What was recalled
In July of 2018, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving a specific line of promotional electronics distributed by Hirsch Gift. The affected product is the CloudCharge Qi Wireless Charging Pad, a device designed to charge compatible smartphones without the need for traditional plug-in cables. While wireless charging has become a convenient standard for many consumers, this particular batch of chargers was not sold in typical retail stores like electronics shops or big-box retailers. Instead, these units were produced exclusively as promotional giveaways intended for employees and customers of various partner companies. This distribution method means that if you did not receive the charger through a corporate gift bag, a trade show booth, or a direct mailer from an employer or business partner, your device is likely safe.
Visually, the recalled pads are distinct enough to identify if you happen to have one sitting on your desk. The unit itself is circular in shape, measuring approximately four inches in diameter and half an inch tall. It features a white plastic base with various promotional logos or artwork printed on the top surface, which serves as the charging area. On the bottom of the device, you will find the product name "CloudCharge" along with the specific model number T4706. Identifying this model number is crucial, as it distinguishes the recalled items from other non-defective chargers that may look similar but do not pose a safety risk. The entire assembly, including the charging pad and its accessories, was packaged in a white plastic box with a clear lid, measuring roughly five inches by five inches by 1.25 inches.
The scope of this recall is limited to one specific production version: Version 2 of the charging pad. If you have an older or newer version, it may not be subject to this specific safety notice, though checking the model number remains the most reliable verification method. The package also included a white USB power cable and a wireless receiver adapter, which were meant to ensure compatibility with a wider range of phone models at the time. Hirsch Gift has acknowledged that there have been seven reports of these chargers overheating during use. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for burns is serious enough to warrant an immediate stop in usage for anyone in possession of this specific promotional item. The company has made it clear that they are taking full responsibility for this defect and are offering a free replacement to ensure consumer safety.
If you are trying to determine whether your charger falls into this category, look closely at the packaging and the device itself. The presence of the T4706 model number on the bottom is the primary identifier. Additionally, because these were promotional items, the top of the charger likely bears the logo of a specific company rather than just the Hirsch Gift brand. This context helps explain why you might have received it unexpectedly. Whether it was tucked into a conference welcome kit or sent as a holiday gift from your employer, the origin story of the device is tied to its role as a marketing tool. However, safety does not care about the intent behind the gift; it only cares about the physical properties of the product. Since the hazard involves overheating, knowing exactly what you have is the first step in protecting yourself and your home from potential fire or burn risks.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a specific physical failure within the wireless charging pads: they can overheat while in use, creating a direct burn risk to consumers. To understand why this happens, it helps to look at how these devices work and where things can go wrong. The recalled product is a CloudCharge Qi Wireless Charging Pad. Unlike traditional charging methods that rely on metal contacts or plugs, Qi wireless technology uses electromagnetic induction. This means the pad contains a coil of wire that generates a magnetic field when plugged in. Your phone, which has a corresponding receiver coil inside it, picks up this energy and converts it back into electricity to charge the battery.
This process is efficient for convenience, but it is not perfect. A small amount of energy is always lost as heat during the transfer. Under normal circumstances, the charging pad’s internal circuitry manages this temperature rise, keeping it at a safe, warm-to-the-touch level. However, in the case of the recalled Hirsch Gift chargers, reports indicate that this thermal management failed. The firm has received seven specific reports of these units overheating significantly beyond normal operating temperatures. When a device designed to stay cool begins to generate excessive heat, it usually points to an issue with the internal components, such as a short circuit in the coil or a failure in the voltage regulator that prevents the unit from shutting off or reducing power when it should.
The danger here is primarily thermal. Because the charging pad sits flat on a surface—often a desk, nightstand, or table—and your phone rests directly on top of it, the heat has nowhere to dissipate quickly. If the internal temperature climbs too high, the plastic casing can become hot enough to cause a burn. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm is real. Burns from electronic devices typically range from mild redness and pain to more serious blistering, depending on how long the skin is in contact with the overheated surface. Even brief contact with a significantly overheated device can be painful and damaging.
