Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI)
Published November 3, 2004
Summary
CPSC records recall 05035, published November 3, 2004. Recalling firm: Schneider Electric North American Division, of Palatine, Ill.; Reported units: About 700,000.
What's the hazard
An AFCI is an electrical circuit protection device (circuit breaker) that detects electrical arcs from cracked, broken or damaged electrical insulation and shuts off power to the circuit before the arcing leads to a fire. An electronic component failure inside the AFCIs can cause the devices to not detect an electrical arc. Although the AFCIs will function as regular circuit breakers, they may not detect an arc fault, posing a safety risk to consumers.
What to do
Installed AFCIs will be replaced free of charge through electrical contractors. Consumers can return uninstalled AFCIs to the retailers or distributor from whom the unit was purchased for a free replacement unit.
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Recall details
- Brand
- Schneider Electric North American Division, of Palatine, Ill.
- Manufacturer
- Schneider Electric North American Division, of Palatine, Ill.
- Distributor
- Electrical distributors and retailers sold the AFCIs between March 2004 and September 2004 for between $30 and $130.
- Country
- US
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Questions about this recall
Was Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI) recalled?
Yes. CPSC published recall 05035 on November 3, 2004. Reported hazard: An AFCI is an electrical circuit protection device (circuit breaker) that detects electrical arcs from cracked, broken or damaged electrical insulation and shuts off power to the circuit before the arcing leads to a fire. An electronic component failure inside the AFCIs can cause the devices to not detect an electrical arc. Although the AFCIs will function as regular circuit breakers, they may not detect an arc fault, posing a safety risk to consumers.
What should I do if I have this product?
Installed AFCIs will be replaced free of charge through electrical contractors. Consumers can return uninstalled AFCIs to the retailers or distributor from whom the unit was purchased for a free replacement unit.
How do I know if my unit is part of the recall?
Compare your product details with the notice. Brand: Schneider Electric North American Division, of Palatine, Ill..