Thousands of Electric Heaters Recalled Over Shock Risk

Over 5,000 mini electric heaters sold across Ireland are being recalled after safety tests revealed a serious risk of electric shock, with consumers entitled to full refunds.

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has issued an urgent recall for 5,019 De Vielle Dual Fan Electric Heaters following tests that uncovered dangerous safety flaws. The heaters were sold in dozens of shops nationwide, including several Cork retailers.

Testing revealed that the front grill can break and expose live electrical parts, putting users at immediate risk of electric shock. The recall affects all De Vielle heaters with model number DEF978005 and batch numbers between 61299 and 66311.

Grainne Griffin, CCPC Director of Communications:

"If you have one of these De Vielle heaters, do not use it. Tests carried out by our product safety team have revealed a serious risk of electric shock."

The affected white fan heaters were sold by numerous retailers across Ireland, including Cork outlets such as Corkery's Hardware and several Expert-branded stores. Consumers can return the heaters to their original point of purchase for a full refund, regardless of when they were bought.

The CCPC investigation was part of an EU-wide safety project targeting various consumer products including highchairs, soothers, and mini heaters. Product safety authorities across Europe conducted coordinated investigations to identify potentially dangerous items in the marketplace.

This latest recall follows two earlier notices this year for other mini heater models, with 14 and 15 units respectively sold in Ireland. The CCPC continues to work with retailers, importers, and EU safety bodies to protect consumers from unsafe products.

Griffin added:

"Five thousand heaters are being recalled with consumers entitled to a full refund. Full details of the affected products are on ccpc.ie."

Anyone who owns a small white fan heater is advised to check the brand and model immediately. The recalled heaters bear the brand name De Vielle and can be identified by the barcode 5391520977992.

Consumers can stay updated on product recalls and safety notices by following the CCPC on social media or visiting their website at ccpc.ie.