What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall involving specific digital pest control equipment manufactured by Anticimex. The affected products are known as the SMART Connect Mini Devices. To understand exactly what is being removed from homes and businesses, it helps to look at what this device actually does. These units are not standalone gadgets that you buy off a shelf; they function as communication hubs within a larger, professionally installed digital pest control system. Their primary role is to connect various digital pest control units together, allowing the system to monitor and manage pest control efforts remotely. Because they serve as the central nervous system for this technology, their placement and installation are handled by licensed pest control technicians rather than individual consumers.
The physical description of the recalled item is quite specific. The SMART Connect Mini Device is a white, plastic-covered unit designed to be mounted directly onto a wall. It remains connected to both a power source and a wireless network to maintain its function as a hub. If you are trying to identify whether your home or business contains one of these units, you should look for the model number located on the back of the device. The specific model number subject to this recall is 300 110 Rev. C. This identifier is critical because it distinguishes the recalled hardware from other versions that may not have the same safety defects.
Regarding the scope of the recall, the official record provides limited details on the exact quantity of units sold or the specific retail locations where they were distributed. The recall announcement does not list a total number of affected units, nor does it specify a wide array of retail stores or online marketplaces where consumers might have purchased them. This is largely because, as noted above, these devices are typically installed by licensed professionals as part of a service package rather than sold directly to the public in traditional retail channels. However, the recall was officially announced on December 31, 2020, indicating that Anticimex has been actively working to identify and contact all known purchasers since that date. The company is responsible for reaching out to these customers directly to schedule removals, meaning that if you have an active service agreement with Anticimex involving this technology, you are the primary audience for this alert.
It is important to approach this recall with clarity rather than panic. The device itself is a piece of professional-grade infrastructure for home safety and pest management. The issue lies not in the concept of digital pest control, but specifically in the power supply component of this particular model. By understanding that this is a targeted recall of a specific hardware revision (Rev. C) installed by professionals, you can better assess your situation. If you have recently had pest control work done or if you know your system includes a white, wall-mounted hub with the model number 300 110 Rev. C on the back, this recall applies to your setup.
Because Anticimex is handling this directly, they are not relying on public awareness alone to resolve the issue. They have committed to contacting all known purchasers of the recalled devices. This direct outreach is a key part of the remedy, ensuring that customers do not need to guess whether their specific unit is affected. If you are unsure if your home has one of these units, or if you have already been contacted but need more information, the company has established dedicated channels for support. You can reach Anticimex toll-free at 888-522-5770 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Additionally, information is available online at https://www.anticimex.com/en-us/digital-pest-control/ or by visiting www.anticimex.com and clicking on “Press Release.” This direct line of communication ensures that you can get accurate, personalized advice regarding your specific installation.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about electrical hazards in everyday devices, it is helpful to understand the physical chain of events that turns a minor glitch into a serious safety threat. In the case of the Anticimex SMART Connect Mini Devices, the issue does not stem from faulty wiring or user error, but rather from a specific component failure within the power supply system. The device functions as a communication hub for digital pest control units, meaning it is designed to remain plugged in and active at all times. This constant state of operation places continuous demand on its internal power components.
The core problem identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) involves the power supply’s ability to manage voltage and heat. Specifically, there have been reports of a voltage regulator failure. A voltage regulator is a critical component responsible for ensuring that the electrical current flowing into the device remains stable and within safe limits. When this component fails, it can no longer properly control the flow of electricity. Instead of maintaining a steady, cool charge, the power supply begins to overheat while the device is charging or operating normally.
This overheating is not just a matter of the device feeling warm to the touch; it generates enough thermal energy to affect the physical structure of the unit itself. The SMART Connect Mini Device is housed in a plastic enclosure designed to protect internal electronics and insulate users from live parts. However, when the power supply overheats due to regulator failure, that heat transfers directly to the surrounding plastic. Plastic has a relatively low melting point compared to metal components. As the temperature rises beyond safe thresholds, the material can soften, warp, or even melt.
