Rowenta recalled cordless vacuum cleaners with a lithium-ion battery in the handle after saying the battery can overheat and ignite, creating a fire and burn hazard. Consumers are being told to stop using the vacuum immediately and remove the recalled battery.
The recall covers the X-Force Flex 14.60 Animal, model RH99A2U1, and the X-Force Flex 15.60 Animal, model RH99F2U1, sold in red, black and silver. It also covers the Versatile X-Force lithium-ion battery, model ZR0097U2, with date codes beginning with 23 or 24. The batteries were sold separately or with the vacuum cleaners.
That is why the recall is drawing searches now: people who bought one of these cordless vacuums need to know whether the battery in the handle is part of the notice and what to do next. Rowenta said consumers can register at where they will be asked to upload a photograph of the battery model number and date code.
The company said it will send a free replacement lithium-ion battery after verification that the battery is recalled. Consumers are also being told to dispose of the battery in accordance with local and state regulations, a reminder that the fix is not a swap at the counter but a process that starts with registration.
Rowenta has received two reports of the battery overheating or not charging, plus 65 additional reports globally, but no injuries have been reported. Groupe SEB USA dba Rowenta USA, of Parsippany, New Jersey, said consumers can also call 800-769-3682 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit and click on Recalls at the bottom of the page.
The recall leaves one practical question for owners: whether the battery they have is the one Rowenta is asking them to remove. The model number and date code are the answer, and the company is making the replacement available only after those details are checked.
