What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall for specific lithium-ion battery packs manufactured by DR Power. This safety action, announced on June 26, 2025, targets 62-volt, 5.0 Ah LiPRO rechargeable battery units. These are not standard small electronics batteries; they are substantial power sources designed for heavy-duty outdoor equipment. The recall covers two distinct scenarios in which these batteries appear: as standalone replacement packs and as the original power source included with new DR Power outdoor yard tools.
If you own a standalone battery pack, look for model number 414240. This unit is sold separately to replace older or lost batteries. If you purchased a complete piece of equipment directly from DR Power, the recalled battery may have come installed in your device. In these cases, the specific outdoor tools affected include lawnmowers, string trimmers, and snow throwers. The exact model numbers for these yard machines are 524340, SB11022XEN, T4X3026XENR, T4X3062XENR, CE75021XEN0, and CE77021XEN0. It is crucial to check the model number on your tool’s label or in your purchase records to see if it matches one of these eight identifiers.
To confirm you have a recalled item, examine the battery pack itself. The LiPRO logo and the DR Power branding are printed on the front and side panels. More importantly, look at the technical label on the battery. The information containing the model number “41424” will be clearly printed there. Note that the standalone pack is listed as 414240, while the label may reference “41424,” so pay close attention to these digits when inspecting your hardware.
The recall does not specify a total number of units sold, nor does it list specific retailers or online stores where these items were purchased. However, because these are specialized tools often used for seasonal yard work and winter snow removal, they may have been bought at various home improvement centers, garden supply stores, or directly from the manufacturer’s website over time. If you cannot find your receipt, the model numbers on the battery label are your most reliable proof of whether your unit is part of this specific safety recall.
It is important to understand that this recall applies only to the 62-volt 5.0 Ah LiPRO batteries described above. Batteries with different voltages, capacities, or model numbers from DR Power or other brands are not included in this action unless explicitly stated on the official recall page. If you are unsure whether your battery is affected, do not guess. Verify the model number against the list provided here or contact DR Power directly for confirmation before taking any further steps.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a specific failure mode within lithium-ion battery packs that can turn a quiet piece of outdoor equipment into a serious safety risk. The primary danger stems from an internal short circuit. In simple terms, a battery pack contains layers of material designed to keep positive and negative charges separated while energy flows between them. When that separation breaks down—due to manufacturing flaws, physical damage over time, or thermal stress—the electrical current can bypass the intended path and arc directly inside the cell. This sudden surge generates intense heat very quickly.
When a lithium-ion battery shorts out, it does not just stop working; it often enters what is known as "thermal runaway." During this process, the internal temperature of the battery spikes rapidly, sometimes reaching hundreds of degrees Fahrenheit in seconds. This extreme heat can cause the electrolyte fluids inside the cell to vaporize and expand, creating pressure that may rupture the battery casing. If the casing fails while the hot materials are exposed to oxygen in the air, the result is often ignition. This explains why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has cited both fire and burn hazards: consumers can suffer burns from touching a suddenly overheated device, or face more severe injuries if the battery ignites nearby flammable materials like dry grass, leaves, or stored fuel.
It is important to understand that lithium-ion batteries pose a different risk profile than traditional alkaline or lead-acid batteries. While standard batteries might leak corrosive chemicals, recalled lithium-ion units present an immediate fire threat. As noted in the recall details, these specific DR Power 62-volt packs have been linked to two reported incidents of fire and overheating. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm is significant because these batteries power high-draw tools like lawnmowers and snow throwers, which are often used in environments with dry vegetation or debris. A spark or hot surface near dry leaves can easily start a secondary fire that spreads beyond the tool itself.
The risk is compounded by the fact that lithium-ion fires can be difficult to extinguish once they begin, as they can re-ignite even after appearing out. This is why the hazard is not just about the initial spark but about the sustained danger of heat and flame. By identifying these specific model numbers—particularly those with the 41424 series label—you are preventing a scenario where a seemingly minor electrical glitch escalates into an uncontrollable emergency. Understanding this mechanism underscores why immediate cessation of use is not just a recommendation, but a critical safety step.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at immediate risk consists of individuals who own and actively use DR Power brand outdoor power equipment, specifically those with lawnmowers, string trimmers, or snow throwers equipped with the affected 62-volt 5.0 Ah LiPRO rechargeable lithium-ion battery packs. This hazard is not limited to a specific age group but rather targets anyone who has purchased these specific models between the relevant timeframe and today. The risk is inherent to the ownership of the defective component itself, meaning that whether you are a professional landscaper relying on this gear for daily work or a homeowner using it for seasonal yard maintenance, you are exposed to the same potential fire and burn dangers if the battery shorts circuit.
