What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently issued a recall alert concerning specific outdoor electrical products sold under the brand name Homerygardens. This action involves Homerygardens Outdoor Extension Cord Splitters that present a significant safety risk due to manufacturing defects in their internal wiring. The recall was officially announced on October 15, 2020, and it applies to units distributed by Sales BSD Inc. If you purchased these items around that time or have them stored in your garage or shed from previous outdoor projects, it is important to verify whether they are part of this specific batch.
The affected products are designed to expand the utility of a single electrical outlet, allowing users to power multiple devices simultaneously. Visually, these extension cord splitters are distinct and easy to identify. They feature a sleek black exterior casing and measure exactly six feet in length. The primary functional component is the splitter head, which provides four separate electrical outlets for connecting various appliances or tools. Additionally, each unit is equipped with a convenient on/off switch, allowing users to control power flow without unplugging the main cord from the wall socket. These design elements make them appear practical for garden lighting, holiday decorations, or powering small outdoor equipment.
While the physical description helps identify the product, the critical factor in this recall is not just what the product looks like, but how it was constructed internally. The CPSC investigation determined that the wire size used within these six-foot cords is insufficient for the amp load they are rated to handle. In electrical terms, this means the internal conductors are too thin to safely carry the current required by typical devices plugged into them. Furthermore, the product lacks essential protective features that are standard in safe extension cords, such as proper overload protection or adequate insulation integrity under stress. This combination of undersized wiring and missing safety mechanisms creates a dangerous situation where the cord can overheat during normal use.
Consumers who purchased these Homerygardens splitters should check their receipts or packaging for the brand name and verify the physical characteristics described above: black color, four outlets, six-foot length, and an on/off switch. The recall covers all units sold by Sales BSD Inc. that match this description. Because the hazard is inherent to the design and materials used during manufacturing, there is no way to safely repair or modify these cords at home. The only course of action for anyone owning this specific model is to remove it from service immediately and participate in the manufacturer’s return program.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a fundamental mismatch between the electrical demands placed on the Homerygardens extension cord splitter and the physical capabilities of the product itself. When you plug high-wattage appliances—such as space heaters, air conditioners, or powerful power tools—into an outlet, those devices draw a specific amount of electrical current, measured in amps. Standard household wiring and quality extension cords are engineered with copper wires thick enough to carry that current safely without overheating. However, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the wire gauge used in these recalled Homerygardens models is too thin to handle the appropriate amp load. In electrical terms, this means the resistance within the cord is higher than it should be for the volume of electricity flowing through it.
Think of electricity like water flowing through a pipe. If you try to push a large volume of water through a narrow straw, the friction increases dramatically, generating heat. Similarly, when too much current flows through undersized wires, they generate excessive heat. Under normal circumstances, a well-designed extension cord would dissipate this heat safely. But these specific splitter units lack additional protective features that are typically found in safer electrical products. These missing safeguards might include thermal fuses or circuit breakers designed to cut off power if the temperature rises beyond a safe limit. Without them, the heat has nowhere to go and no automatic mechanism to stop the flow of electricity.
This combination of factors creates a dangerous feedback loop. As the wires heat up, the insulation surrounding them can begin to melt or degrade. Once that protective outer layer fails, bare live wires may come into contact with each other or with grounded surfaces, creating a short circuit. This is often the immediate precursor to an electrical fire. The heat generated by the undersized wire can also ignite nearby combustible materials, such as upholstery, curtains, or dry leaves if the splitter is being used outdoors. It is important to note that while no incidents have been reported to date, the potential for injury and property damage is real because the failure point is built into the product’s core design.
The risk is particularly insidious because it does not always present an immediate spark or flash. Instead, the cord may simply feel warm to the touch during use, a subtle warning that is often ignored until it is too late. Over time, repeated use can weaken the internal structure of the wire further, increasing the likelihood of a sudden failure. This is why the CPSC and Sales BSD Inc. are issuing this recall as a precautionary measure to prevent fires before they start. Understanding that the hazard stems from the physical inability of the wire to manage electrical load helps clarify why simply "being careful" is not enough; the product itself is fundamentally unsafe for its intended purpose under normal load conditions.
