What was recalled
In September 2016, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving a popular home safety and lighting device sold under the HAUS brand. Specifically, the agency identified the "HAUS ZapBulb 2-in-1 mosquito zapper LED light bulbs" as the subject of this recall. This product was marketed as a dual-purpose solution for homeowners: it functioned simultaneously as a standard light source and as an insect trap. The manufacturer, Creative Sourcing International, initiated this voluntary recall on September 8, 2016, after determining that a critical component of the bulb’s design posed a potential safety risk to consumers.
To help you identify whether your specific unit is part of this recall, it is important to understand exactly what the product looks like and how it was packaged. The recalled item is a 10-watt light bulb designed to screw into standard household fixtures. Visually, the bulb features a distinctive white grid housing that measures approximately 3.1 inches in height, 3.1 inches in width, and 6.1 inches in depth. This grid structure serves two purposes: it contains a blue light intended to attract insects toward the zapping mechanism, and below that grid, there is an LED light component designed to provide general illumination for your room.
One of the most crucial details for determining if you own a recalled unit is the labeling. According to the official CPSC record, this recall applies exclusively to units that have absolutely no markings or labels on them. If your bulb has any stickers, printed information, or brand logos attached directly to the plastic housing, it may not be included in this specific batch of recalled items. However, if you purchased a HAUS ZapBulb and the unit is completely bare of any identifying text or barcodes on the bulb itself, you should proceed with caution.
While the recall notice does not specify the total number of units sold nationwide or the exact dates of sale in the provided facts, it notes that the product was distributed through Creative Sourcing. The packaging for these bulbs carried the SKU number IK 3000. If you have a bulb with this SKU on the box and the bulb itself lacks labeling, it falls within the scope of this safety alert. The lack of specific sales volume data in the immediate recall summary does not diminish the importance of checking your home; any unit matching these physical descriptions should be considered part of the recall until verified otherwise.
It is also worth noting that the product was sold by Creative Sourcing International, operating under the HAUS brand name. Consumers who purchased these items may have done so through various retail channels that carried HAUS home goods. Because the hazard involves an electrical connection point rather than a chemical or biological failure, the physical characteristics of the bulb are your primary tools for identification. By carefully examining the white grid housing and checking for the absence of labels, you can determine if your mosquito zapper light bulb is one of the units that Creative Sourcing has asked to be returned or replaced.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about electrical products in our homes, we often assume that once a device is plugged in and turned on, the flow of electricity is contained safely within its intended pathways. However, recalls like this one remind us that physical integrity is just as important as electrical design. In the case of the HAUS ZapBulb 2-in-1 mosquito zapper LED light bulbs, the specific danger lies not in how the bulb works while it is functioning correctly, but in what happens when its physical structure fails. The core issue is a mechanical separation: the base of the light bulb—the part that screws into your lamp socket—can detach from the connector or housing that holds the electronic components.
To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at how electricity travels through a standard household outlet. In a typical 120-volt circuit in the United States, there are "hot" wires that carry the live electrical current and "neutral" wires that complete the circuit back to the panel. When a light bulb is screwed in correctly, the metal threads of the base make contact with the socket, allowing electricity to flow safely to the filament or LED driver inside. The outer shell of the bulb is usually grounded or insulated to prevent you from touching live parts. But when the base separates from the connector due to a manufacturing defect or material fatigue, that carefully designed barrier disappears.
Once that separation occurs, the internal components that should be hidden away become exposed. If the separated portion still retains an electrical charge or if the break creates an arc, the metal parts that were meant to be insulated can now come into direct contact with your hand, a lampshade, or any other conductive material you might touch while changing the bulb or cleaning the fixture. This is what constitutes an electrical shock hazard. The electricity seeks the path of least resistance to ground, and if your body provides that path, you will feel a shock. While the recall notes that no injuries have been reported so far, the potential for harm is real and immediate.