While the physical act of using the equipment places you in the direct line of fire, certain demographics face heightened consequences due to their physical vulnerability. Children are particularly at risk because they may not recognize the early warning signs of a lithium-ion battery failure, such as unusual heat, swelling, or smoke, and might inadvertently interact with discarded or improperly stored defective units. Furthermore, if a fire occurs in a garage, shed, or home environment where children play or sleep, the rapid spread of lithium-ion fires can outpace a child’s ability to escape or seek help. The CPSC has noted incidents of overheating and ignition, which means that any household with young children present during the charging or use of these batteries is operating in a high-stakes safety scenario.
Elderly individuals or those with limited mobility also face disproportionate risks in this scenario. A fire caused by a short-circuiting battery can develop quickly and produce intense heat and toxic fumes. For seniors who may have slower reaction times or mobility challenges, the window to safely evacuate a burning structure is significantly narrower. Additionally, the physical burn hazards are severe; lithium-ion battery fires can reach temperatures high enough to cause third-degree burns instantly. An older adult with thinner skin or reduced pain sensitivity might suffer more severe injuries from contact with the hot casing or expelled electrolytes before realizing the severity of the situation.
There is also a broader community risk associated with improper disposal. If these recalled batteries are thrown into general trash or curbside recycling, they can ignite in garbage trucks or waste processing facilities, endangering sanitation workers and first responders. This makes every owner responsible not just for their personal safety, but for the safety of the community infrastructure that handles waste. Therefore, the "at risk" population extends to anyone who might come into contact with improperly discarded units, emphasizing why immediate cessation of use and proper disposal are critical steps for all owners, regardless of their age or physical condition.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you own outdoor power equipment from DR Power, taking a moment to verify your gear is a simple but crucial step for your safety. The recall specifically targets 62-volt, 5.0 Ah LiPRO rechargeable lithium-ion battery packs. Because these batteries are used in several different types of yard tools, it is important to check the specific model numbers rather than just assuming a product is safe based on its general appearance. DR Power manufactures these batteries both as standalone units and as removable components integrated into their outdoor equipment.
To confirm whether your battery is part of this recall, you need to examine the label on the battery pack itself. Look closely for the model number "414240" printed clearly on that label. You will also notice that the LiPRO logo and the DR Power branding are located on both the front and side panels of the battery case. If you see these specific logos along with the 62-volt and 5.0 Ah specifications, you are looking at a potentially affected unit.
If you have a standalone battery pack, check for model number 414240. However, if your battery comes pre-installed in a piece of yard equipment, the identification process requires checking the model number of the entire device. The recall affects DR Power outdoor yard equipment items with the following specific model numbers: 524340, SB11022XEN, T4X3026XEN, T4X3062XENR, CE75021XEN0, and CE77021XEN0. These devices typically include lawnmowers, trimmers, and snow throwers. If your equipment matches any of these identifiers, the included battery pack is part of the recall.
It is worth noting that the recall facts provided do not specify a particular color scheme, size dimensions beyond the voltage and amp-hour rating, or a specific date range for when these items were sold. Therefore, you cannot rely on visual cues like paint color or purchase receipts to determine safety. Your only reliable method of confirmation is reading the model numbers printed directly on the battery label or the equipment tag. If you are unsure whether your device falls under these categories, it is safer to assume it might be affected until you can verify the model number against the list above.
Once you have identified your battery model, do not attempt to use it for its intended purpose. The risk of short-circuiting and ignition is present regardless of how new or well-maintained the unit appears. Please proceed immediately to the next steps for disposal and refund processing to ensure your home and family remain safe from fire hazards.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled DR Power lithium-ion battery packs, your immediate safety is the priority. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and DR Power have identified a serious risk where these batteries can short-circuit and ignite, leading to fire and burn hazards. Because this danger involves potential combustion, you should not wait for a convenient time to address it. Instead, take the following concrete steps right away to secure your home and initiate the resolution process.
