Monoprice Recalls Ethernet Cables Due to Fire Hazard

What was recalled

In September of 2020, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving Ethernet cabling produced by Monoprice. This action centered specifically on the Monoprice Category 6 Ethernet Bulk CMR Communications cable. To understand the scope of this recall, it is helpful to look at exactly what these cables are designed to do. Unlike standard residential wiring, "CMR" stands for "Communications Riser," meaning these specific cables are engineered with the intention of preventing fires from spreading between floors through risers and vertical shafts in commercial or multi-story buildings. They contain 100% pure copper wire and are primarily used to wire homes or offices for high-speed network connections, making them a common sight in both residential renovations and professional IT setups.

The recalled items were not limited to a single color or length, which makes identification crucial for anyone who may have purchased these spools over time. The cables were sold in a wide variety of colors to help organize complex network installations, including yellow, white, blue, black, red, orange, gray, pink, and purple. They came in substantial bulk quantities, specifically in 250-foot, 500-foot, and 1,000-foot spools. Because these are bulk items rather than short, pre-made patch cables, they are often bought by contractors, IT professionals, or serious DIY enthusiasts who need to run long distances of network cabling.

Identifying the specific units involved in this recall requires looking closely at the printed text on the surface of the cable jacket. The recalled cables will bear one of three specific UL (Underwriters Laboratories) identification numbers along with their specifications. You should look for any of the following markings printed directly on the wire: "(UL) E467139 23AWGX4P CMR CAT6 UTP RoHS Compliance XXXXFT", "(UL) E333346 23AWGX4P CMR CAT6 UTP RoHS Compliance XXXXFT", or "(UL) E339722 23AWGX4P CMR CAT6 UTP RoHS Compliance XXXXFT." Note that "XXXX" in the compliance marking represents a variable number indicating the length of the specific spool. If your cable does not match one of these three UL numbers exactly, it is likely not part of this specific recall lot.

While the CPSC press release did not provide a precise count of the total number of units sold or the exact geographic locations where they were distributed, the nature of the product suggests broad availability. These types of bulk networking cables are standard inventory items for many online retailers and hardware stores. The lack of reported incidents at the time of the recall is notable; however, the decision to issue a voluntary recall was driven by the failure of these cables to meet the flammability requirements of the UL 1666 voluntary safety standard. This means that while they may have looked like standard riser-rated cable, their outer jacket material did not perform as expected when exposed to flame, potentially allowing fire to travel through walls and floors more easily than intended.

If you are unsure whether your existing network cabling falls under this recall, the first step is to physically inspect the cable. Look for the printed text mentioned above. If you cannot find the cable, or if the markings do not match the three UL numbers listed, it is likely safe from this specific hazard. However, if you have any Monoprice CMR Cat6 cables that match these descriptions, particularly those purchased prior to September 16, 2020, it is prudent to treat them as potentially affected until you can verify their status through official channels. The uncertainty of the exact sales volume and distribution network underscores the importance of checking your physical inventory against the specific UL identifiers provided by the manufacturer.

The hazard, explained

To understand why this recall matters, it helps to look at what is happening inside the cable itself when things go wrong. The Monoprice Ethernet cables involved in this recall are Category 6 bulk cables designed for use in "risers" and vertical shafts within buildings. In construction terms, a riser is any vertical space that connects different floors of a structure, such as the empty spaces between walls where wiring often runs. Because these pathways can act like chimneys, pulling air upward during a fire, building codes and safety standards are extremely strict about what materials can be placed there.

The core issue lies in flammability. The recalled cables do not meet the UL 1666 voluntary safety standard, which is the industry benchmark for testing how well a cable resists fire when installed in these vertical spaces. UL 1666 requires that the cable material must be able to prevent flames from traveling up the length of the cable jacket. When a cable meets this standard, it is designed to self-extinguish or resist burning long enough to stop fire from leaping from one floor to another. However, because these specific Monoprice cables fail to meet that rigorous test, their outer jackets and internal components can ignite more easily when exposed to an open flame.

