What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall affecting specific power adapters manufactured by Netgear. This action addresses issues with the VMA4700 NETGEAR Arlo outdoor power adapters, which were marketed and sold as aftermarket accessories for wire-free outdoor security cameras. It is important to clarify that this recall does not encompass every product made by Netgear or even every accessory for the Arlo line. Instead, it targets a very specific subset of hardware designed to provide power to the Arlo, Arlo Pro, and Arlo Go cameras when they are installed outdoors.
To help you identify whether your device is part of this recall, look closely at both the packaging and the physical unit itself. The affected product is the black adapter that features a weatherproof connector on one end and a standard power plug on the other. On the front face of the adapter, you will see the word "Arlo" printed clearly. The power cord attached to this unit measures approximately eight feet in length. If you purchased these adapters separately to charge your outdoor cameras, rather than receiving them as part of a bundled camera kit, they are likely subject to this recall.
Verification requires checking two specific identifiers. First, look at the retail packaging; the model number "VMA4700" will be prominently displayed there. Second, turn the adapter over and inspect the back surface for the part number, which is marked as 332-10985-01. Only units bearing both this specific model number and part number are included in this safety notice. The recall announcement was officially published on December 5, 2017. While the official record provided does not specify the exact retail stores or online platforms where these items were sold, nor does it list the total number of units distributed to consumers, it confirms that all VMA4700 models sold separately as aftermarket accessories are included in this safety action.
If you have any doubt about whether your adapter is part of this group, do not attempt to use it until you can confirm its model and part numbers against the details above. The scope of this recall is strictly limited to the VMA4700 aftermarket power supply units. Other Arlo accessories or different model numbers are not involved in this particular safety alert.
The hazard, explained
Understanding why a power adapter can become dangerous requires looking at the specific design flaw identified in this Netgear recall. The core issue lies in the weatherproof connector located at one end of the power cord. While these adapters are marketed for outdoor use and feature weatherproofing to protect against rain and snow, the engineering is not foolproof. Over time, or during periods of heavy precipitation, water can find its way past the seals and leak into the internal components of that connector. This is not necessarily a failure of the product’s marketing, but rather a limitation of how moisture interacts with electrical contacts in exposed environments.
Once water enters the connector, it creates an unintended path for electricity to flow. Water, especially when it contains dissolved minerals from rain or tap water, can conduct electricity. This leads to a short circuit within the adapter’s housing. A short circuit causes the electrical current to surge and resist properly, generating intense heat in a very localized area. According to reports from Netgear, this rapid overheating has caused the plastic casing and internal wiring of the adapters to melt. It is important to visualize that this is not just a minor warm-up; it is enough thermal energy to deform plastic components and potentially ignite surrounding materials.
The physical progression of this hazard typically follows a clear pattern. First, moisture breaches the seal. Second, the electrical resistance causes the unit to overheat significantly beyond normal operating temperatures. Third, the heat damages the insulation on the wires and the housing itself, which can lead to melting. In severe cases, as documented in this recall, this process has resulted in actual fires. While seven reports of melting and one confirmed fire have been filed with the CPSC, the potential for injury is significant because these adapters are often left plugged in unattended, sometimes near wooden structures, siding, or other flammable materials.
This type of failure is particularly insidious because it can happen gradually. You might notice a slight warmth during a storm, but ignore it if the camera continues to function. However, the internal damage may already be accumulating. Each time water enters and causes a minor short, it degrades the integrity of the connector further, making the next incident more likely and more severe. The fact that no injuries have been reported so far is fortunate, but it does not mean the risk is low—it means the hazard has not yet manifested in a way that harmed anyone personally. The combination of high heat and melted plastic creates both a burn risk and a fire risk, making immediate cessation of use critical.
It is also worth noting that this hazard is specific to the aftermarket nature of this product. Because it was sold separately as an accessory rather than being integrated into the camera’s original manufacturing process from the start, the tolerances and sealing mechanisms may differ from those found in factory-installed units. General safety education for outdoor electronics always emphasizes that "weatherproof" does not mean "waterproof." No consumer electronic device should ever be left in a position where water can pool around or penetrate its electrical connections. The physical reality here is that the adapter cannot safely manage the intrusion of liquid into its live electrical components, leading directly to the melting and fire hazards described.
