Recall: Centex Homes Recalls Solar Panels Due to Fire Hazard

Description: This recall involves Open Energy 34 watt (OE-34) Solar Panel energy systems sold under the brand name Open Energy SolarSave Roofing Tiles. SolarSave panels replace conventional roof tiles and provide solar power to the building. This recall involves all brown, terracotta and gray OE-34 SolarSave roof tiles installed on new homes sold by Centex Homes ("Centex"). This recall does not include any other solar panels, except for the OE-34 model, installed on homes sold by Centex.

Name of product: SolarSave® roof panels

Units: About 240 homes

Manufacturer: Open Energy Corporation, Inc. and Applied Solar, Inc., of Solana Beach, Calif., are no longer in business.

Hazard: Fire

Remedy: Centex has contacted directly customers impacted by the recall and performed free installations of new solar panels. Owners of homes with qualifying solar energy systems who have not been contacted by the company should turn off their solar energy systems immediately and contact Centex to schedule the installation of free replacement panels.

Recall date: March 25, 2014

Incidents/Injuries: Two incidents in which roof fires originated in or near the recalled roof panels have been reported. These incidents involve homes sold by Centex. No injuries have been reported.

Sold At: Subcontractors hired by Centex Homes, a Nevada general partnership.

Manufactured in: United States

Consumer contact: Visit www.Centex.com, send an email to NorCalSolar@Centex.com or send a fax to (800) 917-2201.

Recall number: 14-138