- Stop Using the Battery Immediately. The very first action you must take is to cease using the recalled battery pack. Do not charge it, do not install it in your lawnmower, trimmer, or snow thrower, and do not attempt to use it for any other purpose. Continuing to use a unit that has failed internally can trigger the short-circuit mentioned in the recall notice, putting you and your property at significant risk.
- Prepare for Safe Disposal or Return. Before contacting DR Power, consider how you will handle the physical battery. It is critical that you do not throw this recalled lithium-ion battery into your regular trash, nor should you place it in general curbside recycling bins or standard used battery drop-off boxes at retail stores. Lithium-ion batteries present a much higher fire risk than other battery types if mishandled. If you choose to dispose of the battery yourself, you must follow local and state regulations for hazardous waste. Your best option is to contact your municipal household hazardous waste (HHW) collection center ahead of time to confirm they accept recalled lithium-ion batteries. If they do not, reach out to your municipality for specific guidance on safe disposal.
- Contact DR Power for Your Remedy. Once you have decided on the disposition of the battery, contact DR Power to initiate the recall process. You can call their toll-free number at 800-454-8643 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or send an email to recall@drpower.com. Alternatively, you can visit https://www.drpower.com/5AHB-recall to fill out the online recall form.
- Document the Destruction of the Battery. To receive your pro-rated refund, you must prove that the hazardous battery has been destroyed. DR Power requires you to upload two photographs showing the destruction of the battery pack. Follow the specific destruction instructions provided on their recall website carefully. These photos are a mandatory part of your claim and serve as proof that the fire hazard has been eliminated.
- Submit Your Claim for a Pro-Rated Refund. After uploading your photos and completing the online form, DR Power will process your refund. The amount you receive is pro-rated based on the age of the battery pack, meaning older units may receive a smaller refund than newer ones. Keep copies of all correspondence and confirmation numbers until the refund has been received in your account.
By following these steps precisely, you not only protect yourself from potential injury but also ensure that the hazardous item is removed from your home responsibly. If you are unsure about any part of this process, particularly regarding local disposal laws, do not hesitate to ask your municipal authorities for help before proceeding.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled DR Power lithium-ion battery packs, please know that you do not need to keep a potentially dangerous item in your home waiting for a future date. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and DR Power have established a clear remedy for this situation: a pro-rated refund. This means DR Power will return a portion of the original purchase price based on how long you have had the battery, rather than offering a direct replacement unit or a repair service. While it is natural to want a seamless swap-out when equipment fails or becomes unsafe, the company has determined that a financial refund is the appropriate and safe resolution for this specific fire hazard.
To receive this pro-rated refund, you must follow a strict two-step process designed to ensure both your safety and the integrity of the claim. First, you must officially dispose of the recalled battery pack yourself before DR Power will process any money back to you. This is not optional; the company requires proof that the hazardous item has been removed from circulation. You will need to take two clear photographs of the destroyed battery pack as instructed on their recall website. These images serve as your verification document, confirming that you have taken responsibility for safely handling the fire risk.
Once you have those photos ready, you must complete the online recall form located at https://www.drpower.com/5AHB-recall. When filling out this form, you will upload the two required photographs and provide your contact information so DR Power can issue the refund. The company calculates the refund amount based on the age of the battery pack, meaning older units may receive a lower pro-rated amount than newer ones. This approach acknowledges that the value of the product depreciates over time while still compensating you for the loss of a defective item.
If you are unsure how to safely dispose of the lithium-ion battery before taking these photos, please remember that this is not standard household trash. Do not throw it in your regular trash can, curbside recycling bin, or used battery boxes at retail stores, as these pose significant fire risks. Instead, contact your municipal household hazardous waste (HHW) collection center ahead of time to confirm they accept recalled lithium-ion batteries. If they do not, reach out to your local municipality for specific disposal guidance. Once you have safely destroyed the battery and captured the required photos, submit your claim online or by calling DR Power toll-free at 800-454-8643 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. You can also email recall@drpower.com if you have questions about the process.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable to feel reluctant to stop using a tool that has been part of your routine. Maybe you have a lawn that needs cutting, a driveway to clear of snow, or simply want to get the yard work done before the weekend arrives. The temptation to think, "It worked fine last time," or "I’ll just be careful with it," is strong. However, ignoring a recall for a lithium-ion battery pack is not a matter of inconvenience; it is a matter of immediate physical safety. These devices are not like a dull blade on a mower that might just make a poor cut. A compromised lithium-ion battery operates on volatile chemistry that can fail without warning.
