Power banks are essential accessories for many smartphone users, especially for those with older phones or apps that drain battery life quickly, like navigation tools. However, a recent recall has raised serious safety concerns about certain models. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) warns that lithium-ion batteries in power banks can overheat and catch fire under certain conditions, including damage or manufacturing defects.
Why Lithium-Ion Power Banks Can Be Dangerous
The FAA explains, "All lithium-ion batteries are capable of overheating and undergoing thermal runaway—a hazardous process that can occur without warning. Factors that may trigger thermal runaway include damage, overheating, exposure to water, overcharging, improper packing, or manufacturing defects."
Massive Recall of INIU Power Banks Sold on Amazon
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall involving over 200,000 power banks sold exclusively by Amazon USA between August 2021 and April 2022. The recalled device is the INIU BI-B41 power bank, a 10,000mAh model manufactured by Shenzhen Topstar Industry Co., Ltd. in China. These units feature a black or blue case, the INIU logo, and a distinctive paw-print LED light on the front.
Photo credit: INIU
Fire Incidents and Injuries Linked to the Device
There have been 15 reports of overheating incidents, including 11 fires related to this particular power bank. Unfortunately, three users suffered burns, and the incidents have resulted in more than $380,000 in property damage.
The recalled units have serial numbers 000G21, 000H21, 000I21, and 000L21, which are printed on the back bottom of the device. If you own one of these units, you should stop using it immediately.
How to Check and Get a Refund
Consumers should visit INIU’s official recall page to verify their product's serial number and register for a full refund. The refund can be issued as a full payment or in the form of an Amazon gift card corresponding to the purchase price, which was approximately $18.
Safe Disposal Is Crucial
Do not throw the recalled power banks in the trash. Because of the fire risk, these lithium-ion batteries require special disposal methods. Check with your local municipal household hazardous waste (HHW) collection center before dropping off the device, as some centers may not accept recalled batteries. If this is the case, contact your local authorities to find out the proper disposal procedure.
Filing Your Claim
When filling out the claim form at the recall website, you will need to provide your contact information and purchase details. The entire process can be completed online from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. There is no need to return the power bank physically.
Stay safe and make sure to check if your power bank is one of the recalled units.
