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A large recall has been announced for portable power banks commonly purchased at major retailers and online marketplaces. Federal safety officials are warning consumers to stop using the affected products immediately because they could overheat and start a fire.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that certain Belkin portable power banks paired with wireless charging stands are being pulled from the market. The agency stated that the internal lithium-ion batteries in these units may overheat, creating a risk of burns and fire. The commission confirmed one fire incident in the United States, along with more than a dozen similar reports from other countries. These complaints prompted a recall covering roughly eighty-three thousand units in circulation. Both the black and white versions of the product are included.
The recalled power banks were widely available between August 2020 and August 2025. They were sold at major brick-and-mortar retailers such as Walmart, Target and Best Buy, and appeared across online storefronts including Amazon, Belkin’s official website and the TikTok Shop.
Consumers are encouraged to check the CPSC website for the specific model and serial numbers included in the recall. Anyone who owns the affected product can request a refund. Belkin can be reached for assistance at 1-800-223-5546 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Additional information and support are also available on Belkin’s website.
Power Bank and Overheating Lithium-Ion Battery Lawsuit FAQs
What types of injuries can lead to a lawsuit involving an overheating power bank?
Injuries may include burns, smoke inhalation, property damage, and harm caused by sudden ignition of the power bank. Some incidents involve fires that spread to household items, vehicles or personal belongings. Even minor burns can justify a claim if medical treatment was needed. Individuals who suffered emotional distress, financial loss or had to replace damaged property may also have legal options. Claims are not limited to serious injuries; the key factor is whether the product malfunctioned and caused harm. Anyone whose device overheated, smoked, melted or ignited should preserve evidence and seek legal guidance.
Do I qualify for a lawsuit if my power bank didn’t catch fire but overheated or swelled?
Yes. A device does not have to ignite completely for a consumer to have a valid claim. Overheating, swelling, melting or releasing smoke may indicate a defective battery or design flaw. These issues can support claims for replacement costs, lost use of property and safety risks created by the malfunction. If you stopped using the device out of fear or had to dispose of it due to damage, that may also support a claim. Documenting the condition of the power bank and keeping any photos or receipts can strengthen your case.
Can I file a lawsuit even if I already received a refund through the recall?
In many cases, yes. A refund does not eliminate liability for injuries, property loss or other damages caused before the recall was announced. The refund typically covers only the purchase price and does not compensate for medical bills, smoke damage, lost wages or pain and suffering. If you were harmed or experienced any financial loss, you may still pursue a claim. An attorney can review the timeline of the incident, the recall and your specific losses to determine eligibility.
Who can be held responsible for injuries caused by a defective power bank?
Responsibility may fall on multiple parties within the chain of distribution. Depending on the circumstances, claims may be brought against the manufacturer, the company that designed or assembled the lithium-ion battery, distributors and the retailers that sold the power bank. If the product was marketed without adequate warnings, or the company failed to recall it promptly after learning about risks, that may increase liability. A legal team will typically review product documents, testing history and recall data to identify all potentially responsible parties.
What compensation can victims recover in lawsuits involving defective batteries?
Compensation varies based on the harm suffered. Eligible categories may include medical expenses, lost income, repair or replacement of damaged items, the cost of temporary lodging after a fire and long-term pain or scarring. Homeowners or renters insurance may not fully cover losses, especially when the damage resulted from a product defect. In some cases, victims may pursue additional damages if a company ignored prior safety complaints or delayed a recall. An attorney can help calculate the full value of your claim to avoid accepting a low settlement.
How important is it to preserve the defective device?
Keeping the device, its packaging and any damaged property is extremely important. These items may help demonstrate what went wrong and establish that your unit is included in the recall. Even badly burned or melted devices can hold critical evidence about battery failures. If local firefighters or investigators removed the device, get copies of their reports. Photos taken immediately after the incident are also useful. If the device is unsafe to store, take multiple photos from all angles before disposing of it safely.
Is there a deadline to file a lawsuit related to defective power banks?
Yes. Every state has a statute of limitations that restricts how long you have to file a claim. These deadlines vary depending on whether you suffered bodily injury, property damage or both. Because the recall extends over several years, the timing of your injury matters. Some deadlines begin on the date of the incident, while others begin when the defect becomes known. Speaking with an attorney promptly helps ensure your rights remain protected. Waiting too long may prevent you from recovering compensation.
Can renters or homeowners file claims for fire damage caused by recalled power banks?
Absolutely. Fires linked to defective batteries often damage flooring, walls, furniture and personal items. Victims may recover costs for repairs, cleaning, temporary relocation, replacement of belongings and smoke damage. Even if an insurance company covered some expenses, you may still seek compensation for uncovered losses, deductibles and long-term impacts such as decreased property value. Attorneys often work with fire investigators to confirm the device was the likely ignition source.
Are class action lawsuits possible for this type of recall?
Yes. Recalls of widely sold consumer electronics often lead to class action cases, especially if many customers report similar overheating issues. A class action typically focuses on economic losses, replacement costs or manufacturer misconduct. If you were physically injured or suffered major property damage, you may be better served by an individual lawsuit. A lawyer can help determine which path gives you the best chance at recovering compensation.
What should I do if I own one of the recalled Belkin power banks but have not been injured?
You should stop using the product immediately and follow the instructions on the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s recall page. Even if you were not physically harmed, you may still qualify for refunds or replacement options. If your device displayed signs of malfunction, such as heat, smoke or swelling, keep photos and proof of purchase in case future claims arise. Staying informed about updates to the recall is also important, as additional hazards may be discovered.
If you or a family member suffered burns, property damage or other injuries caused by a defective power bank or overheating lithium-ion device, you may be eligible for financial compensation. Product manufacturers often deny responsibility, but you should not have to face a dangerous product case without support.
Parker Waichman LLP is a national product liability law firm representing individuals harmed by faulty batteries, unsafe chargers and defective consumer electronics. No matter where you live or where the incident occurred, our nationwide legal team is prepared to evaluate your claim, secure evidence and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for a free consultation. Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide product injury law firm is ready to assist you.
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