It is also worth noting that this type of failure can sometimes lead to arcing—visible sparks jumping across the gap where the base has pulled away. Arcing generates intense heat and can damage the socket itself, potentially leading to a fire hazard in addition to the shock risk. Even if no spark occurs, the exposed live terminals create an unpredictable environment. You might not feel the electricity until you touch something else connected to that circuit or ground yourself inadvertently. This is why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) treats this as a serious safety violation. The product is not just "defective" in a cosmetic sense; it has lost its fundamental ability to protect the user from the very energy it is designed to manage.
Understanding the mechanism helps clarify why simply being careful isn't enough. If the bond between the base and the connector is weak, it may fail without warning during normal use. You might be unscrewing the bulb to change a lightbulb in a different fixture, or perhaps just turning off the lamp before bed, when the internal connection gives way. At that moment, the safety features built into the rest of the product are bypassed because the primary point of insulation has been physically removed. This is why immediate removal is critical; you cannot rely on the product to protect you once its structural integrity is compromised.
Who is most at risk
While the Consumer Product Safety Commission notes that there have been no reported injuries or property damage from the specific incidents involving the HAUS ZapBulb 2-in-1 mosquito zapper LED light bulbs, the nature of this hazard means that anyone with physical access to the installed fixture is potentially vulnerable. The primary group at risk consists of individuals who live in homes where these specific recalled bulbs are currently installed and active. Because the defect involves the base of the bulb separating from the electrical connector within the socket, the danger is not limited to the person who initially purchased or installed the light. It extends to any household member who might interact with the lamp or ceiling fixture after the bulb has failed.
Certain demographics face heightened risks due to their physical capabilities and environmental awareness. Children are particularly vulnerable for several reasons. First, they are naturally curious and may be more likely to touch fixtures, pull on cords, or inspect unusual objects like a buzzing insect zapper light. If a child reaches up to change a bulb, adjust the fixture, or even play near an open socket where the base has detached, they are at significant risk of electrical shock. Their smaller body mass and lower resistance can make even a minor electrical current potentially more dangerous than it would be for an adult. Furthermore, children may not recognize the danger of exposed metal parts in a light socket as clearly as adults do.
Elderly individuals or those with mobility challenges also face unique risks in this scenario. As people age, their reaction times may slow, and their grip strength might diminish. If the bulb base separates unexpectedly while they are using the light, the sudden exposure of live electrical components could startle them, leading to falls or other secondary injuries. Additionally, if the separation causes a spark or minor arcing, individuals with respiratory issues might be concerned about the resulting smoke or smell, adding stress and potential health complications to the immediate physical danger.
It is also important to consider that the hazard persists as long as the power supply remains on. This means that anyone in the household who does not immediately identify the problem is at risk during routine activities such as cleaning, changing rooms, or simply walking past the lamp. The risk is not just about electrical shock; it is about the unpredictability of a critical failure in a common household item. Therefore, the entire household environment becomes a potential hazard zone until the bulb is properly removed and replaced. Everyone who shares the living space with the installed HAUS ZapBulb should be considered at risk until the remedy is fully implemented.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you are unsure whether the light bulb currently installed in your home is part of this recall, do not rely on guesswork. Because Creative Sourcing has received reports of the bulb base separating from the connector, it is critical that you physically inspect your fixture to confirm exactly what product you have. The good news is that this specific recall targets a very distinct set of items, which makes identification straightforward if you know what details to look for. We will walk you through the visual and packaging clues that define this hazard.
First, check the brand name on the product or its original box. You are looking specifically for bulbs branded as HAUS. Within that brand line, the affected model is the ZapBulb 2-in-1 mosquito zapper LED light bulb. This is not a standard incandescent or simple LED bulb; it is a dual-function device designed to both illuminate your room and attract insects. If you purchased a basic HAUS light bulb that does not advertise mosquito-zapping capabilities, it is likely not part of this specific recall, but verifying the model name is the safest first step.
Next, examine the physical dimensions and appearance of the bulb itself. The recalled unit is a 10-watt bulb with a very specific shape and color scheme. It features a white grid housing that measures approximately 3.1 inches high, 3.1 inches wide, and 6.1 inches deep. Visually, you should see a blue light mechanism within the grid, which is used to attract insects, located above an LED light source intended for general lighting. If your bulb looks significantly different in size or lacks this white grid structure with internal blue components, it may be a different product.
