We are warning owners of caravans, motor homes or camper trailers that there is a potential safety risk while operating these models of Suburban recreational vehicle hot water heaters, manufactured from 4 April 2018 to 1 August 2019:
- SW6DEA
- SW4DEA
- SW4DECA
- SW6PA
- SW6DA
- SW4DA
- SW6DECA (Dual Fuel)
Affected models have serial numbers:
- from 181315552 to 193002648
- from 183114087D to 191206073D
- 8183311827
- 8190201139
What are the hazards
Under certain conditions, the water heaters can generate elevated levels of carbon monoxide (CO) which, in some instances, may spill into the caravan, motor home or camper trailer. Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that can adversely affect the health when inhaled. Carbon monoxide can be deadly in large concentrations.
What to do
Immediately stop using the appliance. Identify whether your hot water heater is one of the affected models and if the serial number falls within the ranges listed above. This can be done by checking the appliance data plates found under the front cover plate of the hot water heater. If you are unable to do this, your caravan service agent should be able to assist.
If the water heater model is confirmed to be one of models listed above, then it must NOT be used until rectify by an authorised Suburban agent or dealership. The gas isolation valve to this appliance must be turned off until the appliance and installation has been rectified.
The safety issues only apply while the appliance is operating on gas. If your Suburban water heater can operate from a 12 or 240 volt supply as well as from LP Gas, it is safe to continue operating the appliance from 12 or 240 volts only.
How to check your appliance’s model and serial number
1. Remove the hot water heater cover plate
Make sure to let it cool first if the appliance has recently been used.
2. Locate the technical specification plates.
3. Check the model number and serial numbers.
Recall information
The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission has provided more information on this recall, including lists of suppliers and traders who sold this product. Visit Product Safety Australia for more information.