What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall involving specific solar power accessories manufactured by Goal Zero LLC. On February 27, 2025, the company announced that it is recalling its Solar Series Combiner Cables due to safety concerns that could lead to dangerous situations for users. This recall focuses on a particular product designed to help campers and outdoor enthusiasts manage their solar energy systems more efficiently. The specific item identified in this notice is the Goal Zero 4x HPP to 1x HPP+ Solar Series Combiner, which carries the model number 98715. It is important for consumers to verify they have this exact model before proceeding with any return or refund steps.
To understand what was recalled, it helps to know how this specific cable functions. The combiner cable is designed for chaining multiple solar panels together in a series configuration, effectively combining their output into a single connection point that can then charge a battery. This allows users to maximize the power generated by their portable solar setups. The physical product is a black plastic cable featuring four high power port (HPP) connectors on one end and a single HPP connector on the other end. These cables are typically used with Nomad-series solar panels, which are portable, fold-out panels that consumers set up themselves for camping and other outdoor applications. While the recall notice does not specify the total number of units sold or the exact geographic regions where they were distributed, it confirms that these products were marketed toward individuals using portable solar power in recreational settings.
If you purchased this cable to expand your solar charging capabilities, particularly if you own Nomad-series panels, you need to check your equipment carefully. The recall highlights a malfunction potential within the combiner cables when used with those specific panels. Because the product involves electrical connections that manage power flow, any defect in the cable’s construction or internal wiring could lead to serious consequences. Goal Zero has acknowledged that this defect poses a fire hazard. Therefore, identifying whether you own this specific black combiner cable with four inputs and one output is the critical first step in protecting your home and personal safety. If you are unsure about your purchase history or the specific model number of your cable, contacting the manufacturer directly is the most reliable way to confirm whether your item falls under this recall.
The decision to recall this product underscores the importance of rigorous safety testing in portable electronics. Even though solar panels are often associated with clean, safe energy, the electrical components that connect them must function perfectly to prevent overheating or short circuits. Goal Zero’s proactive announcement provides a clear path for consumers to resolve the issue, but it begins with accurate identification of the recalled item. Without knowing the exact model number and physical characteristics described above, it is difficult to determine if your specific cable is part of this batch. Please take the time to examine your gear against the description provided here to ensure you are taking the appropriate action.
The hazard, explained
When you purchase a solar power setup for camping or emergency backup, you are relying on the assumption that your equipment will manage high-energy electricity safely and efficiently. The Goal Zero Solar Series Combiner Cables were designed to act as the central hub for this process, allowing users to chain multiple Nomad-series solar panels together into a single output. Think of it like a power strip or a Y-splitter for sunlight: it takes several small inputs and combines them into one strong stream to charge your battery. However, in this specific recall, that crucial link has proven to be unstable under certain conditions.
The core issue lies in how the cable handles the electrical current when connected to Nomad-series panels. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), these combiner cables can malfunction during normal use. While the exact technical root cause is not detailed in the public report, the physical result is clear: the component fails to properly regulate or contain the electrical flow. In electrical systems, when a connection point malfunctions, it often manifests as excessive heat. This happens because the internal components are no longer conducting electricity with the necessary efficiency, creating resistance. That resistance generates significant thermal energy in a confined space.
This is where the danger becomes immediate and severe. The combiner cable is constructed with a black plastic housing. While durable for transport, standard plastic enclosures on consumer electronics are not typically designed to withstand the extreme temperatures generated by an electrical short or sustained overheating event. When the internal malfunction occurs, that heat builds up rapidly within the plastic casing. If the temperature rises high enough, the plastic can soften, melt, or even ignite. This is not a slow degradation; it is a sudden failure mode that can lead to open flames.
The seriousness of this hazard is underscored by the fact that Goal Zero has already received two confirmed reports of fires involving these cables. These incidents resulted in property damage, indicating that the flames were substantial enough to affect surrounding items, likely during setup or while the panels were deployed on a campsite or balcony. Although no injuries have been reported so far, the potential for harm is significant because these devices are often used in close proximity to people, tents, sleeping bags, and other flammable materials. The risk isn't just about broken equipment; it is about an uncontrolled fire breaking out in a moment when you might be distracted by setting up your gear or enjoying the outdoors.
Understanding this mechanism helps clarify why stopping use immediately is not just a precaution, but a necessity. The malfunction is inherent to the product's design or manufacturing batch, meaning it can happen at any time during operation. There is no way for the average user to predict when the internal failure will trigger the thermal event. Therefore, the only reliable way to prevent a fire is to remove the potential ignition source from your environment entirely.
Who is most at risk
The individuals most directly affected by this recall are those who own and actively use the Goal Zero 4x HPP to 1x HPP+ Solar Series Combiner, specifically model number 98715. This product is designed as a specialized connector for chaining multiple Nomad-series solar panels together to charge batteries in portable power systems. Consequently, the primary group at risk consists of outdoor enthusiasts, campers, hikers, and individuals who rely on off-grid solar setups for power during recreational trips or emergency situations. If you have purchased this specific black plastic cable with four high-power port (HPP) connectors on one end and a single HPP connector on the other, you are part of the affected population.
