What was recalled
On August 17, 2023, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving Ubio Labs power banks that were sold exclusively through Costco warehouses and online. This is not a vague or broad alert; it targets specific inventory items that carried substantial risk. If you purchased portable battery packs from Costco around this time, it is crucial to verify whether your specific unit is part of this batch. The products in question are black Ubio Labs power banks, which were marketed as convenient charging solutions for phones and other devices. These units were available in two distinct packaging configurations: a single-pack option and a two-pack bundle. Because these items were sold under the Ubio Labs brand but distributed by Costco, it is easy to overlook the manufacturer’s name if you only remember the store logo.
To determine if your power bank is part of this recall, you must look closely at the device itself and its original packaging. The recalled units are distinctly black in color. On the back of each power bank, you will find the model number PWB1071 printed clearly. This model identifier is the primary technical marker used by regulators to identify the defective hardware. Additionally, Costco’s internal tracking system uses specific item numbers on the outer packaging, which can help confirm the batch. If you still have the box, check for the Costco item number printed on it. The single-pack version carries the item number 1314518, while the two-pack version is marked with item number 1265470. These numbers are critical because they link the physical product to the specific production run that was found to be unsafe.
It is important to note the current status of the manufacturer in this situation. Ubio Labs, the company that originally designed and produced these power banks, is no longer in operation. This means consumers cannot reach out to the manufacturer directly for support, repairs, or refunds. Instead, Costco has taken full responsibility for the remedy process. The retailer has stated that it has contacted all known purchasers of these specific models directly to inform them of the danger. However, relying solely on direct contact may not be sufficient for everyone, as communication gaps can occur. Therefore, if you are unsure whether your power bank is affected, or if you have not received a notification from Costco, you should proactively check the item numbers listed above against what you own. The recall covers all units of these specific models sold in either pack configuration, regardless of when exactly they were bought within the sales window prior to the recall date.
Understanding the scope of this recall helps clarify why immediate action is necessary. This was not a minor defect or a cosmetic issue; it involved a fundamental safety failure in the battery’s ability to regulate heat. Because Ubio Labs is defunct, Costco serves as the sole point of contact for resolution. If you have one of these black power banks with model PWB1071 and either item number 1314518 or 1265470, it falls squarely within the recall parameters. Do not assume that because the product looks functional or charges correctly that it is safe to keep. The potential for internal failure remains regardless of current performance. By identifying your specific item numbers now, you can move quickly to the next steps of securing a refund and ensuring your home and travel safety.
The hazard, explained
At its core, a power bank is essentially a portable battery pack designed to store electrical energy and dispense it when you need to charge your phone, tablet, or other devices. The Ubio Labs power banks involved in this recall function using lithium-ion cells, the same type of technology found in most smartphones and laptops today. Under normal circumstances, these batteries are stable and safe. However, the specific units being recalled have been identified as having a critical flaw that allows them to overheat and potentially ignite. This is not merely a case of the device getting warm during use; it is a failure mode where the internal temperature rises uncontrollably, leading to thermal runaway.
Thermal runaway is a dangerous chain reaction that can occur in lithium-ion batteries. When the internal components fail or are compromised, the battery can generate heat faster than it can dissipate it. As the temperature climbs, chemical reactions within the cell accelerate, generating even more heat in a self-perpetuating cycle. This process can cause the battery’s casing to swell, leak flammable electrolytes, and eventually rupture. Once ignited, lithium-ion fires are particularly challenging because they burn at extremely high temperatures and can reignite even after being extinguished initially.
The severity of this hazard is underscored by the incidents reported to Costco. The fact that these power banks caught fire on a commercial flight highlights the extreme risk they pose in enclosed spaces with limited ventilation and evacuation options. In such an environment, a battery fire can quickly produce dense, toxic smoke and intense heat, leading to serious secondary injuries like smoke inhalation. The reports of four cases of smoke inhalation and one minor burn injury demonstrate that the hazard is not just theoretical; it has already resulted in physical harm to consumers. These incidents serve as a stark reminder that the failure of a small electronic component can have significant real-world consequences, especially when the device is used near people or in sensitive environments like aircraft cabins.