The most dangerous aspect of this mechanism is what happens next. The recall notice specifies that the force generated by this failure can cause the plastic enclosure to fly off. This likely occurs because internal pressures build up rapidly as components heat up, or because the structural integrity of the mounting points fails under thermal stress. When a rigid plastic casing detaches with force, it becomes a projectile. While no injuries have been reported to date in this specific incident involving an Anticimex facility, physics dictates that a flying object of significant mass moving at speed carries kinetic energy. If this were to happen in a home or business setting where people are present, the primary risks would be impact injuries from the debris and secondary fire hazards from exposed, sparking electrical components coming into contact with flammable materials.
It is important to distinguish between general device overheating and this specific mechanical failure. Many electronics can get warm during use without issue. However, when heat leads to structural disintegration of the housing, it indicates a catastrophic breakdown in safety design. The voltage regulator failure creates a scenario where the device essentially turns itself into a potential fire starter and physical hazard, compromising the very enclosure meant to keep users safe.
Who is most at risk
Understanding who is most vulnerable to the hazards presented by the Anticimex SMART Connect Mini Devices requires looking beyond just the mechanical failure of the device itself and considering the environment in which these units operate. Because these devices are not typical consumer electronics that sit on a countertop or hang from a ceiling, but rather permanent fixtures mounted to walls within homes and businesses, the primary group at risk is anyone who spends significant time inside the affected structures. This includes homeowners, renters, business owners, and employees in commercial facilities where licensed pest control technicians have installed these communication hubs.
The specific nature of the hazard—a power supply overheating while charging, potentially causing the plastic enclosure to detach and fly off—creates a unique set of risks for different demographics. For adults, the immediate concern is physical injury from flying debris. If the casing detaches with force, it can strike individuals nearby, leading to bruises, cuts, or more serious impact injuries. While the recall notice notes only one reported incident of voltage regulator failure resulting in battery cell failure at an Anticimex facility and no reported injuries, the potential for harm remains real. Adults who are stationary near the wall-mounted device during a malfunction may be less able to react quickly enough to avoid being hit by the ejected plastic components.
Children, however, face a heightened level of risk due to their physical stature and behavior patterns. The SMART Connect Mini Devices are mounted at eye-level or slightly above for adults, which often places them within reach or line-of-sight for young children. Children are naturally curious and may attempt to touch, poke, or pull at the device, potentially exacerbating a pre-existing fault or triggering a malfunction earlier than it might have occurred otherwise. Furthermore, if the plastic enclosure were to detach, its trajectory could easily intersect with a child’s head or face, causing significant injury. Because children are smaller and more vulnerable to impact forces, even a minor detachment that might cause a bruise on an adult could result in serious harm to a toddler.
Elderly individuals or those with mobility issues also warrant careful consideration. While they may not be as physically active as children, the suddenness of a device failure can startle anyone, leading to falls or loss of balance. If an older adult is standing near the wall-mounted unit when it malfunctions, the shock response combined with potential fragility increases the risk of secondary injuries from falling rather than just the impact from the device itself.
Additionally, because these devices are connected to a wireless network and power source by licensed technicians, they are often located in utility closets, basements, or hallways—areas that may be less frequently monitored. This means that anyone who enters these spaces, including maintenance workers, cleaners, or family members checking on utilities, could potentially be in the vicinity during a failure event. The risk is not limited to those directly interacting with the pest control system but extends to all occupants of the building who share the space where these electronic hubs are installed.
- Homeowners and Renters: Individuals living in properties where Anticimex provides digital pest control services, particularly in areas where the unit is mounted low or in high-traffic hallways.
- Children: Young kids who may be curious about wall-mounted devices or are physically closer to the ground where debris might fall.
- Elderly Residents: Older adults who may have reduced reaction times or balance issues, making them more susceptible to injury from sudden shocks or falling objects.
- Commercial Occupants: Employees and customers in businesses using these systems, especially in areas with limited space around the mounted units where evasive action is difficult.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you are concerned that you might have one of the affected devices in your home or business, the first step is to remain calm and systematic. Identifying the specific unit requires a bit of patience because these are not standard plug-in gadgets you can easily unplug and check on a shelf. Instead, they are specialized communication hubs professionally installed as part of a digital pest control system. To determine if your equipment falls under this recall, you need to look for several distinct physical and contextual clues.
The most critical identifier is the model number, which serves as the definitive proof of whether your unit is included in this specific safety alert. You must locate the back of the device to find this information. Look closely at the rear panel of the unit for the text "Model Number 300 110 Rev. C." This alphanumeric code is printed directly on the hardware, and if it matches exactly, your device is part of the recall. It is important not to guess or assume; the revision number "Rev. C" is a specific detail that matters for this batch.
