The CPSC has expanded its recall of Generac and DR Power electric-start gas pressure washers, adding more than 16,260 units to those already flagged. The hazard: the engine can self-start without operator input, creating a carbon monoxide risk if the unit is running in or near an enclosed space. Six self-starting incidents have been reported. The expansion was announced May 14, 2026.
Timeline
- Original recall: Generac and DR Power electric-start pressure washers identified for self-starting hazard
- May 14, 2026: CPSC expands recall to include additional model numbers — 16,260+ additional units affected
- Incident count: Six reports of unexpected self-starting; no confirmed CO injury details released
What to Do If You Own One
Check the CPSC recall notice for the complete list of affected model numbers and serial number ranges. If your unit is listed:
- Stop using it immediately
- Contact Generac for the free remedy (repair part or replacement)
As a baseline rule regardless of recall status: never run any gas-powered tool — pressure washer, generator, or otherwise — in an enclosed or semi-enclosed space. CO builds up silently and quickly.
What This Means for Buyers
This is a separate issue from the April 2026 Generac portable generator recall (149,000 units, fuel leak fire hazard). Different product category, different failure mode. If you own both a Generac generator and a Generac electric-start pressure washer, check both recall lists independently — the affected model numbers don’t overlap.
Self-starting is a specific failure pattern in electric-start engines with a stuck or malfunctioning start circuit. It doesn’t affect manual-pull-start gas pressure washers or any battery-powered models. If you’re replacing a recalled unit, battery pressure washers eliminate CO risk entirely — the tradeoff is typically lower peak pressure (around 2,000 PSI cordless vs. 2,500–4,000 PSI gas), which covers most residential cleaning jobs. Our cordless pressure washer guide covers the current options by use case. For a separate safety story, see the April recall of no-name electric pressure washers for missing GFCI protection.
