What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall for specific surge protectors manufactured and sold under the Aduro brand by JBR Solutions. This action, announced on December 1, 2022, targets all units of the Aduro Surge Wall Charging Tower. These devices are designed to be mounted directly onto a wall outlet, providing power distribution and charging capabilities for multiple electronic devices simultaneously. The recall encompasses every unit sold within this specific product line, regardless of color or individual configuration, because the safety defects are inherent to the manufacturing process of these models.
To help you identify if your device is part of this recall, it is important to look at the physical characteristics and labeling of the unit. The recalled surge protectors feature a total of 12 electrical outlets and two built-in USB charging ports. They are available in two color variations: white or black. A key visual identifier is the placement of the branding; the "Aduro" logo is printed on the center front panel, positioned directly below the two USB ports. This distinct labeling helps distinguish these units from other surge protectors that may look similar but are not part of this specific safety alert.
The most critical step in verifying your product is to check the label located on the rear of the surge protector. You must look for specific model and SKU numbers printed there. The recall applies to units with the following identifiers:
- Model Number: AHR-318 or SS-Q1202
- SKU Number: SRG-WT12O2U or SRG-WT12O2UNV
If your device bears any of these four combinations, it is included in the recall. The product was sold widely through various retail channels, including major online marketplaces such as Amazon.com, Walmart.com, and JBR Solutions’ own website (www.aduroproducts.com). It was also available at numerous brick-and-mortar retailers across the United States. Because these products were distributed through both digital and physical stores over a period of time, it is possible that units are currently in use in homes, offices, or dormitories without the owner realizing they are part of this specific batch.
JBR Solutions has acknowledged that while the exact total number of units sold globally is not always broken down in public summaries, the scope of this recall is defined by the model numbers listed above. The company is actively working to identify known purchasers to notify them directly. However, relying solely on direct notification may not be sufficient if you purchased the item second-hand or through a retailer that did not share your contact information with the manufacturer. Therefore, physically inspecting your surge protector for the model and SKU codes is the most reliable way to determine if your device needs to be removed from service immediately.
The hazard, explained
When you look at a surge protector like the JBR Solutions Aduro unit, you expect it to act as a reliable gatekeeper for your electronics. It is supposed to safely guide electricity from the wall into your devices and protect them from dangerous voltage spikes. However, the recall identifies two specific manufacturing flaws that undermine this basic safety function: incorrect polarization and poorly soldered connections. Understanding how these defects work helps explain why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) deemed this an urgent issue.
First, let’s talk about polarization. In a standard three-prong plug, the design is intentional. The two flat blades are different widths: one is wider than the other. This difference ensures that the plug can only go into the outlet in one orientation. This alignment guarantees that the "hot" wire inside your cord connects to the correct terminal in the wall socket, while the "neutral" wire connects to the return path. When a surge protector has incorrect polarization, this critical alignment is lost. The plug might fit physically, but the internal wiring may be crossed or misaligned relative to the outlet’s standard configuration. This can cause the metal casing of connected devices, which should remain at zero voltage, to become energized. If you touch that device while also touching a grounded surface, like a faucet or a concrete floor, electricity can flow through your body to complete the circuit. This is what causes an electric shock. Even if the device doesn’t have a metal case, incorrect polarization can lead to erratic behavior in sensitive electronics and increases the risk of internal short circuits.
The second major issue is poorly soldered connections. Inside any electrical device, wires must be joined securely to ensure electricity flows smoothly without interruption. Solder is the metal alloy used to fuse these joints. If the soldering is weak, loose, or cold (meaning it didn’t melt properly during manufacturing), those connection points become fragile. Over time, as you plug and unplug cables, or even from the natural vibration of household appliances, these weak joints can break or loosen. A loose connection creates high resistance at that specific point. When electricity tries to force its way through a narrow, broken path, it generates intense heat—much like how an old, frayed lamp cord gets hot to the touch. This localized heating can melt the plastic insulation around the wires, expose bare live conductors, and potentially ignite surrounding materials. This is the primary mechanism behind electrical fires caused by defective power strips.
While JBR Solutions has reported one incident of incorrect polarization and no injuries or fires have been confirmed to date, the potential for harm is real. The combination of misaligned polarity and unstable internal connections creates a scenario where shock and fire risks are significantly elevated. These aren't minor glitches; they are fundamental failures in the safety architecture of the device. By stopping use immediately, you are removing the risk of these physical defects manifesting into dangerous electrical events in your home.