The most definitive way to confirm if you have a recalled item is to look at the packaging or the bulb itself for specific identifiers. The recall explicitly states that only units without any markings or labels are included in this recall. This means if your bulb has a sticker, a printed label with safety certifications, or other manufacturer markings directly on the glass or base, it is likely exempt from this action. However, if you still have the original box, look for the SKU number IK 3000. The presence of this specific SKU on your packaging is a strong indicator that this is the product in question.
If you cannot find the box or if the bulb has no external labels, you must rely on the physical description above. Stop using the bulb immediately if it matches the HAUS ZapBulb 2-in-1 description with the specific dimensions and lacks any labeling. Do not attempt to remove it yourself yet; follow the remedy steps in our next section to ensure your safety while arranging for a free replacement.
What to do — step by step
If you own the recalled HAUS ZapBulb 2-in-1 mosquito zapper LED light bulbs, your immediate priority is safety. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Creative Sourcing have identified a serious electrical shock hazard because the bulb’s base can separate from the connector while the device is plugged in. Please do not ignore this warning or assume it will only happen to someone else. Follow these concrete steps carefully to protect yourself, your family, and your home.
- Stop using the product immediately. As soon as you realize you have one of these recalled bulbs, turn off the light switch and unplug the fixture if possible. The hazard exists because the internal connection can fail, potentially exposing live electrical parts. Continuing to use the bulb, even for a short time, increases the risk of an electrical shock. It is better to be without your mosquito zapper temporarily than to risk injury.
- Contact Creative Sourcing to arrange a free replacement. You are entitled to a completely free replacement mosquito zapper LED light bulb. This remedy includes all shipping costs, so you do not need to pay for return labels or new postage. To initiate this process, call the toll-free number at 888-521-8326 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can send an email to hauswares@kalorik.com or visit www.hauswares.com and click on "Recall Information" for online instructions. When you contact them, they will also provide specific instructions on how to safely remove the old bulb from your fixture.
- Follow the removal instructions carefully. The recall notice emphasizes that Creative Sourcing will supply detailed guidance on removing the recalled bulb. Because the base may be loose or partially detached, attempting to twist it out by hand without proper knowledge could worsen the damage or expose you to shock. Wait for their specific directions before touching the fixture again. If the bulb is stuck or if you feel unsure about the physical removal process, do not force it.
- Seek reimbursement for professional help if necessary. This is a critical safety net included in the remedy. If you are not comfortable removing the bulb yourself, or if your specific fixture makes DIY removal risky, you can hire a licensed electrician to do it for you. Creative Sourcing has stated they will reimburse consumers for these professional costs. Keep all receipts and documentation from the electrician so you can submit them for reimbursement as part of the recall process.
- Dispose of or store the recalled bulb safely. Once removed, place the old bulb in a plastic bag to prevent accidental contact with any exposed metal parts. Do not throw it loosely into a recycling bin where someone else might handle it. Follow any additional disposal instructions provided by Creative Sourcing during your contact with them.
By taking these steps promptly, you eliminate the shock hazard entirely. The company is covering all costs associated with the fix, so there is no financial reason to delay. Your safety is worth the few minutes it takes to make that call or send that email today.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that you own one of the recalled HAUS ZapBulb 2-in-1 mosquito zapper LED light bulbs, the good news is that Creative Sourcing has established a straightforward and consumer-friendly remedy plan. You do not need to worry about bearing the cost of getting your home safe again. The company is offering free replacement units for those who wish to keep using the product line, but they have also thoughtfully anticipated that some situations might require professional help to remove the defective bulb safely.
The primary remedy offered by Creative Sourcing International is a free replacement mosquito zapper LED light bulb. This replacement comes with all necessary shipping costs covered, so you will not be charged for postage or handling. Along with your new bulb, they will provide clear instructions on how to remove the old, hazardous unit and install the new one in its place. This step-by-step guidance is designed to make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible for homeowners who may not be familiar with electrical fixtures.
