Question:
What is a counterfeit Square D circuit breaker?
What is a Counterfeit Square D Circuit breaker?
A 2008 recall issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08151.html) warns buyers of Square D circuit breakers to look closely at their purchases to make certain they are legitimate Square D breakers. A series of counterfeits made in China hit the market between 2003 and 2006; the counterfeits pose a serious fire hazard. Unlike the genuine Square D breakers, the knock-offs will fail to trip when overloads are present.
When the counterfeit breakers fail, electrical fires can result. It is very important to look closely at your Square D breakers for the following signs of authenticity:
- The amp rating is printed on the Square D breaker handle in white
- A Square D insignia on the side of the circuit breaker
- A "yellow chromate" mounting clip (half of the top of the clip should be visible)
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