Amazon Recalls Charmast Power Banks Over Fire Risks

Nearly half a million power bank chargers sold exclusively on Amazon over the past six years have been recalled due to safety concerns. Manufactured by Charmast and powered by lithium-ion batteries, these devices have been linked to incidents of expanding, igniting, melting, overheating, and emitting smoke. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced the recall after receiving multiple reports of malfunctions, including injuries. The affected chargers, sold between December 2018 and September 2024, were available in various colors such as black, blue, green, mint, pink, and white, and were priced between $14 and $25. Customers can identify the recalled units by checking for the model number “W1056” printed on the back of the device.

Charmast has documented 44 cases of malfunctioning power banks, with four customers reporting burns or blisters caused by the defective products. In response, the company has urged consumers to dispose of the chargers at local recycling centers that handle damaged or defective lithium batteries. The recall strongly advises against discarding the products with regular garbage or in used battery recycling boxes, citing significant safety risks. Consumers affected by the recall are eligible for a full refund and can contact Charmast through phone, email, or the company’s recall website for further assistance.

Lithium-ion batteries, while efficient and widely used, carry inherent risks when defective or mishandled. These batteries contain flammable materials and can overheat, potentially causing fires or explosions. Even after an initial fire appears extinguished, they may re-ignite unpredictably, releasing toxic and flammable gases. This issue is not isolated to power banks; similar incidents have been reported with e-scooters, e-bikes, and other devices using lithium-ion batteries. In 2022 alone, New York City experienced over 200 fires linked to such batteries, resulting in six deaths and numerous injuries. Reports from the CPSC indicate that between January 2021 and November 2022, at least 208 fires or overheating incidents occurred across 39 states, leading to 19 fatalities.

The Charmast recall is part of a broader trend of lithium-ion battery-related safety concerns. On the same day, the CPSC announced recalls of other products, including SKIL 40V 5.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Batteries used in lawnmowers and outdoor tools. These batteries, distributed by Chevron North America, were linked to over 100 reports of overheating, melting, and catching fire, resulting in minor injuries and property damage. Such recalls highlight the challenges in ensuring the safety of battery-powered products and underscore the importance of rigorous quality control measures.

Consumers who own Charmast power bank chargers should immediately stop using them and follow the company’s guidance for safe disposal. Proper handling of defective batteries is critical to minimizing risks to public safety and the environment. As the prevalence of lithium-ion batteries in consumer electronics continues to grow, so does the need for heightened awareness of their potential dangers. This recall serves as a reminder for manufacturers to prioritize safety and for consumers to stay informed about the products they use daily.