Generac generators
81 reports to CPSC, the latest made Oct 16, 2026. A report isn’t a recall.
Watch and the shortlist are kept with a free account, on every device. Your watch list. CPSC’s own search is on saferproducts.gov.
At a glance
From SaferProducts.gov, released Nov 5, 2026.
- 81reports to CPSC
- Oct 16, 2026the latest report was made
- Jul 1, 2011the earliest
- 46with the company’s comments
- Brand
- Generac
- Makers
- GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC. and Briggs & Stratton CorporationMakers, importers or sellers, as the reports name them
- Product
- GeneratorsIncluding power plantsCPSC’s product type: Generators or Power Plants (code 606), in Home Maintenance and Structures: Electrical Systems
Other ways the reports write the brand (12)
“Generac Guardian”, “Generac 20KVA propane fueled Power System”, “Generac 20KW Home Standby Generator”, “Generac 22 KW automatic standby generator”, “Generac 24kw air cooded”, “Generac Corp.”, “Generac Generator”, “Generac Portable Generator”, “Generac Power Systems”, “Generac Power Systems, Guardian Plus”, “Generic portable generator” and “Gererac”
By month
The numbers, as a table
| Month | Reports |
|---|---|
| October 2026 | 2 |
| April 2026 | 2 |
| March 2026 | 1 |
| December 2025 | 3 |
| May 2025 | 1 |
| April 2025 | 1 |
| October 2024 | 1 |
| July 2024 | 1 |
| June 2024 | 1 |
| September 2023 | 4 |
| April 2023 | 1 |
| January 2023 | 1 |
| December 2022 | 1 |
| October 2022 | 1 |
| July 2022 | 10 |
| September 2021 | 1 |
| August 2021 | 1 |
| July 2021 | 1 |
| May 2021 | 1 |
| February 2021 | 1 |
| August 2020 | 1 |
| June 2020 | 1 |
| April 2020 | 1 |
| June 2019 | 1 |
| May 2019 | 2 |
| February 2019 | 1 |
| January 2019 | 1 |
| August 2018 | 1 |
| March 2018 | 2 |
| May 2017 | 1 |
| April 2017 | 1 |
| January 2017 | 2 |
| October 2016 | 1 |
| September 2016 | 1 |
| June 2016 | 3 |
| March 2015 | 1 |
| December 2014 | 2 |
| November 2014 | 1 |
| July 2014 | 1 |
| April 2014 | 1 |
| September 2013 | 1 |
| August 2013 | 1 |
| March 2013 | 1 |
| January 2013 | 1 |
| November 2012 | 1 |
| August 2012 | 1 |
| July 2012 | 2 |
| April 2012 | 2 |
| January 2012 | 3 |
| December 2011 | 1 |
| September 2011 | 1 |
| August 2011 | 3 |
| July 2011 | 1 |
How badly anyone was hurt
- Emergency room 5 CPSC: Injury, Emergency Department Treatment Received
- Seen by a doctor or nurse 3 CPSC: Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
- First aid 4 CPSC: Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
- Hurt, no treatment 3 CPSC: Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
- No one hurt 58 CPSC: Incident, No Injury
- No incident, no one hurt 6 CPSC: No Incident, No Injury
- Not said 2 CPSC: Unspecified
As each report says it, in short words; CPSC’s own words are under each.
The reports, as CPSC published them
Reports people made to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. CPSC publishes each one after sending it to the company named, and doesn’t guarantee they’re accurate. A report isn’t a recall.
Each report is the words of the person who made it, as CPSC published them. The company’s comments, where CPSC published any, are set apart as the company’s own.
CPSC, SaferProducts.gov public database export. Released Nov 5, 2026. Updated daily.
-
No one hurt Made Oct 16, 2026, sent to the company Oct 21, 2026, published by CPSC Nov 4, 2026
The product, in the report: Generac 24 kw 2023 model home emergency generator.
