Siemens Recalls Circuit Breakers Due to Fire Hazard
CPSC recall 10354 · announced September 23, 2010 · Siemens Industry · 2 units affected
The product
This recall involves Siemens and Murray 15 through 50 AMP single and double pole circuit breakers, load centers (circuit breakers that come with an electrical panel), and meter combos (contain a load center and a meter socket). "Siemens" or "Murray," date codes 0610 or 0710 and the catalog number are printed on a label on the side of the circuit breakers. Date codes between June 2010 through August 2010 are stamped on the inside of the metal box of the load centers and meter combos. The catalog number for the load centers and meter combos is printed on a label inside the metal box door and on the packaging. Product Date Codes Catalog Numbers Circuit Breakers 0610, 0710 Q115, Q120, Q130, Q215, Q230, Q250, MP115, MP115U, MP120, MP130, MP215, MP230, MP230U, MP250 Load Centers Jun 23 2010 - Aug 25 2010 G2020B1100CP, G3030B1100CP, G4040B1200CUSGP, LC4040B1200P, G3040B1200CP, G3040L1200CP, G4040B1200CP, G3030B1150CP, W3040B1200CP, G1624L1125CP, W4040B1200CP Meter Combo Jun 23 2010 - Aug 25 2010 JA2040B1200S
The hazard
The recalled circuit breakers have a spring clip that can break during normal use, leading to a loss of force to maintain a proper electrical connection in the panelboard. This can lead to excessive temperature, arcing or thermal damage at the connection point, and damage to the panelboard's electrical insulation and can result in a fire, property damage, or personal injury.
What to do (per CPSC)
Consumers should immediately contact Siemens for a free inspection by an electrician and a free replacement product.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): Siemens has received one report of a circuit breaker spring clip that broke during installation. No injuries have been reported.
Sold at: The Home Depot, Lowes, other hardware and building supply stores and numerous electrical distributors nationwide from June 2010 through August 2010 for between $2.50 to $235.
Consumer contact: For additional information, contact Siemens at (800) 756-6996 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm's website at www.usa.siemens.com
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.