Mike Holt Enterprises Electrical News Source

Safety Alert - Surge Protector Linked to House Fires

Investigators in Cary, NC have determined that a house fire in December was linked to a faulty surge protector.

Jessica Patrick, WRAL digital journalist reports that the December 28 fire is at least the fifth in Cary to be connected to a specific kind of surge protector which is often installed with heating and air conditioners.

The affected surge protectors are identified as Type 2 surge protectors and are labeled Supco Model SCM150, and Sycom Model SYC-120/240-T2. Both are manufactured by Sycom Surge, Inc.

According to Cary officials, these models are deemed potentially hazardous by UL, a global safety consulting and certification company.

Homeowners are asked to spread the word and check their surge protectors. In the most recent fire, investigators determined that a Supco surge protector on the home's A/C unit caught fire, scorching the side of the home.

If a device bearing one of the labels below is identified at the home, citizens should contact a licensed electrician or heating and A/C contractor. If you have questions or concerns, call Sycom at 800-622-9904.

More label information can be found on the town's website.
UL Warns of Potentially Hazardous Surge Protectors.

Comments
  • This has me curious as to what other common denominators there may be: 1. Were all these units installed by the same installer, and possible incorrectly or not to best practices? 2. Is there something inherently wrong in the serving utilities grid in this area; are surges common or above an acceptable threshold? 3. Where were these units purchased, is it possible that they are counterfeit?

    D. LONGO  January 18 2019, 12:38 pm EST

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