CPSC, Sta-Rite Industries Announce Recall of Pool Filters
Home product recall 04-072. Announced by CPSC on Jan 28, 2004.
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The short answer
Announced by CPSC on Jan 28, 2004. Copied from CPSC on Oct 19, 2026.
Every line below is in CPSC’s own words, with its source beside it.
What’s wrong with it?
The Posi-Lok™ locking ring, which secures the filter’s upper tank shell to the lower tank shell (see diagram), can disengage from the lower tank shell, allowing the top shell of the filter to blow off, causing injury to nearby consumers.
CPSC, Recalls API. Checked Oct 19, 2026. Updated daily.
What should you do?
Consumers should check the filter model plates to locate model numbers and serial numbers. Consumers should not disturb their filters and contact Sta-Rite toll-free at (866) 681-9148 to confirm the identity of their filter and receive a free replacement Posi-Lok™ locking ring and installation instructions. In addition, Sta-Rite will reimburse consumers $10 for each Posi-Lok™ locking ring that is shipped back to them and provide a pre-paid box for shipping. For consumers who are not comfortable with the replacement procedure, Sta-Rite will arrange to have the affected filters professionally repaired at no cost to the consumers.
CPSC, Recalls API. Checked Oct 19, 2026. Updated daily.
- How to reach the firm: For more information, consumers should call Sta-Rite toll free at (866) 681-9148 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s website at www.starite.com
Which ones are recalled?
These modular pool filters are designed for use with above ground pools and small in-ground pools. These filters are used to remove particles from the water. The System 2 product line is sold under the brand names “Sta-Rite” and “AquaTools,” located on a decal on the upper tank shell. The cylindrical filter tank measures 27 inches high and 18 inches in diameter. Sta-Rite System 2 filter tanks were sold with model numbers beginning with PLM or PLD and AquaTools filter tanks were sold with model numbers beginning with AT84100, AT84150 or AT82130. Serial numbers are located on on the nameplate decal on the upper tank shell. Only filters with the following serial numbers are affected (the 5th character is irrelevant for the purposes of this recall): 1A03_ 1B03_ 1C03_ 1D03_ 1EH03_ 1F03_ 1G03_ 1H03_ 1J03_ If the Posi-Lok™ locking ring has the phrase “Lubricate Tank “O” Ring - see instructions” molded into it, the ring has been updated and no further action is necessary for that filter.
8,500 units, as CPSC gives them.
Sta-Rite System 2 and AquaTools Filters and Filter Systems.
CPSC, Recalls API. Checked Oct 19, 2026. Updated daily.
CPSC’s photos
CPSC shows 2 photos on its notice. Hearth Record doesn’t copy them; each opens on cpsc.gov.
Who made and sold it?
- Made by Sta-Rite Industries, Inc., Delavan, Wis.
- Pool equipment retail stores and wholesale distribution branches or installed by professional installers nationwide, from January 2003 through October 2003, for between $400 and $800.
- Made in United States, as the notice gives it.
CPSC, Recalls API. Checked Oct 19, 2026. Updated daily.
Was anyone hurt?
Sta-Rite has received three reports of the upper tank shell blowing off, including two reports of minor scratches and bruises to hands and/or arms of individuals servicing the filters.
CPSC, Recalls API. Checked Oct 19, 2026. Updated daily.
What the record doesn’t say
- The notice lists no UPCs, so check the model, the description and the photos.
- The notice lists no model numbers in a field of their own; its description may give them.
- How many have been returned or fixed isn’t in the notice.
Hearth Record wrote these lines.
Sources
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U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Recalls API.
Checked Oct 19, 2026. Updated daily. Public domain (U.S. Government work). CPSC asks to be credited, and that no endorsement be implied.
Recalls of kids’ and home products are from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). CPSC does not endorse Hearth Record. Copied on Oct 19, 2026.