Who is most at risk
The primary group affected by this recall consists of homeowners and renters who utilize the Netgear Arlo ecosystem for home security. Specifically, this includes individuals who purchased the VMA4700 power adapter as a standalone accessory to power their Arlo, Arlo Pro, or Arlo Go wireless outdoor cameras. These are typically users who value the convenience of wire-free installation but require a reliable power source for continuous surveillance. Because these adapters are designed for outdoor use, they are exposed to the elements—rain, snow, humidity, and temperature fluctuations—which is the central factor in creating the risk. If you installed this adapter outside your home, near a window, or in a covered porch area where moisture can accumulate, you are part of the affected population. The hazard is not inherent to the camera itself, but rather to the power supply that feeds electricity to it through a weatherproof connector that may have failed to keep water out.
While any adult user faces the risk of property damage from a potential fire, there are specific demographic groups who may be disproportionately vulnerable to the consequences of such an incident. For elderly individuals or those with limited mobility, the presence of an electrical fire in a home security setup is particularly dangerous. These users often rely on their Arlo cameras for personal safety and monitoring. A fire caused by the melting adapter could compromise not only their property but also their sense of security. Furthermore, if the fire occurs while they are asleep or away from the immediate area of the outlet, the delay in detection could be critical. The slow overheating process described in the recall reports suggests that the danger might escalate before it becomes visibly obvious, leaving less time for reaction.
Families with young children also face heightened risks, though perhaps more indirectly. While small children are not typically near outdoor outlets, indoor power strips or nearby electrical circuits can be affected if the fire spreads to the home’s wiring. More importantly, this recall highlights a vulnerability in how we trust "weatherproof" technology. Parents who install these devices to monitor their children’s play areas outdoors may feel a false sense of security because the device is marketed for outdoor use. The reality that water can breach the connector means that the safety barrier they relied upon was compromised. This creates a risk not just of fire, but of electrocution if the internal components fail in a way that exposes live wires to conductive surfaces or moisture accumulation near ground level where children might play.
Additionally, individuals living in regions with high precipitation or extreme weather conditions are at greater risk than those in dry climates. The recall notes that water leakage is the root cause of the short circuit. Therefore, residents in areas prone to heavy rain, snowmelt, or high humidity are more likely to encounter the failure mode described. This is not a random defect; it is an environmental interaction. If you live in a coastal area, a rainy season, or a region with significant freeze-thaw cycles that can degrade seals over time, your specific environment increases the likelihood of this adapter failing. It is crucial to understand that the risk is dynamic and influenced by where and how you installed the device, not just by who bought it.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you are a Netgear Arlo user who purchased an outdoor power solution separately from your camera system, it is crucial to verify whether your specific adapter falls under this safety recall. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has identified a very specific set of devices that are at risk, so do not assume all Netgear adapters are affected. This recall targets only the VMA4700 NETGEAR Arlo outdoor power adapters. These units were sold separately as aftermarket accessories, meaning they were not bundled inside the box with your Arlo, Arlo Pro, or Arlo Go wire-free outdoor cameras. If you bought your camera system in a kit that included a power brick, your adapter is likely safe; however, if you purchased this specific power source on its own to extend your camera’s range or replace a lost unit, you need to inspect it closely.
The first and most definitive way to identify the recalled product is by checking the model number printed on the original packaging. Look for "VMA4700" clearly displayed on the box. If you have discarded the packaging, you must examine the adapter itself. Turn the device over and look at the back surface. You should see a part number marked there: 332-10985-01. This part number is the secondary identifier that confirms the unit’s identity. It is important to note that the front of the adapter will have the word "Arlo" printed on it, which might be misleading if you assume all Arlo-branded power supplies are included. Only the specific VMA4700 model with the weatherproof connector design described below is subject to this recall.
You can also identify the correct unit by its physical characteristics and construction. The recalled adapter is black in color. It features a distinct design where one end has a weatherproof connector intended for the camera, and the other end plugs into your wall outlet. A key visual cue is the power cord length; the cord on these specific adapters measures approximately eight feet long. If you are trying to determine if an old adapter in your drawer is the one to worry about, check for that eight-foot cord and the weatherproof connector on one end. These physical details, combined with the model and part numbers, will help you confirm whether your device is part of this specific batch. Remember, the recall date was December 5, 2017, so these units were sold prior to that date as aftermarket additions.
