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Electronics firm Anker has issued a large-scale safety recall of its PowerCore 10000 power banks after several reports of uncontrolled fires and explosions, injuring some and damaging property. The recall affects more than 1.1 million of the devices in the U.S.
Table of Contents
What’s the Problem?
The recalled power banks have a serious safety flaw with their lithium-ion batteries. The Consumer Product Safety Commission states that Anker received 19 reports of fires and explosions from these power banks. The fire incidents caused:
- Minor burn injuries to users
- Property damage over $60,000.
- Fire hazards in homes or other locations
The incidents seem to be related to battery overheating in which the power bank can ignite or explode unexpectedly.
Which Power Banks Are Affected?
The recall specifically covers to the PowerCore 10000 power bank model number A1263. The specifics of the recall are as follows:
- Model: PowerCore 10000 (A1263)
- Timeframe of Sale: June 1, 2016 to December 31, 2022
- Where Sold: Online through Amazon, Newegg, eBay and other sellers
- Number Affected: More than 1.1 million units in the United States
How to Identify Your Device
To find out if your power bank is included in the recall:
- Find the Anker logo on the side of the device
- Check the model number “A1263” on the bottom of the device
- Check the serial number on the underside of the device
- Visit Anker’s website to verify your serial number.
What Should You Do Right Now?
If you have one of these power banks, we recommend you take action today:
Stop using it
- Turn the power bank OFF immediately.
- Unplug it from the power source.
- Do not use it to charge your phone or any device.
- Keep it away from heat sources.
Check your serial number
- Proceed to Anker’s official website.
- Enter the serial number of your device to see whether it is affected by the recall.
- Be careful with letters and numbers that look similar (for example, “1” / “I” or “0” / “O”).
How to Get a Replacement
Anker has two options for customers who have been affected:
Option 1: Free Replacement Device
- New PowerCore 10000 model (A1388) with improvements in safety
- Includes features such as a display to show charge levels
- Includes USB-C charging cable
Option 2: Gift Card
- $30 gift card to Anker.com
- Can be used for any Anker product
What You Need to Do for Replacement
To receive your new device, you will need to provide four things:
Photos Required
- photo of your power bank that has the date written in permanent marker.
- Clear photo of “RECALLED” marked clearly on the device.
- Image of the model number and serial number on the bottom of the device
- Your name is visible in the photo.
Proof of Purchase
- A copy of your original receipt or purchase confirmation (this is not necessary, but it may be helpful).
- Original email confirmation.
Proof of Properly Disposed Device
- Confirmation that you properly disposed your device.
- Do not dispose the device in normal trash or recycling.
How to Get Help
If you require help with the recall:
Contact Anker
- Website Page: www.anker.com/product-recalls
- Subject line: “Anker A1263 Recall”
- Phone: 800-988-7973
If Your Serial Number Is Damaged
- Contact Anker directly for assistance
- They should be able to help identify your device another way
Bottom Line
This recall is associated with many millions of devices that have been on the market and in use for years. Even if your power bank appears to be working fine, the safety concern is serious. You would be so much better off to stop using it now and obtain your replacement at no charge.
Don’t wait for a problem to happen. These incidents have resulted in serious injuries and damage to property. Please take the appropriate measure to protect yourself and others right away.
We want to remind you that your safety is more important than the convenience of a portable charger, so please replace your power bank today.