While the recall notice indicates that no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm exists due to the nature of the hazard. The combiner cables can malfunction when used with Nomad-series solar panels, which poses a fire hazard. Fire risks in portable electronics are particularly dangerous because they often occur in environments where immediate escape or mitigation is difficult. Campers and outdoor users typically set up their equipment in tents, RVs, or remote cabins—spaces that may be made of flammable materials and are often located far from professional emergency services. In these isolated settings, a small electrical fire can escalate rapidly before the user even realizes there is a problem, especially if the device is charging unattended overnight.
Certain demographics within this user base may face heightened vulnerability. Individuals camping with children or elderly family members are at greater risk because these groups may have slower reaction times to notice signs of electrical distress, such as unusual heat, smoke, or burning odors. Children, in particular, might not recognize the danger until it is too late, and elderly individuals may struggle to evacuate quickly if a fire breaks out while they are resting near their charging equipment. Furthermore, users who rely on these solar setups for critical power needs, such as those with medical devices requiring electricity during off-grid camping or emergency preparedness scenarios, face compounded risks. Not only is there a risk of property damage from the fire itself, but the failure of the power source could also impact their ability to maintain essential life-support equipment.
It is also important to note that anyone who has installed this combiner cable into their existing solar array is at risk, regardless of how long they have owned it. The defect is inherent to the manufacturing of the cable, meaning that even experienced users who have safely used similar products in the past are vulnerable if they possess this specific model. The risk does not diminish with time or proper usage; the malfunction can occur unexpectedly during normal operation. Therefore, the entire community of Goal Zero Nomad-series panel owners who utilize this specific combiner cable must be considered at risk until they take action to remove the product from their inventory.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact Goal Zero, it is essential to confirm that your specific equipment falls within this recall. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a very particular product in this notice, and because solar gear can look similar from a distance, visual inspection alone might not be enough. You need to verify the exact model number and physical characteristics of your combiner cable to ensure you are dealing with a recalled unit.
The primary identifier for this recall is the model number. You must look for model number 98715. This specific designation refers to the Goal Zero 4x HPP to 1x HPP+ Solar Series Combiner. If your cable does not carry this exact model number, it is likely not part of this specific safety recall, though you should always double-check with the manufacturer if you are unsure. The name itself provides a clue to its function: it is a "combiner" cable designed to chain multiple solar panels together into a single output for charging a battery.
To physically identify the correct item, examine the cable closely. The recalled combiner cable is characterized by its black plastic construction. The most distinctive feature is the connector configuration on each end of the cable. One end of the cable must have four high power port (HPP) connectors, while the opposite end must have one HPP connector. This 4-to-1 configuration is unique to this specific series combiner and is what allows you to link multiple Nomad-series solar panels in series. If your cable has a different arrangement of ports, such as two inputs or four outputs, it is not the recalled product.
While the CPSC recall facts do not specify a date range for when this item was sold or its exact price point, they do note that these portable panels are designed to fold out and are typically set up by consumers for camping and other outdoor applications. If you purchased this cable as part of a kit intended for mobile energy solutions, it is highly probable you have the correct product if it matches the physical description above. However, the model number remains your most reliable confirmation.
If you own a Goal Zero solar setup, check your original packaging, user manuals, or any receipts you may have kept. The model number 98715 should be listed clearly on these documents. If you cannot find the physical label on the cable itself, referring to your purchase history or the product registration details from when you bought it will help confirm whether your unit matches the recalled specifications. Once you have confirmed that you have a black combiner cable with four HPP connectors on one end and one on the other, and that it is model number 98715, you should proceed to the remedy section of this recall.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Goal Zero Solar Series Combiner Cable, the most important thing you can do right now is prioritize safety over convenience. The CPSC has identified a serious fire hazard associated with these specific cables when used with Nomad-series solar panels. Because this issue involves electrical malfunction that can lead to property damage, you should not attempt to troubleshoot, repair, or continue using the product in any capacity. Instead, follow these concrete steps immediately to protect your home and secure your refund.
- Stop Using the Product Immediately. The very first step is to disconnect and cease use of the recalled combiner cable. Do not plug it into your solar panels or charge your battery with it. Even if the cable appears to be working correctly and has never overheated, the internal malfunction risk remains. Malfunctions in electrical components can occur unpredictably, and the potential for fire exists even without prior warning signs. By unplugging it now, you eliminate the possibility of an incident occurring while you are at home or when your equipment is unattended.
- Register for a Refund Online. Goal Zero LLC has established a specific process to handle this recall efficiently. You need to visit their official website at https://goalzero.com/pages/notices-recalls or navigate to the "Notices/Recalls" section at the bottom of any page on www.goalzero.com. On this page, look for the specific notice regarding the Solar Series Combiner Cable recall dated February 27, 2025. Follow the instructions provided there to register your device. This step is crucial because it initiates the refund process and confirms that you have taken responsibility for the hazardous item. The remedy offered is a full refund of the purchase price in the original form of payment, so ensure you complete this registration accurately to receive your money back.
