Char-Broil has issued a voluntary recall for more than 10,000 electric grills due to a potential shock hazard. The safety action, announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, affects several Bistro Pro models across North America.
The Bistro Pro heating element defeect
Char-Broil is recalling several models of its electric grills due to a significant safety risk. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the heating elements in these units can disconnect,which creates a direct risk of electric shock to the consumer during operation.
The recall specifically impacts nine different variations of the Bistro Pro Electric Grill & Griddle + Charcoal Mode. Affected models include versions in black, red, and "blackout" finishes, as well as specific units sold with protective covers. These models are designed for versatile cooking, but the internal electrical failure compromises their safety.
10,605 units across the US and Canada
The scale of this safety action involves 10,605 total units. As reported by the source, this includes 10,263 grills sold within the United States and an additional 342 units sold in Canada. While the potential for injury is high, the CPSC has noted that no injuries have been reported in connection with this defect to date.
Consumers may have purchased these affected grills through a wide range of major retailers. Large-scale distributors involved in the sale of these units include Amazon, Walmart, Lowe's, Ace Hardware, and Wayfair, in addition to direct sales through the Char-Broil website. Users are advised to immediately unplug any matching models to prevent accidents.
A $25 gift card for photo-documented repairs
To mitigate the hazard, Char-Broil is offering a free repair kit to all affected customers. In an unusual move to ensure compliance, the company is also implementing an incentive program to encourage consumers to complete the fix themselves.
Users who successfully install the repair kit can receive a $25 digital gift card. To claim this incentive, consumers must provide photo documentation of the finished repair to Char-Broil. This approach is intended to verify that the heating element issue has been resolved and that the grill is safe for continued use before the incentive is issued.
What caused the heating elements to disconnect?
Despite the rapid response from Char-Broil and the CPSC, several critical details remain unverified . It is currently unknown whether the disconnecting heating elements are the result of a fundamental design flaw or a specific manufacturing error in a single production batch. The company has not yet clarified if the issue is systemic to the Bistro Pro line or limited to these specific 10,605 units.
Furthermore, the effectiveness of a consumer-led, DIY repair for a high-voltage electrical component remains an open question. While Char-Broil is providing the necessary components, the company has not yet detailed the technical complexity of the repair or how they will ensure that a customer's "finished work" meets professional safety standards.
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