Square D QO Panel Recall

@kingrex

You said:

The NEC does not allow for reconditioning of a loadcenter, so you would need to pull the interior out of the panel can and replace it with new.

Jmho, 2020 NEC 408.8 (A) does not apply. This does not fall under the definition of Reconditioned.

Art 100, Reconditioned.

Reconditioned. Electromechanical systems, equipment, apparatus, or components that are restored to operating conditions. This process differs from normal servicing of equipment that remains within a facility, or replacement of listed equipment on a one-to-one basis.

 

Informational note: The term reconditioned is frequently referred to as rebuilt, refurbished, or, remanufactured.

The AHJ has the final say though.

My guess all that will need to be done, in most cases, is check the wire binding screw(s). First verify the screw screws freely in the lug’s threads then tighten and torque to specs. An Electrician will first look at the lug and the connection to the neutral bus rail before doing anything.

This work should not be performed by a non professional. It should only be performed by a Licensed Electrician. Failure to do so will more than likely release Square D, (Schneider Electric inc.), from any legal liability in the event of an electrical fire in the electrical panel.

Jim

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A sub panel is easy to check.  You can turn off the feeder breaker and completely deenergize the panel.   If you don't have plug on neutral AFCI or GRCI breakers then you have nothing to worry about.  Its only if you have current on the plug on neutral.  You can check the date code against the published numbers on Schneider Electric site.  

Jea, if you are mearly tightening a screw then no it would not apply.  Tighten the screw and your done.  

If arcing had occures and the lug and or neutral bar were burned and required replacement, this would constitute reconditioning.  I highly doubt you could purchase the lug and bar as individual items from Schneider.  They would tell your distributor to hand you a new panel off the shelf from their stock.  The logistics and paperwork to provide parts as well as concern over how far had the arc propogated is a liability.  Easier to just give you an interior.  Especially since the number of units affected might be counted on your hands.  

I will know more soon.  My source is reliable.  I have asked what is the procedure if an arc has occured.  

My gut says, if the scew was set properly at the factory, there is nothing to do.  If it were not, they are going to hand you a replacement panel.  Schneider is a multi billion $ company.  They don't want the paperwork..  

Many states and municipalities allow a home owner to pull a permit and perform electrical installations on their own.  It is reasonable to assume many will check the screw on their own.  

The information I am trying to provide will help a homeowner and contractor.   A senior engineer at SqD is having to ask around the company to know what the policies and procedures are.  Nothing is published.  At this point my guess is they have non.  

@kingrex 

Thanks,

I’ll open it up this weekend and check.