- Contact Customer Support if Needed. If you encounter any issues during the online registration process or have questions about the specific model you own, you can reach Goal Zero directly. Call their toll-free number at 888-794-6250 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can send an email to support@goalzero.com. Having your proof of purchase and the model number (98715) ready will help them assist you more quickly.
- Safely Dispose of the Recalled Cable. Once you have registered for your refund and confirmed that Goal Zero has processed your request, you must get rid of the cable. Do not donate it, sell it, or give it to a friend, as this would put others at risk. Discard the black plastic combiner cable in your regular trash. However, before throwing it away, please check your local and state ordinances regarding electronic waste disposal. Some municipalities require electronics to be disposed of in specific ways to prevent environmental harm, so ensure you are following local regulations when placing the item in the bin.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that you own one of the recalled Goal Zero Series Combiner Cables, your primary path to resolution is a full refund of the purchase price. It is important to understand that in this specific recall scenario, there are no offers for repair kits or direct product replacements provided by the manufacturer. The company has chosen to resolve the safety issue entirely through financial restitution because the defect involves the internal functionality of the cable when used with their Nomad-series solar panels. Since a simple fix might not guarantee long-term reliability given the fire hazard involved, a refund is the safest and most definitive way to ensure you are no longer exposed to the risk.
To initiate this process, you must contact Goal Zero directly through one of their designated consumer support channels. The company has established specific hours for assistance, so it is helpful to plan your outreach accordingly. You can call their toll-free number at 888-794-6250 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or need to submit documentation for your claim, you may send an email to support@goalzero.com. These are the official verified contacts for this recall; please avoid using general customer service lines that may not be updated with this specific recall protocol.
Additionally, Goal Zero has set up a dedicated online portal for managing these claims. You can visit their website at https://goalzero.com/pages/notices-recalls or navigate to the main site at www.goalzero.com and look for the "Notices/Recalls" link located at the very bottom of the page. Registering for the refund through this specific section ensures your claim is routed correctly to the team handling this particular safety notice. When you register, be prepared to provide details about your original purchase to verify eligibility.
A critical part of the remedy is understanding what happens to the physical product. Once you have secured your refund agreement, you are instructed to discard the recalled combiner cable in the trash. This disposal must follow any applicable local and state ordinances regarding electronic waste or general trash disposal. Do not attempt to sell, donate, or give away the cable, even if it appears to function normally, as the malfunction risk persists. By following these steps—contacting support during business hours, registering online or via email, and safely disposing of the unit—you ensure that you are fully protected from the fire hazard while recovering your money.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is natural to feel reluctant to stop using a piece of equipment you have relied on for camping trips or emergency power, especially if you are in the middle of an outdoor adventure or preparing your gear for a weekend away. However, ignoring this recall from Goal Zero carries significant and immediate risks that extend far beyond mere inconvenience. The core issue is not a simple malfunction that might cause your device to stop working; it is a serious fire hazard. When electrical components fail in the way these specific combiner cables are prone to doing, they do not just disconnect—they can generate excessive heat, sparks, or sustained arcing. In the context of solar power systems, where energy is being actively converted and transferred through wires, a failure point becomes a focal point for thermal runaway.
The reality of this risk is underscored by the fact that Goal Zero has already documented two separate incidents involving fires caused by these exact cables. These are not theoretical warnings or lab-test projections; they are real-world events where property damage occurred because the cable malfunctioned while connected to Nomad-series solar panels. While it is a relief that no injuries have been reported in these specific cases, the potential for personal harm exists. Fire spreads rapidly, particularly in environments common to solar users, such as tents, campers, RVs, or wooden decks. A small electrical fire can quickly engulf flammable materials like sleeping bags, clothing, canvas, or furniture, trapping you or your family in a dangerous situation with limited escape routes.
Beyond the immediate danger of flames, continuing to use the recalled cable poses severe risks to your financial assets and personal safety infrastructure. The combiner cable is designed to chain multiple solar panels together to charge batteries. If it malfunctions due to the defect, it can send incorrect voltage or current to your connected devices. This can lead to the destruction of expensive solar panels, battery banks, inverters, and other electronic gear that you rely on for power. You might find yourself facing a costly chain reaction where a $50 cable causes thousands of dollars in damage to your primary power source.
Furthermore, using defective electrical equipment violates basic safety principles intended to protect you. Electrical fires are among the most dangerous household and outdoor emergencies because they can ignite without warning and produce toxic smoke. By continuing to plug in this faulty cable, you are essentially gambling with your property and your physical safety. The remedy offered by Goal Zero—a full refund—is straightforward, but the cost of ignoring it could be irreversible. Do not wait for a spark or a smell of burning plastic to validate the urgency of this recall. Act now to ensure that your solar setup remains a source of power, not peril.