Miami Breaker Recalls Counterfeit Square D Circuit Breakers Due to Fire Hazard

CPSC recall 10749 · announced August 2, 2010 · General Breakers And Panels · 43,600 units affected

The product

The counterfeit circuit breakers are marked as Square D in the QO series. The models are QO115 (about 7,800 units), QO120 (about 26,300 units), QO130 (about 3,200 units), QO215 (about 350 units), QO220 (about 720 units), QO230 (about 1,780 units), QO240 (about 1,130 units), QO250 (about 1,150 units) and QO260 (about 1,150 units). Genuine Square D QO breakers have the following: (1) the amp rating written on the handle in white paint on the front of the breaker, (2) the Square D insignia molded onto the breaker side; (3) a yellow chromate clip with half of the top of the clip visible. If your breaker does not match this description, it could be counterfeit.

The hazard

The recalled circuit breakers labeled "Square D" or "SQD" have been determined to be counterfeit by Square D and can fail to trip when they are overloaded, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

What to do (per CPSC)

Consumers should immediately contact Miami Breaker to determine if their circuit breaker is counterfeit and if necessary, arrange a free inspection and replacement.

Official CPSC recall notice →

Notes

Incidents (per CPSC): None reported.
Sold at: Electrical product distributors and wholesalers nationwide from March 2005 through July 2006. Single pole breakers sold for between $3 and $4, double pole breakers were sold for between $8 and $9.
Consumer contact: Consumers can contact MBI at (800) 941-1112 between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday. Consumers can email the firm at info@miamibreaker.com

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.