However, Creative Sourcing recognizes that a separating bulb base can sometimes become stuck or difficult to remove without risking damage to the socket or personal injury. In these specific cases, where you feel uncomfortable or unsafe attempting to remove the bulb yourself, the company will reimburse you for the cost of hiring a professional electrician. This is an important detail because it removes the financial barrier to getting the job done safely by a qualified expert. To qualify for this reimbursement, you will need to contact them first to discuss your situation and likely provide proof of payment for the electrician’s services.
To initiate any part of this process—whether you want a free replacement bulb or need to arrange for electrician reimbursement—you must contact Creative Sourcing directly. You can reach their support team toll-free at 888-521-8326. Their customer service representatives are available from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication, you may also send an email to hauswares@kalorik.com. For those who like to manage their requests online, you can visit www.hauswares.com and navigate to the "Recall Information" section for additional details and forms. Please have your product packaging handy when you call or write, as the SKU number IK 3000 will help them verify your eligibility quickly.
- Contact Creative Sourcing at 888-521-8326 (Mon-Fri, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. ET).
- Email hauswares@kalorik.com for written inquiries.
- Visit www.hauswares.com and click on "Recall Information" for online resources.
- Ask about free replacement bulbs with prepaid shipping.
- Inquire about reimbursement if you need a professional electrician to remove the bulb.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to take action right now. The recalled HAUS ZapBulb 2-in-1 mosquito zapper LED light bulbs look like ordinary household fixtures, and the CPSC has confirmed that there have been no reported injuries or property damage from this specific defect. This lack of immediate tragedy can create a false sense of security, leading many consumers to think, "It hasn't happened to me yet, so it’s probably fine." However, ignoring a known electrical hazard is never a safe gamble, even if the odds seem low. The core issue here is not just about the bulb falling out; it is about the integrity of your home's electrical system and your personal safety.
The specific danger lies in the way the light bulb’s base can separate from its connector. When this connection fails, you are no longer dealing with a sealed, insulated device designed to keep electricity contained. Instead, you are left with exposed live components inside a socket that is meant to be touched or accessed easily. If the metal base of the bulb pulls away while the power is still on, the internal wiring and contacts become energized and accessible. This creates a direct path for electrical current to travel through anything that touches it, including your fingers, a tool you might use to adjust the fixture, or even a pet jumping up to investigate the light.
An electrical shock of this nature can range from a painful jolt to something far more severe. At its mildest, you might feel a sharp sting or a muscle spasm that could cause you to drop a tool or stumble, leading to secondary injuries like bruises or falls. But electricity does not discriminate based on how old the bulb is or how "safe" it looks. If the separation occurs while you are changing the bulb, or if moisture from the outdoor environment (since these are often used in patio settings) bridges the gap between the live part and ground, the risk of a serious shock increases dramatically. Furthermore, a loose connection can create arcing—tiny, high-temperature electrical sparks—which poses a fire risk to the fixture itself, the surrounding wall, or any flammable materials nearby, such as curtains or dry leaves.
You might also wonder about the practical annoyance versus the safety risk. Ignoring this means you are living with a ticking clock of uncertainty. Every time you flip the switch, you are engaging a potentially compromised connection. The two reports received by Creative Sourcing serve as a warning that the mechanism is flawed, not just an isolated accident. By continuing to use the bulb, you are essentially asking your home's electrical infrastructure to compensate for a manufacturing defect. When that compensation fails—and it will eventually—the consequences are immediate and physical. There is no way to predict when the base will give way, making the only logical choice to remove the hazard entirely before it has a chance to cause harm.
Ultimately, the cost of replacing this bulb is minimal compared to the potential cost of an injury. Electric shocks can disrupt heart rhythm, cause burns, or lead to long-term nerve damage. While the recall statistics show zero incidents so far, that is because luck has not yet run out, not because the risk is absent. The safest path forward is to treat this defect as a serious threat to your household's well-being, not just a minor inconvenience. Removing the bulb and securing a free replacement eliminates the possibility of shock, fire, or injury, giving you peace of mind that your home remains a safe sanctuary.