Had a generator installed 2023. Which now has only 22 hrs from just weekly run cycles. and it failed the first time we Needed it during the Destin Hurricane Isaias. Ran for 15 minutes then failed. The came to fix it 5 days after it was needed. Tech explained that the brushes were bad. He said this happened a lot. When I ask why he said he could not put any reason for failure on a ticket or he would be fired. It seems this is an ongoing problem and a class action has been filed for this exact reason.
- Model
- 24kw G0072099
- Serial number
- 3010218702
- Bought from
- Ronco Generator
- Bought
- Dec 31, 2022
- Where
- Santa Rosa Beach, Florida: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac 24kw air cooded, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No incident, no one hurt Made Oct 13, 2026, sent to the company Oct 16, 2026, published by CPSC Oct 30, 2026
The product, in the report: I believe the placement requirements are what the problem is, and not the product itself. As I mentioned, it is a Generac air cooled 26 K full house generator.
On May 7 and 8, 2026, I had a Generac air cooled 26 K generator installed. Between those dates and May 19 an inspector came and asked that [REDACTED] make a necessary change, which they did on May 19, 2026. On September 25, 2026, we had our first power outage after the installation of our generator. After approximately eight hours of running time, the carbon monoxide monitors inside my home started alarming with detection of carbon monoxide being announced per the alarm/voice activation. I quickly opened windows throughout the house and then went outside to call [REDACTED]. I realized very quickly that they wouldn’t be doing any work, only assessing what was going on and would be charging me as well. After ending the phone call, I also opened up both garage doors and an exit door leading directly to the Generac generator. Shortly after opening all the doors inside the garage, I heard the monitors inside the house go off. I began looking at the monitors and noted that all the lights on them had turned back to green, with the exception of the bedroom closest to where the generator sits just outside the wall in the mentioned bedroom. The carbon monoxide monitor in this bedroom remained red until I reset it. Upon resetting it, the automated voice stated, Carbon monoxide previously detected. I received a follow-up call from [REDACTED] on Monday, September 28, 2026, however, there was no indication anything in the foreseeable future would be done and they would get back to me. On Wednesday, September 30, 2026, inspector [REDACTED] from Lewis County Building came to look over the install, but saw nothing that was alarming to him. In addition, he stated he used to be a deputy sheriff and when there were power outages, they received dozens of calls regarding false alarms. I have continued to stay in touch with [REDACTED], but I have no indication they are going to make any changes. I have also purchased a portable carbon monoxide sensor which has shown no detectable leaks throughout my home or outside near the generator. However, on October 6, we once again lost power. Even after just a few minutes of the generator running, my new monitor indicated carbon monoxide was gathering in the same room where it was detected previously next to where the generator sits on the outside of my house. The power was only off for 37 minutes, not long enough for a build-up that would cause my carbon monoxide alarms to go off inside the house. Even though the levels never got above 15 PPM, this is still very concerning. as it is now obvious to me there is definitely carbon monoxide entering my home via the generator when it is on.
- Model
- G0072910
- Serial number
- 3018423351
- Where
- United States: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 71, Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- No Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Apr 25, 2026, sent to the company Apr 29, 2026, published by CPSC May 13, 2026
The product, in the report: Generac generator-color orange & black,
When the ice/snowstorm came through January’2026, I had a hard time starting the generac generator up. I had to call someone out to see why it’s not starting up. He let me use one of his cords and started it up for me. I didn’t pay it no attention of leaking any fluids but notice it did leak some on the front porch.
- Model
- G0076722
- Serial number
- 39 0FA Tll60022010073500
- Bought from
- Home Depot
- Bought
- Aug 23, 2023, about then
- Where
- Castor, Louisiana: Mobile/
Manufactured Home - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac Portable Generator, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
First aid Made Apr 23, 2026, sent to the company Apr 27, 2026, published by CPSC May 18, 2026
The product, in the report: Black and orange portable generator
Trying to pull start a generac portable generator when the carburator back fired catching the air filter on fir burning gas lines and burning myself. The fire was eventually put out with dirt and water.
