in Robotics

Check your Anker power banks – 1 million were just recalled due to fire risk

32 Views

Kerry Wan/ZDNET

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a new recall for the Anker PowerCore 10000 power bank, model number A1263. According to the report, the lithium-ion battery inside can overheat, causing the device to become a fire and burn hazard to consumers.

“Anker has received 19 reports of fires and explosions” caused by its faulty power bank. Among those incidents, there have been “two reports of minor burn injuries” (thankfully not requiring medical attention) and 11 reports of property damage totalling over $60,700.”

Also: The best power banks you can buy: Expert tested

Model A1263 was sold online at Anker’s official website, Amazon, Newegg, and eBay between June 1, 2016, and December 31, 2022, where it was sold exclusively in the United States. So, if you bought it in the US, you should replace or get rid of the device immediately. 

What to do with your affected device: 2 options

However, do not throw away the PowerCore 10000 in the trash or in a used battery recycling box. Remember: this is a fire hazard. You have two methods to get rid of your power bank.

The CSPC recommends taking the power bank to your municipal household hazardous waste (HHW) collection center. If you need help finding a center, the United States EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has a website where you can find authorized recycling locations near you.

They may or may not accept the faulty battery — it varies from place to place. If you run into any difficulty, the CSPC suggests contacting “your municipality for further guidance.”

Also: My favorite portable charger for traveling can easily power a MacBook Pro – and it’s on sale

Your other option is to work with Anker. In exchange, the company will give you either a $30 gift card or an Anker Power Bank 10K with the model number A1388 as a replacement. However, working with the brand is a little complicated.

The company’s website provides instructions on how to return the power bank. The process involves entering the model and serial numbers into Anker’s verification tool (to see if your unit is a part of the recall), your name and contact information, proof of purchase, and two photographs.

<!–> Sample photos of how to properly inform Anker of faulty power bank

–>

Sample photos of how to properly inform Anker of faulty power bank

Anker

One photo needs to show both your device’s model and serial numbers. The second needs to have the PowerCore 10000 alongside the notice’s submission date and the word “Recall” or “Recalled” clearly written on a piece of paper in permanent marker. Also, if you’re submitting multiple units, the company says you must upload photographs of each power bank clearly labeled “to indicate quantity.” 

Also: 7 MagSafe accessories that I recommend every iPhone user should have

A purchase receipt may be requested, but it won’t be mandatory. Buyers will also need to provide proof to Anker that the PowerCore 10000 was disposed of properly in accordance with local laws. If you need help at any point, Anker asks that you reach out either through email or by calling their customer service. Contact info is found at the bottom of the company’s website.

Past Anker recalls

This isn’t the first recall Anker has issued in the past year or so. In June 2024, the company issued recalls for three different products. In September 2024, a notice was sent out for the 334 MagGo Power Bank. This past December, Anker told people to stop using the Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker and two PowerConf S3 Bluetooth speakers.

We’re at four recall notices over the last 12 months, and if you extend that time frame to 2023, this is actually the fifth. A couple of years ago, Anker issued a recall for its 535 Power Bank.

The one aspect that all four recalls share is that the products have been labeled as fire hazards. Anker has never published an official statement explaining what’s going on with its batteries. We did reach out for comment, and we’ll update this story if we hear back at a later date.

Source: Robotics - zdnet.com