Circuit Breaker Warnings

Ontario Hydro has announced in a recent Safety Notice certain deficiencies with circuit breakers. The concerns relate to circuit breakers that do not trip under certain conditions, such as, a short circuit and/or circuit overload. If a circuit breaker does not trip when required to do so it can result in, damage to property, personal injury, or, loss of life.

General Electric (GE) -- Spectra RMS type SE and SF circuit breakers, Mag-Break( motor circuit protectors and molded case switches. The vendor supplied parts entered GE's production in mid-April 1997 through to mid-June 1997. The SE and SF types are the only ones affected and are date coded J716 through J724 inclusive. The defect has been observed in less than 2% of the circuit breakers. These breakers should either be removed and replaced, or, de-energized and exercised mechanically for a minimum of 15 sequential ON-Trip-Reset operations using the Push-to-Trip button to determine if the condition is present (if in doubt -- remove and replace). For further information contact: Devin Giedra, Manager GE Product Service Components Business 860-797-7111.

Federal Pioneer -- NC015 and NC015CP, Single Pole Rated 15A, Stab-Lok. The breakers in question were manufactured between August 1, 1996, and June 11, 1997. They can be identified by their blue coloured handle and have been used in both residential and commercial applications with over one million made. Black handled circuit breakers are not effected. Replacement breakers have a hole drilled in the blue coloured handle. Ontario Hydro inspectors will not accept these breakers at any installations. Schneider Canada has announced a Voluntary Replacement Program and can be reached for further information at: 1-888-519-5556 or 416-234-6407.

What should you do if you suspect a problem? -- If the breaker was made/installed during these periods (for example, within the last year or so) and is the same make/model/colour mentioned further action is recommended. If you cannot determine this information but are suspect call a licensed electrician, an Ontario Hydro Inspector, or a professional home inspector for assistance.

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