CPSC recall 99-005, announced October 7, 1998, covers Siemens Energy & Automation 2-pole ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) circuit breakers (about 144,000 units). These GFCI circuit breakers could overheat and lose their ability to prevent injury or death. Consumers should switch the recalled GFCI circuit breaker to the "off" position immediately to disconnect the power supply. Recall contact: call (800) 756-6996.
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.
A product identification sticker is affixed to the face of each unit near the "TEST" button.
Which products are included?
The 2-pole GFCI circuit breakers involved in this recall carry the Siemens or Murray brand name. They are typically used with hot tubs and spas to prevent shock or electrocution. The face of the black plastic units have a large, white button with the word "TEST" molded into it. The circuit breaker's rating is printed in white at each end of the handle's horizontal bar. A product identification sticker is affixed to the face of each unit near the "TEST" button. The word "Siemens" or "Murray" will be found at the top of the sticker, and the phrase "2 Pole Unit" is printed on the bottom of the sticker. Only 2-pole units are being recalled.
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhy it was recalled
These GFCI circuit breakers could overheat and lose their ability to prevent injury or death.
Incidents and injuries
Siemens is not aware of any injuries involving these circuit breakers. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.
Official remedy
Consumers should switch the recalled GFCI circuit breaker to the "off" position immediately to disconnect the power supply. Consumers should call Siemens to arrange to have qualified personnel replace the breakers at no charge to the consumer. Consumers should not attempt to remove the GFCI circuit breaker because high voltage can cause death or serious injury. Consumers should not use their hot tubs and spas until a replacement breaker has been installed.
Product and sales details
- Manufacturer
- Siemens Energy & Automation Inc., of Alpharetta, Ga.
- Recall number
- 99-005
- Units
- About 144,000
- Sold at / sales period
- The GFCI circuit breakers were sold primarily to electrical contractors and hot tub manufacturers through independent wholesale electrical distributors. A small percentage were sold to contractors and consumers through home improvement stores. They were sold nationwide, from March 1996 through April 1998, for about $100.
2-pole ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) circuit breakers
CPSC product type: Circuit Breakers
Recall contact information
Consumers may call Siemens at (800) 756-6996 between 7 a.m. and 12 midnight EST Monday through Friday or between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. EST Saturday and Sunday.
Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.
Know someone who has one?
Recalls only work when owners hear about them. Send this notice to family or friends who might own the same product.