It is important to clarify how this hazard actually causes harm. The recall notice states that the risk occurs "when the cable is exposed to a flame." This means the cable itself is not spontaneously catching fire during normal operation. Ethernet cables do not generate enough heat during regular data transmission or power-over-Ethernet use to ignite on their own under normal conditions. The danger emerges in a worst-case scenario: if a fire starts elsewhere in your home or office, and that flame reaches the cable, the material may burn rapidly rather than resisting the fire. This can allow flames and toxic smoke to travel quickly up vertical shafts, potentially bypassing fire doors and spreading to upper floors before occupants are aware of the danger.

This class of hazard is particularly concerning in multi-story homes or office buildings because vertical spaces accelerate fire spread. In a standard horizontal room, fire spreads across surfaces, but in a riser, the "chimney effect" pulls heat and flames upward with significant force. A cable that does not meet UL 1666 standards essentially becomes a fuel source rather than a passive conduit for data. While no incidents have been reported to date, the potential consequence is severe because it compromises one of the primary barriers between floors in a building’s fire safety system.

Understanding this mechanism highlights why the remedy involves a physical inspection and replacement. Simply unplugging the cable does not remove the risk if the cable remains installed in a wall or riser where it could still be exposed to a future fire source. The failure is in the material composition, which cannot be fixed by software updates or user adjustments. It requires replacing the physical infrastructure with cables that have been proven to resist ignition and flame spread in these critical vertical pathways.

Who is most at risk

When we talk about who is “most at risk” in this recall, it is important to first clarify that the Monoprice Category 6 Ethernet Bulk CMR Communications cable was specifically engineered with safety in mind for vertical installations. The product description notes that these cables are designed to prevent fires from spreading between floors through risers and vertical shafts, which suggests a robust intent behind their manufacturing. However, because the recalled units do not meet the flammability requirements of the UL 1666 voluntary safety standard, that intended protection fails when the cable is directly exposed to a flame. Consequently, the risk is not limited to a specific demographic based on age or physical vulnerability, but rather to anyone who has installed these cables in areas where they might be exposed to ignition sources.

The primary group at risk consists of homeowners and business owners who have wired their properties for high-speed networking using this specific bulk cable. Because the cables were sold in various lengths (250, 500, and 1000 foot spools) and a wide array of colors including yellow, white, blue, black, red, orange, gray, pink, and purple, they are likely installed in many different residential and commercial settings. The risk is particularly relevant for those who have run these cables through walls, ceilings, or technical closets where electrical work or other heat-generating devices might be present. If a fire were to start nearby, the cable’s inability to resist flammability could allow flames to travel along the wire itself, defeating its original purpose of containing fire within specific zones.

While no incidents have been reported yet, the potential for harm exists for anyone living or working in spaces where these cables are installed. This includes families in multi-story homes, as the cable was marketed for use in risers and vertical shafts that connect different floors. In such environments, a fire spreading via cabling could compromise escape routes or spread rapidly to other levels of the building. Additionally, small business owners who rely on these networks for critical operations face both safety risks and operational disruptions if a fire were to occur. Elderly individuals or those with mobility issues might be at greater risk in multi-story homes because they may rely on specific floors for daily activities; if a fire spreads via the cabling, their ability to evacuate quickly could be severely compromised.

It is also worth noting that anyone who purchased these cables directly from Monoprice or through retailers carrying their products between 2019 and September 16, 2020, should consider themselves potentially affected. The lack of reported incidents so far is reassuring, but it does not eliminate the underlying hazard. Therefore, the “at-risk” population is broadly anyone who has installed these cables in any capacity, whether for a home office setup, a whole-house network, or a commercial building infrastructure. The risk is latent and situational, depending on proximity to potential fire sources rather than personal characteristics.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Identifying whether a cable in your home or office is part of this specific recall requires careful attention to the details printed directly on the product itself. Because Monoprice sold these Ethernet cables in a wide variety of configurations, color, and lengths, relying solely on the brand name or general appearance is not enough. You need to verify the exact specifications marked on the cable jacket to ensure it matches the recalled batch.

First, confirm that you have a Monoprice brand product. Specifically, look for the label “Category 6 Ethernet Bulk CMR Communications cable.” The “CMR” designation is critical here; it indicates that the cable was rated to prevent fires from spreading between floors through risers and vertical shafts. If your cable does not explicitly state it is a Category 6 bulk cable with CMR rating, it is likely not part of this specific recall, though you should always check the other details below.

