Recall: Vector Manufacturing Recalls Power Inverters with GFCI Outlets

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 31, 2002
Release # 02-095
Vector Manufacturing Recall Hotline: (866) 584-5504
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: Scott Wolfson, (301) 504-7051

CPSC, Vector Manufacturing Ltd. Announce Recall of Power Inverters with GFCI Outlets

WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Vector Manufacturing Ltd., of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., is voluntarily recalling about 1,600 power inverters with ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) outlets. Power inverters convert DC voltage to AC voltage to allow the operation of household products using battery power. The GFCIs on the inverters, which are intended to protect consumers against shock and electrocution, could fail to operate correctly.

Vector Manufacturing has not received any reports of injuries or incidents associated with these power inverters. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

The recalled power inverters have a red, yellow or black rectangular- shaped body with white or gray electrical outlets on the side, next to the volt and amp meters. The outlets on the recalled inverters have "TEST" and "RESET" buttons. They include the following model numbers and names, located on a label on the top of the power inverters:

Model Numbers Model Names
VEC049GF MAXX Series 1000 Watt Power Inverter
VEC049GM MAXX Series 1000 Watt Power Inverter for Marine applications
VEC050GF MAXX Series 1500 Watt Power Inverter
VEC050GM MAXX Series 1500 Watt Power Inverter for Marine Applications
VEC051GM MAXX Series 3000 Watt Power Inverter for Marine applications
VEC049GF Force Series 1000 Watt Power Inverter
VEC050G Power Force Series 1500 Watt Power Inverter
VEC049G Power Force Series 1000 Watt Power Inverter


Automotive and marine stores nationwide, and mail-order catalogs sold these inverters from November 1999 through November 2001 for between $365 and $900.

Consumers should stop using the recalled power inverters immediately, disconnect them, and contact Vector Manufacturing to receive a free inspection. If needed, Vector Manufacturing will replace the GFCI outlet. Consumers participating in the recall program also will receive an extended warranty and an additional free gift when they send the units in for the free inspection. For more information, contact Vector Manufacturing toll-free at (866) 584-5504 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.

Power inverters with black electrical outlets are not included in the recall.

Picture of Recalled Power Inverter