To ensure you are looking at the right product, compare your adapter against these precise details: black casing, "Arlo" on the front, VMA4700 model number on the box or 332-10985-01 part number on the back, and an eight-foot cord with a weatherproof connector. If any of these details do not match, your adapter is likely not part of this recall. However, if they do match, please stop using it immediately and contact Netgear for your refund.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Netgear VMA4700 power adapters for your Arlo outdoor camera, the most critical action you can take is to act immediately. The risk here is not something that develops slowly over time; it is a present and active danger waiting to happen. Because the hazard involves electrical short circuits that can lead to melting components and overheating, your first and most important step is to completely stop using the adapter right now. Do not wait for the next scheduled security check or for the camera to beep. Simply unplug the power adapter from both the wall outlet and the outdoor camera. This physical separation breaks the electrical circuit and removes the source of potential heat generation. It is vital that you do not attempt to reuse the adapter even if it appears to be working normally, as the internal damage or vulnerability to water intrusion may not be visible to the naked eye but could still trigger a fire under specific conditions. Once the device is safely disconnected, your next step is to initiate the remedy process established by Netgear and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You have two clear options for contacting the company to arrange for a full refund. The most direct method is to call their dedicated toll-free hotline at 866-243-0513. When you call, be prepared to speak with a representative during their business hours, which are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. Have your model number and part number ready to provide to the agent to expedite the process. Alternatively, if you prefer digital communication or cannot reach them by phone, you can visit the official Arlo website at www.arlo.com. Navigate to the top of the page and look for the specific "recall" tab. Clicking this will direct you to detailed instructions on how to proceed with your refund claim online. It is important to understand that Netgear’s remedy for this specific recall is a full refund, not a repair or replacement unit. This is because the fundamental design flaw—the weatherproof connector on the power adapter—is what allows water to leak in and cause short circuits. Sending you a new unit with the same connector would simply replace one potentially dangerous item with another. Therefore, your goal should be to get your money back so you can purchase a different brand of power solution that does not have this known defect. Do not throw the recalled adapter in the trash immediately after contacting Netgear. Keep it until you receive specific instructions from their customer service team on how to dispose of it safely, as improper disposal could pose risks to others or to sanitation workers who might handle the waste. Finally, once your refund is processed and you have secured a safe alternative power source for your outdoor camera, take a moment to verify that your other Arlo equipment is secure. While this recall specifically targets the VMA4700 aftermarket model sold separately, ensuring your entire security system is powered safely is good practice. Check the packaging or the back of any other adapters you own to confirm they do not bear the part number 332-10985-01. By following these steps methodically—disconnecting, contacting for a refund, and securing a safe alternative—you effectively eliminate the fire hazard from your home environment without unnecessary stress or delay.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have identified one of the recalled Netgear power adapters in your home, the good news is that the company has established a straightforward remedy designed to put your mind and wallet at ease. Unlike some recalls that offer partial credits or require you to purchase new accessories to qualify for service, this specific recall from Netgear offers a full refund. This means you are not expected to pay anything out of pocket to resolve the issue, nor are you being asked to keep the defective product while waiting for a fix. The company has decided that returning your money is the most appropriate and efficient way to handle the safety risk associated with these specific weatherproof connectors.
To initiate this process, you have two convenient options for contacting Netgear directly. You can call their dedicated toll-free number at 866-243-0513. This line is staffed during standard business hours, specifically from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer to handle things digitally or if the phone lines are busy, you can visit their official website at www.arlo.com. Once on the site, look for the "recall" tab located at the very top of the page. This dedicated section is designed to guide you through the necessary steps without having to navigate through general customer support queues.
When you reach out to Netgear, whether by phone or online, be prepared to provide specific details about your unit to verify that it falls under this recall. As noted in the product description, the model number "VMA4700" is printed on the packaging, and the part number 332-10985-01 is marked on the back of the adapter itself. Having this information ready will help the support team confirm your eligibility for the refund quickly. It is important to note that this remedy applies specifically to the VMA4700 aftermarket model sold separately. If you purchased an Arlo camera system that came with a power adapter included in the box, that item is not part of this specific recall action.
The "why" behind offering a refund rather than a repair or replacement is rooted in the nature of the defect. The hazard involves water leaking into the weatherproof connector, which can cause short circuits, melting, and overheating. Because the internal components have been compromised by potential moisture intrusion and heat damage, repairing the unit is not a viable safety option. Replacing it with another identical adapter would also pose a risk unless Netgear has issued a revised design that they are not currently advertising as part of this specific recall campaign. Therefore, a full refund allows you to purchase a different, potentially safer power solution for your Arlo, Arlo Pro, or Arlo Go cameras from a different vendor if you choose, ensuring your outdoor security setup remains safe and functional without relying on the recalled component.
