January 6, 2026 – A consumer reported an incident involving a DeWalt DXH90CFAK Cordless Kerosene Heater, where the unit allegedly caused eyes to burn and triggered a carbon monoxide detector within minutes of operation in a garage setting. The consumer promptly shut down the heater and ventilated the area.
Product Details
Incident Overview
On December 12, 2025, a consumer initiated operation of a DeWalt Cordless Kerosene Heater, Model DXH90CFAK, inside their garage. The external temperature was noted at 30 degrees Fahrenheit, and the heater’s thermostat was set to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Approximately five minutes after the heater began running, the user reported experiencing a burning sensation in their eyes. A few minutes later, their carbon monoxide detector activated, emitting an alarm. Reacting immediately, the consumer shut down the heater, disconnected its batteries, and opened both the garage door and a window to introduce fresh air before exiting the garage.
Safety Concerns
The incident involving the DeWalt DXH90CFAK Cordless Kerosene Heater raises significant safety concerns, primarily related to potential carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas, often referred to as the “silent killer,” making detection without an alarm device extremely difficult and dangerous.
- Immediate Dangers: The rapid onset of burning eyes and the subsequent triggering of a carbon monoxide detector indicate a potential malfunction leading to excessive CO production. Exposure to high levels of CO can quickly lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and disorientation. In severe cases, it can result in loss of consciousness, brain damage, or even death. The consumer’s quick action likely prevented more serious harm.
- Long-Term Risks: Even low-level, prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide can cause chronic health problems, including neurological damage, heart problems, and persistent fatigue. Vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions, are at a higher risk of adverse effects.
- Who Might Be Affected: Anyone using this specific heater model, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces like garages, workshops, or construction sites, could be at risk. The incident highlights the critical importance of proper ventilation and functioning CO detectors when operating fuel-burning appliances.
- Property Damage Potential: While the primary concern is human safety, uncontrolled combustion or faulty operation could potentially lead to fire hazards, though this incident specifically points to CO production rather than fire.
What Consumers Should Do
Consumers who own or use the DeWalt DXH90CFAK Cordless Kerosene Heater, or similar fuel-burning appliances, should take immediate precautions:
- Immediate Steps to Take: If you experience symptoms like burning eyes, headache, dizziness, nausea, or if your carbon monoxide detector alarms while operating a fuel-burning heater, immediately shut down the heater, turn off the fuel supply, and ventilate the area thoroughly by opening doors and windows. Evacuate the area and seek fresh air immediately. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
- How to Check if You Own the Affected Product: Verify the brand, model number (DXH90CFAK), and manufacturer (Enerco Group, Inc.) on the product’s label or owner’s manual.
- Prevention Measures:
* Always use a working carbon monoxide detector: Ensure it is properly installed and regularly tested.
* Ensure adequate ventilation: Never operate fuel-burning heaters in unventilated or poorly ventilated enclosed spaces. Follow manufacturer guidelines for required clearances and ventilation.
* Read the manual: Familiarize yourself with the heater’s operating instructions and safety warnings.
* Regular Maintenance: Have fuel-burning appliances inspected and serviced regularly by a qualified technician to ensure they are operating safely and efficiently.
* Use the correct fuel: Only use the type of fuel specified by the manufacturer.
- Reporting Procedures: If you experience a similar incident or have concerns about the safety of this product, report it immediately to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at www.cpsc.gov.
Manufacturer’s Response
As of December 23, 2025, Enerco Group, Inc. provided the following statement: “Enerco is committed to product safety and takes reports of incidents involving its products very seriously. This product, like all Enerco products, meets or exceeds all applicable safety standards. Any CPSC notifications received are investigated and analyzed to ensure that there are no larger safety concerns to address. This CPSC notification was handled in this manner and a response provided to the CPSC in connection with the consumer’s report.”
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.
Contact us today for a free consultation: 424-325-3112
Our legal team has successfully represented clients in product liability cases involving defective appliances, automotive defects, medical devices, and consumer products. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
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.