Many popular heat pump models recalled due to overheating risk

Several major brands have recalled certain heat pump models in Canada because they can switch from air conditioning to heating mode following a power interruption.

The recall affects Daikin, Amana and Goodman brands.

The recall doesn't affect heat pumps installed for free through a P.E.I. government program for low-income homeowners, according to the province's Department of Environment, Energy and Climate Action.

'While the provincial free heat pump program does install some Daikin units, the recalled Daikin units are larger central or whole-home heat pumps and may also be used in apartment buildings," a spokesperson said in an email to CBC News.

"Heat pump units installed through the provincial free heat pump program are smaller single-zone heat pumps."

There have been no reports of injury from the models that are being recalled either in Canada or in the United States.

However, Health Canada is concerned that in some circumstances, homes could become dangerously overheated and potentially cause harm to people.

A corrective update is available for the heat pumps. Any unit that has not received the update should be turned off unless there is an immediate need for air conditioning, Health Canada said in the recall notice.

The notice also includes a list of models included in the recall. More than 5,500 of the units were sold in Canada between May 2022 and April 2024.

Consumers should talk to the company about getting the update installed. Daikin Comfort Technologies can be reached by telephone at 1-855-545-0235 or through the company website.