📰 DIY News

Consumer Alert: Over 554,000 Kobalt Yard Power Tools Recalled Due to Fire Risk

July 15, 2026

If you recently purchased a Kobalt cordless yard power tool, now is a good time to check whether your equipment is included in a nationwide recall.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced that approximately 554,780 Kobalt 24V and 48V yard power tools and compatible USB-C batteries have been recalled because the batteries can short-circuit when charged through the USB-C port while they remain installed in the tool. This creates a potential fire hazard.

Which Products Are Affected?

The recall includes certain Kobalt outdoor power equipment sold at Lowe's stores and online between January and May 2026, including:

• Chainsaws

• String Trimmers

• Leaf Blowers

• Lawn Mowers

• Pruning Saws

Only products using the affected 24V or 48V Kobalt USB-C batteries are included in this recall.

What Is the Problem?

According to federal safety officials, charging these lithium-ion batteries through the USB-C port while the battery is still attached to the tool may cause the battery to short-circuit.

Greenworks, the manufacturer, has received 34 reports involving batteries that produced smoke, sparks, or caught fire during charging. At the time of the recall announcement, no injuries or property damage had been reported.

What Should You Do?

If you own one of the affected products:

• Stop charging the battery through the USB-C port while it is attached to the tool.

• Check whether your battery and tool are part of the recall.

• Contact Greenworks to register for the recall remedy.

Eligible consumers will receive a free replacement battery, along with updated instructions, a charger adapter, a warning label, and a prepaid shipping label for returning the recalled battery.

Why This Matters

Battery-powered outdoor tools have become increasingly popular because they are quieter, require less maintenance, and eliminate the need for gasoline. However, lithium-ion batteries should always be handled according to the manufacturer's safety instructions.

Even if your equipment is not included in this recall, it's a good reminder to inspect batteries regularly, use approved charging methods, and discontinue use if you notice overheating, smoke, unusual odors, or visible damage.

🛠 DIY Handymen Tip

If you own a recalled product, stop using it immediately until you've confirmed whether it is affected. Always follow the manufacturer's or U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) instructions before using the product again.

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Recall Notice and Greenworks Tools Recall Information.