The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has issued an urgent safety alert as 114,000 circulating pumps installed in heating systems in Ireland could present a serious risk of electrocution.

The affected products are Tucson 5m, 6m and 8m pumps manufactured between 2017 and 2024. The CCPC has said that this is one of the largest safety alerts they have issued, and the most serious.

People can continue to use their heating systems as normal according to the CCPC, but they must take care not to handle affected pumps, as there is a serious risk of electrocution. This includes disconnecting, adjusting or attempting any maintenance on the pump.

The issue with the products is that the mains cable can be connected to the pump in reverse, allowing the live pin to connect to the earth pin and posing a serious risk of electrocution.

CCPC product safety officers launched an investigation into the pumps following a referral from the Health and Safety Authority (HSA).

As a result of the CCPC investigation, manufacturer Tucson Pumps is rolling out a major replacement programme. Consumers can have the pump replaced for free by an approved, qualified Tucson technician or service agent.

Patrick Kenny, Member of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, said, “If you’ve had work done on your heating system in the last 8 years, you need to check if you have one of these pumps.”

“Check your heating system very carefully – do not touch the pump, just look for the Tucson brand, find the serial number and check it against the list on CCPC.ie. The affected pump can then be replaced for free by an approved Tucson technician or service agent.”

“We’re particularly highlighting this to tradespeople. At this time of year people are getting their heating systems serviced or upgraded, and any contact with the electrical connection of these pumps carries a risk of electrocution.”

“Anyone working on heating systems must be very aware of the serious risk presented by these pumps, and retailers must check their stock and stop sales of the affected units immediately.”

“This issue was first brought to our attention by the HSA, showing the importance of cross-agency collaboration. Reports from consumers, traders and other State bodies are essential to our work.”

Tucson 5m, 6m and 8m pumps are affected, and can be identified by checking the serial number – a series of digits starting with S/N, listed on the label of the pump.

Heat pumps that need to be replaced start with the serial numbers S/N A, S/N B, S/N C, S/N D44 or earlier, S/N 2017, S/N 2018, S/N 2019, and S/N 2020.