What was recalled
If you own a Goal Zero Yeti power station or have recently purchased accessories for one, it is important to know exactly which items are part of this safety notice. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall affecting a specific component used with Goal Zero’s popular line of portable power stations. Specifically, the recall targets all Yeti 25A Fast Charge power supplies. This is not a recall of the large battery units themselves, but rather the external power adapter that plugs into your wall outlet to recharge them. Understanding this distinction is crucial, as many consumers may own the station but not the specific fast-charging accessory.
To identify if you have the recalled item, you need to look closely at the product label on the power supply unit itself. The recall applies exclusively to units with model number 98080. You can find this model number printed on the first line of the specifications section on the product’s label. Visually, the top of the power supply box will clearly display the Goal Zero logo along with the text "Yeti 25A Fast Charge." The physical design includes a standard 100-240v AC power input plug for connecting to your home’s electrical system and a 15.6v High Power Port power output plug that connects to the Yeti station. If your unit does not bear model number 98080, it is not part of this specific recall.
This recall was announced on December 9, 2020, and covers all units of this model regardless of when they were originally purchased. While the provided recall facts do not specify the exact retail stores or online platforms where these units were sold, nor the precise start and end dates of sales, it is important to note that every single unit of model 98080 is included in this safety action. The product serves as an accessory designed to enable faster recharging times for Goal Zero’s Yeti power stations. Because these adapters are essential for quickly replenishing the battery capacity of portable power sources, they are commonly used by campers, homeowners preparing for emergencies, and remote workers who rely on portable energy solutions. If you have ever used a Goal Zero station with a fast charger, there is a chance this specific model number is in your home.
The scope of the recall is total; there are no exceptions based on manufacturing date or region within the product's distribution history. The issue lies in the internal construction of the connection between the power supply module and the output cord. Because every unit of model 98080 shares this design characteristic, the risk is present across the entire batch of affected products. It is not limited to a small subset of defective units but applies to all manufactured under this specific model designation. Therefore, verification of the model number on your label is the only way to determine if your device is part of this recall.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about electrical hazards in consumer electronics, it is helpful to understand that most fires do not start because of a sudden, magical failure of the device itself. Instead, they often begin with something simple and mechanical: a connection that has become loose over time. In the case of the Goal Zero Yeti 25A Fast Charge power supply (model 98080), the specific point of failure is the physical junction where the main power supply module meets the output cord. This is not a permanent, soldered joint; it is a connector designed to allow for some flexibility and assembly. However, when these two parts are not seated perfectly tightly together, or when they wear down from repeated use, the electrical path becomes compromised.
Here is the physics of why this matters. Electricity wants to flow through the path of least resistance. When a connection is loose, there is actually less metal touching between the plug and the socket. This tiny gap forces the current to jump across a smaller surface area than it was designed to handle. As electrons are forced through this restricted opening, they encounter significant resistance. In electrical engineering, we know that when current meets resistance, energy is converted into heat. This is the same principle that makes your phone charger get warm while it’s plugged in, but on an extreme and uncontrolled scale.
Because the contact area is so small at the point of the loose connection, the heat does not dissipate easily. It concentrates right at that interface. The Goal Zero recall notes that there have been three confirmed reports of these units overheating to dangerous levels. While no injuries have been reported yet, the risk is real and immediate. If the plastic housing around this hot spot begins to melt or soften, it can expose live wires. Once you have exposed wiring combined with high heat, you have created the perfect triad for a fire: fuel (the plastic casing), oxygen (the air in your home), and an ignition source (the overheated metal). This is why the recommendation to immediately stop using the unit is not just a precaution; it is a critical safety step.
It is also important to note that this hazard is insidious because it may not be visible at first glance. The power supply might still appear to work, and the Yeti power station might still charge, giving a false sense of security. The overheating can happen internally or at the connection point in a way that does not trigger an obvious spark or smoke until it is too late. This is why relying on visual inspection alone is insufficient. The mechanism of failure is internal to the connector’s integrity, and without disassembling the unit—which you should never do yourself—you cannot know if the contact points are still solid. The only way to eliminate this risk is to remove the potential for that resistance entirely by having the manufacturer repair or replace the faulty component.
