What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a significant recall involving the HALO 1000 Portable Power Station, a high-capacity lithium-ion battery power bank designed to provide backup power for electronics and small appliances. This recall affects units imported by ZAGG and subsequently sold through major retail channels including ACG and QVC. The products in question are not standard phone chargers but substantial energy storage devices featuring three USB-A charge ports, one USB-C fast charge port, three AC outputs, two DC outputs, a dedicated DC socket, an LCD display for monitoring status, a built-in flood light, and a collapsible handle for portability.
The specific models subject to this recall are all variants of the PS-1000 series, distinguished primarily by their exterior color finishes. These include the Stone Gray (Model Number PS-1000, SKU 801108111, UPC 840056145528), the Carbon version (Model Number PS-1000, SKU 801108112, UPC 840056145535), the Desert Sand model (Model Number PS-1000, SKU 801108113, UPC 840056145542), the Midnight Blue unit (Model Number PS-1000, SKU 801108114, UPC 840056145559), and the Woodland Green model (Model Number PS-1000, SKU 801108115, UPC 840056145566). For consumers who purchased this item through QVC, the product was listed under item number E235474. It is important to note that the model number, SKU number, and UPC are located on the bottom of the device, which serves as the primary method for verification.
The recall was officially announced on August 29, 2024, bringing attention to safety issues that have persisted since at least June 2022. While the exact total number of units sold globally is not explicitly detailed in the immediate public record provided here, the scope of the recall covers all distributed inventory of these specific SKUs within the affected sales channels. The inclusion of a reported fatality underscores the severity of the defect; a 79-year-old man in Bradenton, Florida, died from smoke inhalation after a fire involving this power station ignited in his home. Beyond this tragic incident, there have been four additional reports of fires associated with the HALO 1000, including two instances of smoke inhalation and one case resulting in burn injuries.
If you own a portable power station that matches the descriptions above, particularly if it bears any of the listed SKUs or UPCs, it is critical to verify whether your specific unit is part of this batch. The risk stems from the internal lithium-ion batteries, which have been identified as capable of overheating under normal use conditions. This is not a matter of defective software or minor hardware glitches but a fundamental safety failure in the power storage component that poses immediate fire and burn hazards. Consumers are urged to check the bottom of their devices against the list provided to determine if they fall within the scope of this urgent safety alert.
The hazard, explained
To understand why the HALO 1000 Portable Power Station has been recalled, it helps to look at what is happening inside the device before you ever see smoke or flames. These power stations rely on high-capacity lithium-ion batteries to store energy. While these batteries are excellent for holding a charge and delivering power quickly, they are sensitive to temperature changes and internal stability. In this specific case, the lithium-ion cells within the HALO 1000 have a defect that allows them to overheat unexpectedly. This is not a minor warmth; it is a significant rise in temperature that the device’s internal controls cannot manage or dissipate.
When a lithium-ion battery begins to overheat due to a manufacturing flaw or internal short circuit, it can trigger a dangerous chain reaction known as thermal runaway. In simple terms, once the heat reaches a critical point, the chemical reactions inside the battery become self-sustaining and accelerate rapidly. The battery essentially generates its own heat faster than it can release it. This causes the pressure inside the sealed cell to build up dramatically. If that pressure is not vented safely, the casing can rupture or catch fire.
This mechanical failure translates directly into serious physical harm for users. The recall notice confirms that this hazard has already resulted in one death and multiple injuries. The primary danger comes from two sources: direct burns and smoke inhalation. If the battery fails while you are touching the unit, the exterior can become hot enough to cause severe burn injuries. More insidiously, the burning lithium chemicals release dense, toxic smoke. As reported in the incident involving a 79-year-old man in Bradenton, Florida, this smoke can fill a room quickly, leading to smoke inhalation that can be fatal even if the victim is not directly touching the device. The combination of intense heat and toxic fumes makes these fires particularly dangerous in a home environment.