Next, examine the text printed along the surface of the cable jacket. This is where you will find the unique identifiers for the recalled units. You are looking for one of the following three specific UL compliance codes printed directly on the wire:

• (UL) E467139 23AWGX4P CMR CAT6 UTP RoHS Compliance XXXXFT
• (UL) E333346 23AWGX4P CMR CAT6 UTP RoHS Compliance XXXXFT
• (UL) E339722 23AWGX4P CMR CAT6 UTP RoHS Compliance XXXXFT

Pay close attention to the “XXXXFT” portion of these codes. This placeholder indicates that the cable was sold in various lengths, specifically 250, 500, or 1000 foot spools. The exact number of feet will be printed in place of the XXXX, so you must read the full string to ensure it matches one of the three UL numbers listed above. The cable also contains 100% pure copper wire, which is a standard feature for high-speed networking, but this alone does not identify the recall.

If the printed text on your cable does not match one of these three specific UL codes, it is generally safe to assume your product is not affected. However, if you are unsure or cannot locate the printing clearly, do not guess. The safest approach is to stop using the cable immediately and contact Monoprice directly for verification. You can reach them via email at mpcmrrecall@monoprice.com or by calling their toll-free number at 844-500-7656 between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday. They can help you confirm if your specific serial printout falls within the recalled scope.

While the recall does not specify where or when these cables were originally sold, they were distributed in various colors including yellow, white, blue, black, red, orange, gray, pink, and purple. If you purchased a cable matching the physical description (Category 6, CMR rated, specific UL codes) from any retailer, it is subject to this recall regardless of the purchase date or location. Do not rely on the color alone, as the hazard is related to flammability standards, not appearance.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

When you discover that a product in your home has been recalled, the most immediate concern is often financial: will this cost you money to fix? In this specific case involving Monoprice Ethernet cables, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has mandated a remedy that prioritizes safety and convenience over simple reimbursement. It is important to understand that this recall does not offer a traditional "return for refund" model where you ship the item back and wait for your credit card to be charged. Instead, Monoprice has arranged for a proactive service intervention designed to resolve the issue at your location without any out-of-pocket expense.

The core of the remedy is a free installation visit. If you own one of the recalled Category 6 Ethernet Bulk CMR Communications cables, you should not attempt to cut or remove the cable yourself if it is already installed in walls or ceilings, as this can be difficult and potentially damaging to your property. Instead, you are encouraged to contact Monoprice directly to schedule a visit. A representative will come to your home or office to inspect the existing cabling. This inspection step is crucial because it confirms that the specific spool you have is indeed part of the recall batch. Once verified, they will replace the hazardous cable with a safe, compliant alternative at absolutely no charge to you. This approach ensures that your network infrastructure remains intact and functional while eliminating the fire risk associated with the non-compliant flammability ratings.

To initiate this process, you have several convenient ways to reach Monoprice’s dedicated recall support team. You can call their toll-free number at 844-500-7656. If you choose to call, keep in mind that their customer service agents are available from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. This limited window is worth noting if you need to plan your call around your work schedule or time zone differences. Alternatively, if you prefer written communication or have specific questions about the installation process, you can send an email to mpcmrrecall@monoprice.com. Email may be particularly useful if you want to include photos of the cable markings for preliminary verification before committing to a phone call.

For those who prefer navigating solutions online, Monoprice has created a dedicated landing page for this recall at https://mpcmrrecall.com/. You can also visit their main website at www.monoprice.com and click on the “Recall” link located at the bottom of the page. These digital resources are designed to provide clear instructions and potentially allow you to schedule your service appointment directly through an online portal, streamlining the administrative side of the remedy. It is vital that you use only these official channels to ensure your information is handled securely and that your remedy is processed correctly. Do not attempt to resolve this through third-party retailers or general customer support lines that may not have access to the specific recall inventory or service protocols.

While the primary remedy is replacement via installation, it is worth noting that the recall facts do not specify alternative options such as a full refund of the original purchase price. The focus is strictly on removing the hazard. Therefore, if your primary goal is simply to get your money back rather than having the cable replaced with a safe version, you should clarify this during your initial contact with Monoprice. However, given that the cables are often hardwired into buildings, replacement is typically the most logical and practical solution for maintaining network connectivity. By taking these steps promptly, you ensure that your home or office remains safe from fire hazards while keeping your high-speed network operational.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a product recall involves a fire hazard, the stakes are inherently higher than with many other types of defects. The Monoprice Ethernet cables in question were specifically designed to meet rigorous safety standards intended to prevent fires from spreading between floors through risers and vertical shafts. These cables are not just simple wires; they are critical components of building infrastructure, often installed within walls or ceilings where they are out of sight but essential for modern connectivity. By continuing to use these recalled cables, you are effectively bypassing a crucial layer of protection built into your home or office’s electrical and data systems.