Who is most at risk
The primary group of individuals at risk in this recall are owners and users of the Goal Zero Yeti 25A Fast Charge power supply, specifically those who possess the unit with model number 98080. This product is not a standalone power station but rather an accessory designed to accelerate the recharging process for Goal Zero’s Yeti power stations. Consequently, the individuals most likely to be affected are outdoor enthusiasts, campers, preppers, and homeowners who rely on portable power solutions for backup energy during outages or for off-grid living. If you have purchased this specific fast-charging module to supplement your existing Yeti power station, you fall directly into the category of people who need to take immediate action.
While the electrical hazard itself—overheating connections due to a loose fit between the power supply module and the output cord—affects any user equally in terms of mechanical failure, certain individuals face heightened vulnerability when such incidents occur. The recall notes that there have been three reported instances of overheating. Although no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for fire is significant. For households with young children or elderly family members, the risk extends beyond simple property damage. Children may be less aware of the dangers associated with hot electrical components or smoke, potentially delaying their response to a developing hazard. Similarly, elderly individuals or those with limited mobility might find it more difficult to quickly evacuate a home in the event that the overheating escalates into an actual fire.
Furthermore, the nature of where these devices are typically used adds another layer of consideration. Yeti power stations and their accessories are often used in cabins, RVs, or during camping trips where escape routes may be more limited than in a standard suburban home. In these confined spaces, a fire starting from an electrical component can spread rapidly, trapping occupants. Additionally, because this is a charging accessory, it is frequently left plugged in for extended periods while the connected power station charges. This means the device is under continuous load, increasing the window of opportunity for a loose connection to generate dangerous levels of heat unnoticed. Users who leave these devices unattended overnight or while away from home are at greater risk than those who monitor their charging equipment closely.
It is also important to recognize that anyone living in an area prone to power outages may have been using this device more frequently than usual, perhaps during recent severe weather events. Increased usage frequency can accelerate wear and tear on components that are already prone to loosening. Therefore, the risk is not just static; it grows with every hour the defective unit remains plugged into a power source. If you fall into any of these categories—owner of model 98080, user in a confined space, caregiver for vulnerable individuals, or frequent user during emergencies—you are part of the group that must prioritize checking and repairing this device immediately to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you own a Goal Zero Yeti power station, it is crucial to verify whether your specific charging accessory is part of this safety recall. The issue affects a very specific component: the Yeti 25A Fast Charge power supply. Because this is an accessory designed for faster recharging, it may look like a standard brick or cable bundle, making visual identification alone insufficient. You must rely on the printed details to confirm if your unit is among the affected models.
The first step is to locate the product box. On the top of the packaging, you should clearly see the Goal Zero logo along with the text "Yeti 25A Fast Charge." This branding confirms the type of device, but it does not guarantee that your specific unit is recalled. To be certain, you need to find the model number on the power supply itself. Look for a label on the device that lists specifications. On the very first line of these specifications, you will find the model number. The recall specifically targets units with the model number 98080. If your label shows any other number, your device is not part of this particular safety notice.
In addition to the model number, it helps to understand what the product looks like and how it connects. The recalled power supply features a standard 100-240v AC power input plug, which is typical for wall outlets in the United States. On the other end, it uses a 15.6v High Power Port power output plug to connect to your Yeti station. If you have this specific configuration and the model number 98080, you should treat the item as recalled.
If you are unsure or cannot find the label, do not guess. The safest approach is to check your purchase records or contact Goal Zero directly using the information provided in the recall notice. They can help you verify if your serial number falls within the affected range. Remember, this recall applies to all units of the Yeti 25A Fast Charge power supply with model number 98080, regardless of when or where they were purchased. There are no exceptions based on age or location of purchase. If you have this exact model, stop using it immediately and follow the remedy steps to ensure your safety.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Goal Zero Yeti 25A Fast Charge power supply, your immediate priority is to ensure the safety of your home and family by taking swift, calm action. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) identifies a specific defect where the connection between the power supply module and the output cord can become loose. This looseness leads to electrical connections overheating, which creates a genuine fire hazard. Because this risk involves heat generation within an electrical device that is often plugged in for extended periods, ignoring the issue is not an option. Here is exactly what you need to do right now.
Step 1: Stop using the device immediately and unplug it safely.
