CB2 Recalls Pendant Lights Due to Fire and Shock Hazards

What was recalled

If you have a CB2 Colby pendant light fixture hanging in your home, it is important to verify whether it is part of this specific safety recall. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued this recall on October 25, 2018, targeting a particular line of decorative lighting sold under the CB2 brand. These are not standard, off-the-shelf bulbs or generic fixtures; they are distinct design pieces known as Colby lacquered wood and glass pendant light fixtures. Understanding exactly what you own is the first step in ensuring your household remains safe from potential electrical dangers.

The specific items affected by this recall are hanging ceiling lights designed to provide ambient illumination in dining rooms, kitchens, or living areas. Each recalled unit measures 17.5 inches in length, creating a substantial visual presence in any room. The fixture features a clear glass shade that spans 12 inches in diameter, offering a wide, diffused light output. Suspended from the ceiling is a hanging cord that extends 75 inches long, allowing the light to hang at a comfortable height above tables or workspaces. The construction combines lacquered wood elements with the transparent glass shade, giving it a modern aesthetic that was popular among interior design enthusiasts.

While the recall notice does not specify the exact number of units sold or the precise retail locations where these fixtures were purchased, it is crucial to note that this product was distributed widely through CB2’s sales channels. If you purchased a Colby pendant light from CB2 either in-store or online prior to October 25, 2018, there is a possibility that your unit is included in this recall. The lack of reported incidents at the time of the recall does not diminish the seriousness of the underlying defect. Manufacturers often issue proactive recalls based on rigorous testing and quality control findings rather than waiting for accidents to occur. This approach allows consumers to address potential hazards before they result in harm.

To determine if your light is part of this recall, you should examine the fixture closely. Look for the specific dimensions mentioned: a 17.5-inch length, a 12-inch diameter glass shade, and a 75-inch hanging cord. The material composition, specifically the lacquered wood and clear glass combination, is also a key identifier. If your pendant light matches these descriptions and was purchased from CB2, you should treat it as potentially affected until proven otherwise. Do not rely on memory alone; check your purchase records or contact customer service with your receipt details to confirm eligibility for the remedy.

The decision to recall these specific fixtures underscores the importance of vigilance when it comes to electrical products in the home. Even high-end, designer lighting must meet strict safety standards to ensure that consumers are not exposed to unnecessary risks. By identifying your product correctly, you take control of the situation and enable CB2 to provide the appropriate support. This step is not about panic; it is about informed action. Knowing exactly what you have allows you to proceed with confidence toward the next steps in securing your home’s safety.

The hazard, explained

When you look at a pendant light like the CB2 Colby fixture that has been recalled, it is easy to see only the beauty of the lacquered wood and glass. However, the danger lies entirely in what happens behind the scenes, inside the electrical wiring that powers the bulb. The core issue with this specific recall is that the insulation surrounding the live electrical wires can come loose over time. To understand why this is so serious, it helps to look at how electricity travels through your home. Electrical wires are coated in a protective layer of plastic or rubber insulation. This coating acts as a barrier, ensuring that the high-voltage current stays safely inside the copper wire and flows only where it is supposed to go—down the cord, through the switch, and into the light bulb.

When that insulation becomes loose or detaches from the wire, that protective barrier fails. This creates two distinct and dangerous pathways for harm. First, consider the fire hazard. Without proper insulation, bare wires can touch each other or come into contact with other conductive materials within the fixture’s housing or the ceiling junction box. This can cause a short circuit. A short circuit sends electricity surging uncontrollably through unintended paths, generating intense heat in a fraction of a second. In an enclosed space like a ceiling fixture, especially one made of wood and glass, that sudden burst of heat can easily ignite nearby materials. Because pendant lights hang directly from your ceiling, often near combustible items like curtains or furniture, a fire starting here can spread rapidly before you even realize something is wrong.

The second danger is the risk of electrical shock. When insulation fails, the live electrical current is no longer contained. If you touch any part of the fixture that has become energized due to this exposed wiring—such as the metal parts of the socket, the hanging cord, or even the glass shade if it conducts electricity in certain conditions—the current can pass through your body to the ground. This is particularly dangerous with pendant lights because they hang at a reachable height. Unlike a wall outlet that is higher up and less frequently touched, you might brush against the fixture while changing a bulb or simply walking by. The loose insulation means that what should be a safe, cool glass surface could suddenly become electrified.

