What was recalled
If you have ever set down your smartphone on a charging pad and walked away to tackle another task, you might be familiar with the convenience of wireless charging. However, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall affecting a specific multi-device charging station manufactured by Spansive. This alert, released on July 26, 2019, targets the Spansive Source wireless multi-phone charger. It is important to understand exactly which product is involved so you can check your home with confidence and peace of mind.
The recalled item is a substantial charging hub designed for households or offices where multiple devices need power simultaneously. Specifically, this charger is capable of powering up to six phones at the same time. The design incorporates both wireless charging pads and traditional wired connections. Four of the supported devices charge wirelessly on the main surface, while two additional phones can be connected via USB ports located at the base of the unit. This versatility made it an attractive option for tech-savvy consumers who wanted a single, tidy station to manage their digital life.
To identify if your device is part of this recall, look closely at its physical appearance. The charger was sold in two distinct color variations: a clean white finish and a darker charcoal gray. Regardless of the color, every unit in this batch features a distinctive green label attached to the bottom of the charger. Additionally, the brand name "Spansive" is clearly printed on the body of the device. If your charger matches these visual descriptions—specifically the combination of the six-phone capacity, the white or charcoal casing, and the green bottom label—it falls under this recall.
While the provided records do not specify the exact number of units sold worldwide or the specific retail stores where they were available, it is known that these chargers were distributed to consumers who value efficient power management. The recall was initiated because of a safety concern related to how the device interacts with certain phone accessories. Although we cannot list every store name from the current facts, the product was widely marketed for its ability to handle multiple devices at once. If you purchased this specific Spansive Source model around the time of the 2019 alert, it is crucial to verify its presence in your home immediately.
Understanding the scope of this recall helps clarify why action is necessary. This is not a minor software glitch or a cosmetic defect; it is a hardware-related safety issue involving heat generation. By identifying the exact model—the Spansive Source wireless multi-phone charger with the green label—you can take the next steps to ensure your home remains safe. The company, Spansive, has acknowledged the issue and is actively reaching out to those who bought the product directly. However, if you bought it through a third-party retailer or as a gift, you must rely on the visual identification described above to determine if your unit needs attention.
The hazard, explained
At first glance, a wireless charger seems like a marvel of modern convenience. You simply set your phone down, and electricity flows through the air to fill its battery without the mess of cables. However, the specific design of the recalled Spansive Source wireless multi-phone chargers introduces a physics problem that can turn this convenience into a burn hazard. The core issue lies in how these devices generate heat during the charging process and what happens when conductive materials interfere with that process.
Wireless charging works via electromagnetic induction. Inside the charger, there is a coil of copper wire that creates a magnetic field. When you place a compatible phone on top, that magnetic field induces an electrical current in the phone’s internal receiver coil, which then charges the battery. This process is not perfectly efficient; some energy is always lost as heat. Under normal circumstances, this heat dissipates safely into the air or through the charger’s casing. The Spansive chargers in question were designed to power up to six devices simultaneously, meaning they generate a significant baseline amount of thermal energy even when operating correctly.
The danger arises when metallic accessories are introduced into this magnetic field. Many users attach metal rings, magnetic car mounts, or decorative plates to the back of their phones to enhance functionality or aesthetics. When these metal objects are placed on the wireless charging pad, they interact directly with the alternating magnetic field. According to Faraday’s law of induction, a changing magnetic field induces electrical currents in conductive materials. In this case, the metal accessory itself becomes a conductor. Because the metal is not designed to manage this induced current, it creates what engineers call "eddy currents."
These eddy currents flow through the resistance of the metal object, generating intense, localized heat very quickly. Unlike the charger’s internal components, which are built with thermal management in mind, a small metal ring or plate has no way to dissipate that heat effectively. It can become hot enough to cause first- or second-degree burns upon touch in a matter of minutes. Because the Spansive charger was capable of charging multiple phones at once, there were multiple potential points where this overheating could occur simultaneously, increasing the likelihood of a user accidentally touching a hot surface while retrieving their device.
