Klein Tools Non-Contact Voltage Tester Model NCVT-1

CPSC Recall #21-150 — June 9, 2021

Recall Summary

Recall Number21-150
Recall DateJune 9, 2021
Remedy TypeReplace
Units AffectedAbout 1,690,000 (In addition, about 67,800 were sold in Canada.)
ImporterKlein Tools, of Lincolnshire, Ill. 
Manufactured InChina

Where It Was Sold

The Home Depot stores and industrial distributors
electrical wholesalers and some hardware stores nationwide from January 2020 through March 2021 for about $17 (for units sold separately) and about $40-$68 (for kits).

Product

Klein Tools Non-Contact Voltage Tester Model NCVT-1

Description

This recall involves Klein Tools Non-Contact Voltage Testers with model numbers NCVT1 and date codes ending H7. The product was also sold separately and in kits.  The following model numbers are involved in the recall, all bearing date codes ending in H7. Model Number Description Retail Price (U.S. $) NCVT1 Non-Contact Voltage Tester 16.97 NCVT1SEN Non-Contact Voltage Tester with Sensormatic Tag 16.97 NCVT1EP Non-Contact Voltage Tester (Econo. Pack - Bubble Bag)   16.97 NCVT1A Non-Contact Voltage Tester (Asian Packaging) 16.97 NCVT1E Non-Contact Voltage Tester (European Packaging) 16.97 69149 KIT, 3PC, Multimeter Test Kit (Retail Clam Shell) 39.97 80018 KIT, 4PC, Residential Electrical Tool Kit (Poly-Bag & UPC Label) 49.99 80023 KIT, 3PC, Home Inspector Moisture Meter Kit, (Poly-Bag & UPC Label) 59.99 MPZ00001 KIT, 2PC, Pliers + NCVT1 Tester (Clam Shell) 51.72 MPZ00052R KIT, 3PC, Stripper/Cutter + NCVT1 Tester + RT210 GFCI Tester (Retail Clam Shell) 67.42 The meters have a yellow body housing with a tinted gray tip and have a black pocket clip/battery cap on the back. The part/model numbers are written on the top of each unit above the brand name KLEIN TOOLS and date codes are printed on the bottom of the unit under the brand name. The product is rated CAT IV and measures voltage up to 1,000 Volts.

Hazard

The on/off button can remain depressed during the power on or power off cycle, causing the tester to work improperly. Consumers testing electrical sources could fail to be warned of the presence of live voltage if the tester is not properly operating, posing a shock hazard to the users.

Incidents & Injuries

Klein Tools has received two reports of incidents of the voltage tester not working properly, including one shock injury. 

Remedy Instructions

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled non-contact voltage testers and contact Klein Tools for instructions on receiving a free replacement tool.

What Should You Do?

Stop using this product immediately. Contact the manufacturer for a Replace at no charge. If you experienced an injury, report it at SaferProducts.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

Follow the consumer action instructions in the recall notice above. Most recalls require you to stop using the product and contact the manufacturer directly — either by calling the toll-free number listed in the official CPSC notice or by visiting the manufacturer's website. You generally do not need a receipt or original packaging to claim a remedy. The manufacturer is legally required to provide the remedy (Replace) at no cost to you.

No — you should stop using the product entirely, not just unplug it. Electric shock and fire hazards in recalled electrical products often involve internal wiring defects, faulty components, or insulation failures that can cause harm even after the product has been off for a period of time. Do not attempt to repair the product yourself. Keep it unplugged and stored safely until you receive the manufacturer's remedy. If the product has already shown signs of overheating, sparking, or discoloration, handle it carefully and consider contacting your local fire department for guidance on safe disposal.

In most cases, no. CPSC-coordinated recall remedies are designed to be accessible without proof of purchase. Manufacturers typically ask consumers to self-certify ownership and may ask for photos of the product or its serial number. Some manufacturers request that you mail in a portion of the product (such as a cut cord or removed component) as proof of disposal. Check the specific remedy instructions for this recall for exact requirements. If you registered your product at the time of purchase, the process is usually even simpler.

If the original manufacturer has gone out of business, the recall remedy may no longer be available through them. In this case, contact CPSC directly at 1-800-638-2772 or cpsc.gov for guidance. If the brand was acquired by another company, the acquiring company may have assumed recall obligations. In some cases where a remedy is unavailable, CPSC advises consumers to safely dispose of the product. If you were injured by the product of a defunct company, consult a product liability attorney — parent companies, distributors, and retailers may still bear liability in some circumstances.