Key Takeaway
SolarWorld Recalls Solar Systems with Copper Grounding Lugs Due to Electrocution, Electric Shock or Fire Hazard was recalled on August 21, 2014. What to do: Customers may be able to identify from the ground whether a tin-coated lug (silver) or a bare-copper lug (brown) has been used on their solar panels....
SolarWorld Recalls Solar Systems with Copper Grounding Lugs Due to Electrocution, Electric Shock or Fire Hazard
Description
This recall includes SolarWorld solar systems installed with bare-copper grounding lugs installed after June 1, 2010. These solar systems use energy from the sun to generate electricity within a system circuit. The installation instructions for SolarWorld solar systems sold after June 1, 2010 called for the use of GBL-4DB lugs for grounding. SolarWorld has revised these installation instructions to explicitly call for tin-coated lugs, specifically Ilsco part number GBL-4DBT. "T" is for tin-coated and indicated by the silver color of the lug.
Injuries / Consequence
The firm has received one report of corrosion related to the bare copper lugs. No injuries have been reported.
Remedy
Customers may be able to identify from the ground whether a tin-coated lug (silver) or a bare-copper lug (brown) has been used on their solar panels. Consumers who can identify the improper lugs should contact SolarWorld for replacement. If customers cannot determine which grounding lugs were used, they should contact SolarWorld to have an authorized SolarWorld agent inspect the installation and replace the lugs with tin-coated grounding lugs or equally safe alternative remedy at no cost to consumers. SolarWorld is requesting that distributors and others remove SolarWorld's installation instructions dated before June 2014 from their websites or other commercial information sources.
Products Affected
SolarWorld Solar Systems
Electrical SystemsImages
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recall still active?
Check the status badge at the top of this page. "Ongoing" means the recall is still active and you should follow the remedy instructions. "Completed" or "Terminated" means the recall process has concluded, though the safety issue remains relevant for any unrepaired products.
How do I check if my product is affected?
Compare the model number, lot code, serial number, or date range listed in the recall notice with the information on your product's label or packaging. For vehicles, check your VIN at NHTSA.gov/Recalls.
What remedy is available for this recall?
The listed remedy for this recall is: Customers may be able to identify from the ground whether a tin-coated lug (silver) or a bare-copper lug (brown) has been used on their solar panels. Consumers who can identify the improper lugs shoul...
Where can I find the original recall notice?
This recall was issued by CPSC. You can view the original notice using the link provided above.