While Spansive has confirmed only one incident involving an overheating metallic accessory so far, the physics behind the hazard is well-documented in engineering literature. Metal objects near strong magnetic fields can reach temperatures exceeding 150 degrees Fahrenheit (65 degrees Celsius), which is sufficient to cause skin injury upon contact. This is not a defect in the charger’s electronics per se, but rather a fundamental interaction between magnetism and conductive metals that the device’s design did not adequately mitigate for users who add aftermarket metal attachments.
Understanding this mechanism is crucial because it explains why the hazard might not be obvious at first. The charger may appear to be working normally—your phone might even charge, albeit slowly—while the metal accessory beneath it is silently heating up. By the time you notice warmth or smell burning plastic, the damage may already be done. This is why immediate cessation of use is the only safe course of action once you identify that your device has compatible metallic attachments.
Who is most at risk
When we talk about who is most at risk from this recall, it is helpful to look at both the nature of the device and the specific way the failure occurs. The recalled item is a Spansive Source wireless multi-phone charger, a substantial piece of technology designed to power up to six phones simultaneously. Because this unit handles multiple devices at once—four wirelessly and two via USB ports—it generates more ambient heat than a standard single-phone pad. The primary danger identified in the recall involves metallic accessories attached to those phones. If you are someone who uses metal phone cases, magnetic car mounts, or metal rings and wallets that stick to your device, you fall into the highest risk category for this specific hazard.
The mechanism of injury here is thermal. When a metallic accessory interacts with the charging field, it can overheat rapidly while the phones are charging. This means the risk is not just about the charger breaking; it is about the physical temperature of the object you are touching or placing near your body. Therefore, individuals who tend to charge their phones in close proximity to their skin are at greater risk. This includes people who leave their devices on nightstands next to their heads while sleeping, those who keep chargers on desks where they rest their wrists, or anyone who uses the charger as a bedside companion during bedtime routines. The heat generated by the metallic accessory can cause burns upon contact with sensitive skin areas.
Certain demographic groups may be more vulnerable to these types of thermal injuries due to physiological differences. For instance, young children and older adults often have thinner skin or reduced sensitivity to temperature changes. A burn that an adult might quickly shake off as "hot" could cause significant tissue damage to a child or an elderly person before they even realize the danger. Additionally, individuals with conditions that affect their ability to feel heat, such as peripheral neuropathy (common in people with diabetes), may not feel the burning sensation until damage has already occurred. If you or anyone in your household falls into these categories, it is crucial to treat this recall with immediate seriousness.
Furthermore, consider who typically manages the household electronics. In many homes, parents or caregivers are responsible for setting up charging stations for multiple family members. If you are the one placing phones on this multi-charger, you are the first line of defense. You are most at risk if you have not yet noticed any unusual warmth from your chargers and continue to use them as normal. The recall notes that Spansive has received one report of a metallic phone accessory overheating. While no injuries have been reported in this specific case, the potential for harm is real. If you own this device and use metal accessories on your phones, you are part of the group that needs to act now. Do not wait for a burn to occur. The risk is cumulative; every time you charge a phone with a metal attachment on this unit, you are engaging in a process known to cause overheating.
To summarize, the most at-risk individuals are those who:
- Use metal phone cases, rings, wallets, or magnetic mounts on their devices.
- Charge multiple phones simultaneously on the recalled Spansive Source unit.
- Keep the charger in close contact with their body or sleeping areas.
- Have reduced skin sensitivity or are very young/elderly.
If you fit any of these descriptions, please stop using the device immediately. The comfort of convenience is not worth the potential for physical injury. Your safety is far more important than charging your phones overnight. Contact Spansive right away to arrange for a full refund and return the unit. This is a clear warning sign from the manufacturer that the product does not meet current safety expectations for users with metallic accessories.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your wireless charging station is part of this specific recall requires a careful visual inspection of the device itself. The CPSC alert focuses exclusively on the Spansive Source wireless multi-phone charger. This is not a recall for every wireless charger on the market, nor is it limited to just one model number in the traditional sense; rather, it targets a specific type of charging hub designed to power multiple devices at once. To determine if your unit is affected, you need to look past the brand name alone and examine the physical configuration and labeling of the charger.