It is important to note that this overheating can happen without warning signs like leaking fluid or unusual noises beforehand. The defect lies within the battery cell itself, meaning the power station may appear to be working normally—charging other devices, displaying power levels on its LCD screen—right up until the moment it ignites. This is why you cannot rely on how the device feels or looks to determine if it is safe. The risk exists as long as the defective batteries remain inside the unit.
While this specific defect is tied to the HALO 1000 model, it highlights a broader reality about lithium-ion technology in portable electronics. When these batteries are subjected to stress from internal flaws, they do not just stop working; they can become active fire hazards. The CPSC has identified four reports of fires involving the HALO 1000, including two cases of smoke inhalation and one case of burn injuries, underscoring that this is a real and immediate threat, not just a theoretical possibility.
Who is most at risk
The HALO 1000 Portable Power Station is a versatile piece of technology designed for convenience, yet its internal chemistry creates specific dangers that affect users in different ways depending on their physical circumstances and living environments. While any owner of the recalled models faces the potential for fire or burns, certain groups are particularly vulnerable to the severe consequences of these incidents. The primary risk group consists of individuals who use these units as a primary or secondary power source in enclosed spaces, such as homes, cabins, or RVs. Because the failure mode involves overheating lithium-ion batteries, the threat is not just the initial spark but the subsequent release of toxic smoke and intense heat.
Elderly consumers represent a critically high-risk demographic for this specific hazard. This reality was tragically illustrated by the reported death of a 79-year-old man in Bradenton, Florida, who succumbed to smoke inhalation from a fire involving one of these units in June 2022. Older adults may have slower reaction times or reduced mobility, making it difficult to escape quickly if a device begins to emit heat or smoke overnight while they are sleeping. Furthermore, many seniors rely on portable power stations for essential medical equipment or daily comfort during outages. A fire caused by the battery’s thermal runaway does not just destroy property; it can cut off lifelines and fill living spaces with dense, toxic fumes that are especially dangerous to older lungs.
Families with young children also face heightened risks, though in a different manner. The HALO 1000 features a collapsible handle and an LCD display, making it attractive for camping trips or emergency preparedness where parents might leave the device running unattended to charge phones or power small appliances. If the battery overheats while a child is nearby, the risk of direct contact burns is significant. The unit’s exterior can become dangerously hot before the internal battery completely fails. Children are more susceptible to thermal injuries because their skin is thinner than that of adults, meaning severe burns can occur from brief contact with the casing during the early stages of overheating.
Additionally, anyone who stores these units in poorly ventilated areas or near flammable materials like curtains, bedding, or paper increases the likelihood of a catastrophic event. The recall data indicates that fires have occurred inside homes, suggesting that users often treat these power stations as stationary household appliances rather than temporary outdoor gear. This misconception is dangerous because lithium-ion batteries require space to dissipate heat. When packed tightly in closets, under beds, or inside vehicle trunks without airflow, a malfunctioning cell cannot cool down, turning the entire unit into an ignition source for surrounding combustible items.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action, it is essential to confirm whether your specific device is part of this recall. The HALO 1000 Portable Power Station has a distinct set of physical characteristics and labeling that make identification straightforward once you know where to look. First, verify the brand name printed on the unit; it must read "HALO." Next, examine the model number, which should be PS-1000. The device itself is a high-capacity lithium-ion battery power bank featuring three USB-A charge ports, one USB-C fast charge port, three AC outputs, two DC outputs, a DC socket, an LCD display, a built-in flood light, and a collapsible handle. If your unit lacks these specific features or carries a different model designation, it is not included in this recall.