It is important to note that these failures often happen gradually. The insulation may degrade due to heat generated during normal use, or it may have been compromised during the manufacturing process. You cannot see this damage just by looking at the outside of the light. The fixture may appear perfectly normal, turning on and off without issue, while the internal wiring is slowly becoming unstable. This silent progression is why relying on visual inspection alone is not enough; the hazard is hidden inside the very component that makes the light work.

Who is most at risk

When we discuss the recent recall of CB2’s Colby lacquered wood and glass pendant light fixtures, it is important to look beyond just the technical specifications of the defect. While any user of this specific product faces a potential fire and electrical shock hazard due to loose wire insulation, certain groups within a household may be more vulnerable to the consequences of such an incident. Understanding who is at risk helps us appreciate why immediate action is necessary for everyone, regardless of age or mobility.

The primary group at risk includes anyone who owns or regularly uses these specific hanging ceiling lights. The recalled fixtures are distinct in their design: they feature a clear glass shade that measures 12 inches in diameter, suspended from a hanging cord that is 75 inches long. The entire unit extends to a length of 17.5 inches and incorporates lacquered wood and glass materials. Because the hazard stems from internal electrical wiring insulation coming loose, anyone who has installed these lights in their home—whether in a dining room, living area, or bedroom—is exposed to the same fundamental danger. However, the nature of that exposure varies based on how the fixture is used.

Children and pets are particularly at risk due to the physical dimensions of the Colby pendant light. With a hanging cord extending 75 inches (over six feet) and a total length of 17.5 inches, these lights often hang at a height that is reachable or within the play zone of young children. If the insulation fails and creates an exposed live wire, a curious child might touch the fixture, the cord, or even the glass shade if it becomes compromised by heat. The risk here is twofold: the immediate danger of electrical shock from contact with faulty wiring, and the secondary risk of burns or injury if the loose wiring leads to overheating or a fire while a child is nearby. Young children lack the cognitive ability to recognize electrical hazards, making their presence in the vicinity of these fixtures a significant safety concern.

Elderly individuals or those with limited mobility also face heightened risks, not necessarily from direct contact with the electricity, but from the potential for secondary injuries. If a fire were to start due to the insulation failure, the rapid spread of flames and smoke could be particularly dangerous for seniors who may have slower reaction times or difficulty evacuating quickly. Furthermore, if the electrical fault causes the fixture to fall or components to detach, anyone standing directly underneath or nearby is at risk of physical injury from falling debris, including the glass shade which can shatter upon impact.

Additionally, renters and homeowners who may have purchased these lights second-hand are at risk. Since this recall was announced in October 2018, there may be units still in circulation that were not part of the original sale. These individuals might not be aware of the defect because they did not receive the direct notification. They are especially vulnerable because they lack the immediate remedy offered by CB2—the free removal and replacement service. Without knowing the risk exists, they continue to operate a potentially hazardous device in their homes, unaware that the insulation inside could fail at any moment.

Ultimately, while the electrical hazard itself does not discriminate, the impact of a potential fire or shock is amplified by proximity and vulnerability. Anyone who can reach the fixture, anyone sleeping beneath it, and anyone unaware of the defect is part of the at-risk population. This is why the recall emphasizes immediate cessation of use for all owners, ensuring that no member of the household remains exposed to the danger.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Identifying whether your home contains one of the affected CB2 pendant lights requires a careful, step-by-step examination of both the physical fixture and its packaging or documentation. Because fire and electrical shock hazards are not always visible from a quick glance, it is essential to look for specific, tangible details rather than relying on general impressions. The recall specifically targets the Colby lacquered wood and glass pendant light fixtures. If your light does not match this specific description, it is likely safe, but if it does, you must proceed with caution.

First, examine the physical dimensions of the fixture, as size is a primary differentiator for this model. The recalled lights are hanging ceiling lights that measure exactly 17.5 inches in length. This refers to the total vertical span of the fixture when installed. Additionally, look at the glass shade itself; it should be clear and measure precisely 12 inches in diameter. If your light is significantly smaller or larger, or if the shade is frosted, colored, or made of a different material like metal or fabric, it is likely not part of this specific recall batch. Finally, check the hanging cord. The recalled units feature a cord that measures 75 inches long. You can verify this by measuring from the ceiling mount to the bottom of the light source.