First, check the overall design and capacity of the device. The recalled items are multi-phone chargers capable of powering up to six phones simultaneously. This is a key distinguishing feature. If your charger only powers one phone or has a different number of charging spots, it is likely not part of this specific recall. Look at the base of the charger where the power connections are housed. The affected units have two USB ports located at the base of the charger in addition to the wireless charging surfaces on top. This combination of four wireless charging areas and two wired USB ports is specific to the Spansive Source model being recalled.
Next, examine the color and labeling details, which are critical for confirmation. These chargers were sold in two distinct colors: white and charcoal (a dark gray). If your charger is black, silver, or another color, it falls outside the scope of this recall. Regardless of whether yours is white or charcoal, you must look at the bottom of the unit. The recalled chargers feature a green label attached to the bottom surface. This label is not just a warranty sticker; it is the primary identifier for this batch. You should also see the word "Spansive" printed clearly on the body of the charger itself, confirming the brand.
If you are still unsure after checking these physical traits, do not guess. The recall information does not provide a list of serial numbers or specific retail locations where the units were sold, nor does it specify a price range that would help you identify them. Because the hazard involves metallic accessories overheating during use, misidentifying your charger could lead to continued risk if you mistakenly believe your unit is safe when it is actually part of the recall. The most reliable method remains a visual match against the description: a Spansive-branded, multi-phone hub (up to six devices) with four wireless pads and two USB ports, available in white or charcoal, with a green label on the bottom. If your device matches this exact description, you should treat it as recalled immediately.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Spansive Source wireless multi-phone charger, the safest and most responsible course of action is straightforward, even if it feels slightly inconvenient at first glance. The primary instruction from both the company and safety regulators is clear: stop using the device immediately. This is not a suggestion to "proceed with caution" or to monitor the device closely. Because the hazard involves components overheating to the point where they can cause burns, continuing to charge your devices on this unit poses a genuine risk to you and your property. Please unplug the charger from the wall outlet right now and remove any phones or accessories resting on its surface. Do not attempt to test it again later to see if "it works fine," as the defect is inherent to the design's interaction with metallic items.
Once the device is powered down and removed from use, your next step is to initiate the return process. Spansive has committed to a full refund for all purchasers of this recalled unit. The company is actively contacting individuals who bought the chargers directly, so keep an eye on your email or phone for their outreach. However, do not wait passively if you have not heard from them. You should take the initiative to contact Spansive to confirm your eligibility and arrange for the return. You can reach their support team by calling 800-426-6251 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to support@spansive.com. When you contact them, have your proof of purchase ready if possible, as this will help expedite the refund process.
If you prefer digital communication or need more detailed instructions on how to package and ship the item, Spansive has also provided an online resource. Visit their official website at www.spansive.com and look for the “Recall Notice” section. This page should contain specific instructions on how to properly pack the charger to prevent damage during shipping and where to send it. Ensure you follow these packaging guidelines carefully to avoid any additional issues while the unit is in transit. The goal is to get this hazardous item out of your home safely and efficiently, so you can replace it with a different, verified-safe charging solution.
It is important to remember that this recall is specific to the Spansive Source model capable of charging up to six phones simultaneously (four wirelessly and two via USB). If you have a different model or brand, this specific remedy does not apply to you, though general safety practices for wireless chargers remain relevant. By following these steps—stopping use, contacting the manufacturer, and returning the unit—you are protecting yourself from potential burn injuries and ensuring you receive the financial remedy you are entitled to. Do not discard the charger in your regular trash; always follow the return instructions provided by Spansive to ensure proper disposal or inspection.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have one of the recalled Spansive Source wireless multi-phone chargers, it is important to understand exactly how the remedy works and what your next steps should be. The good news is that the company has established a straightforward path for you to resolve this issue without any out-of-pocket cost. Specifically, Spansive is offering a full refund to anyone who purchased the affected units. This means you do not need to keep the defective product, nor are you being offered a replacement unit or a repair service. The remedy is strictly financial compensation for your purchase price, allowing you to take that money and invest in a different charging solution that meets your safety needs.
You might be wondering how this process actually unfolds in practice. According to the recall details, Spansive is not waiting for customers to discover the problem on their own. Instead, the company is proactively contacting purchasers directly about the recall. This is a significant convenience for you, as it means they likely already have your contact information and purchase history on file. If you bought the charger from an authorized retailer or directly from Spansive, keep an eye on your email inbox, phone, or mail for communication from their customer service team. They will guide you through the final steps of returning the item and processing your refund.
