Skip to main content

Be sure to return your Netgear Arlo add-on power adapter — it could catch fire

smart home devices Arlo Pro by NETGEAR Security System with Siren
Image used with permission by copyright holder
Smart security systems are supposed to keep you and your loved ones safe, but every once in awhile, they can backfire in a major way. That appears to be the case, or rather, the risk associated with the Netgear Arlo and its power adapters. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled Arlo’s add-on power adapter, noting that the cord can overheat and melt, leading to potentially dangerous circumstances. In fact, one fire has already been reported as a result.

While the recall doesn’t affect the actual Netgear Arlo outdoor camera, some folks may have purchased the extra adapter as a backup just in case its wireless capabilities fell short. Most people, however, likely forewent this option, as one of Arlo’s main draws was that it could go anywhere. The magnetic cameras can go anywhere inside or outside and are both water and weatherproof. As we noted in a previous review of the Arlo, the cameras are quite hardy and were able to survive Pacific Northwest rain, as well as sink spray.

Unfortunately, the power adapter clearly isn’t quite as tough. These aftermarket power adapters are compatible with the first Arlo, as well as the Arlo Pro and Arlo Go units, but regardless of what model you may have been using, stop using the adapters. In total, the company received seven reports of the cord getting too hot and subsequently disintegrating. And while only 7,700 adapters were sold in North American between June and October, this certainly isn’t a problem that you want to deal with.

Don’t worry, though — this recall neither affects the camera nor the adapter that actually came with the Arlo. So as long as you are using the original power adapter that came as part of the Netgear Arlo package, you should be safe. If you’re wondering whether or not you have an affected unit, you can either look at the original packaging and see if it bears the model number VMA4700.

Alternatively, you can look at the adapter itself, and if it has the part number: 332-10985-01, you need to return it for a refund.

Lulu Chang
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Fascinated by the effects of technology on human interaction, Lulu believes that if her parents can use your new app…
SimpliSafe is now using AI to prevent burglars from entering your home
A SimpliSafe outdoor camera monitoring a stranger.

SimpliSafe rolled out the Smart Alarm Indoor Camera in 2023, which coupled AI technology with live monitoring to better protect the inside of your home. The company is now looking to expand those features to outdoor cameras, with Live Guard Outdoor Protection rolling out to early access users before seeing a full-scale launch later this year.

Live Guard Outdoor Protection works much like the Smart Alarm Indoor Camera does, though it's been modified to work outside. When your system is armed, cameras equipped with Live Guard Outdoor Protection will use AI to identify threats on your property. If AI finds something suspicious, the event will be escalated to SimpliSafe's professional monitoring team, who can then intervene via two-way audio to let the intruder know they're being filmed. They can also trigger a siren or request police dispatch.

Read more
This BLUETTI portable power station is truly weatherproof
Man using BLUETTI AC240 portable power station while camping to cook

It seems like we're covering a new BLUETTI launch here at Digital Trends every month, but that's okay. Thanks to the brand's excellent products, innovative advancements, and great features, people all over can access reliable power. Its latest launch, the BLUETTI AC240, is an IP65-rated weatherproof portable power station that delivers a comprehensive energy solution for outdoor enthusiasts, first responders, and beyond. Protected against dust, water, and elements, this expandable station creates an uninterrupted power source in any environment at any time. Moreover, it empowers users to stay connected, even with power-hungry devices, to tackle demanding tasks regardless of the current weather, environment, or location. Right now, you can save big by taking advantage of Early Bird pricing.
Buy Now
 
Why you should buy the BLUETTI AC240 all-weather portable power station

Imagine for a moment that you're camping with your family, hiking through the great outdoors, or even taking a long, scenic road trip through the countryside. In all of these situations, even when you're off-grid, you'll still need reliable access to power to charge your phone and tablet(s) and power up other electronics -- like a coffee maker when you wake up in the morning. Of course, power stations and power outlets don't exist randomly out in the wild. You could use your vehicle, but that will drain the battery and, in some cases, still won't provide enough power for what you want to do. Cue the BLUETTI AC240 portable power station and devices like it.

Read more
Snag this Roomba robot vacuum while it’s discounted to $180
iRobot Roomba 694 at Best Buy - WiFi connected robot vacuum

If you're on the hunt for robot vacuum deals because you think you need help from one of these cleaning devices to keep your floors spotless, you should head on over to Crutchfield where the iRobot Roomba 694 is available at $95 off. From its original price of $275, you'll only have to pay $180, which is an excellent price for all of the conveniences that you'll get from this machine. We're not sure how much time is remaining before this offer expires though, so you better hurry and complete your purchase while you can still pocket the savings.

Why you should buy the iRobot Roomba 694 robot vacuum
For its relatively affordable price, the iRobot Roomba 694 offers most of the important features that you would expect from a robot vacuum. It comes with a three-stage cleaning system that includes an edge-sweeping brush, roller brushes, and powerful vacuum suction. You'll be able to control the device through the iRobot Home app on your smartphone or using voice commands through smart home devices that are powered by Google Assistant or Amazon's Alexa. Once the iRobot Roomba 694 is done, or when its battery runs low in the middle of cleaning, it will automatically returns to its base station for recharging.

Read more