ZDNET’s key takeaways
- ESR is recalling the HaloLock energy financial institution over fireplace issues.
- Affected energy banks have been offered on Amazon and different retailers.
- You’ll be able to e-mail ESR a photograph of your system for a refund.
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If in case you have an ESR HaloLock wi-fi energy financial institution, it is best to cease utilizing it instantly and phone the corporate for a refund.
In a post Thursday, america Client Product Security Fee warned that ESR is recalling sure fashions of the HaloLock wi-fi energy financial institution as a result of they’re prone to overheating and catching on fireplace.
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Customers have reported 9 situations of a HaloLock igniting, inflicting about $20,000 in harm. There are not any reported accidents. That is a small quantity, however the firm felt the fires alone have been sufficient to warrant a voluntary recall.
About 24,000 models are part of this recall, plus virtually 10,000 extra in Canada. ZDNET has reviewed other products within the ESR HaloLock household, they usually have been all generally well-received.
Easy methods to establish the recalled ESR powerbank
The ESR Halolock was offered on Amazon.com, Homedepot.com and Esrtech.com from September 2023 via July 2025 for between $32 and $40. Particularly, you are searching for mannequin numbers 2G520, 2G505B and 2G512B. “ESR” is printed on the again, the mannequin quantity is printed on the proper aspect, and there are 5 round LED show lights on one aspect.
What to do when you have a recalled ESR HaloLock
If in case you have an affected mannequin, first cease utilizing it. Write the phrase “Recalled” in everlasting marker on the system and ship a photograph of it to assist@esrtech.com. ESR will overview your submission and, if authorised, ship you a full refund. The USCPSC warns that you just should not throw the powerbank within the trash, the final recycling, and even in used battery recycling packing containers discovered at retail shops, such as you may a standard lithium-ion battery. As an alternative, eliminate it via your local household hazardous waste (HHW) collection center.
You’ll be able to name the producer at 888-990-0280 from 9 a.m. to five p.m. PT Monday via Friday for extra info.
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This announcement comes simply after Anker issued a recall for a popular power bank on the finish of July after which another about a week later. It additionally comes as airlines have started to change policies about taking energy banks on planes over fireplace issues.
Issues aren’t occurring typically, however the National Business Aviation Association said that “a smoke, fireplace or excessive warmth incident” involving a lithium-ion battery takes place on a airplane greater than as soon as per week within the US.
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