The very first thing you must do is cease all use of the recalled power supply. Do not attempt to fix the loose connection yourself, nor should you try to continue using it while monitoring it closely. Instead, locate the unit on your wall outlet or power strip and unplug it directly from the electrical source. This cuts off the power supply to the device and stops the potential for further overheating. If the unit has been in use recently, it may be warm to the touch. In this case, do not grab the body of the power supply immediately after unplugging it. Wait for the device to cool down completely before handling it further. This precaution protects your skin from accidental burns and allows you to handle the unit safely when you are ready to move it.
Step 2: Verify that you have the correct recalled model.
Before you contact customer service, confirm that your device is part of this specific recall. This remedy applies only to the Yeti 25A Fast Charge power supplies with the model number 98080. You can find this number on the first line of the specifications printed on the product label attached to the unit. Additionally, look at the top of your power supply box; it should display the Goal Zero logo and the text "Yeti 25A Fast Charge." This accessory is designed for faster recharging of Goal Zero’s Yeti power stations and comes with a standard 100-240v AC power input plug and a 15.6v High Power Port output plug. If your model number differs, this specific recall does not apply to your unit, though you should always follow general safety guidelines for electrical accessories.
Step 3: Contact Goal Zero to arrange a free repair.
The remedy for this hazard is not a simple refund, but a free repair of the defective component. You need to reach out to Goal Zero directly to initiate this process. The company has set up specific channels for consumers affected by this recall. You can call their toll-free number at 888-794-6250. Their customer support team is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to productreplacement@goalzero.com or visit their website at www.goalzero.com and click on the Recall link for detailed instructions. When you contact them, have your model number ready to speed up the verification process.
Step 4: Follow the instructions for repair or replacement.
Once you are in contact with Goal Zero, follow their specific instructions for sending in the unit or receiving a repaired component. Since the issue is a manufacturing defect in the connection module, the company will handle the technical fix. Keep any confirmation numbers or emails they provide for your records. Do not discard the original packaging if you still have it, as it may be useful for shipping the item back to them. By following these steps, you eliminate the fire risk entirely without having to purchase a new third-party charger.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own the affected Goal Zero Yeti 25A Fast Charge power supply, the company has established a clear and straightforward path to resolve the issue at no cost to you. The primary remedy offered is a free repair service. This means that Goal Zero will handle the necessary maintenance or component replacement required to fix the loose connection between the power supply module and the output cord. You do not need to pay for shipping, parts, or labor associated with this correction. The goal here is to restore your device to a safe operating condition so you can continue using it for its intended purpose: faster recharging of Goal Zero’s Yeti power stations. While the recall notice specifically highlights a free repair, consumers often appreciate having clarity on what that entails, and in this case, the process is designed to be as frictionless as possible.
To initiate this remedy, you must reach out to Goal Zero directly through one of their designated contact channels. You have three convenient options for getting in touch. First, you can call their toll-free customer service line at 888-794-6250. This line is staffed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday, which allows for real-time assistance if you have immediate questions about the process. Second, you may prefer to communicate via email. You can send your inquiry or claim details to productreplacement@goalzero.com. This method is often useful if you want to provide detailed information about your unit or if you need a paper trail of your communication. Third, you can visit their official website at www.goalzero.com and navigate to the specific recall link for additional resources and instructions.
When you contact Goal Zero, be prepared to provide specific details about your product to ensure they can process your request accurately. The most critical piece of information is the model number. You will need to confirm that your unit is model number 98080. This number is located on the first line of the specifications printed on the product label. Additionally, verifying that the top of your power supply box displays the Goal Zero logo and the text "Yeti 25A Fast Charge" will help confirm that you have the correct recalled item. Having this information ready before you call or email will streamline the process and reduce any potential delays.
