Recall #08-054 · Published October 30, 2007

Counterfeit "Square D" Circuit Breakers

Connecticut Electric Recalls Counterfeit Square D Circuit Breakers Due To Fire Hazard

CPSC published a recall notice for Counterfeit "Square D" Circuit Breakers from Connecticut Electric & Switch Mfg. Co. (Connecticut Electric) on October 30, 2007. CPSC identifies this hazard: The recalled circuit breakers labeled "Square D" are counterfeit and could fail to trip when they are required to, posing a fire hazard to consumers. The official remedy states: Consumers should contact Connecticut Electric to determine if the breaker they have is counterfeit and if necessary, to arrange for a free inspection and replacement or refund.

Genuine Square D Circuit Breaker
Genuine Square D Circuit Breaker
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.

The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.

Which products are included?

The counterfeit circuit breakers are black and are marked as Square D products. Connecticut Electric has identified the following breakers as possibly being counterfeit: QO115, QO120, QO140, QO2125, QO215, QO220, QO230, QO240, QO250, QO260, QO1515, QO2020, QO3100, QO320, QO330, QO340, QO360, QOB120, QOB130, QOB220, QOB230, QOB250, QOB330, and QOB360. Actual Square D circuit breakers have (a) the amp rating written on the handle in white paint on the front of the breaker; (b) the Square D insignia molded onto the breaker side; (c) a yellow chromate mounting clip with half of the top of the clip visible. If your Square D breaker does not match this description, it could be counterfeit.

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

Why it was recalled

The recalled circuit breakers labeled "Square D" are counterfeit and could fail to trip when they are required to, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents and injuries

Connecticut Electric has not received any report of incidents or injuries associated with these counterfeit circuit breakers.

Official remedy

Consumers should contact Connecticut Electric to determine if the breaker they have is counterfeit and if necessary, to arrange for a free inspection and replacement or refund.

Product and sales details

Brand
Connecticut Electric & Switch Mfg. Co. (Connecticut Electric)
Recall number
08-054
Units
About 64,000
Manufactured in
China
Sold at / sales period
Electrical Distributors and hardware stores nationwide from February 2005 through August 2006 for between about $6.50 and $15.50.
Distributor
Connecticut Electric & Switch Mfg. Co. (Connecticut Electric), of Puyallup, Wash.

Counterfeit "Square D" Circuit Breakers

CPSC product type: Circuit Breakers

Recall contact information

For more information, Call Connecticut Electric at (866) 264-3702 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the company's Web site at www.connecticut-electric.com. Consumers also can obtain additional information by emailing Connecticut Electric at bdunham@connecticut-electric.com.

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

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