Chinese computer giant Lenovo recalls USB-C laptop power banks

Chinese computer manufacturer Lenovo Group is recalling USB-C laptop power banks citing risk for fire, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) said on Wednesday.

About 2,850 units were sold in the United States and about 510 units were sold in Canada.

The recall involves the Lenovo USB USB-C Laptop Power Bank with model number PBLG2W. The power bank has a 20,000 mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery used to charge laptops, cell phones, and other devices when an electrical outlet is not available. The power bank is black and measures around 18 centimetres by 7.5 centimetres.

The recalled units were manufactured in China between January 2022 and June 2022.

According to the US agency, the power bank's internal screws can come loose, causing a short circuit and overheating of the lithium-ion battery, posing a fire hazard.

The recall was initiated after the firm received one report of a fire which caused minimal property damage.

However, no injuries have been reported to date related to the recalled product.

Consumers are urged to immediately stop using the recalled power banks and contact Lenovo for a free replacement.

The agency further asked consumers not to put lithium-ion batteries in the trash or battery recycling boxes found at various retail and home improvement stores. They can cause fires and explosions if they are damaged or crushed and are a hazard when thrown in the bin.