It is important to understand why a repair is the chosen remedy rather than an immediate replacement or refund. The hazard identified is a loose connection that can cause overheating. By repairing the unit, Goal Zero is addressing the root cause of the fire hazard directly. This approach ensures that your specific device is corrected safely and effectively. If you have any concerns about the repair process or if you believe your situation requires a different resolution, the customer service team is available to discuss your options during their business hours. Remember, the recall date for this action was December 9, 2020, so it is advisable to act promptly to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might be tempted to keep using your Goal Zero Yeti 25A Fast Charge power supply. Perhaps you are in the middle of a camping trip and need that extra juice for your devices, or maybe you simply do not want the hassle of unpacking the box, finding the model number, and waiting for a repair kit to arrive. However, ignoring this recall is not just an inconvenience; it is a genuine safety risk that can escalate quickly. The core issue with these specific power supplies is a mechanical flaw in the connection between the power supply module and the output cord. When this connection becomes loose, it creates what engineers call "arcing" or high-resistance contact. In simple terms, electricity struggles to flow smoothly through that gap, and all that resistance generates intense heat. If you continue to plug this unit into a wall outlet or use it to charge your Yeti power station without addressing the defect, that localized overheating will not just stop at making the plastic casing warm to the touch. The internal components are designed to handle specific electrical loads, but they are not designed to withstand the friction and heat caused by a poor connection. Over time, or even during a single charging session if the loose fit is severe, the temperature at the junction point can rise high enough to melt the surrounding plastic insulation. Once that insulation fails, exposed wires can touch each other or grounded surfaces, creating an electrical short circuit. This is the moment a minor defect transforms into a fire hazard. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Goal Zero have already received three reports of these power supplies overheating. While it is reassuring that no injuries have been reported to date, "no injuries" does not mean "no danger." It simply means that in those three instances, the situation was caught before a fire started or caused harm. Fire hazards are unpredictable; they depend on what the unit is placed near. If your power supply is sitting on a wooden deck, near dry camping gear, under a tent, or close to flammable materials while it overheats, the risk of ignition increases dramatically. A small spark or glowing plastic can ignite nearby fabrics, paper, or wood in seconds. Furthermore, ignoring the recall means you are relying on chance rather than safety. You might get away with using it for weeks, but the loose connection does not fix itself; it often gets worse as the metal contacts wear down from vibration and thermal expansion. By waiting to act, you are gambling with your home, your gear, and potentially your family’s safety. The remedy is free, but the cost of inaction could be catastrophic. Please do not wait for a smoke detector to alarm or a fire to start before you take action. Stop using the unit immediately, let it cool down completely, and contact Goal Zero to get your free repair.Staying safe: broader tips
Recalls are vital safeguards, but they are reactive measures that address problems after a product has already entered the marketplace. True safety begins with proactive habits and a deeper understanding of how our electronic devices interact with our homes. When it comes to power supplies, batteries, and high-wattage accessories like those used for portable energy stations, the most significant risks often stem from heat buildup and electrical friction. By adopting a few simple, everyday practices, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of fire hazards and extend the life of your equipment.
First, always respect the importance of ventilation. Electronic components generate heat during operation, especially when charging or discharging at high speeds. Whether you are using a power station accessory in your home, on a camping trip, or in a garage, never cover these devices with blankets, clothes, or other materials that trap heat. Heat needs a path to dissipate; if that path is blocked, internal temperatures can rise rapidly, potentially damaging the circuitry or igniting nearby flammable items. Place your devices on hard, flat surfaces like concrete, wood, or metal tables, and ensure there is at least a few inches of clearance around all sides.
Second, be mindful of your home’s electrical infrastructure. Many modern power supplies draw significant current, which can strain older wiring or overloaded circuits. Avoid daisy-chaining power strips or using extension cords that are not rated for the device’s wattage. If a cord feels warm to the touch during use, it is a clear sign that it is carrying more current than it was designed to handle. In such cases, unplug the device immediately and plug it directly into a wall outlet instead. This reduces resistance and prevents the cord itself from becoming a fire hazard.
Third, stay informed beyond individual recalls. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains a database of recalls that you can monitor regularly. Consider setting up email alerts for specific categories of products you own, such as small appliances or electronics. Additionally, install and test smoke detectors in every bedroom and on every level of your home. These devices provide the critical early warning needed to evacuate safely if a fire does start, giving you precious time to react before flames spread.
Finally, treat battery-powered devices with respect. Lithium-ion batteries, common in portable power stations, are powerful but sensitive. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, such as leaving them in a hot car or near a heater. Never attempt to open or modify these devices yourself, as doing so can puncture the internal cells and cause immediate thermal runaway. By combining vigilance with basic electrical safety principles, you create a safer environment for yourself and your family, long after any specific recall has been resolved.