What was recalled
If you are a professional tradesperson, a mechanic, or simply someone who appreciates high-quality equipment, you might have encountered the Matco Tools brand in your workshop or on your job site. Matco Tools is well-known for manufacturing durable hand tools and equipment designed for demanding industrial environments. However, in an effort to ensure consumer safety, Professional Tool Products has issued a recall affecting a specific line of their accessory products: wireless chargers. This action was taken after the company identified a potential safety issue within these particular units. The recall notice, officially posted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on April 3, 2019, details exactly which items are involved so that owners can identify them quickly and take appropriate action.
The specific products subject to this recall are round, wireless charging pads branded under Matco Tools. Visually, these chargers are distinct and easy to spot if you have one on your desk or workbench. They feature a sleek black background with the words "MATCO TOOLS" and the company’s logo printed clearly in the center of the device. The physical dimensions are precise: each charger measures approximately 4 inches in diameter and stands about half an inch tall, making them compact enough to fit on most standard desks without taking up excessive space. Importantly, these units were not sold as standalone items; they were packaged and sold with a USB connector cable, which is used to plug the charger into a power source.
While the recall notice provides clear visual identifiers for the product itself, it does not list specific model numbers or SKUs in the provided text. Therefore, you must rely on the physical description—the round shape, the black center with white or light-colored branding, and the inclusion of the USB cable—to confirm if your device is part of this batch. The notice also does not specify the exact retail locations or online platforms where these chargers were originally sold, nor does it break down the sales by geographic region. It simply states that these items were sold as Matco Tools products. Similarly, while the recall involves a specific quantity of units, the provided facts do not disclose the total number of wireless chargers affected by this action.
If you purchased a Matco Tools wireless charger around the time this recall was announced, or if you received one as part of a toolkit bundle, it is crucial to verify its identity against the description above. The absence of specific model numbers in the public summary means that visual inspection is your primary method for identification. If your charger matches the description of being round, black with central branding, and roughly 4 inches wide, you should treat it as potentially part of the recall until you can confirm otherwise through the official channels provided by Professional Tool Products.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about a "burn hazard" in the context of electronics like wireless chargers, it is helpful to understand what is physically happening inside the device before it ever touches your skin. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified that these specific Matco Tools wireless chargers can overheat during normal operation. This is not just a minor temperature rise; it is a significant accumulation of heat that exceeds safe limits for consumer electronics. In simple terms, the internal components are generating more thermal energy than they are designed to dissipate safely into the air.
Wireless charging technology relies on electromagnetic fields to transfer energy from the charger to your device. This process involves coils of wire and electronic circuits that can naturally generate warmth. However, when a defect exists in the manufacturing or design, this warmth can spiral out of control. The reported incidents confirm that the chargers do not simply get warm; they become hot enough to cause physical injury. Professional Tool Products has documented six separate reports of this overheating issue, which is a serious red flag indicating a systemic failure rather than an isolated accident.
The harm occurs through direct contact. Because these chargers are designed to sit on a desk or in a pocket, they are frequently handled while active or immediately after use. When the internal heat builds up excessively, it transfers directly to the outer casing of the charger. If you place your fingers on the device to adjust it or pick it up, that intense heat can burn your skin. The CPSC record specifically notes two confirmed reports of burns to consumers' fingers, proving that this is not a theoretical risk but an active danger to anyone who uses the product.
It is important to recognize that burns from electronics can happen quickly and without warning. You might not feel the danger until it is too late because the heat builds up gradually as you use the charger for your phone or other compatible devices. Once the internal temperature crosses a critical threshold, the surface becomes hot enough to damage tissue instantly. This is why the recommendation to stop using the device immediately is so crucial. Unlike a stove or a toaster where you expect heat, a small desktop accessory should remain cool to the touch. If it does not, the safety mechanisms that are supposed to prevent injury have failed.
We must also consider the broader implications of this type of failure. Overheating electronics can sometimes lead to more severe outcomes, such as melting plastic components or, in rare cases, fire. While the current reports focus on burns to fingers, the underlying issue is a failure of thermal management. The charger is essentially trapping heat inside itself rather than letting it escape safely. This trapped energy seeks the path of least resistance, which is often your skin when you are handling the device. Understanding this mechanism helps clarify why ignoring the recall is not an option. The device is fundamentally unsafe in its current state, and continued use keeps you in direct contact with a potential injury source every time you charge your device.
