Anker, a popular brand known for its mobile charging accessories, issued a voluntary recall of one of its power bank models in May 2024. The recall affected the Anker 535 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K), specifically model number A1366. This recall was initiated due to a potential fire hazard stemming from a manufacturing defect.
The issue identified was the power bank’s battery potentially overheating, which in rare circumstances could lead to thermal runaway, posing a risk of fire. While the reported incidents were limited, Anker took a proactive approach to prioritize consumer safety, choosing to recall the product rather than risk potential harm. The recall was announced in conjunction with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Approximately 321,000 units of the Anker 535 Power Bank were affected in the United States. Consumers who purchased the A1366 model were strongly advised to immediately stop using the power bank and to follow the instructions provided by Anker for safe disposal. It’s crucial to emphasize the “stop using immediately” aspect, as continuing to use a recalled power bank could present a significant safety risk.
Anker offered a refund for affected units as part of the recall program. Consumers were instructed to visit Anker’s dedicated recall website or contact Anker’s customer support to verify if their power bank was part of the recall. The verification process typically involved checking the model number located on the power bank itself. If the model number matched A1366, the consumer was eligible for a refund.
The recall process generally involved providing proof of purchase (if available), confirming the destruction of the power bank by submitting photographic evidence, and completing a claim form on Anker’s website. Once the claim was validated, Anker processed the refund. Details on how to properly dispose of the recalled power bank, including instructions on safely discharging the battery, were also provided to consumers to minimize any risks during disposal.
This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of robust quality control measures in the manufacturing of battery-powered devices. Even reputable brands can encounter manufacturing flaws that pose potential hazards. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about product recalls and to promptly follow the manufacturer’s instructions when a product is recalled. This incident highlights the need for continued vigilance and collaboration between manufacturers, regulatory agencies, and consumers to ensure product safety.