CPSC Recall in 2003: CPSC, GE Interlogix Announce Recall of Smoke Detectors

Updated on January 18, 2026.

See the recall details below. You can also see similar information for other consumer product recalls in 2003.

Data Source: CPSC.

Recall Number: 03-552

Date: September 02, 2003

Product Name: ESL Smoke Detectors

Recall Description:

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), GE Interlogix (GEI), of Tualatin, Ore. is voluntarily recalling ESL Smoke Detectors. These smoke detectors may fail to work properly upon installation or if there is an extended loss of power. If the smoke alarms fail to detect fire or smoke, it poses a serious hazard to occupants inside of the dwelling.Name of Product: ESL Smoke DetectorsUnits: 14,000Manufacturer: GE Interlogix (GEI), of Tualatin, Ore.Hazard: These smoke detectors may fail to work properly upon installation or if there is an extended loss of power. If the smoke alarms fail to detect fire or smoke, it poses a serious hazard to occupants inside of the dwelling.Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received no reports of incidents. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.Description: The ESL 500N smoke detectors are hard-wired and require professional installation. The recalled alarms have the following model numbers, which are located on the back of the detectors: 521NB, 521NCSXT, 541NB, 541NCSXT, 541NCXTE, 521NBXT, 521NCSRXT, 541NBXT, 541NCSRH, 541NCSXTE, 521NCRXT, 541NCRXT, and 541NCSRXT. Also on the back of the alarms are the letters, "ESL," and the manufacturing date code of "0223" through "0323" (23rd week of 2002 through 23rd week of 2003). Units that may not work properly can be identified by the lack of the flashing red indicator light, though all units with the aforementioned model and dates codes should be replaced.Sold At: Distributors, dealers and installers of security systems nationwide sold or installed these smoke detectors from June 2002 through June 2003 for between $125 and $175.Manufactured In: U.S.A.Remedy: Consumers should contact the company to receive free installation of a replacement smoke detector.Consumer Contact: Contact GEI at (800) 648-7422 between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday. Consumers also can contact their installer or service provider to determine if they have a recalled unit and/or to arrange for the free installation of a new unit.

Hazard Description:

These smoke detectors may fail to work properly upon installation or if there is an extended loss of power. If the smoke alarms fail to detect fire or smoke, it poses a serious hazard to occupants inside of the dwelling.

Consumer Action:

Remedy Type:

Replace

Units: 14,000

Incidents:

The firm has received no reports of incidents. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injuries.

Sold At:

Distributors, dealers and installers of security systems nationwide sold or installed these smoke detectors from June 2002 through June 2003 for between $125 and $175.

Manufactured In:

United States