Costco has issued a recall for over 550,000 myCharge POWER HUB All-In-One portable chargers sold from January 2022 to November 2023 due to overheating and fire hazards, with 120 reported incidents and two linked residential fires.

The recall involves three specific models of the myCharge POWER HUB All-In-One 10,000mAh portable chargers (AO10FK-A, AO10FK-B, and AO10FK-C), which were available both in-store and online. Customers have reported incidents of the chargers melting, expanding, smoking, and even catching fire, leading to significant property damage in two cases. Although no injuries have been reported, Costco urges customers to immediately stop using the chargers and follow proper disposal procedures to prevent further risks.

The recall affects approximately 567,000 portable chargers, though the number could be as high as over 550,000 units. The models impacted include AO10FK-A, AO10FK-B, and AO10FK-C, all of which were sold at Costco locations and through its online store over nearly two years.

Reports indicate that the malfunctions have been relatively widespread, with myCharge receiving 120 notifications of overheating issues. These complaints describe problems such as the chargers melting, expanding, smoking, catching fire, burning, exploding, or sparking. These issues have resulted in two residential fires, causing an estimated $165,000 in property damage, although, fortunately, there have been no reported injuries.

Costco has been proactive in responding to the issue, having already processed 115 returns where customers cited the aforementioned problems. As a safety measure, customers in possession of the affected chargers are being advised to stop using the devices immediately. Instead of discarding them in household trash or typical battery recycling bins, myCharge instructs users to adhere to local and state guidelines for disposing of damaged, defective, or recalled lithium batteries.

Consumers are encouraged to contact myCharge to receive a replacement for their recalled charger. Further information and detailed guidance on how to safely dispose of the recalled units can often be found through local municipal recycling centers’ procedures for handling such hazardous materials.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may also provide additional resources and recommendations for affected consumers. The organization often collaborates with retailers and manufacturers in large-scale recalls to ensure public safety and streamline the recall process.

Retailers like Costco carry a diverse range of electronic goods, making constant monitoring and quality control essential. This particular recall marks a significant step taken to address potential hazards and underscores the importance of consumer vigilance regarding the safety of electronic products.

For those who have purchased the recalled models, specific steps need to be followed to mitigate any risks. Customers should isolate the charger from other electronic devices and materials that may be flammable or heat-sensitive. It is crucial to handle the recall not only to ensure personal safety but also to comply with environmental regulations concerning battery disposal.

Consumers who have questions or need further instructions are often advised to reach out to myCharge customer service or visit the official website for additional support. Maintaining clear communication channels helps ensure that users can safely return and replace any potentially dangerous products.