Who is most at risk
When we talk about electrical hazards, it is easy to assume that any adult handling a power cord is equally vulnerable. However, the reality of how these devices are used—and who uses them—creates distinct layers of risk. The Homerygardens extension cord splitters were primarily marketed for outdoor use, specifically in garden and landscaping contexts. This means the people most likely to encounter this hazard are homeowners tending to their yards, hobbyists managing holiday lights, or small business owners setting up temporary displays. These individuals often use these splitters to daisy-chain multiple high-wattage devices, such as electric lawnmowers, leaf blowers, string trimmers, or extensive lighting arrays. The risk here is not just about who is holding the plug, but about the environment in which the cord operates.
The primary group at risk includes anyone using these splitters to power tools or appliances that draw significant electrical current. Because the recalled units lack adequate wire sizing and protective features, they are particularly dangerous when subjected to sustained loads. A gardener running a powerful electric mower for an hour creates a steady heat buildup that the undersized wires cannot dissipate safely. Unlike a short-term risk where you might notice a warm plug before danger strikes, these failures can occur gradually or suddenly without warning. Therefore, anyone who has plugged in heavy-duty outdoor equipment into this specific splitter is operating under a higher risk profile than someone using it for low-power items like a small battery charger.
We must also consider the physical environment associated with outdoor electrical use. These cords are often laid across grass, dirt, or pavement, exposed to moisture, UV radiation, and physical wear from foot traffic or lawn mowers. While the recall notice does not report specific incidents of injury, the combination of a fire hazard and an outdoor setting creates a compounded danger. If a wire overheats in a dry yard during late summer, the proximity to dry leaves, mulch, or wooden decks can turn an electrical fault into a structural fire much faster than it would indoors. The lack of protective features mentioned in the CPSC report means there is no internal circuit breaker to cut power if the current exceeds safe limits, leaving the user reliant on the cord’s ability to handle the heat indefinitely—a capability this model does not possess.
Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or those with limited mobility, may face additional risks if they rely on these devices for essential outdoor maintenance but lack the technical knowledge to identify unsafe electrical conditions. They might not recognize the subtle signs of an overloaded circuit, such as a faint buzzing sound or slight discoloration of the plastic housing, until it is too late. Furthermore, children playing in the yard may come into contact with cords that have been degraded by sun exposure or heat stress, increasing the chance of shock or burns if the insulation has become brittle or melted. While no incidents have been reported to date, the potential for harm is real and immediate for anyone currently using these splitters in active outdoor projects.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact the manufacturer, it is essential to positively identify whether your specific extension cord splitter falls within this recall. Because the Homerygardens brand products were distributed through various channels and may look similar to other outdoor power accessories on the market, relying solely on a general description can lead to confusion. To ensure you are checking the correct product, you need to look for a combination of brand markings, physical characteristics, and packaging details. Start by examining the body of the splitter itself. The recalled units are distinctly black in color, which might seem common for outdoor electronics, but when combined with other features, it becomes a key identifier. Look closely at the main housing; you should see the "Homerygardens" branding printed or molded into the plastic. If the brand name is missing, faded beyond recognition, or if the product is from a different manufacturer entirely, this specific recall does not apply to you.
Next, inspect the functional components of the device. The recalled Homerygardens Outdoor Extension Cord Splitters feature exactly four outlets arranged in a row. This count is critical because many similar products offer two, six, or eight outlets. Alongside these four sockets, there must be an integrated on/off switch. This switch is typically located on the top or side of the unit for easy access. The physical length of the cord is another definitive marker. You need to verify that the extension cord itself is six feet long. If your cord is longer or shorter, it is not part of this specific batch of recalled items. Additionally, check the construction quality; the recall notes that these units lack certain protective features and have wire sizes that are insufficient for their amp load, but visually, you will recognize them by the simple, utilitarian design described above.