- Where
- Mabank, Texas: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 45, Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- My Friend /
Neighbor / Co-worker - As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
-
No one hurt Made Mar 18, 2026, sent to the company Mar 23, 2026, published by CPSC Apr 6, 2026
The product, in the report: Generac 28KW next-generation air cooled emergency standby generator. 46”x26”x30” light grey in color.
A new Generac 28kw air cooled generator was just installed. Model Number G0073290 Serial Number 3018541027 manufacture date 11/20/2025. After about the first 1 1/2 hours or less of operation the foil faced insulation in the tightly enclosed space above the muffler melted away from its foam backing and dropped down on the muffler. The hot exhaust gases from the muffler that is directed toward this area in the enclosure then ignited the unprotected foam backing causing it to ignite. The fire was noticed almost immediately by shear chance. The unit was stopped and fuel shut off the insulation burned for several minutes. There are burn marks and smoke damage visiable on the outside of the unit.
- Model
- G0073290
- Serial number
- 3018541027
- Bought from
- Generac Dealer
- Bought
- Feb 3, 2026, about then
- Where
- Sandy Springs, Georgia: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Dec 29, 2025, sent to the company Jan 2, 2026, published by CPSC Jan 30, 2026
The product, in the report: Generac 22 KW generator model # 0065520 serial # 9650633 installed on 8/18/2015 by an electrical contractor. This generator is made to sit outside and has its own cabinet with intake and exhaust louvers.
On 11/30/2025 we had a snow storm and lost electricity for 4 days. My 22KW Generac generator serial # 9650633 model# 0065520 automatically started. However after a few hours the generator start to what I will call surge(speed up and slow down quickly). We eventually figured out that the air filter was clogged with snow and ice. I believe this is a dangerous condition because carbon monoxide is emitted when the LP is not completely burned. We did not suffer from carbon monoxide poisoning but have heard of this happening to others in our area during this storm. Having a design that allows snow to enter the air filter causing surging of the generator seems like a poor/dangerous design.
- Model
- Model # 0065520
- Serial number
- 9650633
- Bought from
- Purchased from Semmerling Electric(contractor)
- Bought
- Aug 18, 2015
- Where
- Winchester, Wisconsin: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 76, Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac 22 KW automatic standby generator, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Dec 5, 2025, sent to the company Dec 10, 2025, published by CPSC Dec 29, 2025
The product, in the report: Generator Generac Products Type 22KW/999 GUARD+200 SE T/SW
On the evening of Wednesday, November 26, 2025, the air filter on our Generac standby generator became obstructed by snow, impairing engine performance and resulting in elevated carbon monoxide emissions. These emissions accumulated outdoors and subsequently infiltrated the residence. At approximately 9:30 PM, the carbon monoxide alarm inside the home activated, and emergency services were notified. Upon arrival, responding personnel measured indoor carbon monoxide concentrations in excess of 100 parts per million (PPM).
- Model
- G0070439
- Serial number
- 3010937648
- Bought from
- Adams Electric, Wisconsin
- Bought
- Jan 27, 2023
- Where
- Winchester, Wisconsin: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 63, Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
No one hurt Made Dec 3, 2025, sent to the company Dec 8, 2025, published by CPSC Dec 22, 2025
The product, in the report: Generac 7226/7228 generator. 60Hz air cooled, 10 kw to 26kw Purchased and installed by Adam’s Electrical, Hazelhurst, WI. On 7/22/24.
Local power outage resulted in Generac generator automatically turning on. After about running for about 7 hours the generator stopped running. Our carbon dioxide alarm sounded and a srong propane smell was in our home. We immediately ventilated the home and left until the alarm stopped. We called the local Generac dealer to schedule an emergency service call. The service tech arrived in the afternoon and “fixed” the problem. A filter that was clogged with snow. I say “fixed “ because the clogged filter problem occurred multiple times during the 110 hours of the power outage. Fortunately, the tech instructed me regarding the procedure to clear the filter before the total failure of the generator. Even with the preemptive, before failure, of the filter we still got carbon dioxide alarm. We live in an area where 4 of our neighbors had the same failure. 3 of the failures resulted in carbon dioxide alarms. One neighbor had EMT emergency services come to their home.