Who is most at risk
When we look at the specific details of this recall involving Matco Tools wireless chargers, it is important to understand that the hazard is not limited to a single demographic but rather affects anyone who interacts with the device directly. The primary group at risk consists of individuals who rely on these chargers for their daily routine, particularly those who use them in close proximity to their skin. Because the reported incidents involve overheating that led to burns on consumers’ fingers, the most immediate danger is to the hands and fingertips of users who place their devices on the charger pad. This includes mechanics, technicians, and professionals who frequently use Matco Tools products and may be accustomed to keeping their phones within arm’s reach for quick access to work-related information or communication.
While adults are the primary users, we must also consider that the nature of a burn hazard can affect individuals differently based on their physical sensitivity. For instance, people with thinner skin or reduced sensation in their extremities—such as older adults or those with certain medical conditions like diabetes—may be at greater risk because they might not feel the initial warmth that signals overheating until significant tissue damage has occurred. Similarly, children who might handle these devices without understanding the heat generation could be vulnerable to sudden burns if they touch the charger while it is in use. Although the recall notice does not explicitly list age-based vulnerabilities, the general principle of burn safety applies: anyone with delayed pain response or delicate skin should exercise extreme caution with any electronic device known to generate excess heat.
Furthermore, the risk extends to anyone who uses the charger in an environment where they cannot immediately react to a problem. For example, if the charger is left unattended on a desk or in a vehicle, the overheating might progress unnoticed until it causes more severe damage to the device itself or nearby materials. The six reported incidents of finger burns highlight that even brief contact during normal use can be dangerous. Therefore, the most vulnerable individuals are those who habitually rest their hands on the charger while waiting for their phone to charge, or those who may have impaired ability to quickly remove a hot object from their skin. It is crucial to recognize that this risk is not about who you are, but rather how and where you use the device. By understanding that any prolonged or direct contact with an overheating surface can lead to injury, all users can take appropriate steps to protect themselves.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action regarding this recall, it is essential to confirm that your specific wireless charger matches the exact products identified by Professional Tool Products and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Because counterfeit or similar-looking accessories are common in the market, relying solely on general descriptions can lead to confusion. The most reliable way to verify your device is to examine its physical characteristics closely. You need to look for a unit that is distinctly round in shape. This is not a square or rectangular pad often found in modern wireless charging setups; it is a circular disc. When you hold the device, check its dimensions carefully. The recalled items measure approximately 4 inches in diameter and about half an inch in height. If your charger is significantly thicker or thinner than this specification, or if the diameter varies widely from four inches, it likely belongs to a different product line.
Visual inspection of the surface is the next critical step. Turn the charger over to look at the top face. The recalled units feature a black background that serves as the canvas for the branding. Printed clearly in the center of this black surface are the words "MATCO TOOLS" along with the official Matco logo. This branding should be sharp and centered, not off to the side or missing entirely. If the text is blurry, faded beyond recognition, or if the logo design differs from the standard Matco emblem, you may have a different model. However, please note that wear and tear over time might affect visibility, so handle the item with care while inspecting it.
Finally, check what comes with the device. The recall description specifies that these chargers were sold with a USB connector cable. If your wireless charger arrived as part of a bundle or kit that included this specific type of cable, it increases the likelihood that you possess one of the affected units. While Professional Tool Products has not provided a specific serial number list for public verification in this initial report, the combination of the round shape, the 4-inch by half-inch dimensions, the black background with centered "MATCO TOOLS" branding, and the inclusion of a USB cable forms the complete profile of the recalled product. If your device matches all these criteria, you should treat it as part of the recall immediately. Do not rely on the purchase date alone, as inventory can remain in homes for years, but be aware that this recall was announced on April 3, 2019, covering units sold prior to that date.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Matco Tools wireless charger matching the description provided in this recall notice, your immediate priority is to eliminate the risk of injury. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a serious burn hazard associated with these specific units, and Professional Tool Products has received multiple reports of overheating, including incidents where consumers suffered burns to their fingers. Because the danger is active and physical, you should not wait for further instructions or try to test the device yourself. Instead, take the following concrete steps to secure your safety and resolve the issue with the manufacturer.
