A product known as a combiner cable for solar panels, which is used to connect multiple solar panels in a series into one output to charge a battery, is being recalled due to a fire hazard.
The manufacturer, Goal Zero, is recalling its 4X HPP to 1X HPP lines of Solar Series Combiner Cables for Solar Panels due to a specific defect that can cause the product malfunction when used with Nomad-series solar panels, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s recall notice. A negative voltage can pass through the Series Combiner and damage the junction box in the solar panel, posing a fire hazard.
If a facility manager’s building uses the solar combiner cables with Nomad-series panels, they should immediately de-electrify their systems, remove the product, and contact Goal Zero for a refund.
There have been two reports of fires that caused property damage. No injuries have been reported.
Greg Zimmerman is senior contributing editor for FacilitiesNet.com and Building Operating Management magazine.