- Model
- 7226/
7228 - Bought from
- Adam’s Electrical, Wisconsin
- Bought
- Jul 22, 2024
- Where
- Winchester, Wisconsin: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made May 19, 2025, sent to the company May 22, 2025, published by CPSC Jun 6, 2025
The product, in the report: Generac 5000 watt portable generator, model# 01669-0. Ser# 752-4925
Fuel valve/line deteriorated, fell out of attachment hole in 5 gallon fuel tank at the top of the unit, and began draining a flow of gasoline onto the running generator. Unit was at operating temperature, shut it down immediately, but there was no way to stop gasoline flow. Could’ve started a fire, or an explosion. No injuries.
- Model
- 01669-0
- Serial number
- 752-4925
- Bought from
- Costco, Hawaii
- Bought
- Dec 31, 2006
- Where
- Kula, Hawaii: Farm/
Ranch - Who was involved
- Age 80, Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Apr 22, 2025, sent to the company Apr 25, 2025, published by CPSC May 9, 2025
The product, in the report: Generac 24kw whole house generator
Generac whole house generator’s battery heater causing a fire
- Model
- G0070422
- Serial number
- 3003984504
- Bought from
- North Country Power Generation
- Bought
- May 1, 2019
- Where
- Charlevoix, Michigan: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 71, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No incident, no one hurt Made Oct 24, 2024, sent to the company Oct 28, 2024, published by CPSC Nov 12, 2024
The product, in the report: Serial # 0000000003014696137 26KW/999 GUARD-NO T/SW AL
August 26 2024 our 3 mo old $25,000 Generac generator started on fire. We were alerted by neighbors, fire and rescue put the fire out. The generator was on fire as well as the surrounding mulch/landscaping. After numerous attempts to reach Generac we still have not been contacted by the company to understand the cause of the fire. No replacement generator has been installed.
- Model
- 6KW/
999 GUARD-NO T/ SW AL - Serial number
- 0000000003014696137
- Where
- Minnetrista, Minnesota: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- No Incident, No Injury
-
Emergency room Made Jul 31, 2024, sent to the company Aug 5, 2024, published by CPSC Aug 26, 2024
The product, in the report: generator
We were awoken in the early morning our with our carbon monoxide detector going off in our downstairs hallway. My husband changed the battery thinking that was the problem. We went back to bed and awoke around 9 a.m. with carbon monoxide alarm going off again. We woke up with a headache like a hard hangover even though we had not been drinking. We knew it wasn’t the battery since he had just installed new ones. We opened the nearest window and placed a fan in the hall to blow carbon monoxide outside. Several hours later we still did not feel normal, so we called the fire department to get us, and house checked. Our downstairs measured 6-7, and near the attic door registered 43. The fireman didn’t see the need of opening the attic door. He said it would only measure higher and we already knew the numbers were high. They checked our levels and said it was within tolerance. So, we decided not to go to the hospital since the firemen said we should be fine. The carbon monoxide detector went off again the following morning. We did not call the fire department. We just did the same thing but stayed awake and went outside so it wouldn’t have the same effect on us. We purchased our Generac home standby almost a year ago and we have never had any issues until now. I feel the protocol for installation should be changed so that the exhaust doesn’t go up in the soffits of people’s homes. Two days after we had our issues a friend had the same exact problem with their home standby generac. The installers said they followed the generac installation guidelines.
- Bought from
- LOWES
- Bought
- Aug 1, 2023, about then
- Where
- willis, Texas: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 64, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Emergency Department Treatment Received
-
No incident, no one hurt Made Jun 23, 2024, sent to the company Jul 3, 2024, published by CPSC Jul 18, 2024
The product, in the report: Generac Emergency Generator purchased through COSTCO, installed and maintained by [REDACTED] (a Generac-certified installer), Guardian 24KW with Automatic Transfer Switch, Model G0072090, Serial Number 3012186978. 1 year old.