- Stop Using the Charger Immediately. The very first action you must take is to unplug the device from any power source and cease using it for charging or any other purpose. Do not attempt to charge a phone, tablet, or other compatible device with this unit. The hazard stems from internal components that can overheat during operation, making continued use dangerous regardless of how cool the exterior may feel at the moment. Treat the item as if it were actively hot to prevent any accidental contact burns.
- Isolate the Product. Once unplugged, move the charger away from flammable materials such as curtains, bedding, paper stacks, or wooden furniture. Place it in a safe, non-combustible area like a metal bin or a concrete floor until you are ready to return it. This step is crucial because while the device is no longer generating heat, the internal defect remains, and accidental reactivation or residual thermal energy could still pose a risk if handled improperly.
- Prepare for Return. According to the remedy announced by Professional Tool Products, you are eligible for either a full refund or store credit of equal value. To receive this remedy, you must return the recalled charger directly to the place where you originally purchased it. Please note that the recall instructions do not specify whether you can mail the item back to Professional Tool Products directly; therefore, your point of sale is the primary channel for processing your return. Gather your receipt or proof of purchase if possible, as this will facilitate a smoother transaction at the register.
- Contact for Additional Support. If you have questions about the process, need clarification on where to return the item, or are experiencing issues with your place of purchase, you should contact Professional Tool Products directly. You can reach their consumer support team toll-free at 866-496-8423. Their agents are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can visit www.professionaltoolproducts.com and click on “Product Recalls” in the menu for more detailed information online. Use these resources if you are unsure about any part of the return process.
Taking these steps promptly protects not only your physical safety but also ensures you receive the full financial remedy offered by the company. Do not delay, as the risk of burns is real and documented in multiple incidents.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that the wireless charger in your possession matches the description of the recalled Matco Tools product, the good news is that the manufacturer has established a straightforward and consumer-friendly remedy to resolve the issue. Because the primary concern involves safety risks rather than mere functional glitches, there is no option for a simple repair or software update to fix the overheating problem. Instead, Professional Tool Products has authorized two clear paths for resolution: a full refund of your original purchase price or store credit of equal value at Matco Tools locations.
This approach prioritizes your financial recovery and safety over retaining the defective item. The decision is entirely yours, depending on what you prefer to do next. If you would like to get your money back exactly as you paid it, you can request a full refund. Alternatively, if you are a regular customer of Matco Tools or believe you will need another charging solution soon, accepting store credit may be the more convenient route. This allows you to keep the funds within the brand ecosystem for future tool purchases or accessories without any loss of value.
To initiate this process, you do not need to return the item directly to Professional Tool Products’ corporate office. The recall instructions are designed to minimize your effort by directing you back to where you bought the device. You should take the recalled wireless charger, along with its USB connector cable, to the specific store or location where you originally made the purchase. Once there, inform the staff that you have a recalled item due to a burn hazard. They will handle the rest of the administrative work, processing either your refund or issuing the equivalent store credit on the spot.
If for some reason you cannot visit the place of purchase, or if you need more detailed instructions before making your trip, you can contact Professional Tool Products directly. They have set up a dedicated support line to assist with recall inquiries. You can call them toll-free at 866-496-8423. Their representatives are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. For those who prefer digital communication or wish to read the official recall notice first, you can visit their website at www.professionaltoolproducts.com and navigate to the “Product Recalls” section. This ensures you have all the correct details before you head out to resolve the situation.
