What was recalled
In early February 2021, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving electrostatic sprayers manufactured by Victory Innovations. This action was taken to address serious safety concerns related to the battery packs used in these specific disinfecting devices. The recall covers two distinct product lines: those branded under "Victory Innovations" and another line sold under the "Protexus" brand. Both brands offer cordless, handheld, and backpack-style electrostatic sprayers that were marketed for use in disinfecting surfaces, a function that became increasingly common during public health initiatives.
If you are trying to identify whether your device is part of this recall, it is important to look closely at the physical characteristics and branding of your unit. The Victory Innovations-branded sprayers are easily recognizable by their green and white exterior color scheme. On these units, you will find the Victory Innovations logo printed on either the front or the side. Crucially, the model number for these recalled devices is either VP-20A or VP-20B, and this identifier appears directly on the battery pack itself.
The Protexus-branded sprayers have a different aesthetic but share the same underlying safety issue. These units feature a black and white exterior design, with the Protexus logo located on the front or side of the device. Like their Victory Innovations counterparts, the model numbers for the recalled Protexus sprayers are PX20A or PX20B, which are also printed on the battery pack. A distinctive physical trait of the recalled battery packs on both brands is that they have visible screw heads and a case with no parting lines. These units were sold complete with a nozzle, a nozzle wrench, a tank, the lithium-ion battery pack, and a corresponding battery pack charger.
The scope of this recall is quite broad, affecting a substantial number of units distributed across the United States. While the exact total count of recalled units is not specified in the initial agency summary, the severity of the hazard prompted immediate action due to the high volume of reports received. These sprayers were sold through various channels, including online retailers and physical stores, making it essential for consumers to check their devices regardless of where they were purchased. The recall was officially announced on February 3, 2021, urging all owners of these specific models to take immediate steps to verify if their equipment is affected.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a specific failure within the rechargeable lithium-ion battery packs used in these sprayers. To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at what is happening inside that battery during normal operation versus what goes wrong here. Lithium-ion batteries are designed to store and release energy efficiently, but they rely on delicate internal chemistry to remain stable. In the recalled Victory Innovations and Protexus units, reports indicate that the battery pack can overheat and physically melt. This is not just a minor malfunction; it represents a catastrophic breakdown of the battery’s structural integrity.
When a lithium-ion battery overheats to the point of melting, it often triggers what experts call a "thermal runaway." Imagine the internal components of the battery beginning to break down and release heat rather than absorb it. As the temperature spikes, chemical reactions inside the cell accelerate, generating even more heat in a self-perpetuating cycle. The plastic casing of the battery pack, which is meant to contain these chemicals safely, can no longer withstand the pressure and heat. This is likely why the reports describe the batteries as melting. Once that containment fails, the pressurized gases and flammable electrolytes inside the battery are released into the surrounding environment.
This leads directly to the two primary risks cited by the Consumer Product Safety Commission: fire and explosion. The melted materials and released gases are highly combustible. If there is any spark—whether from the charger, the device itself, or nearby static electricity—these materials can ignite instantly. An explosion in this context does not necessarily mean a shrapnel-filled blast like in a movie, but rather a rapid, violent expansion of gas that can rupture the device and scatter burning debris. This explains why some incidents have resulted in property damage; the sudden release of heat and flame can easily scorch surfaces, ignite nearby curtains or carpets, or damage furniture.
It is important to note that while no injuries have been reported so far, the potential for personal harm remains significant. If a person is holding the sprayer when the battery fails, they could suffer severe burns. If the device is charging on a bedside table or near flammable materials, the resulting fire can spread rapidly before it is noticed. The fact that Victory Innovations has received 37 reports of overheating, catching fire, or exploding underscores that this is not an isolated glitch but a consistent failure mode in these specific battery packs. Understanding that the plastic housing itself is part of the hazard—because it fails to contain the thermal event—is crucial for recognizing why you must stop using the device immediately rather than trying to cool it down or continue using it cautiously.
