Generac Recalls More Than 321,000 Portable Generators
An unlocked handle can pinch fingers against the frame, posing an amputation or crushing hazard
Generac has recalled more than 321,000 portable generators because an unlocked handle can pinch a consumer’s fingers against the frame when the generator is moved, potentially resulting in a crushed or severed finger.
Generac has received eight reports of injuries—seven amputations and one crushed finger—according to a release from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
The recall applies to 32 different models sold at almost every major generator retailer and includes units sold as far back as 2013. Consumer Reports is updating each model in our generator ratings with a notice about the recall. We have tested the following models that are included in the recall; we did not encounter problems related to the handle for any of these recalled generators:
Details of the Generator Recall
The recall: About 321,160 Generac and DR brand portable generators. The recall includes 32 different models of 6,500-watt and 8,000-watt portable gasoline generators, the vast majority of which were sold under the Generac name. It covers the following units: Generac XT8000E, XT8000EFI, GP6500, GP6500E, GP8000E and HomeLink 6500E portable generators, and DR models PRO 6500M and PRO 6500E portable generators. The CPSC has stated that the model number is printed on the generator itself. Refer to the CPSC release for the full list of models.
The risk: When the generator is moved, its handle can pinch a consumer’s finger, potentially crushing or severing it.
Incidents/injuries: Generac has received seven reports of amputated fingers and one report of a finger being crushed.
Where and when sold: Major home improvement and hardware stores nationwide and online, including Ace Hardware, Amazon, Blain’s Farm & Fleet, City Electric Supply, Costco, Do It Best, Fastenal, Home Depot, Lowe’s Stores, Napa Auto Parts, Northern Tool & Equipment, Orgill, Power Equipment Direct, Ravitsky Bros., True Value, and W.W. Grainger from June 2013 through June 2021 for $790 to $1,480.
The remedy: Stop using a recalled portable generator unless a locking pin has been inserted to secure the handle in place before and after moving the unit. Contact Generac for a free repair kit.
Contact information: Call Generac at 844-242-3493 or go to the company’s recall page.
To report a defective product, call the CPSC hotline at 800-638-2772 or go to saferproducts.gov.