Approximately 2AM, February 29th, 2024, our Generac whole house emergency generator turned on due to loss of mainline electrical power from [REDACTED]. Shortly thereafter, we were awakened to a huge noise coming from the kitchen. Upon heading to the kitchen, most of the lights were inoperative, even though we had a whole house generator. Only about 10% of the house lights turned on, and the ones that did were weak and/or surging. Most circuits were inoperative. Upon entering the kitchen, the [REDACTED] coffee maker had turned itself on and was spinning the water pump at a high shrill, well beyond the normal turn rate. It soon burned itself out and ceased operation. Upon checking the major appliances, minor appliances and lighting, over half of the house’s systems were inoperative. We checked the 200AMP whole house circuit breaker panel and no breakers were tripped. The emergency generator was surging high and low upon inspection outside. We called our Generac installer electrician emergency on-call number and spoke to [REDACTED] from [REDACTED] (they also maintain the generator). [REDACTED] asked us to check various systems across the house and many were indeed inoperative, including some GFCI plugs would not reset. He had never heard of this happening and during the phone inspection, the mainline power returned and the Generac emergency generator powered down from the Automatic Transfer Switch. The light circuits returned across teh house, but about half of the appliances were burned out and inoperative. [REDACTED] came over at 7:30AM and then did an initial house inspection and appliance inspection. He determined the generator had low and high power outputs simultaneously being transmitted across both of its 2 phases. Generac eventually replaced the entire generator portion of the machine, since the motor was fine. Upon final inspections over the next month, the emergency generator caused surging electrical signals, both high and low and burned out most of our appliances and GFCI circuits to include: refrigerator, double electric oven, dishwasher, coffee maker, coffee brother, chandelier motor, 2 x alarm clocks, [REDACTED] bath pump and controls, gas heater glow plugs, lawn irrigation system, about 5 x GFCI switch panels, well pump, ultrasound cleaning pod, office paper shredder, plant LED lights, aura digital photo frame. Many of these appliances were “off”. In addition, while no electrical fires occurred with the wiring, we are quite concerned the wiring itself has likely been heated/melted behind the walls somewhere and we have constant worry something else may happen. We have subsequently installed an emergency generator whole house surge protector at our own expense to attempt to stop any repeat from occurring. Generac Emergency Generator purchased through COSTCO, installed and maintained by [REDACTED] (a Generac-certified installer), 24KW with Automatic Transfer Switch, Model G0072090, Serial Number 3012186978.
- Model
- G0072090
- Serial number
- 3012186978
- Bought from
- COSTCO
- Bought
- Jan 4, 2023
- Where
- Ridgefield, Connecticut: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 64, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- My Spouse
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- No Incident, No Injury
-
Emergency room Made Sep 20, 2023, sent to the company Sep 22, 2023, published by CPSC Oct 6, 2023
The product, in the report: The product is a generic portable generator model number g0057352 GP 17500 e who is 120 /240 dual gas electric start serial number 3 0 0 9 2 9 9 0 3 3 single phase 992 CC cylinders
Okay we had a power outage I live in the middle of the desert it was a bad windy day stormy and the power was out for about 4 hours I was running a generator for the first time and I noticed something wasn’t right it wasn’t running right at first like it should have been you know it’s brand new but then I should notice it smelled hot I kept smelling this hotness hotness in it went to check the generator after about 3 and 1/2 hours and it was so hot then the tank was about to burst you could just hear it like the gas inside almost boiling some reason I opened the lid of the tank and it just spewed out everywhere burning me scolding me with hot gas and vapors in my face and my eyes but my chest and my arm has liquid gas on it burnt it got all into the electrical system of my generator ruin the whole thing it’s totally fried I don’t know what a replacement valves going to do for that but something needs to be done
UPDATED ON 9/25/2023: [Why I have already made my request for a full refund immediately a check issued and sent to me [REDACTED] first class overnight or next day or a brand new generator already upgraded fully ready to use like the one I had but the way it was supposed to be when I bought it I demand these things immediately I’m not pursuing any further legal action as far as my burnt down place or my injuries my insurance covered that but what I paid for I am coming for back please I’ve already made the reports send information I don’t need to call in anymore I don’t see why you sent me this email I’d rather just send me my money or send me my generator right away hurricane season]
- Model
- gp17500e model number g0057352
- Serial number
- 3009299-033
- Bought from
- Amazon or Walmart waifair something like that
- Bought
- Sep 26, 2002
- Where
- Barstow, California: Mobile/
Manufactured Home - Who was involved
- Age 36, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generic portable generator, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Emergency Department Treatment Received
-
No one hurt Made Sep 20, 2023, sent to the company Sep 22, 2023, published by CPSC Oct 6, 2023
The product, in the report: generac gp15000e portable generator. orang, 4 ft by 4 foot by 3 ftt, 400lbs
gp15000e generac portable generator did not vent the gas tank causing the tank to warp, gas gauge to stop working and for the gas tank to excessively build up heat to the point of boiling gas which exploded out of the tank when opening the tank.