However, if you have not heard from them yet, do not worry. You are encouraged to take the initiative to ensure your refund is processed promptly. You can reach out to Spansive directly using the contact information provided in the recall notice. Call them at 800-426-6251 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can send an email to support@spansive.com or visit their website at www.spansive.com and click on the “Recall Notice” section for more detailed instructions. When you contact them, have your proof of purchase ready, as this will help expedite the verification process.
It is also worth noting why a refund is the chosen remedy rather than a repair or replacement. The hazard involves metallic accessories overheating while charging, which poses a burn risk. Because the issue is related to the fundamental design interaction between the charger and metal objects, simply repairing the unit may not eliminate the risk entirely. A full refund allows you to step away from this specific model entirely, giving you the freedom to choose a safer alternative that does not carry these potential dangers. Please stop using the recalled charger immediately and do not attempt to modify it yourself.
Once you have returned the unit as instructed by Spansive, your refund should be processed according to their timeline. While the recall facts do not specify the exact number of days for the money to appear in your account, standard practice for such refunds is to credit the original payment method within a few business weeks. If you encounter any difficulties or delays, follow up with their support team using the channels mentioned above. Your safety and satisfaction are the priority here, so do not hesitate to ask questions if anything is unclear during the process.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is easy to view a product recall as merely an administrative inconvenience—a piece of paperwork to file away or a minor disruption to your daily routine. However, when the hazard involves heat and electrical components, ignoring the warning transforms a simple software glitch into a potential physical threat. In the case of the Spansive Source wireless multi-phone chargers, the core issue is not that the device will stop working, but that it will begin to behave unpredictably under specific conditions. By continuing to use this charger after the recall announcement on July 26, 2019, you are accepting a risk that the manufacturer has explicitly identified and cannot guarantee against.
The primary danger lies in the interaction between electricity and metal. Wireless chargers work by creating a magnetic field to transfer energy to your phone. Normally, this process is safe and efficient. However, the recall notice highlights a specific flaw: if metallic accessories are attached to the phones placed on the charger, those metals can act as conductors within that magnetic field. This causes the metal to heat up rapidly—a phenomenon known as eddy current heating. While one might assume that modern electronics have built-in safeguards to cut power if things get too hot, recalls often happen precisely because those safeguards failed or were insufficient for this specific edge case. Ignoring the recall means you are betting that your particular unit will not experience a thermal runaway event.
We must look at what has already happened to understand the stakes. Spansive has confirmed at least one incident where a metallic phone accessory overheated while on the charger. While it is reassuring that no injuries have been reported so far, the absence of harm in past incidents does not predict future safety. Heat damage is often progressive. What starts as a warm surface can quickly escalate to temperatures capable of causing first-degree burns or even blistering skin upon contact. Furthermore, overheating components can melt the plastic casing of the charger itself, potentially exposing live electrical wires. This shifts the risk profile from a simple burn to a potential electrical shock or fire hazard, especially if the melted materials come into contact with flammable surfaces like bedding or upholstery.
There is also the less visible, but equally frustrating, consequence of equipment damage. If the charger overheats significantly, it may permanently damage the battery health of your connected smartphones. Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to heat; exposing them to the elevated temperatures generated by this defective charger can degrade their capacity and lifespan prematurely. You might save a few dollars by not returning the unit now, only to face the cost of replacing a degraded phone battery later. More critically, you risk voiding any remaining warranty on your devices if damage is traced back to using recalled third-party accessories. The most prudent path is to stop using the device immediately. The inconvenience of contacting Spansive for a refund is negligible compared to the potential medical costs or property damage from a burn or fire.
- Skin Injury: Direct contact with overheated metallic accessories can cause burns ranging from mild redness to painful blisters.
- Fire Risk: Extreme heat can melt plastic components and ignite nearby flammable materials, particularly if the charger is left unattended on beds or couches.
- Device Damage: Excessive heat can permanently degrade the battery life of your smartphones and potentially damage internal charging circuits.
- Electrical Hazards: Melting casings may expose live wires, increasing the risk of electric shock to the user or short-circuiting other devices in the vicinity.