Lithium-Ion Battery Recall Issued for Power Banks Sold on Amazon After Multiple Reports of Fires, Explosions

More than 1.1 million Anker power bank portable chargers are being recalled after multiple instances of property damage totaling more than $60,000.

Federal safety officials are warning consumers to immediately stop using Anker Innovations’ PowerCore 10000 power banks, stating that the lithium-ion battery in the device can overheat, potentially leading to fire and burn hazards.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued the Anker PowerCore power bank recall on June 12, after receiving at least 19 reports of the devices catching fire or the power banks exploding. 

The incidents included two cases of minor burn injuries that did not require medical treatment, as well as 11 reports of property damage amounting to more than $60,700.

A power bank is a portable battery that individuals can use to charge their phones, tablets or other electronic devices when away from a power outlet.

Although these devices are generally safe, the recall warns that lithium-ion battery malfunctions can occasionally cause them to overheat, leading to explosions or fires that may result in property damage or serious injuries.

The current recall involves approximately 1,158,000 Anker PowerCore 10000 power banks, model A1263, sold in the U.S. The devices have the brand name “Anker” engraved on the front, with the model and serial numbers printed on the bottom.

The Anker power banks were manufactured in China and sold online at Anker, Amazon, Newegg and Ebay from June 2016 through December 2022, for about $27.

Consumers can verify if their power bank is included in the recall by checking the serial number at https://www.anker.com/product-recalls.

Those in possession of the recalled power banks are being instructed to immediately stop using them and to contact Anker Innovations for instructions on receiving a free replacement immediately. 

To receive a replacement, customers must submit a photo of the recalled power bank showing the model number, serial number, brand name and date, with the word “recalled” written on the device. 

Customers must also confirm that the power bank has been properly disposed of, as the recalled lithium-ion batteries require special handling due to their higher fire risk.

Lithium-ion batteries and other lithium-ion devices should not be thrown in the trash, regular recycling or used battery recycling programs. Instead, they can typically be disposed of at a local municipal household hazardous waste collection center.

Consumers with additional questions can contact Anker at 800-988-7973 from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, email at support@anker.com, or online at https://support.anker.com/s/emailcontactus. 

Lithium-Ion Battery Risks

Lithium-ion batteries have been known for their fire and explosion risks for decades, affecting a wide range of commonly used devices such as chargers and power tools.

Earlier this year, SKIL recalled power tools after at least eight burn injuries were reported due to lithium-ion batteries overheating and catching fire.

In 2024, AILUKI also issued a warning for its cordless drills due to similar safety concerns, following nine reports of the devices exploding, igniting, melting, smoking or overheating.

That same year, Garberiel lithium-ion battery chargers were recalled due to risks of thermal runaway, which can cause property damage, severe injuries or death.

A recent study has identified a new type of sensor capable of detecting gas leaks in lithium-ion batteries before fires or explosions occur, potentially reducing the number of dangerous incidents.

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