It is important to note that this hazard is specific to the recalled production lot (Version 2). The mechanism of failure suggests that a batch-specific defect allowed the unit to draw too much current or failed to regulate the magnetic field correctly, leading to dangerous temperature spikes. This is not a user error; it is a manufacturing flaw that makes the device inherently unsafe during normal operation. Because the heat builds up over time, you might not notice it immediately, especially if your phone case insulates the heat or if you are using the charger on a soft surface like a bed or couch, which traps heat even further. This is why stopping use immediately upon identification of the product is critical, regardless of whether the device currently feels warm.
Who is most at risk
While the recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) confirms that seven reports of overheating have been received without any reported injuries to date, the nature of this specific hazard creates a nuanced landscape of risk. The Hirsch Gift CloudCharge Qi Wireless Charging Pad is not typically sold through standard retail channels; rather, it was distributed as a promotional giveaway to employees and customers of various companies. This distribution method means that ownership is scattered across a wide demographic, but the context in which these devices are used significantly influences who might be most vulnerable to harm.
The primary group at risk consists of adults using the device in close proximity to their bodies or personal spaces during extended periods of inactivity. Wireless charging pads are often left unattended for hours while a phone charges overnight or during long work sessions. The hazard here is thermal accumulation. Because the charging pad can overheat while in use, the plastic casing and the surface where the phone rests can become dangerously hot. For an adult user, the immediate risk is contact burns to the hands or arms if they pick up the device to check its temperature or move it. However, a more subtle but equally serious risk arises from placing the charger on soft surfaces like beds, couches, or desks covered with paper or fabric. These materials can trap heat, accelerating the overheating process and potentially leading to scalding injuries when the user finally interacts with the unit.
Certain demographics may face heightened vulnerability due to physical sensitivity or environmental factors. Individuals with thinner skin, such as the elderly or young children who might come into contact with the device if it was brought home from a workplace event, have less tolerance for high surface temperatures and are more prone to severe burns from brief contact. Furthermore, people with reduced sensation in their extremities due to conditions like diabetes or neuropathy may not feel the heat building up on the device until significant damage has occurred. This lack of immediate tactile feedback makes them particularly susceptible to injury because they rely on visual cues to detect a malfunction, which may not be apparent until it is too late.
Another layer of risk involves the potential for secondary incidents. A severely overheated electronic device can ignite surrounding materials. If this charger is used in a bedroom near bedding or curtains, or in an office near important documents, the consequence shifts from a simple burn to a property damage and fire hazard. Therefore, while the direct physical injury risk is highest for anyone touching the device, the broader safety impact extends to the safety of the immediate environment surrounding the user. It is crucial to recognize that "no injuries reported" so far does not mean the risk is low; it simply means the incident rate has not yet resulted in documented harm, likely due to luck rather than inherent safety.
- Prolonged Users: Individuals who leave their phones charging overnight or for entire workdays are at higher risk because heat builds up over time.
- Sensitive Populations: The elderly, young children, and those with nerve damage may not feel the burn warning signs early enough.
- Environmental Context: Users placing the device on flammable or insulating surfaces (beds, carpets) face amplified risks of severe burns and fire.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Pulling a specific electronic accessory out of a drawer full of cables and gadgets can feel like finding a needle in a haystack, especially when the item was given to you as a free promotional gift rather than purchased at a store. However, identifying the recalled Hirsch Gift CloudCharge Qi Wireless Charging Pad is actually quite straightforward if you know exactly where to look and what physical characteristics to match. The first and most critical step is to examine the bottom of the charging pad itself. You need to locate the printed text on the white plastic base. Look specifically for the model number "T4706." This alphanumeric code is your primary identifier. If this number is not present, or if it differs from T4706, you do not have the specific unit involved in this recall.
Once you have confirmed the model number, look at the top surface of the device to verify its design and branding. The recalled units are circular in shape and measure approximately 4 inches in diameter with a height of about 0.5 inches. Unlike standard retail chargers that might feature generic Apple or Samsung logos, these specific pads were promotional giveaways. Therefore, the top of your charger will likely display various company promotional logos and artwork rather than a brand name like "Hirsch Gift" on the face. The packaging is also distinctive: each charger was originally packed in a white plastic box with a clear lid, measuring roughly 5 inches by 5 inches by 1.25 inches. If you still have the original box, check it for any of these dimensions or the product name "CloudCharge Qi Wireless Charging Pad."
