January 28, 2026 – An incident involving a Leviton RS115-2W electrical switch has raised significant safety concerns after a consumer reported an electrical arc shortly after installation. The incident, detailed in a recent report, highlights potential fire hazards and questions about product quality.
Product Details
Incident Overview
On December 28, 2025, a consumer reported an incident with a newly purchased Leviton RS115-2W switch. According to the report, the switch was installed correctly, yet it produced an electrical arc. The consumer expressed strong concern, stating that if the switch had been left installed, a fire would have “certainly ensued.” The report further alleges that the manufacturer’s newer products are “clearly inferior to older products, with clearly inferior build quality, less quality control and safety protocols.” The consumer asserts that these issues present risks to contractors, people, property, and life, suggesting that the reduction in safety is a deliberate choice made to improve profit.
Safety Concerns
The reported incident with the Leviton RS115-2W switch presents several severe safety concerns:
- Immediate Dangers: An electrical arc, as described, is an immediate and critical hazard. It can cause severe electrical shock, lead to burns, and is a direct ignition source for fires, especially when in close proximity to flammable materials (e.g., insulation, wood studs, dust).
- Long-Term Risks: If an electrical arc occurs intermittently or is not immediately noticeable, it can lead to hidden damage within the electrical system over time. This includes degradation of wiring insulation, loosening of connections, or carbon buildup, all of which can increase resistance and generate heat, potentially leading to a delayed but significant fire hazard.
- Who Might Be Affected: Homeowners, tenants, and anyone occupying a building where such a defective switch is installed are at direct risk of electrical shock or fire. Electrical contractors and DIY installers are also at risk during installation or troubleshooting.
- Property Damage Potential: An electrical fire originating from a defective switch can rapidly spread, causing extensive damage to electrical systems, structural components of a building, and personal property. Such fires can lead to significant financial losses and displacement.
What Consumers Should Do
Consumers who own or have recently purchased a Leviton RS115-2W switch should take immediate action:
- Immediate Steps to Take: If you suspect an electrical issue with a switch, including arcing, flickering lights, burning smells, or unusual noises, immediately turn off power to that circuit at your home’s main electrical panel. Do not attempt to inspect or repair the switch yourself while power is on.
- How to Check if You Own the Affected Product: Verify if you have the Leviton RS115-2W model installed in your home. This information is typically printed on the switch body or its packaging. If you are unsure, consult a qualified electrician.
- Prevention Measures: Always ensure electrical work is performed by qualified individuals. If you are a DIY enthusiast, ensure you follow all local electrical codes and manufacturer installation instructions meticulously. Never ignore signs of electrical problems.
- Reporting Procedures: If you experience a similar incident or have concerns about a Leviton RS115-2W switch, report it immediately to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at www.cpsc.gov. Also, contact Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc. directly to report the issue.
Manufacturer’s Response
Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc. formally responded to Incident Report Number 20251228-8F6AF-2147325139 on January 14, 2026. Their response is noted to include an attached PDF titled “RESPONSE TO CPSC REPORT 20251228-8F6AF-2147325139.pdf.” The specific details of their response are not publicly available within this incident report.
Legal Help Available
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product or suffered property damage due to a product malfunction, you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced product liability attorneys at Farzan Law understand the complexities of defective product cases and can help you navigate the legal process.
Contact us today for a free consultation: 424-325-3112
Our legal team has successfully represented clients in product liability cases involving defective appliances, automotive defects, medical devices, and consumer products. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Note: This information is based on incident reports provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. If you find information that is incorrect, please contact us immediately so we can correct the post to reflect accurate information.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. This article is based on publicly available incident reports. The incidents mentioned have not necessarily been independently verified or adjudicated.