CPSC, GE Interlogix Announce Recall of Smoke Detectors

The following product safety recall was conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: ESL Smoke Detectors

Units: 14,000

Manufacturer: GE Interlogix (GEI), of Tualatin, Ore.

Hazard: These smoke detectors may fail to work properly upon installation or if there is an extended loss of power. If the smoke alarms fail to detect fire or smoke, it poses a serious hazard to occupants inside of the dwelling.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received no reports of incidents. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

Description: The ESL 500N smoke detectors are hard-wired and require professional installation. The recalled alarms have the following model numbers, which are located on the back of the detectors: 521NB, 521NCSXT, 541NB, 541NCSXT, 541NCXTE, 521NBXT, 521NCSRXT, 541NBXT, 541NCSRH, 541NCSXTE, 521NCRXT, 541NCRXT, and 541NCSRXT. Also on the back of the alarms are the letters, "ESL," and the manufacturing date code of "0223" through "0323" (23rd week of 2002 through 23rd week of 2003). Units that may not work properly can be identified by the lack of the flashing red indicator light, though all units with the aforementioned model and dates codes should be replaced.

Sold At: Distributors, dealers and installers of security systems nationwide sold or installed these smoke detectors from June 2002 through June 2003 for between $125 and $175.

Manufactured In: U.S.A.

Remedy: Consumers should contact the company to receive free installation of a replacement smoke detector.

Consumer Contact: Contact GEI at (800) 648-7422 between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday or log on to the company's Web site at www.ge-interlogix.com/500N. Consumers also can contact their installer or service provider to determine if they have a recalled unit and/or to arrange for the free installation of a new unit.