HP Google Chromebook Power Supply Recall Due to Overheating Risk

In response to reports of overheating, about 145,000 HP laptop chargers used for Google Chromebooks are being recalled due to a risk that they may cause fires or burns for consumers.  

The HP Chromebook 11 power supply recall was announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on December 17, following at least nine complaints of the chargers overheating and melting, including at least one case where a user suffered minor burns and one report of property damage from the melted charger.

The recall involves chargers sold with the HP Google Chromebook 11, which are black with outlets that measure 1 ¾ inches and have a 6 foot long cord. The chargers have model number MU15-N1052-A00S which is stamped on the face of the battery charger. The chargers also have a detachable micro USB connector option.

The affected chargers were manufactured in China under Hewlett-Packard Company of Palo Alto, California and imported by Google Inc. of Mountain View, California where they were distributed for sale with the Chromebook 11 at Best Buy stores nationwide and online at Amazon.com, bestbuy.com, play.google.com, and shopping.hp.com, from October 2013 through November 2013 for about $280.

Consumer Reports indicated the charger went on sale sometime last week and the safety group noted the problems with overheating.

The consumer watchdog reports that lab testers measured the surface temperatures of the Chromebook 11 chargers with infrared thermometers that indicated the chargers reached a temperature of 140 degrees F. Typically, chargers for tablets and laptops heat anywhere between 90 and 105 degrees.

The CPSC recommends that customers with affected chargers unplug them immediately and contact Google at 866-628-1371 or visit them online at http://chromebook.com and navigate to the Chromebook link at the bottom of the page to receive a free replacement charger.