Family Dollar Stores is recalling approximately 19,640 Optimus Tower Quartz Heaters because they can overheat and catch fire. There have been 10 reports of the heaters overheating, including instances where the temperature control knobs actually melted. These portable electric heaters were sold for about $35 at Family Dollar Stores nationwide between September 2012 and December 2012. Consumers should immediately stop using these heaters and return them to any Family Dollar Store for a full refund.
The internal components of the heater can reach excessive temperatures during operation, causing the plastic housing and control knobs to melt or ignite. This poses a significant fire hazard to the home and a burn risk to users.
Consumers should immediately unplug and stop using the heaters and return the product to any Family Dollar Stores location for a full refund.

Optimus Tower Quartz Heater, Model Number H-5232

Control panel of the Optimus Tower Quartz Heater

The Optimus Tower Quartz Heater model number is on the bottom of the unit.
If you or a family member were harmed by this recalled product, you may have legal rights. Consider consulting a consumer protection attorney to understand your options for compensation.
This is general information, not legal advice. Go Backs is not a law firm and does not provide legal services.
AI-Enhanced Content: The summary, action steps, and risk assessment on this page were generated by AI from official government recall data to improve readability. This is not legal or medical advice. Always refer to the official agency sources below for authoritative information.
Sources: CPSC Notice · Raw API Response