Massive Recall of Electrical Outlets Announced
Health Canada has issued a significant recall affecting more than 600,000 electrical outlets sold across the country over the past decade. The recall targets three specific models of Electrical Devices Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) safety outlets, primarily sold at Home Hardware locations nationwide. The federal agency identified a potential fire hazard due to faulty terminal screws that may not tighten properly, leading to increased temperatures.
According to Health Canada, there have been 812 reported incidents of defective screws, including issues with screws being stripped or unable to be tightened. As of July 9, one incident resulted in a fire causing property damage, though no injuries have been reported. Consumers are urged to immediately stop using the affected products and check if their outlets are part of this recall.
Details of the Fire Hazard and Affected Products
The core issue with the recalled GFCI outlets lies in the terminal screws, which fail to secure properly, creating a risk of overheating and potential fires. Health Canada emphasized the severity of the hazard in their advisory, stating, 'The terminal screws on the product may not tighten properly, which may create an increase in temperature, posing a fire hazard.' This defect has led to widespread concern among homeowners who may have installed these outlets over the past ten years.
The recall includes approximately 664,000 units sold between 2015 and May 2025, as reported by various sources. These outlets were distributed through Home Hardware stores, a popular retailer for home improvement products in Canada. Health Canada has provided specific model numbers and identification details to help consumers determine if their outlets are affected and has outlined steps for obtaining replacements or refunds through the retailer.
Consumer Actions and Safety Recommendations
Health Canada strongly advises consumers to cease using the recalled GFCI outlets immediately to prevent potential fire risks. Homeowners are encouraged to visit the Health Canada website or contact Home Hardware for detailed instructions on identifying the affected models and initiating the recall process. The agency has set up resources to assist with returns and ensure that defective units are replaced promptly.
For those who have purchased electrical outlets from Home Hardware within the specified timeframe, inspecting the product for the listed model numbers is critical. While no injuries have been reported, the single incident of property damage serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing this issue swiftly. Staying informed through official channels will help ensure safety and compliance with the recall guidelines.