HP recalling more laptop batteries due to fire hazards

Owners of Hewlett-Packard laptops might not be too happy about this news. HP is expanding its voluntary recall of thousands of notebook computer batteries.

Again, the keyword is voluntary. Nevertheless, considering the Lithium-ion batteries cited in the recall have been known to "overheat and rupture," it might not be a bad idea to send the units back in.

Approximately 162,600 individual batteries are being called back, and here's just some of the incidents reported so far:

Since the May 2010 recall expansion, HP has received 40 additional reports of batteries that overheated and ruptured, resulting in seven burn injuries, one smoke inhalation injury, and 36 instances of property damage.

The batteries in question powered laptops sold between July 2007 and July 2008 for between $500 and $3,000. Additionally, standalone battery packs were sold separately for between $100 and $160. Owners of the following computers can mail their batteries back in for replacements. (Click image to enlarge.)

Until the replacements arrive, users will have to rely on AC power.That could prove to be a big nuisance for more mobile users, but it beats possible burns and property damage.