Major recall of heat pump / air conditioning units sold in France due to fire risk
Units were sold in Leroy Merlin, Brico Dépôt, Castorama, Mr Bricolage, Bricomarché and Weldom. Buyers are told to stop using them immediately
Published
Several monobloc heat pump/air conditioner units are subject to a recall notice in France after a safety issue was identified that could potentially lead to a fire or explosion.
The recall comes as France is heading towards a possible fourth heatwave this week, with temperatures set to rise reaching 40C in some areas.
It affects multiple batches of Qlima monobloc models with both Rappel Conso (the French government’s product recall website) and Leroy Merlin issuing warnings.
Not long ago, many households had rushed to buy air conditioning units in order to cope with the heat.
The affected appliances were sold throughout France between May 3, 2021 and July 8, 2026 through retailers including Leroy Merlin, Brico Dépôt, Castorama, Mr Bricolage, Bricomarché and Weldom.
The models include:
Qlima WDH 224 PTC
Qlima WDH 229 PTC
Qlima WDH 229
Qlima WDH 235 PTC
Qlima WDH 429 PTC
Qlima WDH 435 PTC
The problem concerns the use of R290 refrigerant, also known as propane. According to the recall notice, if the appliance is installed below 1.80 metres from the ground, a refrigerant leak could allow gas to build up and create a fire or explosion risk.
Customers who own one of the affected models are advised to stop using it immediately and disconnect it from the electricity supply. They should then contact their retailer or Qlima’s customer service.
PVG France (the company behind Qlima) says it will arrange a check of the installation and carry out any necessary work to bring it into compliance. If this is not possible, reimbursement may be offered on a case-by-case basis.
The recalled units were not necessarily budget purchases with some models selling for several hundred euros and others costing more than €1,000.
Consumers can contact Qlima on 02 32 96 73 19 or by email at wdh@pvg.eu.
Anyone who has given away, sold or lent one of these appliances should inform the new owner of the recall.