Understanding this mechanism helps explain why immediate action is necessary. Unlike a device that might simply stop working or drain its battery quickly, a power bank undergoing thermal runaway becomes an active fire source. The heat generated can ignite nearby materials, such as clothing, luggage, or seats, turning a simple charging incident into a complex emergency situation. By stopping the use of these devices immediately, you are preventing the potential initiation of this dangerous chain reaction in your home, office, or while traveling.
Who is most at risk
When evaluating who faces the greatest danger from this specific recall, we must look at both the physical characteristics of the product and the environments in which it is typically used. The primary group at immediate risk includes anyone who purchased Ubio Labs power banks, specifically those with model number PWB1071 printed on the back. Because these items were sold through Costco, either as a single unit (item number 1314518) or in a two-pack (item number 1265470), the risk is widespread among Costco shoppers who may not realize they own a defective product. The danger is not limited to a specific demographic but is strictly tied to possession of these exact black power banks.
However, the severity of the risk escalates significantly for individuals who travel frequently or use their devices in enclosed spaces. The incident report involving a commercial flight highlights a critical vulnerability: air travelers. In the confined environment of an airplane cabin, a lithium-ion battery fire is exceptionally dangerous. There is limited space to move away from the hazard, and emergency response capabilities are restricted until the plane lands. For passengers on such flights, the risk extends beyond personal injury to the potential for rapid smoke accumulation in a pressurized cabin, which can lead to smoke inhalation—a serious medical complication that affected four individuals in this incident.
Furthermore, while the recall does not specify age-based vulnerabilities, general safety principles suggest that individuals with reduced mobility or sensory impairments may be at higher risk during the initial stages of a battery failure. If a power bank begins to overheat or emit smoke, those who are elderly or have physical limitations might struggle to quickly eject the device from a bag or move away from it before flames ignite nearby materials. Similarly, individuals using these power banks in bed or on soft surfaces like couches face increased risk because fabrics can catch fire more easily than hard tables, and the heat buildup is trapped against combustible materials.
It is also important to recognize that anyone who charges multiple devices simultaneously or uses the power bank while it is itself charging is at heightened risk. The electrical stress on a faulty battery increases during these high-load scenarios, potentially triggering the thermal runaway that leads to ignition. Therefore, the most vulnerable users are not just those who own the item, but those who use it actively in close proximity to their bodies or valuable property. Given that Ubio Labs is no longer in operation, there is no manufacturer recall process to fall back on; thus, every owner of this device is effectively at risk until they take action through Costco.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action, it is essential to confirm exactly which power banks are involved in this recall. Because Ubio Labs products are sold through Costco, there may be many similar-looking charging devices on the market. You need to look for specific physical and packaging details to ensure your device is part of this safety alert. The recall targets Ubio Labs power banks that were sold in two specific configurations: a single-unit pack or a two-pack bundle. If you purchased these items individually from other retailers, they are not included in this specific Costco recall action.
The most reliable way to identify the recalled units is by checking the model number printed directly on the device itself. The affected power banks are black in color and feature the model number PWB1071 clearly printed on the back of the unit. This is the primary identifier that distinguishes these specific batteries from other Ubio Labs products or different brands. If your device does not display this exact model number, it is likely safe to continue using it, provided it is in good working order.
In addition to the model number on the device, you should check the original packaging for the Costco item numbers, which serve as a secondary verification method. These numbers are printed on the exterior of the box where the product was originally displayed. There are two distinct item numbers associated with this recall, depending on how many power banks were in the package:
- Item Number 1314518: This number corresponds to the single-pack version of the recalled power bank.
- Item Number 1265470: This number corresponds to the two-pack bundle of recalled power banks.
If you no longer have the original packaging, do not worry. The model number on the back of the device is sufficient for identification. However, if you still have the box, verifying the Costco item number can provide extra peace of mind that you are dealing with the correct product line. It is important to note that these products were sold exclusively at Costco warehouses and through their online channels. If you bought a Ubio Labs power bank from a different store, it is not part of this specific recall notice.
Once you have located your device, compare its physical characteristics against the description above. Look for the black casing and the PWB1071 model number on the rear surface. If these details match, you are in possession of a recalled unit. Please proceed to the next steps in this article to learn how to obtain a full refund. Do not attempt to open or modify the device yourself, as doing so could be dangerous if internal components are already compromised.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Ubio Labs power bank that matches the description in this recall, your immediate priority is safety. The remedy provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Costco is straightforward: stop using the device immediately and seek a full refund. Because Ubio Labs is no longer in operation, you cannot rely on the manufacturer for support; Costco has assumed responsibility for addressing this issue directly with consumers. Please follow these steps carefully to ensure your safety and secure your compensation.
