Owners of CyberPower’s CP1350PFCLCD and CP1500PFCLCD uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units beware, as these UPSs could pose a potential fire hazard, according to user feedback on Reddit.
Based on the preliminary data and reports online from users, the CP1350PFCLCD and CP1500PFCLCD, which are the rev 1 and rev 2 variants respectively, apparently houses a yellow glue as the primary adhesive that can eventually become conductive and corrosive due to aging and cause a short circuit, and may even cause a fire.
The problem with CyberPower’s UPS units was first brought to notice in January 2022 on the Canadian RedFlagDeals forum by user ‘bluesun’ who cited a YouTube video posted by computer engineer and YouTuber Mark Furneaux in May 2021. However, the issue has again resurfaced online after Reddit user “into_devoid” posted a video of their CP1500PFCLCD catching fire when it was switched on.
Shortly after the issue with CyberPower’s UPSs resurfaced, more users have come forward to report their similar problems. For instance, one Redditor uploaded a video of smoke coming out of his CP1000PFCLCD immediately after replacing its battery as per CyberPower’s recommendation.
While it is a common practice for manufacturers to use yellow adhesive typically in the electronics industry to glue bulky components, it can become partially conductive as it starts turning from yellow to brown or black over a period of time. Also, the duration of the glue fluctuates and depends on the environment’s temperatures.
When Tom’s Hardware contacted CyberPower, a company representative told them that they are unable to identify the problem from the Reddit video due to the lack of information. The company has recommended that affected user or users send in their units so that they can identify the cause of the problem.
“We are aware of the video. We take all product inquiries regarding appropriate operation and safety seriously. All CyberPower products and components are UL listed and tested for safety. More broadly, it is our intent to bring safe, high-quality power protection products to our customers around the world,” CyberPower told ’s Tom’s Hardware in an official statement.
“In the case of the video provided, it is not possible to exactly confirm the user’s claim as it does not offer full explanation of usage, analysis of failure, any testing results, or condition of the unit. Currently, we are unaware if this user has contacted us directly or opened a case with one of our technical agents and welcome them to do so as a complete analysis is the only means to validate root cause,” it added.
“Regarding comments about the adhesive, we have thoroughly tested the adhesives we use, and our results are aligned with industry and UL standards. We conducted a full laboratory study of the adhesive being used in our products and deem it safe for this application.
“We encourage all CyberPower customers with product troubleshooting, questions, or concerns to contact our Technical Support team at 1-877-297-6937. Our team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for product support and assistance.”
