The Recall Desk
Our severity:SevereCPSC·13720·Announced 2013-01-22

Siemens Recalls Q-Series Temperature and Humidity Sensors Due to Fire Hazard

Siemens is recalling about 57,000 Q-Series temperature and humidity sensors for commercial buildings due to a fire hazard. Four overheating incidents and fires have been reported, with no injuries.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).

The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a fire hazard with four reported incidents of overheating and fires, including two in schools and two in hospitals. Although no injuries were reported, the occurrence of fires in public buildings constitutes significant property damage and risk, meeting the criteria for a Severe rating.

Plain-English summary

Siemens Industry, Inc. is recalling approximately 57,000 Q-Series wall-mounted temperature and humidity sensors used in commercial buildings, hospitals, and schools. The sensors, which control heat, air conditioning, and humidity, are available in white or beige with various cover designs and logos. The recall includes specific model numbers beginning with QAA, QFA, and SB1, which are located on the circuit board inside the unit.

The sensors pose a fire hazard because they can overheat. Siemens has reported four incidents of overheating and fires, two of which occurred in schools and two in hospitals. Minor damage was reported in these incidents, but no injuries have been reported.

The sensors were sold by Siemens sales offices, partners, resellers, and installers from June 2007 through August 2012 for between $200 and $400. Consumers should check if their sensors are operating on an AC power source and, if so, immediately have them converted to a DC power source. Siemens is directly contacting owners to schedule the installation of a free replacement sensor. Consumers can also contact Siemens at (800) 516-9964 or online for assistance.

The recalled product

Product
Q-Series Temperature and Humidity Sensors
Manufacturer
Siemens Industry, Inc., of Buffalo Grove, Ill.
Category
Consumer Product — Building Automation / Sensors
Hazard
Affected units
57,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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