What was recalled
In a proactive move to protect consumer safety, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a recall involving specific Lutron-branded power interfaces designed for use with LED tape lighting systems. This action, dated June 5, 2025, targets a precise subset of electrical components that serve as the bridge between your home’s standard wiring and delicate LED lighting strips. Specifically, the recall centers on the 96-watt hard-wired power interface, identified by the model number LU-PH3-B. These units are not standalone decorative items but rather critical infrastructure components intended to regulate power for high-performance LED tape lights.
It is important to understand exactly which products fall under this umbrella, as Lutron distributes these interfaces in a few different configurations. The recalled power interfaces were sold both individually and as integral parts of larger starter kits. If you purchased a Lumaris RGB+ tunable white LED tape light starter kit for a RadioRA 3 system (model RRL-MTK-RT-IN), your package included one of these affected power interfaces. Similarly, if you bought the equivalent starter kit designed for HomeWorks systems (model HWL-MTK-RT-IN), it also contained the recalled unit. In both cases, the power interface is the boxy component that hard-wires into your home’s electrical system to step down and manage the voltage before it reaches the LED tape.
While the recall notice does not specify the exact total number of units distributed globally, these components were widely available through Lutron’s residential channels. They have been sold at major home improvement retailers, lighting specialty stores, and directly through Lutron’s online storefronts over time. The key identifier for consumers is not necessarily where you bought it, but the model number printed on the device itself. If you have a unit labeled LU-PH3-B that was part of the aforementioned starter kits or sold as a separate 96W hard-wired interface, it is included in this safety notice. Lutron has identified these specific models because they share a common vulnerability under extreme electrical conditions, regardless of when or where they were initially purchased.
This recall is limited strictly to the power interfaces described above. It does not affect the LED tape lights themselves, nor does it impact other Lutron lighting controls that do not use this specific 96W hard-wired interface model. The scope is narrow but significant for anyone who has installed or owns one of these particular components, as they serve as the primary power source for the associated lighting systems.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about electrical safety in the home, we often think of immediate sparks or short circuits that trip a breaker. However, the risk associated with this Lutron recall is more subtle and potentially more dangerous because it involves a failure mode that bypasses standard safety expectations. The core issue lies in the power interface itself—the small box that converts your home’s standard electrical current into the specific voltage needed to run your LED tape lights. Under normal circumstances, these interfaces are designed to be robust, protecting your lighting system from minor fluctuations in power. But according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), these specific units have a critical weakness: they can fail when subjected to a significant power surge.
A power surge is essentially a sudden, massive spike in voltage that travels through your home’s wiring. While common surges might come from large appliances turning on or off, the scenario described here involves extreme events, such as a lightning strike nearby. When such a surge hits the compromised Lutron power interfaces (models LU-PH3-B), the internal insulation or protective components break down. This is not just about the lights going out; it is about electricity finding an unintended path. Instead of staying contained within the wires that power your tape lights, the electrical current can "leak" or arc to the metal casing or other conductive parts of the interface and the connected lighting fixtures.
This is where the shock hazard becomes a real physical danger to consumers. LED tape lights are often installed in areas where people frequently touch them or walk near them, such as under kitchen cabinets, along baseboards, or in bathroom vanities. If the power interface fails during a surge, the entire length of the connected LED tape light can become energized with high voltage. The hazard is not that the light will shock you while it is working correctly; the hazard is that if you touch the tape lights after a surge has occurred—or even if you are touching them when the failure happens—you could complete the circuit to the ground through your body. This results in an electric shock, which can range from a painful jolt to severe injury or worse, depending on the current flow and duration.
It is important to understand that this risk exists even if no incidents have been reported yet. The absence of reported injuries does not mean the mechanism is harmless; it simply means the specific conditions for failure (a strong enough surge coinciding with contact) haven't resulted in a documented case on the CPSC radar so far. However, the physics of the failure remain clear: a broken barrier between high-voltage input and low-voltage output creates a live wire where there should be none. By removing and replacing these interfaces, Lutron is addressing a latent defect that could turn a perfectly safe lighting setup into an electrocution risk during severe weather events or grid fluctuations.
