A POPULAR gadget is being recalled over fears that five models could melt and spark blazes.
Shoppers are urged to return the devices immediately, and can claim a free replacement.
Chinese electronics manufacturer Anker has urgently recalled five models of power banks.
Owners of the products have been told to stop using the them “immediately due to the risk of overheating, melting, smoke, or fire.”
“While the likelihood of malfunction is considered minimal, out of an abundance of caution, we have decided to initiate a voluntary global recall of several Anker power bank models,” Anker said.
Earlier this year, Anker recalled another power bank model, the A1263 PowerCore 10000.
The company cited a “potential issue” with lithium ion batteries provided by a supplier.
How To Check If You Have An Affected Power Bank
The five products affected by the new recall are as follows:
- Anker Power Bank (model A1257 and A1647)
- Anker MagGo Power Bank (model A1652)
- Anker Zolo Power Bank (model A1681 and A1689)
You can identify the model you have by looking at the model number on the back or side of the device.
If you have one of the affected devices, immediately stop using it and store it in a safe location.
Anyone affected by the recall can get a free replacement power bank, or a gift card to use on the Anker website.
To claim either, simply fill out the Product Recall Submission Form on the Anker website, alongside a verified product serial number or proof of purchase.
How To Dispose Of Your Powerbank
Once you have received confirmation that your power bank qualifies for a replacement, Anker shared that you must dispose of it at a facility that accepts recalled lithium-ion batteries.
“Do not discard this recalled lithium-ion battery in the trash or general recycling streams (e.g., street-level or curbside recycling bins)”, Anker said.
Your product recall rights
Chief consumer reporter James Flanders reveals all you need to know.
Product recalls are an important means of protecting consumers from dangerous goods.
As a general rule, if a recall involves a branded product, the manufacturer would usually have lead responsibility for the recall action.
But it’s often left up to supermarkets to notify customers when products could put them at risk.
If you are concerned about the safety of a product you own, always check the manufacturer’s website to see if a safety notice has been issued.
When it comes to appliances, rather than just food items, the onus is usually on you – the customer – to register the appliance with the manufacturer as if you don’t there is no way of contacting you to tell you about a fault.
If you become aware that an item you own has been recalled or has any safety noticed issued against it, make sure you follow the instructions given to you by the manufacturer.
They should usually provide you with more information and a contact number on its safety notice.
In some cases, the manufacturer might ask you to return the item for a full refund or arrange for the faulty product to be collected.
You should not be charged for any recall work – such as a repair, replacement or collection of the recalled item
“These drop-off points are not equipped to handle recalled lithium-ion products like power banks.”
Recalled lithium-ion batteries must be handled differently from regular batteries because they pose a higher fire risk.
You can usually take lithium-ion batteries to recycling centres, which have facilities for disposing of electronic waste.
Some large supermarkets also have collection points for lithium-ion batteries and other electricals.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact support@anker.com.
Please include “Anker 321 Power Bank Recall” in the subject line
The company also offers telephone support.