Please remember that this remedy is specific to this recall event. Because the hazard involves overheating that has already resulted in burns to consumers, do not attempt to use the device while waiting for your refund or credit. The safety risk is immediate, and the remedy is designed to remove the danger from your home as quickly as possible. By returning the item promptly, you are not only protecting yourself but also helping Professional Tool Products track the scope of the issue effectively.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using your Matco Tools wireless charger. These devices are often placed in high-traffic areas of a workshop or garage, serving as a convenient spot to top off your phone while you work on a project. The inconvenience of having to find a different charging method, or the fear that you might be throwing away a perfectly functional piece of technology, can create a strong psychological barrier to action. However, ignoring this recall is not merely an issue of minor inconvenience; it is a direct engagement with a known physical danger that has already caused harm to others. The core issue here is thermal management. Wireless charging works by transferring energy through electromagnetic fields, a process that naturally generates heat. In the recalled units, something in the internal circuitry or battery regulation is failing to dissipate this heat effectively. When you leave the device plugged in and active, that heat does not just disappear; it accumulates. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has documented six specific incidents involving these chargers overheating. While six may sound like a small number in the grand scheme of consumer products, each instance represents a real person experiencing a sudden and unexpected danger. Most concerningly, two of those reports involved actual burns to consumers’ fingers. This is not a theoretical risk reserved for extreme edge cases; it is a documented outcome that has already occurred. If you continue to use the charger, you are essentially rolling the dice with your physical safety every time you place your phone on it. The risk is particularly acute because wireless chargers often require skin contact or very close proximity during the charging process. A burn in this context is not just a momentary sting; it can result in painful blisters, damaged nerve endings, or deeper tissue injury, especially if the device becomes hot enough to cause pain but you ignore that warning sign because you are focused on your work. Beyond the immediate risk of personal injury, there is a secondary danger related to fire safety. Electronics that overheat significantly are often precursors to more catastrophic failures. While the current reports focus on burns and overheating, sustained thermal stress can degrade internal components, potentially leading to short circuits, smoke emission, or in worst-case scenarios, ignition. By ignoring the recall, you are allowing a defective component to remain active in your environment for an indefinite period. The longer the device is used past its safe operational limits, the higher the probability that it will fail in a more dangerous way. You do not need to wait for a second burn report to validate the danger. The engineering failure is present, the heat is real, and the potential for injury is established. Taking five minutes to return the charger eliminates this variable entirely, replacing an unpredictable hazard with a guaranteed refund or store credit. Your safety is worth far more than the convenience of a potentially faulty charging pad.Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defect in Matco Tools wireless chargers, the underlying issue of electronic overheating is a common concern for anyone who relies on modern power accessories. Wireless charging technology has become ubiquitous, offering convenience by eliminating tangled cables, but it also introduces unique thermal dynamics that users should understand. Unlike traditional wired chargers that often have more robust heat dissipation through their physical connection to the device, wireless pads generate heat internally as they create a magnetic field to transfer energy. This process is inherently less efficient, meaning more energy is lost as heat rather than being converted into power for your phone or other devices. Understanding this basic principle helps demystify why these devices can feel warm during use and highlights the importance of proper ventilation.
To minimize the risk of overheating with any wireless charging device in your home, always ensure that the charger is placed on a hard, flat surface. Materials like wood, stone, or metal allow heat to dissipate more effectively than soft surfaces such as couches, beds, or thick rugs. When you place a wireless pad on fabric, it can trap heat against the bottom of the unit, preventing air circulation and causing temperatures to rise to dangerous levels. Additionally, avoid placing metal objects, such as keys, coins, or credit cards, between your device and the charger. These items can interact with the magnetic field, heating up rapidly and potentially damaging both the item and the charger itself.
Another critical aspect of safe charging habits is monitoring the environment in which you charge. Never leave electronic devices charging unattended for extended periods, especially overnight or while you are away from home. While modern devices have built-in safeguards to stop charging once the battery is full, those safeguards can fail, particularly with older or damaged hardware. If a device becomes too hot to touch comfortably, disconnect it immediately and allow it to cool down completely before using it again. This simple habit can prevent minor thermal issues from escalating into fire hazards.
Furthermore, make it a routine part of your home safety maintenance to check for product recalls regularly. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains a comprehensive database of recalls that affects everything from infant products to automotive parts and electronics. Subscribing to email alerts or visiting the CPSC website periodically can ensure you are aware of any safety issues with products you own. Regularly inspecting your charging cables and adapters for fraying, exposed wires, or discoloration is also wise; if a cord feels unusually warm during use, it may indicate an internal fault that requires replacement. By staying informed and practicing mindful usage, you can enjoy the convenience of modern technology without compromising your safety.