Next, inspect the materials and finish. The fixture should have a distinct construction combining lacquered wood and glass. The "lacquered wood" portion typically refers to the canopy or the structural housing at the top, while the "glass" refers to the spherical shade. Ensure the glass is clear; any tinting or opacity would indicate a different product line. While the recall notice does not specify color variations of the lacquer, the primary identifier remains the combination of these materials with the exact dimensions listed above.

If you cannot find the light in your home, check where and when it was purchased. These items were sold by CB2. If you have the original box, receipt, or product tag, look for model numbers or serial codes that correspond to the Colby pendant line. Although specific model numbers are not detailed in the summary, the brand name "CB2" is a critical starting point. If you no longer have the packaging, use the physical measurements and material description as your guide.

Once you believe you have identified a potentially recalled unit, do not attempt to open the fixture or inspect the internal wiring yourself. Instead, verify your findings by contacting CB2 directly. You can confirm whether your specific item is included in the recall by calling 800-451-8217 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT on weekends. Alternatively, visit www.cb2.com and navigate to the “Product Recalls” section for official confirmation and further instructions.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have identified one of the recalled CB2 Colby lacquered wood and glass pendant light fixtures in your home, take comfort in knowing that the company has established a straightforward and customer-friendly remedy to resolve the issue. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report confirms that CB2 is not asking you to simply send the defective item back for a refund or credit. Instead, they are offering a comprehensive service that includes both the free removal of the recalled light fixture and the free installation of a safe replacement light. This approach is designed to minimize the burden on you, ensuring that you do not have to hire an electrician or deal with the complexity of handling electrical components yourself. The goal is to restore your lighting safely without any additional cost or hassle beyond contacting them.

To initiate this process, you must reach out to CB2 directly. They have set up specific channels for consumers to access these services. You can call their dedicated recall line at 800-451-8217. It is important to note their hours of operation so you know when you can speak with a representative. The phone lines are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Central Time on Monday through Friday, and the weekend hours are slightly shorter, running from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time. If you prefer to handle things online, you can visit their website at www.cb2.com. Once there, look for the “Product Recalls” section to find more detailed information and potentially complete the process digitally. When you contact them, have your product details ready, such as the model name (Colby) and any identifying marks on the fixture, to help them locate your purchase quickly.

The remedy provided is quite specific: CB2 will arrange for the removal of the hazardous pendant light and install a replacement. This is significant because it addresses the root cause of the hazard—the loose insulation on the electrical wiring—by removing the entire unit entirely rather than attempting a repair that might leave underlying risks. By having professionals handle both the take-down and the installation, you avoid any potential for injury during the process or exposure to the faulty wiring. The service is free of charge, meaning you should not incur any fees for labor, parts, or shipping related to this recall. This generous offer underscores CB2’s commitment to consumer safety under CPSC guidelines. It also simplifies your decision-making; you do not need to weigh the cost of repairs against a refund because the full service is covered. Ensure you document your interaction with CB2, keeping copies of any confirmation emails or case numbers they provide, in case you need to follow up later.

While waiting for the service to be scheduled, remember that the remedy does not change the immediate safety requirement. You must continue to keep the light switch in the off position and stop using the fixture entirely until the replacement is installed. Do not attempt to fix the insulation yourself or try to bypass the issue by using a different bulb type; the hazard lies within the wiring structure, which requires professional handling. The free removal and installation service is your safest and most efficient path forward. By following the contact steps outlined above, you ensure that the hazardous item is properly disposed of and replaced with a compliant product, restoring peace of mind to your home lighting setup.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a recall notice lands in your inbox or appears on the news with a brand name you recognize, it is natural to feel a momentary spike of anxiety followed by a pragmatic desire to just keep things running as they are. You might look at your CB2 Colby pendant light, see that it still shines brightly and functions perfectly, and think, “It’s working fine, so why fix what isn’t broken?” This is a very common human response. However, ignoring the specific hazard identified in this recall—loose insulation on the electrical wiring—is not merely an inconvenience; it is a gamble with serious physical consequences. The warning from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is not about cosmetic flaws or minor performance issues; it is about fundamental safety mechanisms that have failed.

The core danger here is twofold: fire and electric shock. When the insulation on the electrical wiring comes loose, the protective barrier that keeps electricity contained within the wire is compromised. In a normal, functioning light fixture, this insulation ensures that current flows only along the intended path to the bulb. When that insulation fails, exposed live wires can come into contact with parts of the fixture that are meant to be safe to touch or near, such as the metal components of the hanging cord, the glass shade, or even the ceiling mount. This creates a direct pathway for electricity to escape its circuit. The immediate result of this escape is an electric shock hazard. If you were to reach up to adjust the cord, change a bulb, or simply brush against the fixture while it is plugged in or switched on, you could become part of that electrical path. The severity of this shock depends on many factors, including grounding and moisture in the environment, but any unexpected electric shock can cause burns, muscle spasms, falls, or more severe cardiac issues.

