Schneider Electric™ Recalls 1.4 Million Electrical Panels: What Property Owners Need to Know

Key Takeaways

• Schneider Electric™ recalled 1.4 million electrical panels due to the risk of overheating, which poses thermal burn and fire hazards. This recall also affects 289,000 units sold in Canada.
• Property owners should either replace or repair affected electrical panels as soon as possible to eliminate the risk of overheating and associated dangers, including fires and thermal burns.
• Timely action is essential, as failure to address the recall could lead to loss of insurance coverage or claims being affected in the event of a fire or damage caused by an overheating panel.
• Proactive inspection and certification by a licensed electrician are necessary to ensure compliance with the recall and maintain property safety, especially for commercial properties.

In June 2022, Schneider Electric™ issued a recall of approximately 1.4 million electrical panels due to serious safety hazards. These panels, commonly used in both residential and commercial properties, pose a significant risk of overheating, which could potentially result in thermal burns or fires.

This recall affects consumers in the United States and approximately 289,000 units sold in Canada. It is crucial for property owners, including businesses and homeowners, to understand the details of this recall, the associated risks, and the steps to take to mitigate potential hazards.

The Hazard: Thermal Burn and Fire Risks

The issue with these electrical panels is related to the load center’s potential to overheat. A load center is an essential component of an electrical system, distributing electricity throughout a building. When the load center overheats, it can cause significant safety risks, including the possibility of thermal burns or fires. Overheated electrical panels can ignite surrounding materials or lead to electrical fires, which, in turn, may cause property damage, injury, or even loss of life.

Given the seriousness of these risks, affected property owners must take immediate action to determine if their electrical panels are part of the recall and to initiate repairs or replacements as necessary.

Remedy: How to Address the Issue

Two remedies for property owners with electrical panels impacted by this recall are available: replacement or repair. Both actions are intended to ensure the safety of the property by eliminating the potential for overheating and associated hazards.

Replace

If your electrical panel is part of the Schneider Electric™ recall, replacing the affected panel with an upgraded, safe model is recommended. Replacing the electrical panel will remove any potential fire hazards and ensure that your property is safe from electrical issues that may arise from the faulty panels.

Replacements should be conducted by a licensed electrician to ensure compliance with local regulations and to guarantee that the new panel is installed correctly.

Repair

Repair may sometimes be an appropriate solution to address the hazards associated with faulty electrical panels. If a panel can be repaired rather than replaced, it should still be performed by a qualified electrician. Repairs may involve modifying the affected panel to prevent overheating, improving its safety mechanisms, or replacing specific components contributing to the fire risk.

If you are unsure whether replacement or repair is best, consulting a licensed electrician will provide the guidance needed to make the right decision.

Impact on Commercial Properties

While the recall affects residential and commercial properties, business owners should pay particular attention to its potential implications. If your business uses a Schneider Electric™ electrical panel, verifying whether your unit is part of the recall is crucial. This is especially important for property owners managing larger commercial spaces, high-traffic areas, or those with multiple tenants, as these properties may face increased risks from electrical issues.

The recall can create challenges in securing timely inspections and repairs. Scheduling an electrician to inspect and certify the panel may take time, mainly when demand for electricians is high. Delays in completing the required work could put your insurance coverage at risk, as many insurance providers require proof of necessary repairs or replacements to maintain coverage. Addressing the recall promptly will ensure the safety of your property and help prevent disruptions in your insurance coverage.

Potential Implications for Property Insurance

As with any safety hazard, the impact of a faulty electrical panel can extend to your property insurance coverage. Suppose an electrical issue, such as an overheating panel, would lead to a fire. In that case, your insurance claim may be affected by whether the property was inspected correctly and whether any necessary repairs or replacements were made on time.

Insurance providers often require property owners to address safety hazards before renewing or maintaining coverage. If an electrical panel is part of the Schneider Electric™ recall and has not been replaced or repaired, an insurer may issue a notice of cancellation or fail to provide full coverage in case of a claim. This is why business owners must act quickly, especially in light of the increased inspection requirements that are becoming more common.

How to Prevent Fire Hazards and Stay Compliant

Preventing fire hazards in the first place is key to avoiding complications with your insurance and ensuring the safety of your property and tenants. Here are some steps property owners can take to address these electrical safety concerns:

1. Schedule a Professional Inspection: Regular inspections by a qualified electrician are essential to identify potential hazards, including faulty electrical panels. If your panel is part of the Schneider Electric™ recall, it’s essential to address the issue as soon as possible.
2. Verify Recall Status: Property owners should check whether their Schneider Electric™ electrical panels are part of the recall. If in doubt, contact an electrician or your insurance provider for assistance.
3. Take Prompt Action: Whether you need to replace or repair the panel, the faster you address the issue, the safer your property will be. Completing repairs before the cancellation deadline will ensure that your insurance coverage remains intact.
4. Document Compliance: If repairs or replacements are completed, ensure that you obtain the necessary documentation from your electrician, including certifications that the work has been done in compliance with the recall guidelines.

Ensuring Safety and Compliance

The recall of 1.4 million Schneider Electric™ electrical panels underscores the importance of maintaining electrical safety in residential and commercial properties. The risk of thermal burns and fires associated with overheating load centers is a serious hazard that property owners cannot ignore. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, addressing the recall by replacing or repairing the affected panels is vital for ensuring the safety of your property and those within it.

By staying informed about recalls, working with licensed electricians, and following through with the necessary repairs or replacements, you can protect your property from potential fire hazards while maintaining your insurance coverage. As inspections and safety regulations become more stringent, it is essential to remain proactive in addressing electrical issues and preventing accidents before they happen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I know if my electrical panel is part of the Schneider Electric™ recall?

You can verify whether your electrical panel is affected by contacting Schneider Electric™ or consulting a licensed electrician. An electrician can inspect the panel and certify whether it falls under the recall, advising whether it needs to be replaced or repaired.

What happens if I don’t replace or repair my recalled electrical panel?

Failure to replace or repair a recalled electrical panel could result in significant safety risks, including fires or burns. Additionally, insurance providers may refuse coverage or cancel your policy if the recall issue is not addressed before a claim or renewal date.

Can I still get insurance coverage if my electrical panel is part of the recall?

It is essential to address the recall promptly to ensure your insurance remains valid. If the panel is part of the recall and has not been repaired or replaced, your insurer may issue a cancellation or limit coverage. Completing the necessary work ensures compliance with safety standards and helps avoid complications with your insurance policy.