
Anker, an electronics firm, expanded an established worldwide recall of some of its Power Bank products by adding five more models to the recall of the Anker PowerCore 10000 energy banks with the unit number A1263 that was made public earlier in June. 19 reviews of the compact chargers igniting flames and bursting led to the recall. The materials of Anker are produced in China.
New products were recalled in addition to the A1263 remember from June and the A1642 PowerCore 10000 understand from October 2024:
- Anker Power Bank 10000 Model A1257
- Anker Power Bank 20000 Model A1647
- Anker MagGo Power Bank 10000 Model A1652
- Anker Zolo Power Bank 20000 Model A1681
- Anker Zolo Power Bank 20000 Model A1689
The recall doesn’t affect another Anker types, including two of CNET’s leading picks for convenient batteries, the Anker 523 PowerCore Slim 10K PD and the Anker PowerCore III 10K.
More than 1.1 million of the items sold in the US are recalled, according to a previous report from the Comisia pentru Siguranța Produselor de Consum. Customers may provide video evidence of ownership and information that the company has properly disposed of the PowerCore devices in order to remove them or offer$ 30 gift cards for Anker’s online store.
How many products in addition to the 1.1 million previously reported products are affected, at this time? An email to an Anker representative was not immediately returned.
Portable battery risks have been noted by airlines. Southwest Airlines recently updated its charging policy for carry-on luggage. Due to the possibility of overheating, some international airlines have begun to restrict the types of lithium chargers fliers can bring on aircraft.
How can you tell if your Anker PowerCore has been recalled ,
According to Anker, the products were purchased between June 1 and December 31. 2022.
Customers can use the Anker website to verify their serial number. On the bottom of the device, you can find the serial number.  ,
Anker advises that when entering the number,” Pay attention to the letters and numbers in the serial number: ‘ 1′,’ L’,’ I’,’ 2′, and ‘ Z’. Please take note that incorrect characters like” 0 (zero )” and” O” ( o ) may be entered. The serial numbers of the target product are not used, despite the serial number.
What should you do if your Anker PowerCore has been recalled?
The CPSC and Anker posted requirements for receiving a replacement PowerCore device in addition to directing customers to stop using the chargers right away.
Acestea includ:
- submitting a photo of the recalled device that includes the recall’s model number, serial number, consumer’s name, photo’s date, and the word “recalled” permanently written on the document. On a piece of paper next to the device in the photo, the device’s information can be found elsewhere.
- Providing a purchase receipt, even though the CPSC claims that’s not necessary for the recall.
- A confirmation that the device has been disposed of in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Anker advises not to dispose of the device until it has been verified that it qualifies for a recall.
- From Anker:” If the serial number is worn off or not visible, please contact Anker for assistance.
- Anker suggests contacting a neighborhood hazardous waste collection facility rather than dumping it in the trash or using typical recycling methods.
- Customers can email support@anker.com with the subject line” Anker Recall” in the subject line or call 800-988-7973 for additional questions, according to Anker.  ,
Why are portable chargers a travel risk?
The same reasons why portable charging banks can be problematic are also a part of why they are so simple to carry around. The majority of battery-based products use lithium ion technology, which can be used to make batteries lighter and more effective but is also susceptible to overheating or even sparks if the batteries are damaged or degraded.  ,
It’s not unlike the reports a decade ago of cheap batteries on hoverboards spontaneously igniting. In the end, the goods were restricted from being transported on airplanes and, in some cases, from being shipped.
The average consumer doesn’t consider these products to be potentially dangerous, according to Fântâna Don, a civil trial lawyer and author of Defect Safety, a book about consumer safety and defective products. A portable battery case that does not involve Anker is currently being represented by Fountain.  ,
” My firm has handled fires and explosions caused by lithium batteries in a variety of products,” Fountain said.” My firm has handled lithium batteries in a variety of products, including power tools, e-bikes, phones, scooters, kids ‘ toys, battery packs, and others.” I advise consumers to avoid putting these products plugged into their homes ‘ electrical systems for extended periods of time, such as overnight or when on vacation, and to store or use them in confined or unventilated areas that could lead to overheating.
Fountain claimed that burning batteries pose a particular risk in cargo holds or in airplane cabins where it might be difficult to extinguish a fire.  ,
Customers can’t always keep their proof of purchase, even though it’s not required in this case, according to the attorney. He did, however, state that “it is unusual that a recall payment or reimbursement require proof of disposal.”
Most people who have experienced an overheating event or small fire simply throw the appliance away, according to Fountain.