Fanning Out

Be aware of this recall of certain electric motors for attic fans

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a recent recall on certain electric motors for gable- and roof-mounted attic fans. It stated the following hazard: "The recalled electric motor's safety cutoff may pose a risk of short circuit and fire hazard while in use," while concluding that those affected are eligible for a refund.

The official recall date was August 28, 2025, with "about 2.9 million" units being identified since then. "This recall involves electric motors used in gable- and roof-mounted attic fans sold only from August 2003 through December 2013 with model numbers: DOW-136-0-34-XIN, DOW-136-0-26-XIN, DOW-136-0-40-XIN, DOW-136-0-40-XIN-3/4", and D-RE-PSC-127/20-4P1SP.  The recalled attic fan motors can be identified by the distinctive vent pattern on the motor end bells. Only attic fan motors with the distinctive vent pattern on the motor end bells are subject to the recall," per the USCPSC.

Listed under the "remedy" section:

"Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled electric motors and contact Air Vent for a refund. Consumers will be asked to fill out the online registration and verification form with photos of the recalled attic fan motor. Upon confirmation that the consumer has a recalled attic fan motor, the consumer will receive a refund."

According to the filing, the firm in question has received 159 reports of incidents related to the recalled attic fan motors involving burning or fire. No injuries have been reported. The product was sold at "various stores and wholesalers nationwide, including ABC Supply, Lowe’s, and Beacon, in-store and online from August 2003 through December 2013 for about $74 and $92," per the filing.

Distributor(s):

Air Vent Inc., of Dallas, Texas

Manufactured In:

China

Recall number:

25-451