Anker, a popular manufacturer of electronic accessories, has issued a recall for over 1.1 million of its PowerCore 10000 portable chargers (model number A1263) sold in the United States. This recall comes after the company received 19 reports of the power banks overheating, resulting in fires and explosions. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), these incidents have caused minor burn injuries and property damage exceeding $60,700.
Which PowerCore 10000 Models Are Affected?
The recall affects PowerCore 10000 units with model number A1263 that were sold between June 2016 and December 2022 through online retailers such as Amazon, Newegg, and eBay. To determine if your charger is affected, locate the serial number on the bottom of the device and visit Anker's dedicated recall webpage. The website provides a tool to verify whether your specific unit is included in the recall.
Why the Recall?
Anker has identified a potential issue with the lithium-ion battery in the recalled PowerCore 10000 chargers. This issue can lead to overheating and, in some cases, fires or explosions, posing a significant safety hazard to consumers.
What to Do If Your PowerCore Is Recalled
If you own an affected PowerCore 10000 charger, immediately stop using it. Do not dispose of the charger in the trash or through standard recycling services. Instead, Anker recommends contacting a local hazardous waste collection center for proper disposal. To receive a replacement, customers need to submit photo evidence of ownership and proof of proper disposal of the recalled device.
- Stop Using the Charger: Discontinue use immediately to prevent potential hazards.
- Verify Serial Number: Check the serial number on Anker's website to confirm if your unit is affected.
- Dispose of Properly: Follow Anker's guidelines for proper disposal at a hazardous waste collection center.
- Request a Replacement: Submit required documentation to receive a replacement charger or a gift card.
As compensation, Anker is offering affected consumers the choice between a $30 gift card for Anker.com or a free replacement power bank (model A1388), which features improvements like a charge level display and a USB-C charging cable lanyard.