Who is most at risk
The individuals most immediately at risk from this recall are homeowners and renters who have installed Lutron-branded power interfaces, specifically model LU-PH3-B, as part of their LED lighting systems. This includes those who purchased the 96W hard-wired power interfaces individually, as well as those who bought them bundled in Lumaris RGB+ tunable white LED tape light starter kits for RadioRA 3 systems (model RRL-MTK-RT-IN) or HomeWorks systems (model HWL-MTK-RT-IN). If you have recently upgraded your lighting to include these specific smart controls, you are the primary audience for this safety notice. The risk is not limited to just the installer; it extends to anyone who regularly interacts with the illuminated areas where these tape lights are mounted, such as under-cabinet kitchen lighting, hallway accents, or bedroom ambiance strips.
While the recall does not report any incidents of injury to date, the nature of the hazard—a potential electrical shock during a power surge—creates a scenario where vulnerability can vary based on physical contact and environmental factors. The primary danger arises when the power interface fails due to a significant event, such as a lightning strike or other major electrical fluctuation. In this failure mode, the protective barriers that normally keep electricity contained within the device may break down. If a person touches the LED tape lights at that moment, they could complete an electrical circuit through their body. This is particularly concerning in areas where lighting is installed in locations prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor patios, although the recall specifically addresses the electrical failure of the interface rather than water intrusion.
Certain groups may face heightened risks due to their physical interaction with these environments. Children are often at greater risk because they may not recognize the warning signs of an electrical fault and might touch illuminated surfaces out of curiosity or play, especially if the lights are installed at lower levels like baseboards or step lighting. Similarly, elderly individuals or those with mobility challenges might be more vulnerable if the lighting is located in pathways they frequent, such as hallways or stairwells, where a sudden shock could cause a fall or loss of balance. Furthermore, anyone who is barefoot or standing on conductive surfaces (like wet tile floors) while touching the lights would be at significantly higher risk than someone wearing insulated footwear on dry carpeting.
It is also important to consider that the risk is not just about who touches the light, but when. The hazard is transient and tied to specific external events like power surges. However, because these events can happen without warning during storms or grid fluctuations, the "risk" is essentially a constant potential threat until the defective unit is replaced. Therefore, anyone living in an area with frequent thunderstorms or older electrical infrastructure may be exposed to this hazard more often than others. The lack of reported incidents so far is reassuring but should not lead to complacency; the potential for harm exists for every user of these specific models until the free replacement is installed.
- Primary Owners: Anyone with model LU-PH3-B interfaces, especially those in RadioRA 3 or HomeWorks starter kits.
- Frequent Users: People who spend significant time in areas with these lights, increasing the chance of accidental contact during a fault.
- Vulnerable Demographics: Children and elderly individuals who may be less aware of electrical dangers or more susceptible to secondary injuries like falls.
- Environmental Factors: Users in humid or wet areas where conductivity is higher, amplifying the shock risk if a fault occurs.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your specific lighting setup is part of this recall requires a close look at the hardware itself and the documentation that came with it. Because Lutron manufactures components for various smart home ecosystems, simply owning a Lutron product does not automatically mean yours is affected. However, if you have installed LED tape lights within a RadioRA 3 or HomeWorks system, there is a very real chance your power interface is included in this recall. The first step is to locate the physical power interface unit. This component is typically hard-wired into your home’s electrical system, often found in a junction box near the lighting fixtures it controls, rather than plugged into a standard wall outlet like a typical lamp adapter.
Once you have located the power interface, look closely at the label or engraving on the device. You are specifically looking for the model number LU-PH3-B. This is the primary identifier for the 96W hard-wired power interfaces that CPSC has flagged due to the shock hazard. If you see this exact model number, your unit is part of the recall. It is important not to confuse this with other Lutron power supplies or dimmers, as only this specific model is subject to the safety notice.
If you do not have direct access to the installed hardware, or if you want to double-check your purchase history, look at the original packaging or sales receipts for the LED tape light starter kits. This recall also covers units that were sold as part of specific bundles. Check if your kit was marketed for use with RadioRA 3 systems, specifically model RRL-MTK-RT-IN, or HomeWorks systems, specifically model HWL-MTK-RT-IN. These kits included the recalled power interfaces alongside Lumaris RGB+ tunable white LED tape lights. If your installation was part of one of these starter kits, it is highly likely you have a recalled component.
