Anker power banks, Igloo coolers among recent dangers

Anker power banks, Igloo coolers among recent dangers

Costco alerts customers of recalls

Costco is recalling nearly a dozen products and urging shoppers to immediately stop using some items purchased either through Costco Next or in stores.

Scripps News

• Costco has announced recalls on several items, including power banks, air conditioners, dumbbells, and coolers.
• Some recalled items pose serious safety risks, such as fire hazards and potential for injuries.
• Consumers are urged to stop using recalled products immediately and check Costco’s website for details.

If you’re a Florida Costco shopper, you might want to check your recent purchases. The retail giant has listed nearly a dozen items that have been recalled in recent months, and some of them you need to stop using immediately.

The products range from power banks to window air conditioners. Some items were sold through Costco, others were sold through Costco Next, a program that lets shoppers purchase items directly from brands at Costco prices.

Here’s what to know.

Stop using: Anker Power Banks models A1257 and A1263

Anker Power Bank (10K, 22.5W) — Model A1257 (Costco Next): The recall notice indicates a “potential issue involving lithium-ion battery cells from a single vendor” with minimal likelihood to malfunction. It doesn’t go into detail, but Anker’s website says consumers should “Stop using the device immediately.”

Anker Powercore 10000 Power Bank Model A1263 (Costco Next): The recall notice says the power bank may overheat, posing a potential fire risk. Anker’s website says consumers should “Immediately stop using the product.”

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) said in June that Anker had received 19 reports of fire and explosions about the A1263 model, including two reports of minor burn injuries not requiring medical attention and 11 reports of property damage totaling over $60,700. The company recalled more than a million units.

Stop using: Danby 8k U-Shaped Air Conditioner or Midea U-Shape Window AC

Danby 8k U-Shaped Window Air Conditioner: Air conditioner company Midea recalled 1.7 million through-the-window air conditioners in June, saying units may not drain water quickly enough, which can lead to mold. The company advised consumers to “Stop using it immediately.” The air conditioners were across various retailers under different brands. Costco sold Danby and Midea a/c units, but others include Comfort Aire, Frigidaire, Insignia, Keystone, LBG Products, Mr. Cool, Perfect Aire and Sea Breeze. 

The recall also includes the Midea U-Shape Window ACs, item #’s 1572673, 1657921, 1677429, 1768985, 2677450, and 2677429.

Stop using: Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells

BowFlex Adjustable Dumbbells Model 552, 1090: Consumers are advised to “immediately stop using” these. They came in two sizes 52.5 pounds (model 552) and 90 pounds (model 1090). There have been 349 reports of the plates dislodging during use, including 111 injuries such as concussions, abrasions, broken toes or contusions, the CPSC said. About 3.8 million of these were recalled.

Stop using: Igloo 90 Qt

Igloo 90 Qt Flip & Tow Rolling Cooler: Igloo recalled 1.2 million coolers in February and May after reports of their tow handles crushing fingers, including 26 resulting in fingertip amputations, bone fractures or lacerations,” the CPSC said in May. The coolers came in a variety of body and lid color combinations. Consumers are urged to “please immediately stop using the cooler.” You can contact the company for a replacement handle.

Stop using: Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker + Air Fryer

Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker + Air Fryer: The recall notice cites reports of pressure cooker lids being able to be opened while pressurized, leading to severe burns. Consumers are advised not to use the pressure-cooking function until they get a replacement lid. 

Dangerous: These Michelin, Bridgestone tires

Michelin Agilis CrossClimate C-Metric Tires Size 185/60R15C: The recall notice says the tires fail to meet a federal safety standard for tire endurance, and “chunks of tread rubber may detach from the shoulder block.” Visit your local Michelin retailer for replacement, including mounting and balancing, free of charge.

Bridgestone Blizzak 6 Tires Size 235/40R19: The recall notice says these tires are missing a Department of Transportation certification seal, and while they comply with performance requirements, DOT has found that tires without the seal may be used inappropriately, potentially increasing the risk of a crash. 

Where can I find a list of recalls? 

Costco maintains a list of the latest recalls at the Product Recalls section of its website. Past recalls are also archived online. 

Consumers can check for other recalls across retailers and manufacturers on the websites of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, U.S. Food & Drug Administration, U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. All of those sites have searchable databases. CPSC, FDA and USDA also list recalls in reverse chronological order.

USA TODAY also maintains a database of recalled items.

How long do I have to return at Costco? 

Costco accepts most returns without time limits, though there are some exceptions. 

• Electronics have a 90-day return window.
• Cigarettes and alcohol may not be returned where it’s against the law.
• Airline and live performance event items, ticket items, precious metals, Shop Cards and gift cards are not returnable.
• Diamonds larger than 1.00 carats must have all original paperwork for returns and are subject to authentication.
• Tires, batteries and other products with limited use life expectancy may have product-specific limited warranties.
• Custom products made to order from Special Order Kiosk and Custom Installed Programs may not be returned or refunded, “except for warranty repair/replacement due to failure to meet specifications.”

Recalls are separate from standard returns. Consumers should check recall notices for next steps on specific items.

Are any new Costco warehouses coming to Florida?

Costco is opening at least nine new stores across the country in 2025. One of them opened in Stuart in April to about 1,000 people waiting outside.

However, more locations are also coming to The Villages and Sanford, and talks are in the works for more potential spots, including Port St. Lucie, Pensacola and Miami.

Where can I find a Costco near me in Florida?

As of July 8, there are 35 Costco locations in Florida. You can see the list here.

Contributing: James Powel, USA TODAY