On July 29, 2021, Generac Power Systems, Waukesha, Wis., in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), issued a recall (Recall Number 21-173) that involves Generac and DR 6,500W and 8,000W portable generators. Approximately 321,160 of these generators were sold in the United States, and 4,575 were sold in Canada. According to the recall, an unlocked handle can pinch consumers’ fingers against the generator frame when the generator is moved, posing finger amputation and crushing hazards.
The generators have gasoline-powered engines that are used to generate electricity for use as backup power. The portable generators have two-wheels and a single, U-shaped, 2-grip, flip-up pin-lock handle to help move the generator. Read the original report to see a list of the model/catalog numbers and date codes (scroll down toward the bottom of the page) involved in this recall. The unit type is identified on the front of the product. The model and serial numbers are printed on a label on the product. Consumers can also check specific unit type, model number, and serial number location information at www.generac.com/service-support/product-support-lookup.
As of this recall notice, Generac has received eight reports of injuries, seven resulting in finger amputations and one in finger crushing.
The portable generators were sold at 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 between $790 and $1,480.
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled portable generators, unless the locking pin has been inserted to secure the handle in place before and after moving the generator, and contact Generac for a free repair kit. For more information, call Generac toll-free at 844-242-3493 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST Monday through Friday, or visit them online at www.generac.com/handleguard or www.generac.com and click on Important Safety Information. To file a report with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, click here.