- Model
- 0057341
- Serial number
- 9640705
- Bought from
- home depot, Tennessee
- Bought
- Jul 9, 2015
- Where
- MEMPHIS, Tennessee: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 46, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Hurt, no treatment Made Sep 19, 2023, sent to the company Oct 12, 2023, published by CPSC Oct 26, 2023
The product, in the report: Generator
This consumer purchased his generator in 2020 and states that at the time of this incident he had only used it for 80 hours total. It was purchased for use only during times that he had no electricity in his home. It was and is located in a shed near his home. He has not been in his shed or near the generator since this incident.
Consumer’s generator ran out of gas around January 2021. This consumer went to the 8X12 shed to refill the unit. He filled it and recapped it, then began just picking up odds and ends and cleaning areas in his shed.
The generator had been filled and running for an estimated 45 minutes when he noticed that the unit was expanded and that stickers that were on it were falling to the floor. He had not touched it again when it exploded, blowing 14 gallons of gas upward and raining down on him, his clothing, his boots. He began moving toward the door as quickly as possible with the fear that its was going to completely explode before he could get out of the shed.
He states that he does not know why it did not explode and believes that it’s only by the Grace of God that it did not.
Due to his having PTSD this fear has remained with him and he suffers nightmares. He said going to the door or near the shed after an estimated two years, its still smells strongly of gas.
- Model
- 15000E
- Serial number
- G00573342 3001522303
- Bought from
- Lowe’s
- Bought
- Aug 15, 2020
- Where
- Columbia, Virginia: Unspecified
- Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
-
No one hurt Made Sep 18, 2023, sent to the company Sep 26, 2023, published by CPSC Oct 11, 2023
The product, in the report: GP Series Portable Generator by Generac. Model 0059432 & Serial #65772108E
we own a Generac GP series 7500 purchased online in November 2011. Model 00059432 & Serial # 65772108E. After stopping the generator (after about 2 hours of use) and about 30 minutes later refueling, upon taking off the gas cap and great deal of “air” escaped – it was a bit startling since this had never happened before. Since we used the generator for another 1 1/2 days, it happened another couple of times. It had never happened before.
- Model
- 0059432
- Serial number
- 65772108
- Bought from
- Norwall Power Systems
- Bought
- Nov 11, 2011
- Where
- Manchester, Maryland: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No incident, no one hurt Made Apr 25, 2023, sent to the company May 17, 2023, published by CPSC Jun 1, 2023
The product, in the report: Home stationary 24 KW generator. Model # G0072109
insulation blankets glued to inside top of generator cabinet come loose and fall onto hot engine parts posing a fire hazard. In my opinion, the manner in which the blankets are affixed is a poor design and should have a more robust fastening system. This hazard should be addressed by the manufacturer to prevent a possible life safety issue.