The core danger lies in what happens inside the sealed unit when it begins to fail. As noted by the recall, these specific DR Power battery packs have a known defect where they can short-circuit internally. When a lithium-ion battery shorts, it does not just stop working; it generates intense heat very rapidly. This process, often called thermal runaway, can cause the battery to swell, vent toxic gases, or ignite into a flame. Because these batteries are designed to hold a significant amount of energy in a compact space, that energy has nowhere to go once the internal structure fails. The result is not a small spark you might see from a faulty outlet; it is a sustained fire that can be difficult to extinguish and spreads quickly.
We must look at the reality of where these batteries are used. They power tools like lawnmowers, trimmers, and snow throwers—devices often operated in close proximity to people, pets, flammable dry grass, wooden decks, or stored gasoline. If a recalled battery ignites while you are holding it or using it, the heat can cause severe burns to your hands and arms instantly. If it ignites while sitting on a patio table, near a garage door, or in a shed filled with other flammable materials, it can become the starting point for a house fire. The CPSC reports indicate that there have already been two confirmed incidents of fire and overheating involving these specific units. While no injuries have been reported to date, each incident is a warning shot. Relying on luck when dealing with high-energy lithium batteries is a dangerous gamble.
Furthermore, ignoring the recall means you are keeping a known defective component in your home without support from the manufacturer. DR Power has identified this flaw and offered a remedy because they understand the risk. By continuing to use the battery, you are not just risking your own safety; you are also preventing yourself from getting the pro-rated refund or credit you are entitled to. You are essentially paying full price for a product that is currently unsafe to operate. The consequences of inaction range from personal injury and property damage to total loss of confidence in your equipment. Do not wait for a third incident to happen. Stop using the pack, secure it safely away from living spaces, and follow the steps to get it replaced or refunded immediately.
Staying safe: broader tips
Lithium-ion batteries have become the standard power source for so many of our modern tools and devices, from electric lawn mowers to cordless drills and even home backup systems. While they offer incredible convenience and performance, they also require a specific kind of respect that older battery technologies did not. Understanding how to care for these energy-dense cells can prevent the vast majority of safety incidents before they ever start. The key lies in recognizing that heat is the primary enemy of lithium-ion chemistry. When these batteries get too hot, either from external sources or internal stress, their chemical stability can degrade rapidly, leading to swelling, leakage, or in worst-case scenarios, thermal runaway—a self-sustaining fire.
One of the most effective ways to extend battery life and maintain safety is proper storage. Never leave your lithium-ion batteries charging unattended for long periods, especially overnight, and never charge them in areas with high ambient temperatures like a garage that hits 100°F (38°C) in summer or near direct sunlight. Ideally, store spare batteries in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials. If you notice your battery pack is swollen, hot to the touch, or making unusual noises during use, stop using it immediately. These are clear signs of internal failure that should never be ignored.
Proper disposal is equally critical for community safety. As highlighted in recent recalls, lithium-ion batteries must never go into standard curbside recycling bins or household trash. If a battery is punctured or crushed in a garbage truck, the exposed terminals can short-circuit against other metals, igniting fires that endanger sanitation workers and damage sorting facilities. Instead, always tape the terminals of used batteries with electrical tape to prevent contact, then take them to designated drop-off locations. Many hardware stores, electronics retailers, and municipal household hazardous waste (HHW) centers accept these batteries for safe recycling. Call ahead to confirm their current policies, as rules vary by location.
Finally, make recall awareness a regular habit rather than an emergency response. Sign up for safety alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) via email or text. This ensures you are notified immediately if a product you own is found to be defective. Regularly check the model numbers of your power tools and appliances against official recall databases. A few minutes spent verifying your equipment’s status can save you from potential harm, ensuring that your home remains a safe place for your family and your projects.