Keeping a portable power bank on hand is always a good idea. Whether you’re out and about running errands or traveling via plane, train or car, being able to keep your devices charged is both important and practical. But if you own an Anker power bank, your device may be a fire risk according to a recently announced recall. Read on to find out which power banks are fire risks and what to do if yours is one of the ones that poses this hazard.

Why Is Anker Recalling So Many Power Banks?

The company’s brief was vague, but it appears that they’re recalling power banks due to an issue with the lithium-ion batteries. According to their recall FAQ, the company began using more “enhanced quality assurance protocols” to help them catch potential defects earlier and “these safeguards—including expanded component-level audits and supplier testing—helped us identify a potential issue with common, lithium-ion battery cells from a single vendor.”

According to Anker, “recalled lithium-ion batteries must be handled differently from regular batteries because they pose a higher risk of fire,” so it’s important to take this recall seriously.

The company claims that the “likelihood of malfunction is considered minimal,” but that they’re implementing this recall “out of an abundance of caution.” It is a “voluntary global recall” and the company has “formally notified and are coordinating with regulatory authorities in all regions to ensure the recall is conducted in compliance with all applicable local guidelines.”

Is My Anker Power Bank a Fire Risk?

If this problem sounds familiar, you have a good memory. Earlier this year, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (USCPSC) announced a recall of over one million Anker power banks. That recall only focused on the model A1263 Anker PowerCore 10000 power banks. Unfortunately, the problem turned out to be more widespread than anticipated. According to Anker, the updated recall includes:

  • Anker Power Bank (10K, 22.5W) — Model A1257
  • Anker Power Bank (20,000mAh, 22.5W, Built-In USB-C Cable) — Model A1647
  • Anker MagGo Power Bank (10,000mAh, 7.5W) — Model A1652
  • Anker Zolo Power Bank (20K, 30W, Built-In USB-C and Lightning Cable) — Model A1681
  • Anker Zolo Power Bank (20K, 30W, Built-In USB-C Cable) — Model A1689

The company says that if you own one of the devices listed above, you need to stop using it immediately.  However, do not dispose of it until you’ve received confirmation from them that it qualifies for the recall.

Is There a Fix?

Anker has a Product Recall Submission Form so that owners can receive a replacement device or a gift card. Check to confirm that your device’s model number matches the recall list. Then, submit the form and “dispose of the affected unit at a certified facility that accepts recalled lithium-ion batteries.” Anker warns that most recycling centers and battery drops “are not equipped to handle recalled lithium-ion products like power banks.” So call ahead or look up a hazardous waste center that specifies that it handles lithium-ion batteries.

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Rebecca Wright Brown
Rebecca has been her dad’s DIY assistant since she was old enough to walk. Prior to Family Handyman, she worked as a freelance writer and editor across industries.   
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