Finally, consider where and when you purchased the item. While the CPSC alert does not list every single retailer, it specifies that Sales BSD Inc. is the firm behind this recall and that they are contacting known purchasers directly. If you have your original receipt or order confirmation, look for "Sales BSD" or "Homerygardens" as the seller or brand. The recall was announced on October 15, 2020, so if you bought a Homerygardens splitter before this date, it is worth double-checking. If you no longer have the packaging, the physical attributes—black color, four outlets, one switch, six-foot length, and Homerygardens branding—are your most reliable tools for identification. Do not guess; take the time to count the outlets and measure the cord. If these details match the description above, stop using the product immediately and proceed with the return process.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Homerygardens Outdoor Extension Cord Splitter, the most important thing you can do right now is prioritize your safety over convenience. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a serious fire hazard associated with these specific units because their wire size cannot handle the appropriate amp load and they lack necessary protective features. Because this is not a minor defect but a potential source of ignition, you must take immediate action to remove the risk from your home or garden. Please follow these steps carefully to ensure you are protected and that you receive your full refund without any out-of-pocket costs. First, stop using the recalled extension cord splitter immediately. Do not wait for another season or until the switch breaks. Unplug the device from the power source right now if it is currently connected. This is critical because the internal wiring may overheat even under normal usage conditions, creating a fire risk that does not announce itself until it is too late. Store the unit in a safe, dry place away from flammable materials like curtains, paper, or dry leaves while you arrange for its return. Do not attempt to repair it yourself, as this is an electrical safety issue that requires professional handling by the manufacturer. Next, contact Sales BSD Inc. to initiate the return process. The company has committed to covering all costs associated with getting this unsafe product back. You can reach their customer support team toll-free at 866-966-0606. Their representatives are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or need to send documentation, you may also email them directly at RecallExtensionCord@gmail.com. When you contact them, have your proof of purchase ready if you have it, though the firm is reportedly contacting all known purchasers directly to streamline this process. Finally, follow the specific return instructions provided by Sales BSD Inc. They will provide you with a prepaid shipping label and clear directions on where to send the unit. Ensure that you pack the splitter securely to prevent damage during transit, but remember that shipping and handling fees will be at no cost to you. Once they receive the item, you will be issued a full refund. This process is designed to be hassle-free so that you can quickly replace your outdoor electrical needs with a safer, certified alternative. By following these steps, you eliminate the fire hazard entirely and get your money back, ensuring your outdoor spaces remain safe for you and your family.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own a Homerygardens Outdoor Extension Cord Splitter that matches the description provided in the recall notice, your primary and most straightforward option is to obtain a full refund. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has confirmed that Sales BSD Inc., the firm responsible for this product, is offering complete reimbursement for the purchase price. This is not a partial credit or a store voucher; it is a return of the money you originally spent. The company has explicitly stated that they will cover all shipping and handling costs associated with returning the defective items. This means you should not have to pay for postage labels, boxes, or any other logistical fees required to send the product back. This policy is designed to remove any financial barrier that might prevent you from complying with the safety warning.
To initiate this process, you will need to contact Sales BSD Inc. directly. They are handling the remedy through two specific channels: a toll-free telephone number and a dedicated email address. You can call them at 866-966-0606. It is important to note their hours of operation, as calling outside these times will not connect you with a representative ready to assist. They are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication, which often provides a paper trail for your records, you may send an email to RecallExtensionCord@gmail.com. When you reach out, be prepared to provide details about your purchase, such as the date and place of acquisition, to help them verify your eligibility for the refund.
You might wonder why a repair or replacement is not offered in this instance. In cases involving electrical components like extension cords, where the hazard is rooted in fundamental design flaws—such as wire gauge being too thin for the intended amperage load—repairing the unit is rarely a viable or safe solution. The internal wiring cannot simply be swapped out without compromising the integrity of the entire product. Therefore, the remedy is strictly a return for a refund. This approach ensures that the hazardous item is completely removed from your home and prevents it from being sold or given away again, which could expose others to the same fire risk.
Additionally, please be aware that Sales BSD Inc. is not relying solely on consumers to come forward. The firm is actively contacting all known purchasers directly. If you bought this product through a channel where your contact information was retained by the seller or the manufacturer, you may receive a notification from them with specific instructions tailored to your purchase. However, do not wait for this mailer if you already know you have the product. The recall alert is effective immediately, and stopping use right away is critical. If you do not hear from them, take the initiative to use the contact methods listed above. Prompt action ensures you get your money back quickly and, more importantly, eliminates the fire hazard from your living space.