- Stop Using the Power Bank Immediately. Do not charge the device, do not plug it into any electronics, and do not attempt to use it to power any other gadgets. The recalled units have been confirmed to overheat and ignite, posing a serious fire hazard. Even if your specific unit has not yet shown signs of overheating, the internal defect remains present. Continuing to use the device puts you, your belongings, and potentially others in danger. Treat the device as if it is currently lit; do not attempt to diagnose its condition by using it.
- Identify Your Specific Item. Before contacting Costco, verify that you own one of the recalled models. Check the back of the power bank for the model number PWB1071. Additionally, look at your original packaging or receipt for the Costco item number. The recall applies to two specific configurations: the single-pack with item number 1314518 and the two-pack with item number 1265470. If you cannot find these numbers, or if you purchased a different model of Ubio Labs power bank, it may not be part of this specific recall, but you should still exercise caution due to the nature of the hazard.
- Contact Costco for Your Refund. Once you have confirmed you have a recalled unit, contact Costco to initiate your return. You have several convenient options for doing so. You can call their customer service line at 800-774-2678. Their phone support is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pacific Time on Saturdays and Sundays. Alternatively, you can use their live chat service at https://customerservice.costco.com/, which is available from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. PT weekdays and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT on weekends.
- Visit the Online Recall Page. For additional information or if you prefer to manage your return online, visit https://www.costco.com/recalls.html. You can also navigate to www.costco.com and click on "Recalls & Product Notices" located at the bottom of the page. These resources will provide updated details on the refund process and any further instructions regarding the disposal or return shipping of the hazardous device.
Please act promptly. Although Costco has contacted all known purchasers directly, verifying your status ensures you receive your full refund without delay and removes a dangerous item from your home.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
When a safety recall involves a product that can overheat and ignite, the remedy is rarely about fixing the defect itself. In this case, because Ubio Labs is no longer in operation, the path to resolution is straightforward but requires specific action on your part. The official remedy for this recall is a full refund. You are not expected to pay for shipping, nor are you offered a replacement unit from the manufacturer, as the company has ceased operations entirely. Instead, Costco has stepped in to handle the financial aspect of the recall directly.
The first and most critical step is to stop using the power banks immediately. Do not attempt to charge them, discharge them for storage, or try to repair them. The hazard here is thermal runaway, a condition where the battery generates heat faster than it can dissipate it, leading to fire. Attempting any form of maintenance or modification could trigger the very incident the recall aims to prevent. Once you have confirmed that your device matches the description—black casing, model number PWB1071 on the back, and either item number 1314518 (single pack) or 1265470 (two-pack)—you should prepare to contact Costco.
Cosco has stated that they have already contacted all known purchasers directly. If you have received this communication, please follow the instructions provided in that notice carefully. They likely include a prepaid shipping label or specific drop-off instructions to ensure the hazardous items are returned safely and disposed of properly. Do not dispose of these batteries in your regular household trash, as they remain a fire risk even when empty. The packaging will contain details on how to return them securely.
If you have not been contacted yet, or if you purchased the item through a third-party reseller and cannot find your receipt, you can still initiate the refund process by reaching out to Costco directly. You can call their customer service line at 800-774-2678. Their hours of operation are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. PT on Saturday and Sunday. Alternatively, you may use their live chat service, available from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. PT on weekdays and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT on weekends. Visit https://customerservice.costco.com/ for real-time assistance.
You can also manage this process online by visiting https://www.costco.com/recalls.html or navigating to the "Recalls & Product Notices" section at the bottom of any Costco webpage. These resources provide additional context and may offer digital forms or tracking numbers if required. Remember, your goal here is safety and financial restitution, not product retention. By returning the item through these official channels, you ensure that the defective batteries are handled by professionals who can neutralize the fire hazard, while you receive your money back without any cost to yourself.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a recall involves a fire hazard, the stakes are significantly higher than with many other types of product defects. You might be tempted to keep using your Ubio Labs power bank simply because it has worked fine for weeks or months, or perhaps because the inconvenience of finding a replacement feels greater than the abstract risk of a malfunction. However, ignoring this recall means continuing to carry an unpredictable energy source in your pocket, bag, or on your person.