Who is most at risk
The primary group facing immediate danger in this recall consists of individuals and businesses that have purchased Victory Innovations or Protexus-branded electrostatic sprayers for disinfection purposes. Because these devices are specifically designed as cordless handheld and backpack units, they are typically used by facility managers, cleaning crews, healthcare workers, and even homeowners who have adopted professional-grade equipment for deep cleaning their properties. If you own a green and white Victory Innovations sprayer (models VP-20A or VP-20B) or a black and white Protexus sprayer (models PX20A or PX20B), you are part of the affected population. The risk is not limited to professional users; since these tools are marketed for general surface disinfection, any individual who has integrated them into their routine cleaning schedule is potentially exposed to the hazard.
While the mechanical failure itself can happen to anyone regardless of age or physical condition, the consequences of a lithium-ion battery overheating, melting, catching fire, or exploding create a secondary layer of vulnerability for specific demographics. The most critical factor here is proximity and reaction time. When a lithium-ion battery fails catastrophically, it does so with sudden heat generation and potential combustion. For elderly individuals or those with mobility issues, the ability to quickly detach a hot battery pack from a handheld unit may be physically difficult. In such cases, the delay in removing the power source can increase the likelihood of burns or prolonged exposure to toxic fumes released during the initial stages of battery thermal runaway.
Children present another significant concern, particularly if these sprayers are kept in residential garages, basements, or utility closets where they might be stored alongside other household items. Although the sprayers are professional tools, their presence in a home environment means that curious children could potentially interact with them. If a child were to accidentally activate the sprayer or attempt to charge it, the risk of injury from electrical shock or thermal burns increases dramatically because their smaller bodies are less tolerant of heat and stress than adults. Furthermore, if the battery ignites while in a confined space like a closet, the resulting fire can spread rapidly, trapping children who may not understand the urgency of the danger.
Additionally, people living in multi-unit housing complexes or shared workspaces face heightened risks due to the potential for property damage to extend beyond their immediate control. While no injuries have been reported in the current data, the 37 incidents documented by Victory Innovations have resulted in property damage. In densely populated areas, a fire originating from a neglected sprayer battery could threaten neighboring units, putting at risk not only the owner but also innocent neighbors who are unconnected to the product recall. Therefore, the "at-risk" group extends beyond just the user to include anyone sharing space with the device, emphasizing the importance of immediate and careful disposal of the faulty battery packs.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you are not entirely sure whether your electrostatic sprayer is part of this recall, do not guess. It is important to verify the specific details before taking any action, but also do not delay in stopping use once you suspect it might be one of the affected models. The recall issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission on February 3, 2021, targets specific units manufactured and sold by Victory Innovations under two brand names: Victory Innovations and Protexus. To determine if your device is included, you need to look closely at its physical appearance, branding, and model identifiers.
First, identify the brand and color scheme of your sprayer. The recalled Victory Innovations units are distinctively colored with a green and white exterior. You will see the Victory Innovations logo printed on either the front or the side of the device. In contrast, the recalled Protexus-branded sprayers feature a black and white exterior with the Protexus logo located in similar positions on the front or side. Both types are cordless handheld or backpack electrostatic sprayers designed for disinfecting surfaces.
Next, check the battery pack, as this is the critical component linked to the hazard. On Victory Innovations sprayers, look at the battery pack for the model number VP-20A or VP-20B. For Protexus sprayers, the model numbers PX20A or PX20B will appear on the back of the battery. A key physical characteristic helps distinguish these recalled batteries from others: the battery packs in question have visible screw heads and a case that shows no parting lines. If your battery has visible seams or a different construction style, it may not be part of this specific recall, but you should still exercise caution.
Ensure you also verify the contents of your kit. The recalled units come with a nozzle, a nozzle wrench, the tank, the lithium-ion battery pack, and a battery pack charger. If you have one of these branded sprayers with the described model numbers and physical traits, you should stop using it immediately. Do not attempt to open the battery or test it further. Instead, proceed to remove the battery pack carefully and contact Victory Innovations for instructions on disposal and replacement.
If you are still uncertain after checking these details, you can reach out directly to Victory Innovations for confirmation. They have established a dedicated channel for this recall, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET at 888-674-2482. You may also email ES-Sprayerbatteryrecall@stericycle.com or visit www.victoryinnovations.com and click on "Battery Recall" for more information. When in doubt, it is always safer to assume the item is recalled until proven otherwise.
What to do — step by step
If you own an electrostatic sprayer from Victory Innovations or Protexus, your immediate priority is safety. The recall notice specifies that the rechargeable lithium-ion battery packs in these units can overheat and melt, which poses a serious risk of fire or explosion. Because this hazard involves high-energy batteries in a confined space, taking action right away is critical to protecting your home, business, and family.
