Anker recalls power banks due to overheating, fire hazard risks

Charging technology company Anker Innovations has announced a global voluntary recall of certain power bank models, including those in the Philippines.

In a statement on Saturday, Anker said the move was prompted by the "identification of a potential issue with lithium-ion battery cells sourced from a third-party vendor, which may overheat under certain conditions and pose fire and burn hazards."

The company said that while the probability of malfunction is low, it has chosen to recall select power bank models worldwide out of an "abundance of caution and commitment to its customers' safety."

With this, Anker said it is closely working with Philippine regulatory authorities including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to ensure that the recall of power banks would proceed smoothly and in line with local guidelines.

The affected products are the following:

• Anker Power Bank (10K, 22.5W) Model A1257
• Anker Power Bank (20K, 22.5W, Built-In USB-C Cable) – Model A1647
• Anker Zolo Power Bank (20K, 30W, Built-In USB-C and Lightning Cable) – Model A1681
• Anker Zolo Powerbank (20K, 30W, Built-In USB-C Cable) – Model A1689

Anker gave the following tips to determine if a customer's power bank is part of the recall:

• Check your model number and verify eligibility using your serial number
• Perform a visual inspection of your Anker power bank and check either its packaging or the unit itself for the model numbers
• If it matches one of the following SKUs: A1257, A1647, A1681, A1689, proceed to verify eligibility via https://www.anker.com/mmrc2506-form using the product's serial number or order number.
• If you are unsure of the device's model number or if the serial number (SN) on your device is worn out, contact support@anker.com to verify your order number.

Anker gave the following advice if a person's unit is confirmed to be part of the product recall:

• Immediately stop using the device and refrain from charging the unit.
• Do not dispose of your power bank until you receive confirmation from Anker that your unit qualifies for the recall.
• Submit a recall claim through the same link above to receive a replacement device or a voucher redeemable via the Anker Official Store on Shopee
• For filling up the recall claim, be prepared to provide the device's serial number and proof of purchase for those with serial numbers that are worn out).

Units confirmed to be part of the recall must still be physically returned to any of the following Anker outlets below:

• Nifty MOA
• Anker Power Plant
• Anker Uptown
• Anker Vmall
• Anker SM North EDSA
• Anker ATC
• Nifty SM Megamall
• Anker Eastwood
• Anker SM Bacoor
• Anker SM Bicutan
• Anker SM Lucena
• Anker SM Baguio
• Anker SM Sta Rosa
• Anker SM Clark
• Anker SM Pampanga
• Anker SM Laoag
• Anker SM Cebu
• Anker Festive Wall
• Anker SM Bacolod
• Anker SM Lanang
• Anker SM CDO
• Anker KCC Zamboanga

"You may also coordinate a free courier return via email: support@anker.com," Anker said.

"When emailing, please include "Anker Power Bank Recall" in your subject line to ensure a prompt response," it added.

The company said the voluntary recall applies only to the specific models listed and that all of its other power banks and products remain safe for use and are not affected by this recall. 

"Anker remains committed to the highest standards of safety and quality across all its products," it said. — VDV, GMA Integrated News