According to a noticed posted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), HP has expanded a recall of batteries for HP and Compaq Notebook Computers Due to Fire and Burn Hazards. The expanded recall comes after HP initially recalled 41,000 batteries in June of 2016 which also faced the same issue.
The devices affected by the recall include the HP, Compaq, HP ProBook, HP ENVY, Compaq Presario, and HP Pavilion notebook computers. Consumers with these devices are urged to stop using the recalled batteries, remove them from the notebook computers and contact HP for a free replacement battery. Until a replacement battery is received, consumers should also consider using the devices by plugging it into AC power only. The CSPC notes:
This expanded recall involves lithium-ion batteries containing Panasonic cells that are used in HP notebook computers. The batteries are compatible with HP, Compaq, HP ProBook, HP ENVY, Compaq Presario, and HP Pavilion notebook computers. HP has expanded the number of recalled batteries, which were shipped with notebook computers sold between March 2013 and October 2016. The black batteries measure about 8 to 10.5 inches long, 2 inches wide and about 1 inch high. The battery bar code is printed on the back of the battery. “HP Notebook Battery” and the model number are printed on the battery. The batteries included in this expanded recall have bar codes starting with: 6BZLU, 6CGFK, 6CGFQ, 6CZMB, 6DEMA, 6DEMH, 6DGAL and 6EBVA.
Though the problem has impacted less than 1 percent of HP laptops, HP has received one additional report of the battery overheating, melting and charring and causing about $1,000 in property damage. The devices were sold at Best Buy, Walmart, Costco, Sam’s Club and authorized dealers nationwide and online at www.hp.com and other websites from March 2013 through October 2016 for between $300 and $1,700. The batteries were also sold separately for between $50 and $90.