Beyond the model number, you should examine the physical appearance of the unit. The recalled SMART Connect Mini Devices are described as white, plastic-covered units. They are designed to be mounted directly onto a wall, blending into the environment rather than sitting on a table or counter. If your device is a different color, made of metal, or sits freestanding, it is likely not the specific model involved in this incident.
Context about how the device was installed is also vital. These units are not sold directly to consumers for self-installation. They are connected to both a power source and a wireless network by licensed pest control technicians. Therefore, if you did not have a professional technician install a white plastic hub as part of an Anticimex digital pest control system, you likely do not have the recalled item. The brand associated with this recall is Anticimex, so look for any branding or documentation that links your pest control service provider to them.
If you are unsure after checking the model number and physical description, remember that Anticimex is directly contacting all known purchasers of these devices. However, if you cannot find the label or are uncertain about your installation history, do not attempt to remove the device yourself. Instead, contact Anticimex toll-free at 888-522-5770 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday. You can also visit https://www.anticimex.com/en-us/digital-pest-control/ or go to www.anticimex.com and click on “Press Release” for more information. These steps will help you confirm your status without risking further exposure to the hazard.
What to do — step by step
If you have one of the recalled Anticimex SMART Connect Mini Devices, your immediate priority is safety. The CPSC and Anticimex have issued clear instructions to prevent potential fire and injury hazards caused by overheating power supplies. Please follow these steps carefully. Do not attempt to fix or modify the device yourself.
- Stop Using the Device Immediately. As soon as you become aware of this recall, cease using the SMART Connect Mini Device. This unit serves as a communication hub for your digital pest control system, but its safety has been compromised by a risk that the power supply may overheat while charging. This overheating can cause the plastic enclosure to fly off, creating both a fire hazard and a physical injury risk. Even if the device appears to be functioning normally, do not rely on visual inspection alone. The internal voltage regulator failure could occur without warning signs.
- Do Not Unplug or Remove the Device Yourself. This is a critical step that many might overlook. Anticimex explicitly instructs consumers not to unplug their installed devices until they are contacted by the company. These units were professionally installed and connected to both a power source and your wireless network by licensed pest control technicians. Attempting to disconnect or remove the unit on your own could damage the wiring, disrupt your pest control system improperly, or potentially trigger the hazard in an unsafe manner. Leave the device exactly as it is mounted on the wall.
- Wait for Contact from Anticimex. The company is directly contacting all known purchasers of these devices. You should monitor your phone and email for outreach from Anticimex regarding a removal appointment. They will schedule a time to come to your location to safely remove the recalled unit. This process ensures that the hazardous component is handled by professionals who understand the specific risks involved.
- Schedule Your Removal Appointment. When Anticimex contacts you, cooperate fully in scheduling the removal. A licensed technician will visit your home or business to extract the old SMART Connect Mini Device. This service is part of their remedy plan and is designed to be seamless for you.
- Receive Your Free Replacement. Once the recalled device is removed, Anticimex will provide a new, safe replacement unit at no charge to you. The installation of this new device will also be performed by their licensed technicians. This means you do not need to pay for parts or labor for either the removal of the hazardous unit or the installation of the replacement. Your pest control system will be restored with a safe, updated communication hub.
If you have any questions or cannot reach Anticimex through their direct outreach, you can contact them directly. Call their toll-free number at 888-522-5770 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, visit https://www.anticimex.com/en-us/digital-pest-control/ or go to www.anticimex.com and click on “Press Release” for more information. Acting promptly ensures your safety and keeps your pest control system functioning correctly.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have a SMART Connect Mini Device installed in your home or business, the most important thing to know right now is that Anticimex has committed to handling the entire process for you at no cost. You do not need to worry about paying for shipping, labor, or new equipment. The company has designed this remedy specifically to remove any financial burden from you while prioritizing your safety. Because these devices are deeply integrated into a digital pest control system and require specialized technical knowledge to install and remove, the standard consumer route of returning an item to a store is not applicable here. Instead, Anticimex is taking direct responsibility for every step of the resolution.