Who is most at risk
When we talk about electrical safety hazards like those found in the recalled Aduro Surge Wall Charging Towers, the concept of "risk" extends far beyond simple statistics. It is about who lives with these devices every day and how their specific physical or cognitive circumstances might make a malfunction more dangerous. The primary group at risk here includes anyone who has purchased and installed one of these wall-mounted charging stations in their home. Because this product plugs directly into a standard wall outlet, it is not confined to a single room or desk; it becomes a permanent part of your home’s electrical infrastructure. This means that the people most exposed to the potential shock or fire hazards are household members who routinely pass by, touch, or plug devices into these units. Families with young children are particularly vulnerable in this context. Children are naturally curious and may not understand the invisible danger of electricity. A surge protector with incorrect polarization can expose live parts where they should be insulated, creating a tempting but deadly trap for little fingers that might explore the outlets or the unit itself.
The elderly or individuals with limited mobility also face heightened risks. If a fire were to start due to the poorly soldered connections mentioned in the CPSC report, the speed at which smoke and flames spread from a wall outlet can be terrifyingly fast. For those who may have slower reaction times or difficulty moving quickly, the margin for error is much smaller. Furthermore, individuals living in older homes with aging electrical wiring might find their systems less able to handle the strain of faulty connections, potentially exacerbating the overheating issue before they even realize something is wrong.
It is also important to consider those who rely on these devices for critical power needs. While no injuries have been reported yet, the underlying defect—incorrect polarization—means that the device may not be grounding properly. Grounding is the safety mechanism that directs excess electricity safely into the earth during a surge or fault. Without it, any electrical fault inside the unit could energize the outer casing. This puts anyone who touches the plastic housing while plugged in at risk of an electric shock. For people with heart conditions or those who are physically frail, even a minor shock can have serious health implications. Therefore, the risk is not just about property damage; it is about the physical well-being of everyone in the household, especially those who are most sensitive to electrical anomalies or least able to escape a hazardous situation quickly.
Ultimately, the "who" is anyone sharing a living space with this device. Because the Aduro units were designed to be unobtrusive and integrated into the wall, they blend into the background of daily life. This invisibility can lead to complacency. We stop thinking about them as potential hazards because they look like standard home fixtures. However, the defect lies in the internal engineering, not the external appearance. This makes it crucial for all users, regardless of age or ability, to recognize that this specific product is unsafe until proven otherwise by a refund or replacement. The risk is universal to the owner, but the consequences are most severe for those who cannot easily avoid contact with the device or react swiftly to signs of trouble.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your surge protector is part of this specific recall requires a careful look at both the physical design of the unit and the technical details printed on its label. JBR Solutions has issued a broad recall covering all units of the Aduro Surge Wall Charging Tower, so you cannot rely solely on the brand name or the general style of the device to rule it out. Instead, you must verify specific model numbers, SKU codes, and physical characteristics against the official list provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The process is straightforward if you take your time and check each detail methodically.
First, examine the overall appearance of the surge protector to confirm it matches the general description of the affected product. You are looking for a wall charging tower that features exactly 12 power outlets and two USB ports. The unit should be available in either white or black coloring, and it must display the Aduro logo on the center front panel, specifically located below the two USB ports. If your device looks significantly different, lacks these specific ports, or does not bear the Aduro branding in this configuration, it is likely not part of this recall. However, visual identification alone is not enough; you must proceed to check the label for exact model data.
The most critical step is locating the identification label on the rear of the surge protector. This label contains the precise codes that determine whether your device is included in the safety alert. You need to look for either Model number AHR-318 or SS-Q1202. Alongside the model number, check for the corresponding SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) numbers. The recalled items will have one of the following SKUs printed on that rear label: SRG-WT12O2U or SRG-WT12O2UNV. If your device has different model numbers, different SKU codes, or lacks a label entirely, it is not covered by this specific recall action.
It is important to note that this recall applies to all units of these models regardless of where or when they were purchased. There are no exceptions based on the retailer, price point, or date of acquisition within the scope of this alert. If you find your unit matches the model and SKU numbers described above, you should stop using it immediately. Do not attempt to inspect the internal wiring or polarization yourself, as the hazard involves shock and fire risks that are not visible from the outside. Once you have confirmed the model and SKU match the recall details, your next step is to contact JBR Solutions for a full refund.
