Following the November 3, 2004, recall announcement of AFCI circuit breakers manufactured by the Schneider Electric North American Operating Division, some consumers, distributors and retailers expressed concern that these safety devices could cause a fire. This is not true.While these circuit breakers will continue to function normally, providing short-circuit and overload protection, a small percentage of the breakers may not function as an AFCI and detect a high-resistance, low-current arc faults. The unique role of an AFCI is its ability to detect an electrical arc and shut down a circuit before a fire can start or spread.
An arc fault hazard is not caused by an AFCI or circuit breaker. An electrical arc can be caused by cracked, broken or damaged electrical insulation on wiring, either within the walls or from a damaged cord. If combustible material is nearby, then the potential for an electrical fire exists.
Schneider Electric, in cooperation with CPSC, developed a corrective action plan to replace all circuit breakers involved in this recall. If distributors or consumers have any immediate questions, they can call toll-free 1-877-202-9046 between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. EST Monday through Friday or visit www.us.squared.com/recallafci for any additional information available.