If you’re the recent owner of one of several Anker battery packs, it’s time to get your receipt and gadget out and check whether it’s likely to explode. Or at least set itself on fire.
The company recently recalled more than a million of its PowerCore 10000 battery banks in the United States due to a fire risk. Another five models, these sold globally, have since been added to the recall list. Since it’s a global issue, there’s a chance one might be in your house. Cue the TV news Scare Graphics™.
Anker’s away (from here)
If you’re using one of the Anker Power Bank (10K, 22.5W), Power Bank (20,000mAh, 22.5W, Built-In USB-C Cable), MagGo Power Bank (10,000mAh, 7.5W), Zolo Power Bank (20K, 30W, Built-In USB-C and Lightning Cable), or Zolo Power Bank (20K, 30W, Built-In USB-C Cable) products — respectively models A1647, A1652, A1257, A1681, or A1689 — then it’s time to head over to Anker’s website and see whether you’ve bought a potential fire hazard.
The form has a section for checking your unit’s serial number. If affected, it’ll take you along to select the next step. Product replacement (for something less explodey) or a gift card for the Anker website are the available options for the recall. You won’t have to send the defective unit back, however.
Instead, the company says that those with dodgy power banks should cease using them and, following confirmation that the unit is indeed defective (and the recall has been processed), “please dispose of the affected unit at a certified facility that accepts recalled lithium-ion batteries.” Throwing them in the trash is considered poor form.
The only tricky bit is that proof of purchase is needed to replace the battery. If bought online, finding that info shouldn’t be a problem. If not, hopefully you hoard your receipts.
