Greenworks has announced a recall of more than 550,000 Kobalt yard power tools and USB-C batteries sold at Lowe’s after reports that the batteries can fail during charging and spark fires. The action affects products sold nationwide through the home improvement chain. The company moved to pull the items because the issue presents a clear safety risk to households and garages where these devices are used and stored.
The decision centers on lithium-ion power packs that, according to the company, may short-circuit while connected to a charger. That can cause overheating and a potential ignition. Homeowners who rely on battery-powered mowers, trimmers, and hand tools are urged to check their gear and review recall guidance before the spring and summer yardwork rush.
What the company says
“Greenworks is recalling more than 550,000 Kobalt yard power tools and USB-C batteries sold at Lowe’s because the batteries can short-circuit while charging, posing a fire hazard.”
The statement signals a broad pullback of inventory and an alert to customers who may still be using the affected batteries at home. While details on specific models were not provided, the company’s focus is on preventing incidents during charging, when lithium-ion cells face the most stress.
Why this matters to consumers
Battery-powered yard tools have replaced many gas models in recent years. They cut noise, reduce fumes, and are easier to store. But lithium-ion batteries need careful charging and storage. Faults that lead to internal short circuits can escalate fast, especially in enclosed spaces with nearby combustibles like cardboard, gasoline cans, or dry yard debris.
Past recalls across several categories—from e-bikes to power banks—have followed a similar pattern: a defect revealed during charging, a fire risk, and a broad notice asking consumers to stop using the item until inspected or replaced. Safety agencies have long advised charging batteries on a hard, nonflammable surface, away from exits, and never unattended overnight.
What owners should do now
Consumers who own Kobalt yard tools or compatible USB-C batteries should take basic steps while waiting for official guidance pages to load or phone lines to clear.
- Stop using and charging the affected batteries immediately.
- Unplug chargers and move batteries to a cool, dry area away from flammable items.
- Check the manufacturer’s recall page and Lowe’s customer notices for model and serial number instructions.
- Follow directions for refunds, replacements, or repair kits.
- If a battery shows swelling, leaking, a chemical smell, or unusual heat, isolate it on a nonflammable surface and contact local waste authorities for disposal guidance.
Retailers may post in-store signs and digital notices explaining return options. Keep proof of purchase if available, but many recalls allow returns without a receipt when the product can be identified by its markings.
Retailer and manufacturer response
Lowe’s is expected to coordinate with Greenworks to manage returns and customer outreach. In large recalls, that can include register flags, email notices to loyalty members, and website banners. Manufacturers commonly offer several remedies: a new battery, a verified repair, or a refund. Clear instructions on safe transport of recalled batteries are also typical, since damaged packs should not be mailed without special handling.
Industry standards call for root-cause analysis to determine if the problem stems from cell manufacturing, battery management systems, chargers, or housing design. The outcome can lead to design changes in future models and updated guidance on chargers and firmware.
Safety trends and the path ahead
Lithium-ion incidents often occur during charging, especially with damaged cells or mismatched chargers. The market’s move to higher-capacity packs for yard tools raises current loads and heat, which makes protective circuitry and quality control even more important. Companies now test for crush, puncture, overcharge, and thermal events as a matter of course.
For homeowners, simple habits reduce risk: use only the charger that came with the product, avoid extreme heat and cold, and store batteries at partial charge when not in use for long periods. If a pack is dropped from height or gets wet, treat it with caution and monitor the next charge cycle in a supervised setting.
The recall highlights a wider challenge in home electrification: pairing convenience and lower emissions with solid safety practices. Greenworks’ move aims to keep a charging defect from turning into household harm. Owners should act now by identifying affected units and following return or replacement steps. Watch for updated instructions from Greenworks and Lowe’s, and expect further guidance on safe charging and storage as the investigation proceeds.