For absolute certainty, especially if your documentation is missing or illegible, visit the official recall page at https://residential.lutron.com/us/en/safety/safety-recall. This portal allows you to verify your unit’s status directly. By entering your product details there, you can confirm whether your specific serial number or model falls within the affected range. Do not rely on general assumptions about your lighting brand; always verify the exact model numbers listed above to ensure your safety and eligibility for the free replacement.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Lutron power interfaces, your immediate priority is safety, not troubleshooting or waiting for a repair appointment. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) outlines a specific sequence of actions designed to remove the risk of electric shock before any further interaction with the device occurs. Because the hazard involves potential failure during power surges, such as those caused by lightning, the first step is non-negotiable: you must immediately stop using the recalled power interface and all lighting connected to it. Do not attempt to reset the system or check if the lights still work. Even if the device appears to be functioning normally, the internal components may be compromised in a way that only manifests during a surge event. Once you have ceased use, your next critical action is to physically cut the power source. You should go to your home’s circuit breaker panel and turn off the breaker that supplies electricity to the affected lighting system. This step isolates the device from the electrical grid, significantly reducing the risk of shock while you prepare for the return process. It is important to understand that simply turning off a wall switch or using a remote control does not disconnect the power interface from the live electrical current; only the circuit breaker provides that physical separation. Leave the breaker in the "off" position until you have completed the recall process or received explicit instructions from Lutron otherwise. After securing the power, you need to determine if your specific unit is part of this recall. Visit the official safety recall page at https://residential.lutron.com/us/en/safety/safety-recall. Here, you can enter your unit’s details to confirm whether it falls under model LU-PH3-B or was distributed as part of the Lumaris RGB+ tunable white LED tape light starter kits (models RRL-MTK-RT-IN for RadioRA 3 systems or HWL-MTK-RT-IN for HomeWorks systems). If your unit is included, follow the on-screen instructions to register for the remedy. Lutron has arranged a comprehensive, no-cost resolution for affected consumers. Upon registration, you will receive a free replacement power interface along with a pre-paid mailing label. You do not need to pay for shipping or the new hardware. Use the provided label to return your original unit to Lutron. For any questions regarding the installation of the new interface or if you encounter issues during registration, contact Lutron directly. You can call their toll-free line at 800-239-0495 between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or send an email to productrecall@lutron.com. Alternatively, you may navigate to https://www.lutron.com/us/en and click on "Safety Notices" at the bottom of the page for additional support resources. By following these steps precisely, you ensure that your home remains safe while Lutron handles the technical resolution of the defect.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that your Lutron power interface is part of this recall, please know that the company has established a straightforward and cost-free remedy to resolve the issue. You do not need to purchase a new unit, nor will you be charged for any labor associated with the correction. Lutron’s primary goal in this process is to ensure your safety without imposing any financial burden on you, which means the replacement power interface and the installation service are provided entirely at no charge.
The first step in securing your free replacement is to verify that your specific unit is included in this recall. You can do this by visiting the official safety recall page at https://residential.lutron.com/us/en/safety/safety-recall. If your model number matches one of the affected units, you will have the option to register for the remedy directly through that portal. This registration process initiates the support workflow and ensures that Lutron has your correct mailing information ready for the next steps.
Once your unit is confirmed as part of the recall, Lutron will send you a free replacement power interface along with a pre-paid mailing label. The pre-paid label is a crucial detail; it means you do not need to worry about shipping costs or finding a printer to create a return label yourself. You simply place the recalled power interface in its original packaging (if available) or a secure box, attach the provided label, and drop it off at the designated carrier location. This streamlined logistics process is designed to make returning the hazardous item as easy as possible.
Regarding the installation of the new unit, Lutron offers professional assistance. While the specific technical details of the installation are handled by their team or authorized partners, you will receive clear instructions on how this service will be arranged during your registration or via customer support. This is particularly important because these are hard-wired power interfaces connected to RadioRA 3 or HomeWorks systems, which typically require careful handling to ensure electrical safety and system integrity. By having Lutron manage the installation, you avoid the risks associated with attempting to wire high-voltage components yourself.
