What was recalled
If you have been charging your smartphone, tablet, or laptop with an Anker Power Bank recently, it is important to pause and check the specific model you are using. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall affecting certain portable power banks manufactured by Anker Innovations. This action was taken because these devices contain lithium-ion batteries that can overheat, creating serious fire and burn risks for consumers. The recall, announced on October 17, 2024, targets three specific model numbers: A1642, A1647, and A1652. These are not generic chargers but distinct products designed to provide portable power with maximum outputs of 12 watts (for model A1642), 15 watts (for model A1647), and 20 watts (for model A1652). While the exact number of units affected is not specified in the current official record, the severity of the issue is underscored by the fact that Anker has already received 28 reports of incidents involving overheating, exploding batteries, and power banks catching fire. Two of these incidents resulted in injuries, specifically first and second-degree burns to consumers' hands.
To determine if your device is part of this recall, you need to look closely at the physical unit itself. Anker has engraved its brand name on the front of each power bank. The model number, which is critical for identifying whether your device is included in this specific safety notice, is located on the back of the power bank. You must verify that the number printed there matches one of the three recalled models: A1642, A1647, or A1652. If your device bears any other model number, it is not part of this recall. These power banks were sold through various channels, including online retailers and physical stores, across the United States and in other countries. Because they are portable electronic charging devices intended for everyday use with smartphones, tablets, and laptops, they may be found in homes, offices, and on-the-go scenarios. If you are unsure where you purchased the device, check your receipts or order confirmation emails, as the model number will be listed there as well.
The scope of this recall is significant because these power banks are designed to be high-capacity portable chargers. The 12W, 15W, and 20W outputs indicate that they are capable of delivering substantial power to charge devices quickly. However, the very component that makes them useful—the lithium-ion battery—has been found to have a defect that can lead to thermal runaway. This is a condition where the battery's temperature increases uncontrollably, leading to fire. The presence of 28 reported incidents, including fires and explosions, highlights that this is not a minor inconvenience but a genuine safety hazard. Consumers who own these specific models should treat them with caution until they can be addressed through the recall process. It is crucial to act promptly, as the risk of injury or property damage increases with continued use of the defective batteries.
In summary, the recalled products are Anker Power Banks with model numbers A1642, A1647, and A1652. These devices are portable chargers for smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The key identifiers are the "Anker" engraving on the front and the specific model number on the back. If your device matches one of these three numbers, it is part of the recall. The recall was initiated due to reports of overheating, explosions, and fires, with two confirmed injuries reported. Consumers should not rely on general knowledge about Anker products but must verify their specific unit against these details. This recall affects units sold in the U.S. and other regions, so checking your purchase history or the device itself is the only way to confirm if you are impacted. Do not assume your power bank is safe just because it has been working fine up to this point; the defect can manifest suddenly.
The hazard, explained
When the Consumer Product Safety Commission issued this recall on October 17, 2024, they highlighted a serious and potentially dangerous flaw within Anker Power Banks. Specifically, the issue lies with the lithium-ion batteries housed inside models A1642, A1647, and A1652. To understand why this is so risky, it helps to look at what is physically happening inside that small plastic casing. Lithium-ion batteries are designed to store energy efficiently by moving lithium ions between a positive and negative electrode through an electrolyte solution. However, in these recalled units, the battery cells have failed in a way that allows them to overheat uncontrollably.
This overheating is not just a matter of the device getting warm during use; it is a thermal runaway event. Thermal runaway occurs when an internal short circuit or chemical instability causes the battery’s temperature to rise rapidly. As the heat builds, it can trigger further chemical reactions that generate even more heat in a self-perpetuating cycle. According to the recall notice, this process has led to the batteries exploding and the power banks catching fire. This is why the hazard is classified as both a fire risk and a burn risk. The energy released during such an event is sudden and intense, capable of igniting nearby materials or causing severe damage to whatever surface the device is resting on.
The potential for physical injury is significant because these power banks are often used close to the body. They are portable devices meant to charge smartphones, tablets, and laptops while you are on the go, meaning they are frequently held in hands, placed on laps, or kept in bags next to skin. When a lithium-ion battery undergoes thermal runaway, it can eject hot debris, release toxic fumes, or simply become extremely hot to the touch in seconds. The recall records confirm that this is not theoretical: there have been 28 reported incidents of overheating, exploding, and fire. More alarmingly, two consumers have suffered first and second-degree burns to their hands as a direct result of these failures.
