ITHACA, N.Y. — Kidde has recalled two models of smoke alarms that may not work because of a manufacturing defect.
The smoke alarms are called Kidde dual-sensor (photoelectric and ionization) smoke alarms, models PI2010 and PI9010. About 452,000 have been sold in the U.S. and 40,000 in Canada. In November, Kidde also recalled millions of fire extinguishers for failing to work when needed.
Related: Millions of Kidde fire extinguishers recalled. Do you have one?
According to the recall Wednesday, a yellow cap left on during the manufacturing process can cover one of the two smoke sensors and compromise the smoke alarm’s ability to detect smoke.
The smoke detectors were sold at Menards, Home Depot, Walmart and other stores from September 2016 through January 2018 for between $20 and $40.
To identify the model, check the back of the alarm where a number and date code are printed. Model details are below:
- Model: PI9010 (DC/battery powered) — Date Code: 2016 Sep. 10 through 2017 Oct. 13
- Model: PI2010 (AC/hardwired) — Date Code: 2016 Sep. 10 through 2017 Oct. 13
A recall was spurred after the company received a report of the yellow protective cap being present on a smoke alarm before it was installed in a consumer’s home. No one has reported being injured as a result of the alarm.
Anyone with one of these smoke alarms should remove it from the wall or ceiling and inspect it through the opening on the side of the alarm to see if the yellow cap is present. Consumers are advised not to take apart the alarm and remove the yellow cap themselves. If it is present, contact Kidde for instructions and to request a free replacement alarm.
To contact Kidde, call 833-551-7739 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, or go online to www.kidde.com and click “Product Safety Recall.”
Featured image: Recalled smoke detectors. Image courtesy of U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.