The most reliable way to identify if your power station is affected is by checking the unique identifiers located on the bottom of the product. You will find the Model Number, SKU number, and UPC (Universal Product Code) printed clearly on this surface. The recall encompasses five specific color variations of the PS-1000 model, each with its own corresponding SKU and UPC code. Ensure your device matches one of the following combinations exactly:
- Stone Gray: Model PS-1000, SKU 801108111, UPC 840056145528
- Carbon: Model PS-1000, SKU 801108112, UPC 840056145535
- Desert Sand: Model PS-1000, SKU 801108113, UPC 840056145542
- Midnight Blue: Model PS-1000, SKU 801108114, UPC 840056145559
- Woodland Green: Model PS-1000, SKU 801108115, UPC 840056145566
If you purchased your unit through QVC, the identification process requires an additional step. Units sold by QVC are subject to this recall and were distributed under item number E235474. If you do not have the original packaging or receipt, checking the bottom label for the SKU and UPC codes remains the definitive method of confirmation. It is crucial to record these numbers before contacting support, as they will be necessary to process your free replacement. Do not rely solely on the color or general appearance, as similar-looking products may exist; always verify the specific alphanumeric codes printed on the device.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled HALO 1000 Portable Power Stations, your safety is the absolute priority right now. The CPSC has identified a serious defect in the lithium-ion batteries that can cause them to overheat, leading to fire and burn hazards. Because this issue has already resulted in fatalities and multiple injuries, you must act immediately. Do not wait for the battery to show signs of trouble, as these failures can happen without warning. Follow these concrete steps to protect yourself and your home.
- Stop using the device immediately. Unplug the power station from any wall outlet or solar panel right now. If it is currently charging other devices, unplug those devices as well. Do not attempt to charge the power station again, and do not try to use it to power electronics in your home, car, or campsite. The risk of thermal runaway—the process where the battery overheats uncontrollably—is present every time the device is active. By taking it out of service completely, you remove the source of potential harm from your environment.
- Securely store the unit. Once unplugged, move the power station to a safe location away from sleeping areas, flammable materials like curtains or bedding, and high-traffic zones. Ideally, place it in a non-combustible area such as a concrete garage floor, a metal shed, or outdoors on a non-flammable surface, away from your home’s structure. This is a precautionary measure to ensure that if the battery were to ignite while you are waiting for instructions, it would not spread to your possessions or cause injury to family members.
- Contact the manufacturer for a free replacement. The remedy provided by ZAGG, the importer, and ACG, the seller, is a free replacement portable power station. You do not need to pay for shipping or return the defective unit yourself in most cases, but you must initiate the process through their official recall channels. Call the HALO 1000 Recall hotline toll-free at 888-345-0481. The line is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can send an email to halo5528@sedgwick.com or visit their online portal at https://halo1000recall.expertinquiry.com/. Have your model number, SKU, and UPC ready, as these are located on the bottom of the device.
- Keep documentation until resolution. Save any confirmation emails, case numbers, or receipts from your original purchase (whether from QVC, ACG, or ZAGG). While you will receive a free replacement, keeping records ensures that any potential shipping delays or administrative errors can be resolved quickly. Do not dispose of the old unit until you have received clear instructions from the recall team regarding its disposal.
Taking these steps might feel inconvenient if you rely on the power station for camping trips or emergency backup, but the alternative is far riskier. This recall was issued after one death and four other fire incidents were reported. By following this protocol, you are ensuring that you receive a safe, tested unit to replace the defective one, allowing you to continue using portable power without fear.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled HALO 1000 Portable Power Stations, the good news is that the remedy for this serious safety issue is straightforward and completely free. You do not need to pay for shipping, return the defective unit yourself in most cases, or accept a partial refund. Instead, the manufacturer and recall administrators have arranged for you to receive a brand-new replacement portable power station at no cost to you. This approach is designed to remove every barrier between you and a safe device, ensuring that you can restore your power backup capabilities without any financial burden or logistical hassle.
