Recall #03-552 · Published September 3, 2003

GE Interlogix (GEI) ESL Smoke Detectors

CPSC, GE Interlogix Announce Recall of Smoke Detectors

CPSC published a recall notice for ESL Smoke Detectors from GE Interlogix (GEI) on September 3, 2003. CPSC identifies this hazard: These smoke detectors may fail to work properly upon installation or if there is an extended loss of power. If the smoke alarms fail to detect fire or smoke, it poses a serious hazard to occupants inside of the dwelling. The official remedy states: Consumers should contact the company to receive free installation of a replacement smoke detector.

Recalled ESL Smoke Detector
Recalled ESL Smoke Detector
Image: CPSC recall notice

What to check on the product label

Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.

Additional identifying details

Check the product label for these CPSC-listed model numbers: 521NB, 521NCSXT, 541NB, 541NCSXT, 541NCXTE, 521NBXT, 521NCSRXT, 541NBXT, 541NCSRH, 541NCSXTE, 521NCRXT, 541NCRXT, 541NCSRXT.

Which products are included?

The ESL 500N smoke detectors are hard-wired and require professional installation. The recalled alarms have the following model numbers, which are located on the back of the detectors: 521NB, 521NCSXT, 541NB, 541NCSXT, 541NCXTE, 521NBXT, 521NCSRXT, 541NBXT, 541NCSRH, 541NCSXTE, 521NCRXT, 541NCRXT, and 541NCSRXT. Also on the back of the alarms are the letters, "ESL," and the manufacturing date code of "0223" through "0323" (23rd week of 2002 through 23rd week of 2003). Units that may not work properly can be identified by the lack of the flashing red indicator light, though all units with the aforementioned model and dates codes should be replaced.

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

Why it was recalled

These smoke detectors may fail to work properly upon installation or if there is an extended loss of power. If the smoke alarms fail to detect fire or smoke, it poses a serious hazard to occupants inside of the dwelling.

Incidents and injuries

The firm has received no reports of incidents. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

Official remedy

Consumers should contact the company to receive free installation of a replacement smoke detector.

Product and sales details

Brand
GE Interlogix (GEI)
Manufacturer
GE Interlogix (GEI), of Tualatin, Ore.
Product type
Smoke alarms
Recall number
03-552
Units
14,000
Manufactured in
United States
Sold at / sales period
Distributors, dealers and installers of security systems nationwide sold or installed these smoke detectors, from June 2002 through June 2003, for between $125 and $17.

ESL Smoke Detectors

CPSC product type: Smoke Detectors/Alarms

Recall contact information

Contact GEI at (800) 648-7422 between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday. Consumers also can contact their installer or service provider to determine if they have a recalled unit and/or to arrange for the free installation of a new unit.

Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.

Related recalls

Selected by shared brand or household-product category.

No. 06-151Smoke & CO Alarms

First Alert® Smoke Alarms and Combination Smoke/CO Alarms Recalled for Rapidly Draining Battery Power

BRK Brands

Hazard: These alarms can drain the power from batteries rapidly, causing premature low battery power. Consumers will be alerted to the low battery power and the need to replace the battery by a chirping of the unit. If the batteries on the smoke/CO alarm are not replaced before the battery power terminates, the alarm will not detect smoke in the event of a possible fire and the presence of carbon monoxide.