- Model
- 24KW # G0072109
- Serial number
- 3010266799
- Bought from
- RELIABLE POWER SYSTEMS, Florida
- Bought
- Apr 29, 2022, about then
- Where
- Boynton Beach, Florida: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- No Relationship
- As this report names them
- Brand GENERAC, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- No Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jan 19, 2023, sent to the company Feb 16, 2023, published by CPSC Mar 10, 2023
The product, in the report: Generac Whole-House generator
Generac whole-house generator.
Seems I’m not the only on this has happened to.
The insulation in the lid is only secured by adhesive. It can fall down on the generator during operation and burn.
These turn on automatically in a power-failure and run unattended.
If one [REDACTED], one finds it is a chronic issue.
- Where
- Doylestown, Pennsylvania: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
First aid Made Dec 20, 2022, sent to the company Dec 23, 2022, published by CPSC Jan 10, 2023
The product, in the report: Generac® and DR® 6500 Watt and 8000-Watt portable generators
I purchased Generac Portable Generators, which is recalled last year because of due to Finger Amputation and Crushing Hazards. I called Generac recall customer support on September 2022, and they informed will send a replacement handle, I still have not received any new replacement handle or any answers. I also cut my finger near the handle recently. Hope they do any reaction for recall.
- Model
- XT8000E
- Where
- Palisades Park, New Jersey: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
-
No one hurt Made Oct 25, 2022, sent to the company Oct 27, 2022, published by CPSC Nov 10, 2022
The product, in the report: Generac 22kW Whole Home Generator Model G0070433
During Hurricane Ida in August of 2021, our professionally installed Generac 22K generator emitted enough carbon monoxide to set off the detectors in our home during the night. We were able to evacuate the house safely without incident. Once outside our home, we noticed the fire department was at our neighbors house inspecting their home with CO2 detectors as their carbon monoxide detectors had also gone off due to their Generac generator (same size and install type). That particular night there was no wind and the air was very humid. Following that incident and as suggested by the fire department, we taped up the vents in the soffit near the installed Generac generator.
- Model
- G0070433
- Serial number
- 3006190756
- Bought from
- Shockwave, Louisiana
- Bought
- Sep 3, 2020
- Where
- Schriever, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 50, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jul 27, 2022, sent to the company Aug 1, 2022, published by CPSC Aug 15, 2022
The product, in the report: Generac whole house generator 22kw
We have a whole house generator. After Hurricane Ida we had a problem with carbon monoxide getting into our home just like other families in our area. We have a carbon monoxide detector in our home which alerted us during the night and we called the fire department. Our Generac generator was professionally installed and is close to our house.
- Model
- GOO7O432
- Serial number
- 3004537127
- Where
- MARRERO, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Emergency room Made Jul 27, 2022, sent to the company Sep 22, 2022, published by CPSC Oct 6, 2022
The product, in the report: Generator
Caller stated that the generator cause CO poisoning. She stated that she was advised that the generator which is outside in the yard near to her bedroom is located too close because there are vents leading to her bedroom.
Caller stated that she was taken to [REDACTED] Hospital in New Orleans LA by ambulance, where she was treated and released. She stated that the generator was installed in 2014 but this was the first time she had used it so long. She stated that it was in use for about 3-4 days. Caller stated that she requested that the store she purchased it from that they removed it but they informed her that the generator was no longer in their system and they could not provide a resolution. Caller feels that the generator is a safety hazard and should be reported.
- Model
- 16 KW
- Serial number
- 9281987
- Bought from
- Lowes, Louisiana
- Bought
- Sep 6, 2014, about then
- Where
- New Orleans, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 58, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Emergency Department Treatment Received
-
No one hurt Made Jul 26, 2022, sent to the company Aug 1, 2022, published by CPSC Aug 22, 2022
The product, in the report: Generac home generator. 22 KW
Carbon Monoxide got into my house from a whole home generator.
- Model
- 22 KW
- Where
- Kenner, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 71, Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
First aid Made Jul 26, 2022, sent to the company Aug 1, 2022, published by CPSC Aug 15, 2022
The product, in the report: Generac 22kw whole home generator
Whole home generac carbon monoxide detection in house after hurricane IDA.