It is also important to note that this recall applies only to one specific production variant: Version 2 of the charging pad. While the physical description remains the same, the internal versioning distinguishes the safe units from the hazardous ones. Additionally, check for the included accessories. The recalled kits came with a white USB power cable and a wireless receiver adapter. If your charger is missing these items or has different colored cables, it may be a different product entirely. If you find the model number T4706 on the bottom of a circular, 4-inch wide pad that was a promotional gift, stop using it immediately and follow the remedy instructions provided by Hirsch Gift.
What to do — step by step
If you happen to have one of the recalled Hirsch Gift CloudCharge Qi Wireless Charging Pads, your immediate priority is simple: stop using it right now. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) makes this clear because the device poses a genuine burn hazard due to overheating while in use. Do not wait to see if it happens again or try to "test" it one more time. Once you have safely unplugged the charger from your power source, set it aside in a location where it will not be accidentally turned back on or used by anyone else in your household. This is the most critical first step because continuing to use an overheating device increases the risk of injury to you and potential damage to your phone or surrounding furniture. Next, you need to initiate the process for getting your free replacement. The remedy provided by Hirsch Gift is a straightforward replacement of the defective unit at no cost to you. To get started, you should contact Hirsch Gift directly. You have several convenient options for reaching them. You can call their toll-free number at 877-220-4438 and dial extension 117. Their customer service team is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday, so keep that schedule in mind when you plan your call. Alternatively, if you prefer written communication or need to provide specific details about your unit, you can send an email to recall@hirschgift.com. This method allows you to document your request and attach any necessary photos or information without the pressure of a live conversation. If you prefer to handle everything online, Hirsch Gift has set up a dedicated portal for this recall. Visit their website at https://hg-promo.com/ and scroll to the very bottom of the page. You will find a specific link labeled "recall." Clicking this link will guide you through the necessary steps to request your free replacement charger. When you contact them, whether by phone, email, or online, be prepared to provide some identifying information about your product. The recall applies specifically to the Version 2 production lot of the CloudCharge Qi Wireless Charging Pad (Model T4706). Having this model number handy will help speed up the process and ensure you are processed correctly. Finally, once you have successfully contacted Hirsch Gift and received confirmation that your replacement is on its way, dispose of the old charger safely. Do not throw it in your regular trash where someone else might find it and use it. If possible, cut the USB cable to render it unusable before discarding it, or place it in a sealed bag to prevent accidental use. This ensures that the hazard is completely removed from your environment and protects others who might come across the discarded item. By following these steps promptly, you eliminate the burn risk entirely and get a working charger back in your hands, all without spending any money.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that you possess one of the recalled Hirsch Gift CloudCharge Qi Wireless Charging Pads, it is important to understand exactly how the remedy works and what your next steps should be. In this specific recall action managed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the company has chosen not to offer refunds or individual repairs for the defective units. Instead, the official remedy provided by Hirsch Gift is a free replacement of the product. This decision is standard in many consumer electronics recalls where the underlying issue is a manufacturing defect that cannot be safely or economically fixed in the field. By offering a new unit, the company aims to ensure that you can continue to use their technology without the risk associated with the overheating component.
To obtain your free replacement, you must take proactive steps to contact Hirsch Gift directly. The company has established specific channels for consumers to initiate this process. You can reach their customer support team by calling their toll-free number at 877-220-4438. When you call, be sure to enter extension 117 to be directed to the appropriate recall handling department. It is helpful to keep in mind their hours of operation: they are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer to handle this matter digitally, Hirsch Gift has also set up an email address for these inquiries at recall@hirschgift.com. You may send your details and request for a replacement to this address.
For those who find it more convenient to navigate the process online, Hirsch Gift has created a dedicated portal for this recall. You can visit their website at https://hg-promo.com/. Once on the site, look carefully at the bottom of the homepage for a specific link labeled for this recall. Clicking that link will provide you with further instructions and likely a form to submit your request for the replacement unit. This online route is often efficient for those who need to submit information outside of standard business hours, although responses may be processed during their working days.