The core of the remedy is a complete replacement of your device. However, there is a specific protocol you must follow to ensure everything goes smoothly and safely. First, it is critical that you do not attempt to unplug or remove the recalled unit yourself. The recall notice explicitly instructs consumers to leave their installed devices exactly as they are until Anticimex contacts them. This is not just a formality; these units are connected to a power source and a wireless network by licensed technicians. Attempting to disconnect them prematurely could disrupt your pest control system, cause electrical issues, or void any remaining service agreements. Your goal right now is simply to stop using the device if possible, but leave the hardware in place.
Anticimex states that they are directly contacting all known purchasers of the affected units. This means you should be waiting for a call or message from their team to schedule a removal appointment. During this process, a licensed technician will come to your location to safely uninstall the hazardous SMART Connect Mini Device and install a new, safe replacement unit. Both the replacement hardware and the installation labor are provided free of charge. There is no coupon code to enter, no rebate form to mail in, and no hidden fees. The remedy is straightforward: you get a new, safe device, and they handle the logistics.
If you have not yet been contacted by Anticimex but believe you have one of these devices, or if you simply want to verify your status, you should proactively reach out to them. You can call their dedicated toll-free line at 888-522-5770 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can visit their website at https://www.anticimex.com/en-us/digital-pest-control/ or go to www.anticimex.com and click on “Press Release” for more information. By contacting them, you ensure that your name is in their system for the replacement appointment, rather than waiting indefinitely for a notification that may already be on its way.
In summary, your options are simple because Anticimex has consolidated them into a single, free service call. You will receive a new device installed by their professionals. There is no cash refund option mentioned in this recall alert because the product is a permanent fixture of a service system, not a standalone retail item you can return to a shelf. The value proposition here is safety and convenience: they fix the problem, you keep your pest control system running, and you pay nothing for either.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a device is recalled for fire and injury hazards, the decision to continue using it might feel like a minor inconvenience, especially when the item is installed on a wall and integrated into a larger system. However, ignoring this recall carries significant and escalating risks that go far beyond simple malfunction. The core issue with the Anticimex SMART Connect Mini Devices is not just that they stop working; it is that their internal components can fail in a violent and unpredictable way. Specifically, the power supply within these units is designed to manage electrical current, but reports indicate that this component can overheat while the device is charging or operating. This overheating is not merely a temperature warning; it is a precursor to structural failure.
If you continue to use a recalled unit, you are allowing a potential energy source to remain unchecked within your home or business. The hazard description notes that the plastic enclosure can fly off due to internal pressure or heat buildup. This is a critical detail. It means that what starts as an electrical fault can quickly turn into a projectile event. Shards of hot plastic can be propelled with enough force to cause physical injury to anyone nearby, including pets and children who might be in the vicinity of the wall-mounted unit. Furthermore, the materials involved are combustible. The heat generated by a failing voltage regulator or battery cell can easily ignite surrounding dust, debris, or the plastic casing itself, leading to an actual fire. While Anticimex has only reported one incident of voltage regulator failure resulting in battery cell failure at their own facility so far, the nature of electrical fires is that they often start small and spread rapidly, especially when hidden behind walls or within enclosed devices.
It is important to understand that these devices are connected to a power source and a wireless network. An electrical fault does not remain isolated. It can damage your home’s wiring, trip breakers repeatedly, or in worst-case scenarios, start an electrical fire that spreads beyond the device itself. The fact that no injuries have been publicly reported yet is fortunate, but it does not mean the risk is absent; it simply means that a catastrophic event has not yet occurred in a consumer’s home. By ignoring the recall, you are gambling with that statistic. You are also risking property damage. If your SMART Connect Mini Device fails catastrophically, it may damage the wall it is mounted to, ruin nearby electronics connected to the same circuit, or cause smoke and fire damage to your entire structure.
Additionally, there is a practical consequence to ignoring the recall: you lose the safety net of the manufacturer’s remedy. Anticimex is offering free replacement and installation services. If you wait until the device fails on its own, you will likely face the cost of hiring a licensed pest control technician to remove the faulty unit, purchasing a new replacement at full retail price, and potentially dealing with insurance claims for any damage caused by the failure. The recall process is designed to prevent these costs entirely. By continuing to use the recalled device, you are not just risking your safety; you are ensuring that you will pay for the consequences of a known defect that could have been fixed for free.