby consumers.
Description: These modular pool filters are designed for use with above
ground pools and small in-ground pools. These filters are used to remove
particles from the water. The System 2 product line is sold under the brand
names “Sta-Rite” and “AquaTools,” located on a decal on the upper tank shell.
The cylindrical filter tank measures 27 inches high and 18 inches in diameter.
Sta-Rite System 2 filter tanks were sold with model numbers beginning with PLM
or PLD and AquaTools filter tanks were sold with model numbers beginning with
AT84100, AT84150 or AT82130. Serial numbers are located on on the nameplate
decal on the upper tank shell. Only filters with the following serial numbers
are affected (the 5th character is irrelevant for the purposes of this recall):
|
1A03_ |
1B03_ |
1C03_ |
|
1D03_ |
1EH03_ |
1F03_ |
|
1G03_ |
1H03_ |
1J03_ |
If
the Posi-Lok™ locking ring has the phrase “Lubricate Tank “O” Ring – see
instructions” molded into it, the ring has been updated and no further action
is necessary for that filter.
Sold
at: Pool
equipment retail stores and wholesale distribution branches or installed by
professional installers nationwide from January 2003 through October 2003 for
between $400 and $800.
Manufactured in: U.S.
Remedy: Consumers should check the filter model plates to locate model
numbers and serial numbers. Consumers should not disturb their filters and
contact Sta-Rite toll-free at (866) 681-9148 to confirm the identity of their
filter and receive a free replacement Posi-Lok™ locking ring and installation
instructions. In addition, Sta-Rite will reimburse consumers $10 for each
Posi-Lok™ locking ring that is shipped back to them and provide a pre-paid box
for shipping. For consumers who are not comfortable with the replacement
procedure, Sta-Rite will arrange to have the affected filters professionally
repaired at no cost to the consumers.
Consumer Contact: For more information, consumers should call Sta-Rite
toll free at (866) 681-9148 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday
or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.starite.com/html/recall_notice.htm