The core issue is that these cables do not meet the flammability requirements of the UL 1666 voluntary safety standard. This standard is designed to ensure that cabling does not act as a fuel source for a fire. In a normal situation, if an electrical fault occurs or if a small flame were to reach the cable, the material should resist burning or self-extinguish quickly. However, because these specific Monoprice cables fail to meet that requirement, they pose a significant risk of propagating flames. If a fire starts elsewhere in your building—whether from an appliance malfunction, a short circuit, or another source—the recalled cable could allow that fire to travel rapidly through the vertical shafts and risers where it is installed. This can turn a contained incident into a structural emergency much faster than if the cables had been compliant.

It is important to note that while the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has reported no incidents or injuries related to this specific recall as of the announcement date, the absence of past events does not guarantee future safety. Fire hazards are often unpredictable and can escalate quickly. The risk is not just about the cable catching fire on its own; it is about how that cable behaves when exposed to an external flame. Ignoring the recall means leaving a potential pathway for fire spread intact in your walls. This could endanger not only your property but also the safety of neighbors, especially in multi-unit buildings where vertical shafts connect different floors.

Furthermore, using non-compliant cabling can have long-term implications for your insurance coverage and liability. If a fire were to occur and investigators determine that the installation used recalled, non-compliant materials known to pose a fire hazard, it could complicate claims processes or affect coverage. The inconvenience of replacing the cable now is minor compared to the potential devastation of a fire that spreads due to faulty cabling. Taking immediate action to have these cables inspected and replaced by Monoprice is a straightforward step that eliminates this specific risk entirely. Do not wait for a worst-case scenario to prove the necessity of the recall; address the hazard proactively while it is still manageable.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a particular batch of Ethernet cables that did not meet flammability standards, the underlying principle applies to nearly every electronic component in your home or office network. Fire safety around wiring is often overlooked because we view cables as passive infrastructure—they just "work." However, when electrical currents flow through conductors, heat is generated. If insulation is substandard, damaged, or improperly rated for its environment, that heat can become a ignition source. The good news is that you can significantly reduce these risks by adopting a few proactive habits that go beyond waiting for a recall notice.

First, always prioritize quality and certification when purchasing networking gear. Look for the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) mark or similar independent testing labels on the packaging and the cable jacket itself. These marks indicate that the product has been tested against rigorous safety standards, including flammability ratings like CMR (riser-rated) for vertical installations where fire spread between floors is a concern. Do not assume that a lower price point equates to equal safety; cheap cables often cut corners on insulation materials and copper purity, both of which are critical for preventing overheating and fire.

Second, practice mindful cable management. Overcrowding wires in walls, ceilings, or under floorboards can trap heat, causing temperatures to rise well above safe levels. This is especially dangerous with high-power devices or long runs of data cable that carry continuous current. Ensure there is adequate spacing between bundles and avoid routing cables through tight spaces without proper ventilation. If you are installing cables yourself, follow local building codes regarding conduit usage and separation from other utilities. Never staple or pin cables tightly in a way that compresses the insulation, as this can damage the protective layer over time.

Third, stay informed about product safety beyond just your immediate purchase history. Sign up for email alerts from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and other relevant agencies. These notifications often provide early warnings about hazards that may not yet have made national headlines. Additionally, regularly inspect your existing wiring for signs of wear, such as fraying, discoloration, or a burning smell. If you notice any of these issues, disconnect the power immediately and consult a professional electrician. By treating your home’s infrastructure with the same care you would give to its structural integrity, you create a safer, more resilient environment for yourself and your family.

• Check labels: Verify UL or ETL certification marks on all new electronic purchases.
• Avoid overloading: Do not bundle cables too tightly; allow heat to dissipate.
• Stay updated: Subscribe to CPSC recall alerts for proactive safety awareness.