Step 1: Stop using the sprayer immediately. The first thing you must do is cease all operations with the recalled device. Do not attempt to disinfect any surfaces with it, and do not try to charge it again. Even if the battery appears to be functioning normally right now, the internal defect that causes overheating can trigger without warning. Continuing to use the unit increases the likelihood of a thermal event occurring.
Step 2: Safely remove the battery pack. Once you have decided to stop using the device, carefully detach the lithium-ion battery pack from the sprayer body. Handle the battery with care, avoiding any punctures or physical damage to the casing. Lithium-ion batteries can become unstable when damaged, so treat it as a potentially hazardous item during removal.
Step 3: Dispose of the old battery correctly. Do not throw the recalled battery pack into your regular household trash or recycling bin. Standard waste streams are not equipped to handle potential chemical leaks or fires from lithium-ion cells. You must dispose of it in accordance with local laws for the disposal of lithium-ion batteries. Many communities have designated drop-off centers for hazardous waste or electronic recycling where you can safely surrender the old battery. Check your local government’s waste management website for specific instructions on where to take it.
Step 4: Contact Victory Innovations for a free replacement. After securing the faulty battery, reach out to the manufacturer to get your free replacement. Victory Innovations is providing a new battery pack at no cost, which includes shipping fees. You can contact them by calling their toll-free number at 888-674-2482 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to ES-Sprayerbatteryrecall@stericycle.com or visit www.victoryinnovations.com and click on the "Battery Recall" section for more information. When you reach out, have your model number ready (VP-20A, VP-20B, PX20A, or PX20B) to help them process your request quickly.
Step 5: Install the new battery and resume use. Once you receive the replacement battery pack from Victory Innovations, install it into your sprayer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Your device is now safe to use again for disinfecting surfaces. By following these steps, you eliminate the fire risk while still retaining a fully functional tool for your cleaning needs.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have identified that your Victory Innovations or Protexus electrostatic sprayer is part of this recall, the good news is that the company has established a clear and accessible remedy to resolve the issue. You do not need to return the entire sprayer unit to them, nor are you required to pay for shipping costs associated with getting the replacement parts to you. Victory Innovations is covering all expenses related to providing you with a free replacement battery pack. This approach is designed to be as convenient and cost-free as possible for consumers who are concerned about safety.
The primary step in securing your remedy is to reach out directly to Victory Innovations. They have set up dedicated channels to handle these requests efficiently. You can contact them by calling their toll-free number at 888-674-2482. Their customer service team is available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. If you prefer written communication or wish to have a record of your interaction, you may send an email to ES-Sprayerbatteryrecall@stericycle.com. Additionally, Victory Innovations maintains a specific section on their website where you can find more information and initiate the recall process online; simply visit www.victoryinnovations.com and click on "Battery Recall" to get started.
Before you contact them for your new battery, there is an immediate safety step you must take regarding the current battery pack. You should remove the lithium-ion battery from your sprayer right away. Once removed, do not throw it in your regular household trash. Instead, you must dispose of the old battery pack in accordance with your local laws and regulations for the disposal of lithium-ion batteries. Many communities have specific drop-off locations for hazardous waste or rechargeable batteries at hardware stores or electronics retailers. Proper disposal is critical to prevent any accidental short-circuiting or fire hazards during handling.
Once you have safely removed and disposed of the old battery, proceed with your contact to Victory Innovations to request your free replacement. When they send you the new pack, attach it to your sprayer according to the manufacturer's instructions. It is important to understand that this remedy addresses the specific defect in the rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack identified by the CPSC. The rest of your sprayer—the tank, nozzle, charger, and housing—remains fully functional and safe for use once the defective battery is replaced. By taking these steps, you ensure that your disinfecting tool remains reliable without exposing your home or workplace to the risk of overheating, fire, or explosion.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using a tool that has become essential to your daily routine, especially when the recall notice feels like an inconvenience rather than an urgent warning. You may feel that the sprayer is still working perfectly fine, or that the risk of a battery failure is too small to justify the hassle of disposal and waiting for a replacement. However, ignoring this recall is not merely a matter of convenience; it is a significant gamble with your personal safety and property security. The core issue here is not a mechanical failure of the spray mechanism, but a fundamental instability in the power source itself. Lithium-ion batteries are sophisticated energy storage devices that require precise management to remain safe. When these specific battery packs from Victory Innovations and Protexus begin to overheat, it indicates that the internal chemical reactions are no longer being controlled correctly. This is not a minor glitch; it is a precursor to thermal runaway.
