Faulty RCDs recalled

People are being urged not to use two types of Powerguard residual current devices (RCDs), and a voluntary recall has been issued for them.

Associate Energy Minister Harry Duynhoven said the faulty RCDs may not provide protection against fire or electric shock, which could result in serious harm or fatality if a faulty electrical appliance was connected to them.

The devices were sold throughout New Zealand between March last year and January and affected RCDs had the batch code 0507. They were branded PDL Powerguard Vertical Switched Socket and PDL Powerguard Rewireable Cord-set.

Mr Duynhoven said homeowners should check the batch code on all PDL RCDs that had been bought or installed in the past 12 months.

"If you find the 0507 batch code you should stop using the RCD immediately. Even if it appears to operate correctly, don't use it. Call the free phone number 0800 735 326."