April 3, 2009, Newsletter Issue #34: What is a Counterfeit Square D Circuit breaker?
Tip of the Week
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 whiteA Square D insignia on the side of the circuit breakerA "yellow chromate" mounting clip (half of the top of the clip should be visible)
If your circuit breaker does not match this description, it could be a counterfeit version. Fakes often have the amp rating printed in black instead of white, another telltale sign to look for. If you discover a counterfeit, stop using it immediately and replace it with a legitimate Square D breaker.
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