While you wait for your refund or further instructions, keep the extension cord in a safe place where it will not be accidentally used. Do not attempt to fix it yourself by cutting wires or adding adapters, as this could create additional electrical dangers. The goal is to get this specific black, six-foot splitter with four outlets and an on/off switch out of your home entirely. By following the refund process, you are not only recovering your financial loss but also contributing to public safety by ensuring a potentially dangerous product does not remain in circulation.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a product is recalled due to a fire hazard, the directive to stop using it immediately is not merely a bureaucratic suggestion; it is a critical boundary between safe operation and potential disaster. In the case of the Homerygardens extension cord splitters, the core issue lies in the internal wiring. These specific units were manufactured with wire sizes that are insufficient for the electrical load they are rated to carry. Think of an electrical wire like a highway: if you force too much traffic (amperage) through a narrow lane (thin wire), friction increases dramatically. This friction generates heat. Because these recalled splitters lack adequate protective features, such as proper thermal fuses or robust insulation designed to contain such heat, there is no safety net to stop the temperature from rising to dangerous levels. If you continue to use this product despite the recall notice, you are essentially allowing a slow-burning situation to develop in your home or garden. The immediate consequence of ignoring the hazard is that the extension cord itself can become extremely hot to the touch. This heat can melt the plastic casing of the splitter, exposing live electrical components. More critically, the excessive heat can ignite nearby combustible materials. Whether the splitter is plugged into an outlet in a garage, used on a patio table, or hidden behind outdoor furniture, the surrounding environment plays a significant role in how quickly a fire starts and spreads. Dry leaves, wooden decking, fabric cushions, or even stored items like paper or clothing can catch fire if they come into contact with the overheated unit. While the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that no incidents or injuries have been reported to date for this specific recall, silence in incident reports does not guarantee safety; it often reflects luck rather than design. A fire caused by an electrical overload can escalate with terrifying speed. What begins as a smoldering wire inside the black plastic housing of the splitter can quickly transition into a fully involved room fire or an outdoor blaze that threatens your property and neighbors. The risk is not just about the cost of replacing the cord; it is about protecting your home, your belongings, and your physical safety from smoke inhalation and flame spread. Furthermore, using a product known to have faulty wiring violates basic electrical safety principles. It creates a point of failure in your power distribution that you cannot monitor while you are sleeping or away from home. Electrical fires are among the most destructive because they often start when no one is present to react. By ignoring the recall, you are gambling with the integrity of your electrical system and the physical structure of your living space. The inconvenience of returning the item for a full refund is negligible compared to the catastrophic potential of leaving a known fire hazard plugged into your power source.Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in one brand’s extension cord splitters, the underlying issue—a fire hazard caused by improper electrical load management and inadequate wire gauging—is a common concern for anyone who relies on power strips or outdoor extension cords. Understanding how to use these tools safely can prevent accidents long after any single recall notice has passed. The core principle to remember is that extension cords are meant for temporary use, not as permanent wiring solutions. When you plug multiple high-draw appliances into a single splitter, especially outdoors where weather conditions can degrade connections over time, you risk overheating the internal wires. This heat buildup is what leads to insulation melting and, in worst-case scenarios, electrical fires.
To stay safe with any electrical extension product, always check the rating label before you plug anything in. Look for the maximum wattage or amperage the cord can handle. A standard indoor power strip might look identical to an outdoor-rated heavy-duty splitter, but they are built differently. Outdoor cords require thicker insulation and heavier gauge wire (indicated by a lower AWG number, such as 12 AWG vs. 16 AWG) to handle the current without overheating. If you are using a cord outdoors, ensure it is explicitly rated for outdoor use, which typically means it has sunlight-resistant and water-resistant materials. Never run an extension cord under rugs, through walls, or across doorways where it can be pinched or damaged, as compromised insulation exposes live wires to short circuits.
Another critical habit is regular visual inspection. Before each season, or even monthly during heavy use, examine your cords for fraying, cracks, or discoloration. Discoloration often indicates that the cord has been overheating due to excessive load or a poor connection. If you notice any of these signs, stop using the item immediately and replace it. Do not attempt to tape up damaged wires; this is a temporary fix that rarely holds and can create new hazards. Additionally, avoid "daisy-chaining" power strips—plugging one power strip into another. This multiplies the risk of overload and makes it difficult to track exactly how much power is being drawn from your home’s circuit.
Finally, stay informed about product safety beyond just this recall. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains a searchable database of recalls where you can sign up for email alerts based on the types of products you own. Regularly checking this resource ensures you are aware of defects in items already in your home. For outdoor equipment, consider installing Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets or using GFCI-protected adapters. These devices monitor electrical current and cut power instantly if they detect a ground fault, significantly reducing the risk of electrocution and fire in wet conditions. By combining proper product selection with mindful usage habits, you can enjoy the convenience of extended power access without compromising your home’s safety.