A major furnace recall continues to affect thousands of homeowners across California and beyond. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced that about 30,000 attic furnaces—all manufactured by the now-bankrupt Consolidated Industries—were linked to more than 50 reported fires. Even though many of these units were installed decades ago, a large number are still operating in homes today.
What Made These Furnaces Unsafe?
The recalled attic furnaces were built with steel “NOx rods” installed above the burners. These rods were added to meet California’s strict emissions rules, but they unintentionally caused the furnaces to overheat.
Over time, this overheating can:
- Warp internal parts
- Crack burners
- Let flames escape the firebox
- Ignite surrounding wood or insulation
This design flaw makes these furnaces a serious fire hazard, especially once they pass 10+ years of use.
Brands and Models That Were Affected
Although Consolidated manufactured the units, they were sold under more than 30 brand names, including:
- Trane
- Carrier
- Amana
- Goettl
- Goodman
- Bard
- Heat Controller
These are typically horizontal gas furnaces installed in attics, especially in homes built between 1983 and 1995. Many homeowners still don’t realize their furnace is part of the recalled group because the units were private-labeled under different brand names.
Even more concerning: Over 110,000 Premier and Consolidated-branded furnace units are still considered defective by the CPSC but are no longer eligible for the original recall remedy because the manufacturer is out of business.
How to Know if You Might Have One
You should consider a furnace inspection if:
- Your furnace was installed between 1983–1995
- You have a horizontal attic furnace
- You see steel rods above the burners
- You’ve noticed signs of heat damage such as charring, soot, or a burning smell
- Your home has never had a thorough furnace safety assessment
These units can appear to work normally but still pose a hidden fire risk.
What Homeowners Should Do Now
Even though the original recall remedy is no longer active, safety experts recommend:
- Immediate inspection of older attic furnaces
- Replacing any furnace with NOx rods
- Upgrading to a modern, high-efficiency unit
- Taking advantage of current financing options
Replacing a potentially hazardous furnace is not only safer—it also improves energy efficiency and reduces utility costs.
How AARD Mechanical Can Help
If you suspect your furnace may be part of the recall—or you simply want a safe, reliable heating system—AARD Mechanical is here for you.
We provide:
- Free furnace safety assessments
- Professional replacement of recalled or unsafe attic furnaces
- High-efficiency upgrade options
- Amazing financing plans to make replacements affordable
- Fast, clean, professional installation
Your home’s safety matters. Let AARD Mechanical give you confidence, comfort, and a furnace you can trust.
Contact AARD Mechanical today to schedule your furnace inspection or upgrade.