It is important to recognize that lithium-ion batteries are generally safe when functioning correctly. The danger arises specifically from manufacturing defects or internal faults that bypass the safety mechanisms designed to prevent overheating. In this case, the defect allows heat to accumulate beyond the battery’s ability to dissipate it safely. Because you cannot see or feel the internal degradation until it is too late, relying on the device to warn you before it fails is dangerous. The absence of visible warning signs like swelling or unusual warmth does not mean the risk is gone; the electrical fault can persist silently until the thermal threshold is crossed. This unpredictability is what makes immediate cessation of use critical. You cannot test for this flaw safely, and waiting to see if a problem develops only increases the likelihood of injury.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at immediate risk consists of anyone who currently owns or actively uses the specific Anker power banks identified in this recall: models A1642, A1647, and A1652. These are portable electronic charging devices designed to provide power to smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Because these items are designed to be mobile companions for our daily digital lives, they are often kept close to the body—pocketed in a jacket during a commute, held in hand while waiting for a bus, or resting on a lap while working at a café. This proximity is precisely what transforms a technical malfunction into a personal safety threat. If the lithium-ion battery inside any of these units begins to overheat, it does not happen remotely; the heat source is right there in your grasp.
While the recall affects all owners of these specific models, certain individuals face heightened vulnerability due to the nature of the hazard. The CPSC report notes that two injuries have already been confirmed, specifically first and second-degree burns to consumers’ hands. This detail is critical because it highlights who is most directly exposed: the person holding the device while it charges or discharges. Hands are among the most sensitive parts of the body for detecting temperature changes, but they are also highly susceptible to thermal injury. A second-degree burn involves damage to both the outer layer of skin and the underlying layer, which can be painful, slow to heal, and potentially debilitating. For anyone whose livelihood depends on the use of their hands—such as healthcare workers, musicians, or manual laborers—an injury of this nature carries significant additional consequences beyond the immediate pain.
Elderly individuals may also be at greater risk for severe outcomes from such burns. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and less elastic, making it more fragile and slower to heal. A burn that might cause a brief discomfort in a younger person could lead to prolonged recovery times, infection risks, or permanent tissue damage in an older adult. Furthermore, if the battery explodes or catches fire as reported in 28 incidents, the suddenness of the event can startle users, potentially causing them to drop hot devices onto their legs or laps, leading to additional injuries that are harder to treat and more likely to result in scarring.
Additionally, households with children must be particularly vigilant. Children often have smaller hands and thinner skin than adults, meaning they may suffer more severe burns from the same amount of heat exposure. They may also lack the reflexive speed to drop a suddenly hot device, or they might not immediately recognize the danger if the heating occurs gradually. Since these power banks are used to charge devices that children frequently use, there is a risk that a child could be holding the recalled Anker unit when a fault occurs. The combination of frequent handling by multiple family members and the inherent unpredictability of lithium-ion battery failures means that no owner can assume their specific unit is safe without verifying its model number against this official list.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action, you need to be absolutely certain that the power bank in your bag or on your nightstand is one of the specific units affected by this recall. It is easy to feel overwhelmed when a large brand like Anker issues a safety notice, but rest assured that this recall does not apply to every Anker product ever made. The issue is isolated to three specific models manufactured by Anker Innovations. By carefully checking the physical details of your device, you can quickly determine if it falls into the danger zone.
The most reliable way to identify a recalled unit is to look for the model numbers printed directly on the device. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Anker Innovations, the recall covers power banks with model numbers A1642, A1647, and A1652. You will find these codes engraved on the back of the power bank. It is important to look closely at this engraving, as it is small but distinct. On the front of the device, you should also see the word "Anker" engraved. If your device does not clearly display one of these three model numbers on the back, it is likely safe from this specific recall, though you should always double-check the other identifying features below.
In addition to the model number, you can identify these recalled items by their intended function and power output specifications. These particular power banks are designed as portable electronic charging devices for smartphones, tablets, and laptops. They come in three variants based on their maximum output: 12 watts (model A1642), 15 watts (model A1647), and 20 watts (model A1652). If you remember purchasing a compact charger with one of these specific wattage ratings, it increases the likelihood that your device is included. While color and size are not explicitly listed as primary identifiers in the official record, the physical presence of the engraved model numbers on the back remains the definitive proof needed to confirm if your item is part of this recall.