Thermal runaway is a dangerous chain reaction where an increase in temperature changes the conditions in a way that causes further temperature increases. In the context of these recalled electrostatic sprayers, the lithium-ion battery packs have been identified as capable of overheating and melting. Once a lithium-ion cell reaches a critical temperature threshold, it can release flammable gases and ignite spontaneously. This is not just about the device getting hot to the touch; it is about the potential for the unit to catch fire or explode while you are holding it, charging it, or storing it in a confined space like a garage or vehicle trunk. The CPSC has documented 37 specific incidents involving these exact models where the batteries overheated, caught fire, or exploded. While no injuries have been reported in these cases, property damage has occurred. This means that somewhere, someone’s home, vehicle, or business equipment was damaged by flames or heat generated by this faulty component.
The danger escalates if you continue to use the sprayer because you are essentially charging a bomb with every cycle. The recalled units feature battery packs with visible screw heads and cases without parting lines, which may look sturdy but lack the internal safeguards present in newer models. If you ignore the recall, you are relying on luck that the thermal protection circuits will hold up indefinitely against a manufacturing defect. When they fail—and the data suggests they can fail catastrophically—the result is instantaneous fire. In an enclosed space, such as inside a backpack or near flammable cleaning supplies, this fire can spread rapidly before you even realize what is happening. The risk is not theoretical; it is a documented reality for dozens of users already affected by this defect.
Furthermore, ignoring the recall denies you the remedy that has been prepared specifically to keep you safe. Victory Innovations is offering free replacement battery packs, including shipping costs. By waiting, you are not only risking your safety but also potentially complicating the resolution process. If a fire does occur, insurance claims can become complicated if it is determined that you ignored a known, official government recall notice. The most prudent path is to recognize that the hazard is real, present, and actively dangerous. Stopping use immediately removes the variable of failure from your life entirely, allowing you to transition to a safe, functioning tool without exposing yourself or your loved ones to the threat of sudden ignition.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a critical failure in the battery packs of certain electrostatic sprayers, it serves as a powerful reminder that consumer electronics and power tools require ongoing vigilance. Lithium-ion technology has revolutionized our ability to use cordless devices, offering freedom from tangled cords and extended runtime. However, these batteries are complex chemical systems that demand respect and proper care. To ensure your home remains a safe environment for all your powered equipment, consider adopting these general best practices for battery safety and product maintenance.
First, always charge your devices in safe, stable locations. Avoid charging lithium-ion batteries on flammable surfaces like beds, couches, or carpets where heat can become trapped. Instead, place them on non-combustible surfaces such as tile, concrete, or bare wood, away from curtains or paper products. It is also crucial to use only the manufacturer-approved chargers and cables. Using third-party accessories that do not match the specific voltage and amperage requirements can lead to overheating, reduced battery lifespan, or even catastrophic failure. If a battery ever feels unusually hot to the touch during charging or use, disconnect it immediately and allow it to cool in a safe area.
Regular inspection is another key layer of defense. Make it a habit to visually examine your devices periodically for any signs of damage. Look for swollen or bulging battery packs, cracked casings, exposed wiring, or unusual odors. If you notice any of these warning signs, stop using the device immediately and do not attempt to open it yourself. Swollen batteries indicate internal gas buildup, which is a precursor to potential leakage or fire. Proper disposal is essential; never throw lithium-ion batteries in the regular trash, as they can spark and ignite waste trucks. Take them to designated e-waste recycling centers or retailers that offer battery take-back programs.
Finally, stay informed by registering your products with the manufacturers after purchase. This ensures you receive direct notifications if a safety issue is discovered in your specific model. Additionally, periodically check the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website and sign up for their email alerts. New recalls are issued frequently as testing data accumulates, and being proactive about these updates can prevent accidents before they happen. By treating your electronic devices with care and staying aware of safety communications, you protect not only your property but also the well-being of your family.