Builder
Information
Use the links below to obtain information on the
AFCI recall.
- Why was this Product Safety Notice issued?
- How can we determine if there are affected circuit breakers installed in our developments?
- What if I determine that Square D arc fault circuit breakers have been installed in our customers’ homes since March 1, 2004?
- How can I be sure that this voluntary recall will not affect my ability to close homes on a timely basis?
- Is arc fault circuit breaker technology really necessary?
- Who pays to remove affected circuit breakers that have already been installed?
Why was this
Product Safety Notice issued?
Our number one priority is the safety of our people, our customers and
our products. Because of this, we are working in conjunction with the
Consumer Products Safety Commission on a voluntary recall of our Square
D arc fault interrupter (AFI) circuit breakers manufactured between March
1, 2004 and September 23, 2004. Return to top of page
How can we determine
if there are affected circuit breakers installed in our developments?
First, confirm the Square D load center or Combination Service Entrance
Device (CSED) installation dates. Any circuit breakers installed before
March 1, 2004, will NOT be affected. Return to top of page
Next, check your local building codes. Most municipalities currently require the use of arc fault circuit breakers on all bedroom circuits. Please contact the local electrical inspection authority if you are unsure of the code requirements in your area. Return to top of page
What if I determine that Square D arc
fault circuit breakers have been installed in our customers’ homes
since March 1, 2004?
The circuit breaker does not pose an immediate
hazard. Our testing indicates that these circuit breakers will continue
to provide the same level of overcurrent and short circuit protection
as the other circuit breakers installed in the home. However, the low
level arc fault protection is an important safety feature which may become
inoperable. Return to top of page
How can I be sure that this voluntary
recall will not affect my ability to close homes on a timely basis?
We understand that this product hold may create temporary product availability
issues in some areas. Because of this, we have significantly increased
our manufacturing capacity of arc fault circuit breakers, allowing us
to replenish the distribution network as quickly as possible. All new
product circuit breakers are being air freighted from our manufacturing
location directly to our warehouses. Until we have the supply chain restocked,
we are prioritizing shipments of arc fault circuit breakers to ensure
the timely closings on homes. Use the link at left for a copy of the Letter
to Contractors, which contains information for expediting orders to meet
your production schedules. Return to top of page
Is arc fault
circuit breaker technology really necessary?
Arc fault technology represents the best technology available for reducing
the risk of electrical fires in America’s homes today. Return
to top of page
Who pays to remove
affected circuit breakers that have already been installed?
We are committed to making the inspection and removal of installed circuit
breakers affected by this recall as simple as possible for both builders
and homeowners. This process will be completed at no cost to either builders
or homeowners. Return to top of page
Please contact your Square D sales representative
to learn more about this process. Click
here to locate your local Square D sales office