If you have found one of these model numbers (A1642, A1647, or A1652) on the back of your Anker power bank, please stop using it immediately. Do not attempt to charge other devices with it, and do not try to fix it yourself. The next step is to register for the recall by visiting https://www.anker.com/product-recalls or contacting Anker Innovations directly at 800-988-7973 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday. They will provide instructions on how to receive a free replacement power bank.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Anker Power Banks, your immediate priority is to ensure safety for yourself and your home. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Anker Innovations have identified a serious risk where the lithium-ion batteries can overheat, potentially leading to fire or burns. Because this hazard involves active electrical components that can fail without warning, you should not attempt to test the device to see if it still works. Instead, follow these concrete steps to resolve the issue safely and efficiently.
- Stop using the power bank immediately. The first and most critical step is to cease all usage of the affected devices. This includes unplugging them from any power source and refraining from charging your phone, tablet, or laptop with them. Continuing to use a battery that may overheat or explode poses a direct threat to personal safety and property. Do not charge the recalled unit itself, as this could trigger the overheating mechanism.
- Identify your model number. Before contacting support, locate the specific model number on the back of your power bank. The recall affects models A1642, A1647, and A1652. Anker is engraved on the front of these devices, while the model numbers are printed on the rear. Confirming your exact model ensures you are interacting with the correct recall program and helps customer service verify your eligibility quickly.
- Contact Anker Innovations to register for a free replacement. Once you have confirmed your model, reach out to Anker to initiate the remedy process. You can call their dedicated support line at 800-988-7973 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may email them at support@anker.com or use the LiveChat function available at https://support.anker.com/s/contact-us. Anker will provide instructions on how to receive a free replacement power bank. You can also visit https://www.anker.com/product-recalls to register for the recall online.
- Dispose of the recalled battery responsibly. After you have secured your replacement, you must dispose of the old unit properly. Do not throw it in your regular household trash. Instead, follow local and state regulations for disposing of lithium-ion batteries. Many electronics retailers and community hazardous waste facilities accept these batteries for safe recycling. Proper disposal prevents environmental harm and reduces the risk of accidental activation or fire in waste management systems.
By following these steps, you ensure that you are no longer exposed to the fire and burn hazards associated with these specific power banks. Anker is committed to resolving this issue by providing free replacements, so do not hesitate to reach out for assistance if you encounter any difficulties during the process.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that you own one of the recalled Anker power banks, the good news is that Anker Innovations has established a clear and accessible remedy to resolve the issue. The company is not asking you to simply toss the defective unit in the trash; instead, they are offering a free replacement power bank to ensure your charging needs are met without compromising your safety. This approach is standard in product recalls involving safety hazards like fire risks, as it removes the dangerous item from your home while providing a functional, inspected alternative at no cost to you. It is important to understand that this is not a partial refund or a store credit; it is a full replacement of the device itself.
To initiate this process, you do not need to return the defective power bank through traditional mail first. Instead, Anker has streamlined the steps to make it as easy as possible for consumers. You should visit their dedicated product recall page at https://www.anker.com/product-recalls to register for the recall. This online portal is designed to collect the necessary information to verify your purchase and eligibility for the free replacement. By registering here, you are essentially telling Anker that you are part of this specific safety campaign, which triggers their logistics team to prepare a new unit for shipment.
If you prefer to speak with someone directly or need assistance with the online registration, Anker has provided multiple contact channels. You can reach their support team by phone at 800-988-7973. It is helpful to note that these lines are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. If you are in a different time zone, this may mean calling early in your morning or late in your evening to align with their business hours. Alternatively, you can send an email to support@anker.com for written assistance.
For those who prefer real-time interaction, Anker also offers a LiveChat function available at https://support.anker.com/s/contact-us. This can be particularly useful if you have specific questions about your model number or the shipping process. You can also navigate to www.anker.com and click on "Product Recalls" at the bottom of the page for additional information and guidance. The key takeaway is that the remedy is entirely free, but it requires active participation from you to register and request the replacement. Do not wait until the battery shows signs of failure; act now to secure your safe replacement.