Beyond the risk of shock to people, the loose insulation significantly increases the risk of an electrical fire. Exposed wires are prone to arcing, which is a sudden flow of electricity through the air between conductors. Arcing generates intense heat—often hot enough to ignite nearby combustible materials. In the case of these CB2 pendant lights, the fixture hangs close to ceilings and walls. If an arc occurs near the hanging cord or the point where the light connects to the ceiling junction box, it can melt surrounding materials, including drywall, insulation, or wood framing. Because electrical fires often start in hidden spaces within walls or above ceilings, they can grow undetected for a significant amount of time before flames break through into the living space. This makes them particularly dangerous, as smoke and fire may spread rapidly before you even realize something is wrong.

It is important to note that the current recall data indicates no reported incidents, injuries, or fires associated with these lights yet. This silence in the incident reports should not be interpreted as proof of safety. It simply means that, so far, the statistical probability has held up for consumers who have kept these lights installed. However, relying on luck is not a safety strategy. The insulation degradation is a physical failure that does not improve with time; it typically worsens as the wires flex during installation or normal use. By continuing to use the light, you are allowing a known defect to persist in your home environment. The consequence of ignoring this recall is that you are leaving a potential ignition source and an electrocution hazard active in your ceiling, waiting for the precise moment when a loose wire touches the right conductor to cause harm. The remedy offered by CB2 is designed to remove this latent risk entirely, turning a silent danger into a resolved issue.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in certain CB2 pendant lights, the underlying danger—electrical wiring insulation failing over time—is a risk that exists in nearly every home. Pendant lights and other hanging fixtures are unique because they combine weight, electricity, and height into one unit. To keep your household safe from fire and shock hazards beyond just this specific model, it is helpful to understand how these systems age and what routine maintenance can prevent disasters before they start.

First, let’s talk about the electrical connection itself. The insulation on wires inside your home is designed to last for decades, but heat, vibration, and poor initial installation can cause that protective layer to crack or loosen. When insulation fails, bare copper wire can touch metal parts of the fixture or each other, creating a spark. This is why you should never ignore a flickering light or a warm switch plate. If a pendant light feels hot to the touch when it has been on for just an hour, that is a warning sign. It suggests the electrical current is encountering resistance, often due to loose connections or degraded wiring. In such cases, the safest immediate step is to turn off the circuit at your breaker box and have a licensed electrician inspect the wiring behind the ceiling rose.

Beyond electrical integrity, the physical stability of hanging fixtures is critical. Pendant lights hang by a cord or chain, and over time, the hardware can loosen due to gravity and minor building shifts. A falling light fixture is not only a property damage risk but also a serious injury hazard. Check your fixtures annually for any signs of swaying that feels excessive or unusual. If you hear creaking noises when the light moves, do not wait for it to fall. Tighten the mounting hardware according to the manufacturer’s instructions, or hire a professional if you are unsure. For older homes, consider upgrading to heavier-duty mounting boxes rated for the weight of your specific fixture, especially if you plan to use heavy glass or metal shades.

Another often-overlooked aspect of lighting safety is the quality of the bulbs and sockets used. Using bulbs with a wattage higher than what is recommended on the fixture’s label generates excess heat. This heat can accelerate the degradation of the wire insulation we discussed earlier, creating a feedback loop of danger. Always stick to the maximum wattage listed on the fixture or its socket. If your fixtures are old and have cloth-covered wiring, which was common in homes built before the 1970s, be extra vigilant. Cloth insulation dries out and flakes away much faster than modern plastic coatings, exposing wires to short circuits. If you suspect your home has knob-and-tube wiring or other outdated systems, an electrical inspection is a wise investment in long-term safety.

Finally, make staying safe a proactive habit rather than a reactive one. Sign up for email alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and local fire departments. Recall notices often contain critical information about hazards that aren’t obvious until multiple incidents occur. By keeping your devices updated and your home’s electrical systems inspected periodically, you protect not just your property, but the well-being of everyone in your household. Safety is built on small, consistent checks, not just grand gestures.