Anker has issued a recall of three battery power bank models due to overheating and fire risks. If you own one of the affected units, we strongly recommend contacting the brand for further instructions.
Not to confuse with the June recall, which concerned PowerCore 5K (model A1112), this time Anker is recalling another set of battery banks. It seems that Anker 334 MagGo Battery (PowerCore 10K), Anker Power Bank, and Anker MagGo Power Bank may pose a fire risk due to a manufacturing defect. The exact model numbers for these are A1642, A1647, and A1652. You can find more details in the picture below.
The lithium-ion battery in the affected power banks can overheat, potentially causing the melting of plastic components, smoke, and fire. This issue concerns batteries produced from January 3, 2024, to September 17, 2024. However, to avoid any bad surprises, the brand is reaching out to all customers for a recall.
If you own one of the effect models, Anker urges you to follow these steps:
1. Store this device in a safe location.
2. Click here to verify your SN, and if it matches, please continue to fill out your product recall information.
3. Immediately stop using this product. DO NOT throw the power bank into the trash or recycling bin. Please dispose of your device at a facility that accepts lithium batteries.
Aside from their high temperature and toxic smoke, lithium-ion battery fires are no joke, as regular fire extinguishing methods are ineffective. Worst yet, the natural human reflex of throwing water on fire is more dangerous as lithium aggressively reacts to it, further exacerbating it and potentially causing an explosion. The best move in such unfortunate events is to take your distance and call emergency services.
So, kudos to Anker for actively reaching out to users so they can remove this dangerous product from their homes. Though the brand may be forced by law to inform customers about such issues, it is always nice to see the first news coming from it instead of Reddit.