What can happen if you ignore it
When you choose to keep using a recalled Anker power bank despite knowing the potential risks, you are essentially ignoring a known engineering failure that has already resulted in serious physical harm. The core issue here is not merely that the device stops working; it is that the lithium-ion battery inside can undergo thermal runaway. This is a specific type of chemical reaction where the battery overheats uncontrollably. When this happens, the internal pressure builds rapidly, leading to swelling, venting of hot gases, and in severe cases, fire or explosion. Ignoring the recall means you are leaving this volatile process entirely up to chance, hoping that your specific unit will not be the one to fail at an inconvenient or dangerous moment. The consequences of continuing to use these devices are grounded in real-world data from this specific recall. Anker Innovations has documented 28 separate incidents involving these models (A1642, A1647, and A1652). These are not minor glitches; they range from the batteries simply overheating to full-blown explosions and power banks catching fire. Most alarmingly, two of these reports involved actual injuries to consumers. In both cases, individuals suffered first and second-degree burns to their hands. This highlights the direct physical danger: unlike a phone that might just die, a failing power bank can actively injure you through heat and flames. Beyond the immediate risk of personal injury, there are secondary dangers associated with ignoring the recall. A lithium-ion fire is difficult to extinguish once it starts and can spread quickly to nearby combustible materials, such as furniture, curtains, or other electronics in your home or office. If the device fails while you are charging a smartphone or laptop, the heat damage could ruin those devices as well, leading to significant financial loss beyond just the cost of the power bank. Furthermore, if the battery ruptures while in your pocket or bag, it can cause severe burns to your skin and destroy the contents of your bag, including important documents or other valuable electronics. Continuing to use a recalled product also means you are forfeiting your right to protection. By not registering for the recall and following the prescribed remedy, you are refusing the free replacement that Anker is offering to ensure your safety. There is no benefit to waiting; the hazard does not diminish over time. Instead, the risk increases with every charge cycle. The decision to ignore the recall is a decision to accept unnecessary physical risk for the sake of convenience. Given that the remedy is straightforward—a free replacement and clear disposal instructions—there is no logical reason to expose yourself or your loved ones to the possibility of burns or fire.Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defect in certain Anker power banks, the incident reports of overheating and burning serve as a timely reminder that portable lithium-ion batteries require respectful handling every day. These energy-dense devices are incredibly convenient, but they operate on chemical principles that can become unstable if abused or damaged. Understanding how to care for your electronics proactively is one of the most effective ways to prevent fire hazards in your home and on the go.
First, always use the charging cables and adapters that were designed specifically for your device or those certified by reputable manufacturers. Using cheap, uncertified third-party chargers can lead to inconsistent voltage delivery, which causes batteries to work harder than they should and generate excess heat. Even when using original equipment, avoid "daisy-chaining" multiple USB hubs or plugging high-power devices into a single port that isn't rated for that load. Overloading a power bank not only drains it quickly but can stress the internal circuitry, potentially triggering safety mechanisms or, in rare cases of poor quality control, leading to thermal runaway.
Temperature management is equally critical. Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to extreme heat and cold. Never leave your power bank, phone, or laptop in a hot car during summer months, as dashboard temperatures can soar well beyond safe operating limits for battery chemistry. Similarly, avoid placing these devices on soft surfaces like beds, couches, or pillows while they are charging. Soft materials trap heat; if the battery gets warm during use or charge, that heat needs to dissipate into the air. Covering it with fabric creates an insulating blanket that can push temperatures dangerously high.
Physical integrity matters just as much as electrical load. Inspect your cables and battery casings regularly for signs of wear, such as frayed wires, swollen batteries, or cracked housings. A swollen battery is a clear warning sign that gas has built up inside due to chemical degradation; it should be removed from service immediately and disposed of properly. Do not attempt to puncture or crush a damaged battery, as this can cause an immediate short circuit and fire.
Finally, make checking for recalls a habitual part of owning electronics. Manufacturers occasionally discover defects after products have been sold, and they rely on consumers to report back so they can issue fixes. Sign up for email notifications from the brands you buy from, and periodically check the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) site if you own vehicles with relevant electronic components. Being aware of what is out there allows you to act before a minor issue becomes a major hazard.
- Airflow is key: Always charge devices on hard, flat, non-flammable surfaces like wood, glass, or metal tables.
- Unplug when full: While modern devices have safeguards, constantly keeping a battery at 100% charge for weeks on end can degrade its health and increase heat generation over time.
- Stop using if it gets hot: A warm device is normal; a hot or burning-smelling device is not. Disconnect it immediately and move it to a safe, open area.