The recall includes about 700,000 Cree LED T8 lamps, which are used indoors to replace traditional two pin T8 fluorescent tubes. The white lamps have a cylindrical shape and measure four feet long. The recalled lamps are marked as “BT848 Series Lamp” with the product part number on the lamp itself or printed on a white label affixed to the lamp. A four digit date code is printed on the lamp under a statement that reads “Compatible with Instant Start, Rapid Start and Dimmable Electronic Ballasts.” See the CPSC notice for a complete list of product numbers.
The LED T8 replacement lamps were sold at Home Depot stores nationwide and to commercial lighting customers through electrical distributors from August 2014 through April 2015 for about $22 per tube. No injuries have been reported, but Cree has received four reports of the lamps overheating and melting. Consumers are advised to immediately stop using, disconnect or switch off the fixture, remove the recalled T8 LED lamp, put it in a safe place and contact Cree to receive a full refund or replacement lamp.