What to do — step by step
If you own an Aduro Surge Wall Charging Tower, the most important thing you can do right now is to prioritize your safety over convenience. The recall notice from JBR Solutions and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is clear: you need to stop using the product immediately. This isn’t a suggestion; it is a necessary precaution because the surge protectors contain incorrect polarization and poorly soldered connections. These defects create real shock and fire hazards, meaning the device could malfunction in ways that are dangerous to your home and family. Please unplug the unit from the wall outlet right away. Do not attempt to inspect it while it is plugged in, and do not try to fix the internal wiring yourself. Simply disconnecting the power source removes the immediate risk of electrical shock or fire.
Once the device is safely unplugged, your next step is to initiate the refund process. JBR Solutions has committed to providing a full refund for all recalled units. They are currently reaching out to known purchasers directly, but you should not wait for their contact if you haven’t heard from them yet. Instead, take proactive steps to ensure you receive your money back. You can contact JBR Solutions toll-free at 877-522-3876. Their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. When you call, have your model and SKU numbers ready, as these will help them locate your purchase record quickly. If you prefer written communication or find it easier to document the process, you can also email productrecall@jbrsol.com.
For those who prefer managing recalls online, JBR Solutions has set up dedicated resources on their website. You can visit https://www.aduroproducts.com/pages/productrecall or go to www.aduroproducts.com and click on "Recall Information" located at the top of the page. This section will provide detailed instructions on how to submit your claim and what information you need to include, such as proof of purchase if available. Including this documentation can speed up the processing of your refund. It is important to follow these specific contact methods rather than trying to return the item to a retail store, as the recall remedy is handled directly by the manufacturer.
Finally, please dispose of the recalled surge protector responsibly. Since the device contains electrical components and potential fire hazards, it should not be thrown in your regular household trash or recycling bin if local regulations prohibit electronics disposal. Check with your local waste management authority for guidelines on disposing of electronic waste. By following these steps—stopping use, contacting JBR Solutions for a refund, and disposing of the unit properly—you are protecting your home from potential damage and ensuring you get your money back without hassle.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled Aduro Surge Wall Charging Towers, the good news is that the remedy for this issue is straightforward and consumer-friendly. Because the surge protectors contain incorrect polarization and poorly soldered connections, they cannot be fixed in a way that guarantees your safety. Therefore, JBR Solutions is not offering a repair kit or a simple replacement unit. Instead, the official recall plan provides a full refund. This approach removes any guesswork for you: you do not need to negotiate terms, pay restocking fees, or worry about receiving a defective replacement. The goal here is to simply get you out of harm’s way and put your money back in your pocket.
It is important to understand that JBR Solutions is actively reaching out to known purchasers directly. If you bought this product recently or provided your contact information at the time of purchase, keep an eye on your email or mail for a communication from the company. However, do not wait passively if you cannot find that notification. The burden does not fall on you to hunt down the recall notice; it falls on the manufacturer to inform you. But since manufacturers sometimes miss data points in their databases, taking proactive steps is the safest and fastest way to resolve the issue.
To initiate your refund, you have three clear channels available to you. First, you can call JBR Solutions toll-free at 877-522-3876. This line is staffed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, making it easy to get help during standard business hours. Second, if you prefer written communication, you can send an email to productrecall@jbrsol.com. This is often useful if you want to include photos of the label or have specific questions about your order number that you can copy and paste. Third, you can visit their website at https://www.aduroproducts.com/pages/productrecall. Alternatively, you may go to www.aduroproducts.com and click on "Recall Information" located at the top of the page. These digital options allow you to submit your claim at any time of day, even outside of business hours.
When you contact JBR Solutions, have your surge protector ready. Specifically, look for the label on the rear of the unit. You will need to provide the model and SKU numbers printed there, which are AHR-318 (SKU SRG-WT12O2U) or SS-Q1202 (SKU SRG-WT12O2UNV). Confirming these details helps them verify that your specific unit is part of this recall lot. While the recall announcement does not specify a deadline for claiming your refund, it is wise to act promptly. Delaying only extends the period during which you are using a potentially hazardous device in your home. Once your claim is processed, you should receive a full refund for the purchase price of the surge protector. This ensures that you lose nothing financially for having purchased a product that failed to meet safety standards.