To initiate this process, you must contact the dedicated HALO Recall hotline. The primary method for reaching them is by calling their toll-free number at 888-345-0481. This line is staffed during standard business hours, specifically from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or find it easier to document your interaction, you may also send an email to halo5528@sedgwick.com. For those who prefer managing requests online, there is a dedicated portal available at https://halo1000recall.expertinquiry.com/. When you reach out through any of these channels, be prepared to provide the specific details of your unit to verify it is part of this recall.
While preparing your contact information, it will help to have the identifying numbers from the bottom of your device ready. As noted in the recall details, the model number is PS-1000, but the specific SKU and UPC codes vary by color. If your unit is Stone Gray, the SKU is 801108111 and the UPC is 840056145528. For the Carbon model, look for SKU 801108112 and UPC 840056145535. Desert Sand units have SKU 801108113 with UPC 840056145542. Midnight Blue units carry SKU 801108114 and UPC 840056145559, while Woodland Green models have SKU 801108115 and UPC 840056145566. If you purchased the item through QVC, note that it was sold under item number E235474. Having these details on hand will speed up the verification process significantly.
The reason for this generous replacement policy lies in the nature of the hazard itself. The lithium-ion batteries inside these units can overheat, leading to fires and burns. Because the defect is inherent to the battery chemistry or manufacturing process within the sealed unit, attempting to repair the original device is neither safe nor feasible. A simple refund would leave you without a power source during an emergency, which defeats the purpose of owning such a device. Therefore, a free replacement ensures that your safety is prioritized while also maintaining your ability to charge devices when the grid goes down. Please remember to stop using the recalled unit immediately upon reading this and wait for instructions on how to dispose of it safely after you have secured your new one.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a recall involves lithium-ion batteries and fire hazards, the stakes are never theoretical. Continuing to use the recalled HALO 1000 Portable Power Station is not merely an inconvenience; it is an active gamble with your physical safety and your property. The core issue lies in the battery cell itself. Lithium-ion batteries store a tremendous amount of energy in a very small space. When the internal components fail or overheat, this energy can escape rapidly in a phenomenon known as thermal runaway. Once triggered, this process is self-sustaining and difficult to stop without specialized equipment. The heat generated can reach temperatures high enough to ignite nearby fabrics, furniture, or structural elements of your home before you even realize the device has failed.
The consequences of ignoring this warning are already documented in tragic real-world terms. According to reports from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the manufacturers, there has been one confirmed fatality directly linked to this specific product. In June 2022, a 79-year-old man in Bradenton, Florida, died from smoke inhalation after a fire involving the recalled power station erupted in his home. This is not an abstract statistic; it represents a life cut short by a preventable device failure. Beyond this tragic loss, the companies have collectively received four additional reports of fires involving the HALO 1000. These incidents have resulted in serious health impacts for other users, including two separate cases of smoke inhalation and one instance of direct burn injuries. Each of these reports confirms that the hazard is not a rare anomaly but a recurring risk.
If you continue to use this device, you are exposing yourself and your loved ones to the same potential outcomes. A fire starting in a power station can escalate quickly, especially if it occurs while you are sleeping or away from home. The smoke produced by burning lithium-ion batteries often contains toxic chemicals that can cause severe respiratory distress, disorientation, and long-term health issues even for those who do not suffer direct burns. Furthermore, the damage to your property can be extensive. A fire originating from a small electronic device can spread to curtains, couches, or walls, leading to thousands of dollars in damages and the potential loss of irreplaceable personal belongings. The initial cost of the power station is insignificant compared to the physical and financial toll of ignoring this recall.
There is no safe "middle ground" for these devices. Unlike a product with a minor defect that might only affect performance, a battery that can overheat and catch fire poses an immediate threat. You cannot mitigate this risk by being careful or using it in a well-ventilated area, as the internal failure happens independently of external conditions. The only way to eliminate the danger is to remove the device from your environment entirely. By holding onto it, you are keeping a known hazard within reach of your family and your home. Please do not wait for another incident to occur before taking action. Your safety is worth far more than the effort it takes to return this item today.