When you contact Hirsch Gift, whether by phone, email, or through their website, have your specific product details ready. Although the recall covers a specific production lot (Version 2), having the model number T4706 visible and confirming that the unit is circular with a white plastic bottom will help verify eligibility quickly. The company has stated that they are providing these replacements free of charge, meaning you should not incur any costs for shipping or the new product itself. It is advisable to keep a record of your communication, such as a confirmation number from the phone call or an email receipt, until you have received and verified your replacement unit.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to discard a promotional item, especially one that was given to you for free. These wireless charging pads were distributed as gifts to employees and customers, which often creates a sense of casual attachment or low perceived value. You might think, "It’s just a charger; if it gets warm, I’ll just use it on the side." However, ignoring the recall notice for the Hirsch Gift CloudCharge Qi Wireless Charging Pad is not a harmless oversight. It is a direct decision to prioritize convenience over physical safety, and the consequences of that choice are rooted in the specific engineering failure at play: overheating.
The core hazard identified by the CPSC is that these units can overheat while in use. In the context of electronics, heat is not merely an inconvenience; it is a warning sign of energy inefficiency and potential component failure. When a wireless charger continues to operate beyond its safe thermal limits, the plastic casing—especially the white plastic bottom described in this model—can soften, warp, or even melt. This transforms a harmless office accessory into a hot surface capable of causing immediate burn injuries. While the firm has reported seven incidents of overheating without any confirmed injuries so far, relying on that statistic is risky. Heat buildup is often progressive; a device that feels merely "warm" today may reach dangerous temperatures tomorrow as internal components degrade or if it is placed in an environment with poor ventilation.
Beyond the immediate risk of skin burns, continuing to use a recalled charger introduces significant fire hazards. Electronics that overheat are operating outside their designed parameters. This excess heat can damage the internal battery management systems or short-circuit the USB power cable included with the unit. If the charging pad is left plugged in overnight or placed on combustible surfaces like beds, couches, or paper stacks, the risk escalates from a minor burn to a potential house fire. The promotional nature of these items means they were not necessarily subjected to the same rigorous long-term thermal testing as premium retail products, making them less forgiving of misuse.
There is also the issue of property damage. A malfunctioning charger can leak electrolytes or emit smoke, potentially damaging the phone you are trying to charge. Modern smartphones have sensitive lithium-ion batteries and complex circuitry; exposing them to a heat-generating source defeats their own safety protocols. By ignoring this recall, you are not just risking your skin; you are risking expensive devices and your home’s safety infrastructure. The remedy offered by Hirsch Gift is a free replacement, removing any financial barrier to fixing the problem. Choosing to keep the defective unit means choosing to gamble with these very real, documented risks for no tangible benefit.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defect in a particular batch of Hirsch Gift wireless chargers, the underlying issue—electronic devices overheating during charging—is a common concern for anyone who relies on modern technology. Wireless charging pads, in particular, operate by creating an electromagnetic field between the pad and your device. This process generates heat as a natural byproduct of energy transfer. Understanding how to manage this heat is key to preventing not just burns, but also long-term damage to your battery health and home safety.
First, always ensure your charging surface is clean, dry, and free of obstructions. Metal objects, such as keys, coins, or credit cards, can interfere with the electromagnetic field and cause rapid overheating. Even small pieces of debris or thick phone cases that are not specifically designed for wireless charging can trap heat against the device. If you notice your pad becoming uncomfortably hot to the touch, it is a sign that something is impeding proper airflow or alignment. Remove your phone immediately and allow both the device and the charger to cool down before attempting to use them again.
Secondly, consider where you place your charging station. Avoid using wireless chargers on soft surfaces like beds, sofas, or thick carpets. These materials do not dissipate heat well and can insulate the charger, causing temperatures to rise higher than intended. Hard, flat surfaces like desks or nightstands are ideal because they allow air to circulate around the device. Additionally, ensure that the charging pad is not covered by any objects while it is plugged in. Never place books, magazines, or clothing on top of a wireless charger, as this can block ventilation and create a fire hazard.
Finally, stay informed about safety alerts for all your electronic devices. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regularly issues recalls for products that pose unexpected risks. You can sign up for email alerts on the CPSC website to receive notifications about new recalls relevant to your household. Regularly check the manufacturer’s website for any updates regarding your specific models of electronics. By staying proactive and vigilant, you can enjoy the convenience of modern technology while keeping your home safe from preventable hazards.
- Keep wireless charging surfaces clear of metal objects and debris.
- Avoid placing chargers on soft or insulating materials like beds or carpets.
- Ensure adequate ventilation around all electronic devices during use.
- Monitor device temperature and disconnect immediately if it becomes too hot.
- Sign up for CPSC recall alerts to stay informed about product safety issues.