February 13, 2026 — A gas fireplace insert, the Rustic Timbers model manufactured by HARGROVE, MFG. CO., has been linked to an incident involving an uncontrollable flame and a burned-out component. Consumers report significant safety concerns and alleged prior knowledge of the issue by the retailer.
Product Details
Incident Overview
In November 2025, a consumer purchased a Hargrove Rustic Timbers gas fireplace insert from Deans Stove and Spa. Following installation on December 15, 2025, by a gas company contractor, the unit initially appeared to function correctly. However, later that day, the consumers found they were unable to control the flame – it could not be turned up, down, or off using the standard controls.
The installer was contacted and provided instructions for a manual shutdown of the unit and the gas supply. Arrangements were made for a service visit. Due to a scheduling mix-up, a different installer, originally recommended by Deans, visited on December 17, 2025. This installer immediately diagnosed the issue as a “burned up receiver” located in the left rear under the unit. He reportedly stated that despite manufacturer instructions, this placement causes the receiver to burn up, and he now repositions it during installation due to a similar past incident he encountered. He advised the consumers to contact Deans for a fix.
Upon contacting Deans, the consumers were informed that the earliest service appointment was January 8, 2026. The consumers also contacted Hargrove, the manufacturer, who reportedly stated they had not received similar complaints and directed the consumers back to Deans. Hargrove also suggested their “Stealth Burner” as a potentially better unit.
The consumers allege that during a conversation with Deans, a staff member indicated that this issue “HAD HAPPENED BEFORE!!!!” A building inspector who later visited the property on January 7, 2026, reportedly concurred that it appeared to be a manufacturing incident and suggested reporting it to consumer safety authorities.
On January 8, 2026, a technician from Deans visited and “fixed” the unit for a fee. The consumers, however, described the repair as “rigged,” noting that the fireplace was now off-center, with red wires and black corrugated tubing visibly exposed, and the receiver box leaning against the opening. The technician allegedly explained that New England fireplaces cast more heat, causing the receiver to burn up, and that further costs would be involved to make the unit more aesthetically pleasing. The consumers expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome, stating the unit was not installed according to manufacturer instructions and requested a new unit or a full refund.
In an email response to the consumer, Deans stated they had received “only a couple of similar reports” out of hundreds of units sold, attributing these to “installation-related factors.” They asserted that the manufacturer assured them it was not a “widespread design flaw” and that the Rustic Timber model remains fully supported by Hargrove without any advisories or recalls.
Safety Concerns
This incident highlights several significant safety concerns:
- Uncontrollable Flame: The primary and most immediate danger is the inability to shut off a gas-fueled appliance. An uncontrolled gas flame poses a severe risk of fire, property damage, carbon monoxide poisoning, and potential injury or death to occupants.
- Component Failure: The reported “burned up receiver” indicates a critical component failed due to excessive heat or improper design/placement. Such failure can lead to complete loss of control over the unit and potentially trigger electrical issues or further damage, affecting anyone near the appliance.
- “Rigged” Repair: The description of the repair—off-center unit, exposed wires, and an improperly positioned receiver—suggests a non-standard, potentially unsafe modification. This could compromise the long-term safety and reliability of the appliance and potentially violate local building codes or manufacturer specifications, posing risks to the occupants and the property.
- Design Flaw Allegations: The claim by one installer that the manufacturer’s placement instructions for the receiver lead to its failure, coupled with the consumer’s report of a Deans employee acknowledging similar past incidents, raises concerns about a potential design flaw in the Rustic Timbers model. If true, this could affect all consumers who own or install this model.
- Inadequate Heat Dissipation: The technician’s explanation regarding New England fireplaces generating more heat, if accurate, suggests the product may not be suitable for all installation environments as designed, leading to component overheating and potential failure for users in similar climates.
What Consumers Should Do
If you own a Hargrove Rustic Timbers gas fireplace insert, particularly if it exhibits similar issues:
- Immediate Action: If your unit exhibits an uncontrollable flame or any unusual operation, immediately turn off the gas supply to the unit. Do not attempt to use the unit until it has been inspected and repaired by a qualified, certified technician.
- Discontinue Use: If you have concerns about the safety of your Hargrove Rustic Timbers unit, cease using it until it can be professionally evaluated.
- Check Your Unit: Inspect your fireplace insert for any signs of overheating, exposed wiring, or components that appear to be positioned differently from manufacturer instructions.
- Contact Professionals: Reach out to the retailer and a certified gas appliance technician for inspection and service. Do not attempt DIY repairs, especially on gas appliances.
- Report the Incident: File a report with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at www.cpsc.gov. This helps the CPSC track incidents and identify potential product hazards.
- Retain Documentation: Keep all purchase receipts, installation records, service reports, and correspondence with the retailer and manufacturer.
Manufacturer’s Response
HARGROVE, MFG. CO., the manufacturer, when contacted by the consumer, reportedly stated they had not received similar complaints regarding the Rustic Timbers model and directed the consumer back to the retailer. They also suggested the consumer consider their “Stealth Burner” as an alternative.
Deans Stove and Spa, the retailer, acknowledged receiving “only a couple of similar reports” out of hundreds of units sold, which they attributed to “installation-related factors” rather than a widespread design flaw. They stated that they follow manufacturer specifications and that Hargrove has not issued any advisories or recalls for this model. They performed a service on the unit for a fee, which the consumer described as a “rigged” repair.
Legal Help Available
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product or suffered property damage due to a product malfunction, you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced product liability attorneys at Farzan Law understand the complexities of defective product cases and can help you navigate the legal process. Farzan Law is a California based Personal Injury law firm focusing on protecting the rights of those wrongfully injured.
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Contact us today for a free consultation: 424-325-3112
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Note: This information is based on incident reports provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. If you find information that is incorrect, please contact us immediately so we can correct the post to reflect accurate information.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. This article is based on publicly available incident reports. The incidents mentioned have not necessarily been independently verified or adjudicated.