The Article Tells the Story of:
- Over 1.1 million Anker PowerCore 10000 units recalled after 19 reports of fires and explosions.
- Customers must prove disposal with photos before receiving a replacement.
- Airlines tighten rules on lithium chargers over fire concerns.
- Expert warns lithium batteries in homes and planes pose growing risks.
Massive Anker PowerCore Recall Sparks Safety Alarm
Anker announced a recall of over 1.1 million PowerCore 10000 power banks, model A1263, sold in the US. The company issued the recall after receiving 19 reports of fires or explosions. Regulators and safety advocates called the move critical amid growing concerns over lithium-ion battery safety.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) confirmed the recall in an alert posted this Thursday. The alert linked 19 separate incidents to overheating or combustion. Anker now asks customers to immediately stop using their PowerCore devices and follow a specific process to dispose of and replace them.
How to Check If Your PowerCore 10000 Is Recalled
Anker identified the affected units as those sold between June 1, 2016, and December 31, 2022. Owners should check the serial number printed on the bottom of their unit. The serial number format uses letters and numbers, excluding “O” and “I.” Customers must go to Anker’s recall webpage and enter their serial number for confirmation.
When checking, users should pay attention to similar characters. For example:
- “1” (one) vs. “L” (letter L)
- “2” vs. “Z”
- “0” (zero) vs. “O” (letter O)
The alert notes that “O” and “I” do not appear in valid unit serial numbers.
Steps to Dispose and Replace Your PowerCore Charger
Anker requires four proof steps to receive a free replacement:
- Photograph the device clearly showing the model and serial number. The image must include the owner’s name, the date, and the word “recalled” written on the charger or nearby.
- Send a purchase receipt if available; this is optional but recommended.
- Confirm proper disposal, using local hazardous-waste rules rather than standard household trash.
- Submit evidence online via Anker’s recall form.
If the serial number is unreadable or worn off, users must email Anker support or call 1-800-988-7973 with “Anker A1263 Recall” in the subject line. Anker will then provide special instructions.
Why This Recall Matters for Travelers
Portable power banks use lithium-ion batteries, which carry the risk of fire if the cells overheat or are damaged. Airlines already enforce strict rules about lithium battery travel. Southwest Airlines recently banned charging devices inside carry-on luggage. Other carriers limit battery size and capacity.
Burning power banks mirror earlier issues with hoverboards. A few years ago, cheap units erupted in flames mid-flight or in cars. Regulators and carriers responded by banning these items or tightening shipping controls.
Civil attorney Don Fountain, author of Defect Safety, said:
“These products are typically unassuming, and are not something that the average consumer thinks can be potentially dangerous.”
He added that lithium batteries pose the greatest risk when stored in confined areas or left plugged in too long. He warned that fires on airplanes pose serious dangers to passengers and cargo crews.
The Recall’s Unusual Proof-of-Disposal Requirement
Most safety recalls simply require users to mail in a product for replacement. But Anker is asking for proof of disposal before shipping a replacement. Fountain called this requirement rare. He noted that many users discard malfunctioning chargers without ever thinking about claiming a replacement.
Anker defends the policy by citing environmental safety. The company advises customers to dispose of recalled units at hazardous-waste collection centers to avoid landfill fires or mismanaged recycling.
What Other Anker Power Banks Have Been Recalled?
Anker has previously recalled three other power bank models:
- 334 MagGo 10K
- 321 Power Bank (5K)
- 535 Power Bank (20K)
All of these had fire or overheating risks similar to the PowerCore 10000. Changing battery chemistry and enforcing stricter internal tests have reduced but not eliminated risk.
What You Should Do Now
- Stop using your PowerCore 10000 (A1263) immediately.
- Visit Anker’s recall webpage to check the serial number.
- Take a photo showing the required details and submit it with your disposal confirmation.
- Request your replacement via Anker’s recall form or by contacting support.
- Dispose of the unit at a hazardous-waste location—do not throw it in your regular trash.
Final Take: Lithium Battery Safety Needs Vigilance
This latest recall underscores a critical point: not all chargers are safe. Even established brands like Anker face serious battery hazards. Users must watch for recalls, confirm replacements, and safely dispose of old devices.
The airline restrictions show how dangerous portable batteries can be if mishandled. Until battery makers adopt safer internal chemistry or enforce stronger quality tests, consumers must exercise caution.
Bottom line: If you own a PowerCore 10000 A1263, stop using it now. Follow the recall steps and switch to a verified, current power bank. Your safety—and the safety of travelers—depends on it.
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