Once your claim is processed and approved, you should expect the refund to be issued to your original method of payment. While the timeline for the refund to appear in your bank or credit card account can vary depending on your financial institution's policies, Netgear has committed to processing these refunds promptly. Do not discard the power adapter immediately upon calling, as they may request that you return it or dispose of it safely according to local electronic waste guidelines. Follow any specific instructions given to you by the customer service representative or found in the online recall portal to ensure the process is completed smoothly and without further delay.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using a power adapter that has been working fine for months or even years. When an electronic accessory functions correctly, our natural instinct is to assume it will continue to do so indefinitely. However, with the Netgear VMA4700 power adapters recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), ignoring the recall notice is not just a minor inconvenience; it is a gamble with your home’s safety. The core issue here is not that the adapter is broken today, but that its design contains a vulnerability that worsens over time. These adapters are intended for outdoor use, meaning they are constantly exposed to rain, snow, humidity, and temperature changes. The weatherproof connector, which is supposed to keep moisture out, can eventually fail or allow water to seep in. Once that water enters the internal components of the adapter, it creates a path for electricity to flow where it shouldn’t.
This infiltration of water leads to a short circuit. In simple terms, a short circuit forces electrical current to take an unintended, low-resistance route. This generates intense, localized heat very quickly. As the CPSC notes, this process can cause the plastic casing and internal wires to melt and overheat. We have already seen this play out in the real world: Netgear has confirmed seven incidents where the power adapter cord melted and overheated, resulting in at least one actual fire. While no injuries have been reported so far, fire is a rapidly escalating hazard. What starts as a warm plug can quickly become an ignition source for nearby materials, such as siding, mulch, or outdoor furniture.
If you continue to use the recalled adapter, you are essentially leaving a potential ignition source plugged into your wall, often in close proximity to your home’s exterior structure. The risk is not just about the adapter itself burning up; it is about what that heat can touch. A melting plastic connector can drip hot material onto flammable surfaces below it. If this occurs near your house’s foundation, siding, or deck, the fire can spread beyond the device itself. Furthermore, electrical fires often produce toxic smoke and can compromise the integrity of your home’s wiring if they backfeed into the outlet. The CPSC emphasizes that you should stop using these units immediately because the probability of failure increases with exposure to the elements. Waiting for a visible sign of trouble—like a smell of burning plastic or a flickering light—is too late; by then, the damage may already be done.
Ignoring the recall also means denying yourself the full refund that Netgear is offering as part of their remedy. There is no benefit to keeping a defective product when you can get your money back and replace it with a safe alternative. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your outdoor camera setup is electrically safe is worth far more than the few dollars or hours spent processing the refund. Please do not wait for another report of melting or fire to take action. Your home’s safety depends on addressing this hazard before it becomes a tragedy.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defect in Netgear’s VMA4700 power adapters, the underlying issue—water intrusion leading to electrical failure—is a common challenge for any outdoor electronic device. To keep your home and family safer from similar risks, it is helpful to understand the broader principles of protecting electronics that live outside. The primary goal is simple: create a reliable barrier between moisture and electricity. When you install any weatherproof camera or sensor, treat the power connection as the most vulnerable point. Even adapters marketed as "weather-resistant" can degrade over time due to sun exposure, temperature swings, and physical wear. Therefore, regular visual inspections are your best defense. Look closely at the connector ends every few months for cracks, discoloration, or signs of corrosion. If you see any damage, stop using the device immediately, regardless of whether it has been officially recalled.
Proper installation technique also plays a huge role in preventing water damage. Never assume that a "weatherproof" connector is completely watertight on its own. You should always use electrical tape or specialized waterproofing boots to seal the joint where the adapter plugs into the camera or cable. This adds a secondary layer of protection that can stop rain and humidity from creeping in during heavy storms or high winds. Additionally, consider the positioning of your power source. If possible, mount adapters in shaded areas away from direct sprinkler spray or downspouts. Direct sunlight can break down the rubber seals on connectors faster, making them brittle and more likely to fail when you plug them in.
Beyond outdoor cameras, it is wise to adopt a habit of checking for recalls across all your home electronics. Manufacturers sometimes discover defects after products have been sold, and these recalls are critical for preventing fires or injuries. You can stay informed by signing up for email alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at cpsc.gov. This free service allows you to set up alerts based on product categories, ensuring you don’t miss important safety updates for items like baby car seats, heaters, or kitchen appliances. Regularly reviewing your home’s electrical setup is not about living in fear; it is about taking proactive control of your environment.
Finally, remember that electricity and water are a dangerous combination, but the risk can be managed with simple, consistent habits. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets for all outdoor electrical uses. These devices are designed to shut off power instantly if they detect a current leak, which significantly reduces the risk of severe shock or fire. By combining proper installation techniques, regular inspections, and awareness of official safety alerts, you can enjoy the convenience of smart home technology without compromising your safety.