Hama Recall: Urgent Safety Notice – Unplug Now!

Hama Issues Urgent Recall of Smart Home Sockets Amid Electric Shock Risk

Consumers should immediately disconnect affected outdoor sockets and return them to retailers or through the Hama service center, as cracks in the housing pose a serious safety hazard.

Hama,a leading manufacturer of consumer electronics accessories,has initiated a major recall of several smart WLAN outdoor sockets due to a critical safety concern: the potential for electric shock. The recall stems from the finding of cracks forming in the plastic housing of the devices, which could allow water ingress and create a dangerous short circuit.

The issue came to light during a routine quality inspection of a Hama technical device, prompting the company to take swift action. According to a company release, the cracks develop over time due to aging of the plastic material. “If water gets inside, users risk electric shock,” the release stated, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Did you know? – Outdoor electrical devices are especially vulnerable to weather-related damage, increasing the risk of short circuits and electrical hazards. Regular inspection is key.

Hama’s Broad product Portfolio and the Rise of Smart Home Automation

Hama has become a household name, offering a wide range of products – from smartphone and computer accessories to audio and video equipment, photo and travel gear, and increasingly, smart home devices. These devices, designed to automate daily life and facilitate seamless interaction between technology, have gained significant popularity. However, this recall highlights the inherent risks associated with outdoor electrical devices and the importance of rigorous quality control.

Pro tip: when purchasing outdoor electrical products, always check for an IP rating (Ingress Protection) indicating resistance to dust and water. Higher numbers meen better protection.

Which Sockets Are Affected?

The recall encompasses five distinct outdoor socket models, including those compatible with the Matter smart home standard. Hama attributes the cracking to the natural degradation of the plastic over time. The affected models are:

• 00176627 – Smart WLAN socket for outside, IP44, 2,300W
• 00176655 – smart WiFi socket, Matter, IP44, 2,300W
• 00176656 – Smart WiFi socket with power consumption meter, Matter, IP44, 2,300W
• 00176657 – Set with two indoor and one outdoor sockets, Matter, IP44
• 00176938 – Smart WiFi socket outdoor, Matter

Consumers can locate the article number on both the product packaging and the socket’s nameplate. The recall impacts all retail locations throughout Germany, including online stores.

Return Process and Lack of Replacements

Hama is instructing customers to return the affected sockets to the original retailer or directly to the Hama service and returns center. Regrettably, the company has confirmed that replacement devices are currently unavailable. this leaves consumers with the immediate need to disconnect the possibly hazardous devices and await further instructions.

Reader question: Have you experienced issues with other smart home devices regarding durability or safety? Share your thoughts.

Prioritizing Consumer Safety: Hama’s Commitment to Compliance

Hama’s decision to initiate this recall underscores its commitment to the Product Safety Act (ProdSG), a German law requiring companies to ensure the safety of their products. The ProdSG mandates recalls when potential dangers to consumers are identified, even if ordered by official authorities.

This recall serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vigilance when it c