Important Safety Recall: Check Your Anker Power Bank for Fire Risk

If you own a portable power bank, it’s crucial to know about a recent recall affecting a popular model due to a potential fire hazard. This guide provides all the essential details on which specific power bank is affected, how to identify it, and the exact steps to take to ensure your safety.

The Specific Product Being Recalled

The recall is for the Anker 535 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K). The only model number affected by this safety recall is A1366. It is important to note that other Anker power banks, even those with similar names or appearances, are not part of this specific recall.

The issue stems from a manufacturing defect that can cause the device’s lithium-ion battery to overheat. This overheating poses a significant risk of fire and potential injury. Anker initiated the recall voluntarily after learning of a small number of incidents involving the device overheating.

How to Check if Your Power Bank is Affected

Checking your device is simple and only takes a moment. Follow these clear steps to determine if your power bank is the recalled model.

Step 1: Locate the Model Number

First, you need to find the model number on your device. On the Anker 535 Power Bank, the model information is typically printed on the bottom of the unit. You may need good lighting to read the small text. Look for the text that says “Model:” followed by a series of letters and numbers.

Step 2: Identify Model A1366

The only model number included in this recall is A1366. If your power bank has this exact model number printed on it, it is part of the recall. If your device has any other model number (for example, A1287 or A1374), it is not affected and is safe to continue using.

Where the Recalled Power Bank Was Sold

The promise of the ad was to tell you where this product was sold. The Anker 535 Power Bank (Model A1366) was sold to consumers through two primary channels:

  • Anker’s official website (Anker.com)
  • Amazon.com

According to the official recall notice from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), these units were sold between October 2022 and January 2023. If you purchased the device during this period from either of these retailers, you should check your model number immediately.

What to Do if You Have the Recalled Device

If you have confirmed that your power bank is the Anker 535 with model number A1366, you must take the following steps immediately to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.

  1. Stop Using the Device Immediately: Do not charge the power bank or use it to charge any of your other devices. Unplug it from any power source.
  2. Store It Safely: Place the power bank in a safe location away from any flammable materials. It is best to store it on a hard, non-combustible surface like a concrete floor in a garage, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
  3. Do Not Throw It Away: It is extremely important that you do not dispose of the power bank in your regular household trash or recycling bin. Damaged or defective lithium-ion batteries can cause fires in sanitation trucks and waste management facilities.
  4. Contact Anker for a Refund and Disposal Instructions: Anker has set up a dedicated recall process. You should visit Anker’s official recall website to register your device. They will verify your product’s serial number and provide instructions on how to receive a full refund. They will also give you specific guidance on how to properly dispose of the recalled unit at a facility that accepts lithium-ion batteries.

General Safety Tips for All Power Banks

While this recall is specific to one model, it serves as a good reminder to practice safe habits with all devices that use lithium-ion batteries.

  • Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Never leave a power bank in a hot car or in direct sunlight for extended periods. Heat is the enemy of battery health and safety.
  • Use Quality Cables: Always use high-quality, certified charging cables. Cheap or frayed cables can cause short circuits and damage the power bank’s internal components.
  • Don’t Use Damaged Devices: If you ever notice that your power bank is swelling, leaking, or has been physically damaged (for example, after being dropped), stop using it immediately and dispose of it properly.
  • Charge on a Hard Surface: Avoid charging your power bank on soft, flammable surfaces like a bed, sofa, or carpet, which can trap heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my other Anker product affected? No. This recall is exclusively for the Anker 535 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K) with model number A1366. All other Anker products are considered safe to use.

What will Anker provide if I have the recalled power bank? Anker is offering a full refund to all customers who own an affected device. You must go through their official recall process on their website to claim your refund.

How do I safely get rid of the recalled power bank? After you register for the recall, Anker will provide you with specific instructions for disposal. Generally, this involves taking the device to a local e-waste or battery recycling center that is equipped to handle lithium-ion batteries. You can often find these locations by searching online for “battery recycling near me.”