Syntech Distribution is recalling a limited batch of its GIZZU 300Wh and 500Wh Portable Power Stations. This after reports that a small number of devices were overheating while charging. Posing a potential fire risk.

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The tech distributor says its global manufacturing partner confirmed a temporary ‘battery manufacturing flaw’ affecting a small number of units in a particular batch of these models. The items were also produced between November 1 and December 31, 2022.

In cases where the product’s battery does self-combust, a non-toxic cloud of smoke is released, which may present a fire hazard to nearby furniture.

The supplier, in a statement, says it is working to resolve the matter:

Syntech has engaged its relevant retail and distribution partners to stop the sale of this limited batch of products. This will allow the company to retrieve, test, and replace any affected units in this batch

What the National Consumer Commission says

In the meantime, the National Consumer Commission is urging all persons in possession of GIZZU 300Wh and 500Wh Portable Power Stations to immediately stop use and return these to the supplier. Syntech informed the Commission of the precautionary recall of these products following reports of these devices combusting while charging.

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According to the importer, the product was from China and sold by Takealot.com; Builders Warehouse, Makro, Incredible Connection and Hifi Corp. The affected devices have a battery manufacturing flaw which presents a possibility of the product self-combusting and melting when it is charging.

Consumers are urged to look for the following product description to determine whether the products in their possession form part of the recall:

The Acting Commissioner from the National Consumer Commission, Thezi Mabuza says while the supplier says the recall affects a small number of units, however, safety of South African consumers is of utmost importance, all the time.

This recall comes at the time where South Africans are grappling with the effects of rolling blackouts and trying to circumvent the effects of loadshedding. It is estimated that 3500 units were sold

To check if your unit is affected, visit https://www.syntech.co.za/gizzu-power-station-query-tool/ and enter your device’s serial number. The site will guide you through the process, and how to manage the device safely.

“Protection of consumers remains our priority. Therefore, we call upon producers and importers of goods to prioritize the safety of consumers by doing everything in their power to ensure that they produce or  import goods that that are safe and are fit for purpose. The Commission is monitoring the recall based on its Recall Guidelines” Mabuza concluded.

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