Remember, this remedy is designed to be hassle-free. You are not expected to pay for return shipping or repackaging unless explicitly instructed otherwise by customer service (though typically in these types of recalls, the company covers all costs). The key takeaway is that you have a guaranteed path to financial reimbursement and safety. Do not attempt to use the device while waiting for your refund to process. Stop using it immediately, unplug it from the wall, and keep it away from children and pets until you have successfully completed the refund process with JBR Solutions.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable that replacing a piece of electronics feels like an inconvenience. You might have just installed your Aduro Surge Wall Charging Tower, or perhaps it has been sitting on your desk for months without issue. The thought of unpacking it, finding the label, and going through the refund process can feel like a unnecessary chore, especially when the device appears to be working perfectly fine. However, ignoring this recall is not merely about missing out on a refund; it is about exposing yourself and your home to risks that are invisible to the naked eye but potentially severe.
The core of the danger lies in two specific manufacturing flaws: incorrect polarization and poorly soldered connections. To understand why these matter, it helps to look at how electricity flows through your devices. Correct polarization ensures that the current flows in the proper direction, keeping the outer casing of your electronics safe to touch. When a surge protector has incorrect polarization, that safety barrier is compromised. This means that even when a plugged-in device is turned off, parts of it may still carry an electrical charge. If you were to accidentally touch an exposed wire or a metal component inside a lamp or computer connected to this unit, you could receive a serious electric shock. While JBR Solutions has only received one report regarding this specific polarization issue so far, the potential for injury exists whenever the device is used.
The second major concern is the poorly soldered connections within the surge protector itself. Solder is the material that holds the internal electrical contacts together. When these connections are weak or faulty, they can create resistance as electricity passes through them. In simple terms, resistance creates heat. Over time, and especially during a power surge when large amounts of current are diverted, these weak points can become dangerously hot. This heat buildup does not always happen instantly; it can occur gradually over weeks or months of normal use. Eventually, this excessive heat can melt the plastic housing of the surge protector or ignite nearby materials, such as curtains, carpets, or upholstery, leading to a house fire.
It is important to note that while no injuries or fires have been reported with this specific batch of JBR Solutions products as of the recall date, the absence of reports does not guarantee safety. Electrical failures are often silent until they reach a catastrophic point. The fact that one report of incorrect polarization has been logged suggests that the defect is real and present in the units distributed. Continuing to use these surge protectors means you are gambling with the integrity of your home’s electrical safety. You are relying on a component that was built to protect your devices, but which may itself become the source of danger. The risk is not just about the device failing; it is about the failure causing harm to you, your family, or your property. Stopping use immediately removes this variable from your life entirely, ensuring that your power strips remain a tool for convenience rather than a hidden hazard.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in a particular batch of surge protectors, the underlying principles of electrical safety apply to every device you plug into your home’s outlets. Surge protectors are essential tools for protecting expensive electronics from voltage spikes caused by lightning strikes or grid fluctuations, but they must be used correctly to prevent the very hazards that led to this recall—namely overheating and electrical shock. Understanding how these devices work and maintaining them properly can significantly reduce the risk of fire in your home.
First, always ensure that any surge protector you purchase meets current safety standards from a recognized testing laboratory, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL. Look for certifications on the device itself; this indicates that independent experts have verified its electrical components meet rigorous safety requirements. When installing your own units, never daisy-chain them by plugging one power strip into another. This practice can easily overload the wiring in the first strip, causing it to overheat and potentially ignite. Instead, plug each surge protector directly into a wall outlet to ensure it receives the full electrical capacity it is designed for.
Regular inspection is another critical layer of defense. Over time, the internal components of surge protectors can degrade, even if they appear to be working normally. You should periodically check your power strips for signs of wear, such as frayed cords, loose plugs, or a warm-to-the-touch casing during use. If a surge protector feels hot, smells like burning plastic, or sparks when you plug something in, unplug it immediately and dispose of it safely. Most surge protectors also have an indicator light that shows whether the protection is active; if this light goes out, the device has likely absorbed a significant surge and should be replaced, as its protective capabilities are no longer guaranteed.
Beyond individual devices, staying informed about product recalls is a simple yet powerful way to protect your household. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains a database of recalls that affects millions of American homes. By signing up for email alerts from the CPSC or regularly checking their website, you can quickly identify if any products in your home are part of an active safety notice. This proactive approach ensures that you can act before a defect leads to an accident. Additionally, consider installing smoke detectors on every level of your home and inside each sleeping area. These devices provide the earliest possible warning in case of a fire, giving you and your family precious time to evacuate safely. Together, using certified equipment correctly, inspecting it regularly, and staying informed creates a robust safety net for your home.