If you have questions about the process, need help determining if your model is affected, or require further clarification on the installation steps, you can contact Lutron directly. You may call their toll-free number at 800-239-0495 between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can reach out via email at productrecall@lutron.com or visit https://www.lutron.com/us/en and click on "Safety Notices" at the bottom of the page for additional resources. Taking action now ensures that your home lighting system remains safe and functional without any unexpected costs.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is easy to overlook a piece of hardware tucked away in a junction box or mounted discreetly along a ceiling trim, especially when your lighting system appears to be functioning perfectly. However, ignoring this recall carries a specific and serious risk that goes beyond mere inconvenience. The core issue with the Lutron power interfaces involved in this recall is not a gradual wear-and-tear problem, but a sudden structural failure triggered by external electrical events. If you continue to use these units without addressing the defect, you are leaving your home vulnerable to an unpredictable shock hazard that can occur at any moment.
The danger arises specifically during significant power surges, such as those caused by lightning strikes or major grid fluctuations. Under normal conditions, the interface manages the flow of electricity to your LED tape lights safely. But in the recalled models, a failure within the power interface during such a surge can compromise its insulation or internal barriers. When this happens, electrical current that should remain contained within the device can leak into the LED tape lights themselves. Because these lights are often installed in accessible areas—along kitchen cabinets, under stairs, or in bathroom niches—they become live conductors. If you were to touch them while grounded, you could receive a potentially severe electric shock.
While the Consumer Product Safety Commission has not reported any incidents, injuries, or deaths related to this specific defect as of the recall date, the absence of reports does not mean the risk is low. It simply means that a catastrophic event has not yet occurred in a consumer’s home. The nature of power surges is unpredictable; you might go years without one, or you might experience several during a particularly stormy season. By ignoring the recall, you are essentially gambling with your safety against an event you cannot control. There is no warning sign before the failure happens—the lights will not flicker differently, and the interface will not make a noise to alert you that it is about to fail.
Beyond the immediate risk of electric shock, continuing to use a compromised power interface can lead to secondary hazards. A failed electrical component can generate excessive heat, potentially damaging surrounding wiring or building materials over time, which increases the risk of an electrical fire. Furthermore, if the interface fails in a way that causes a short circuit, it could trip your breakers repeatedly or cause other sensitive electronics in your home to malfunction. The remedy offered is free and straightforward, but the cost of ignoring it—whether measured in medical bills from a shock, property damage from a fire, or the loss of peace of mind—is far higher than the effort required to register for the replacement.
Please remember that safety recalls are preventive measures designed to stop accidents before they happen. The fact that this defect is hidden and triggered by rare events makes it all the more important to act now. Do not wait for a storm or a power fluctuation to test your system’s resilience. By registering for the free replacement today, you eliminate the shock hazard entirely and ensure that your lighting system remains safe for your family and guests.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a rare failure mode in Lutron power interfaces, the underlying principle of electrical safety applies to all home wiring and connected lighting systems. One of the most effective ways to protect sensitive electronics and prevent shock hazards is through proper surge protection. Power surges, whether caused by lightning strikes or utility grid fluctuations, can overwhelm unprotected devices, leading to component failure that may expose live wires or create fire risks. Installing whole-home surge protectors at your main electrical panel provides a first line of defense, but it should be supplemented with point-of-use surge protectors for high-value electronics and lighting controls. Always ensure these protectors are rated for the specific amperage and voltage of your devices, and replace them periodically, as their internal components degrade after absorbing surges.
Regular maintenance of your home’s electrical infrastructure is another critical habit. Over time, wiring insulation can deteriorate due to age, heat, or pest damage, increasing the risk of short circuits and shocks. If you notice flickering lights, warm outlets, or a burning smell, address these issues immediately by consulting a licensed electrician. For LED tape lights and similar low-voltage systems, ensure that all connections are dry and secure. Moisture is a common culprit in electrical failures, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoor installations. Use junction boxes rated for damp or wet locations if applicable, and never force connectors that do not fit easily.
Stay informed about product safety by regularly checking the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website and subscribing to their email alerts. Many recalls go unnoticed until a serious incident occurs, so proactive monitoring is key. Additionally, always follow manufacturer guidelines for installation and operation. For example, hard-wired devices should only be installed by qualified professionals who can ensure proper grounding and circuit capacity. Finally, consider installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in areas where water and electricity might meet, such as near sinks or outdoor outlets. GFCIs can cut power within milliseconds if a ground fault is detected, significantly reducing the risk of severe shock. These general practices, combined with prompt attention to recall notices, create a robust layer of protection for your home and family.