The core issue here is thermal runaway. Lithium-ion batteries, which power these devices, rely on precise chemical stability. When the internal components of the recalled Ubio Labs units fail—due to manufacturing defects or material flaws—they can overheat rapidly. This is not a slow, gradual warming that you might notice and turn off; it is a sudden loss of control. Once the temperature spikes beyond a critical threshold, the battery cells can ignite spontaneously. By continuing to use the device, you are essentially leaving a lit fuse in your daily routine, hoping it never reaches that tipping point.
The consequences of ignoring this warning are not merely theoretical; they have already manifested in real-world scenarios with serious outcomes. According to reports from Costco and the CPSC, there have been three confirmed incidents where these power banks caught fire. One particularly alarming incident occurred aboard a commercial flight. In that case, the battery ignited while in use or nearby, resulting in smoke inhalation for four passengers and causing a minor burn injury to one individual. This highlights that the danger extends beyond the owner of the device to everyone around them.
If you ignore the recall, you risk more than just damaging your property. You could cause a fire that destroys your electronics, your luggage, or even your home if it ignites while charging overnight. Furthermore, in public spaces or during travel, a burning battery can cause panic and physical harm to bystanders, as seen in the flight incident. The smoke from lithium battery fires is often toxic and dense, posing immediate respiratory risks to anyone nearby. By choosing not to return the device, you are gambling with your safety and the safety of those around you for the sake of keeping a broken or dangerous item. The potential cost—medical bills, property damage, or worse—is far greater than the effort required to dispose of it properly.
- Personal Injury: Direct contact with an overheating battery can cause severe burns.
- Secondhand Harm: Smoke and flames can injure friends, family, or strangers nearby.
- Property Damage: Ignition can spread quickly to bags, clothing, furniture, or vehicles.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defective batch of power banks from Ubio Labs sold at Costco, the underlying risk of overheating lithium-ion batteries is a universal concern for anyone who carries portable electronics. Power banks are convenient lifelines in our digital lives, but they store significant energy in a compact space. Understanding how to manage that energy safely can prevent incidents far beyond this single recall alert. The first line of defense is proper charging habits. Always use the cable and charger that came with your device or certified replacements. Cheap, uncertified third-party cables often lack the necessary safety components to regulate current properly, which can lead to excessive heat buildup during charging. Never charge a power bank under a pillow, on a bed, or inside a closed bag. These materials trap heat, preventing the battery from cooling down and creating an ideal environment for thermal runaway.
Environment plays a critical role in battery longevity and safety. Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Avoid leaving your power bank in a hot car on a summer day or near a space heater. Heat degrades the internal chemistry of the battery over time, increasing the likelihood of internal short circuits. Similarly, physical damage is a major red flag. If your power bank has been dropped, swollen, or punctured, stop using it immediately. Swelling indicates that gas has built up inside the cell due to chemical decomposition, a clear sign that the battery is failing and could ignite without warning. Do not attempt to pierce or repair a swollen battery; dispose of it at a designated e-waste facility.
Regular maintenance and awareness are also key to staying safe. Periodically check your power banks for unusual warmth during use. If a device feels hot to the touch while charging or discharging, disconnect it and let it cool in a safe, open area. It is also wise to stay informed about product safety. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) maintain databases of recalls that you can search periodically. Signing up for email alerts from these agencies ensures you are notified immediately if a brand or model you own becomes part of a recall. Finally, consider purchasing power banks from reputable manufacturers who adhere to strict safety standards such as UL certification. These certifications mean the product has been tested by an independent laboratory and meets specific safety requirements, offering peace of mind that generic, unbranded alternatives often cannot provide.
- Charging Safety: Charge on hard, flat surfaces away from flammable materials like curtains or bedding.
- Temperature Control: Keep batteries between 20°F and 113°F (-6°C and 45°C) for optimal safety.
- Inspection: Discard any power bank that is swollen, leaking, or emits a strange odor.
- Certification: Look for UL, ETL, or CE marks on products to ensure they meet safety standards.