Schneider Electric Recalls APC Surge Protectors Due to Fire Hazard

APC SurgeArrest surge protectors

Date of Recall

2013-10-03

CPSC Release Number

14-001

Manufactured In

China, Philippines

Units

About 15 million

Manufacturer

American Power Conversion (APC), now known as Schneider Electric IT Corp., of West Kingston, R.I.

Sold By

Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA, and other stores nationwide from January 1993 through December 2002 for between $13 and $50. 

Problem/Hazard

The surge protectors can overheat, smoke and melt, posing a fire hazard.

Injuries/Incidents

The firm has received 700 reports of the surge protectors overheating and melting and 55 claims of property damage from smoke and fire, including $916,000 in fire damage to a home and $750,000 in fire damage to a medical facility.  There are 13 reports of injuries, including smoke inhalation and contact burns from touching the overheated surge protectors.

Description

This recall involves APC 7 and 8 series SurgeArrest surge protectors manufactured before 2003. The model and serial numbers are located on a label on the bottom of the surge protector. The two numbers that follow the first letter or letters in the serial number sequence indicate the year of manufacture. The unit is included in the recall if the numbers are 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 00, 01 or 02. APC and the words Personal, Professional, Performance or Network are printed on the surge protectors. The following model numbers are included in this recall.

Remedy

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled surge protectors, unplug them and contact Schneider Electric for a free replacement surge protector.

Consumer Contact

Schneider Electric IT Corp., toll-free at (888) 437-4007 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or online at http://recall.apc.com, or www.apc.com and click on the Recall link to submit a claim and obtain more information.

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