- Model
- G0070433
- Serial number
- 3008726362
- Where
- St. Bernard, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 2, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- My Child
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
-
No one hurt Made Jul 26, 2022, sent to the company Aug 1, 2022, published by CPSC Aug 22, 2022
The product, in the report: Generac Whole Home Generator
Responding to a [REDACTED] report on whole home generator issues during Hurricane Ida. Generac Whole House Generator 22kw [REDACTED] Family of 6 Generac Generator was installed and used as per Manufacture’s instructions No injuries. While using the Generator during Hurricane Ida, home carbon monoxide detector went into alarm while the family was sleeping. Carbon monoxide was coming into the house through the eaves. Thankfully the carbon alarm woke our family and we were able to get out of the house safely.
- Model
- Guardian 22kW
- Serial number
- 3005555120
- Where
- Folsom, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 2, Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Other Relative
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jul 26, 2022, sent to the company Aug 1, 2022, published by CPSC Aug 15, 2022
The product, in the report: Generac 22Kw Whole House Natural Gas Generator
After Hurricane Ida in 2021, my Generac 22Kw generator ran for almost 3 weeks. During this time we experienced carbon monoxide inside our home. The generator was installed as per Generac’s recommendations. I found that the CO was leaking into our home from the soffit areas above the generator, but Generac’s installation directions never talked about not installing in a location where there would be soffit vents above the generator exhaust. A simple fix would be to move the generator so the exhaust goes away from the house and down the side of the house. I found very high levels of CO in my attic.
- Model
- G0065532 or 22 kw
- Serial number
- 3000105785
- Bought from
- Lowes
- Bought
- Mar 28, 2016, about then
- Where
- Hammond, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 33, Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- My Child
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jul 26, 2022, sent to the company Jul 29, 2022, published by CPSC Aug 12, 2022
The product, in the report: Full home Generac generator
I had a Generac generator installed in June of 2021. My generator ended up blowing up and caused a fire inside the generator. I found it was burning 1 qrt of oil a day. The Generator was installed by a certified installer of Generac. It was installed within 6 inches from an exterior door and within 12 inches of the power box.
- Model
- g0070433
- Serial number
- 3008405043
- Bought from
- c&d, Louisiana
- Bought
- Jun 1, 2021, about then
- Where
- Houma, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 62, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jul 26, 2022, sent to the company Jul 29, 2022, published by CPSC Aug 12, 2022
The product, in the report: Generator
My generator stopped working correctly the carbon monoxide detector kept going off
- Model
- 60070431
- Serial number
- 3001611287
- Bought from
- Valentine Mechanical Services LLC, Louisiana
- Bought
- Mar 24, 2017
- Where
- Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jul 26, 2022, sent to the company Aug 1, 2022, published by CPSC Aug 22, 2022
The product, in the report: 22kw whole house generator
We had a whole house generator installed in July, 2021. The installers walked around our house & asked us questions before installing it. We agreed to a spot under a garage window with an air conditioner in it, but when we told them it had not been used in years, they said it was ok to put it there. There were vents in the overhang, but they never mentioned them. A month later Ida struck with the eye over our house for 4 hours. We had evacuated several days before, & left our generator running. Our son was the 1st to return to our area & decided to stay in our house with the generator with his wife & 15 yr old daughter. About 3 in the morning the CO monitor went off. We had this near our gas fireplace for many years. Thinking it was a false signal, our son got 2 more CO detectors from the 5th wheel stored in our yard. All 3 went off an hour later, so they left & went to their own house, without a generator & contacted me about why they left. I immediately contacted our installer of the generator who told me there were problems with the gas lines being inconsistent with their gas supply. I immediately contacted our gas company who said there was no problem with the gas supply. The next morning my son went back to our house & ran into a inspector from the gas company. Our son brought a CO detector with him & had gone into the house with doors wide open to get readings. He got a reading of 22 in the front hall (where doors were wide open), a 55 in our living room by the 1st CO detector. The gas company worker, followed company regulations & did not go into the house, but did hold the detector in the front hall as far as he could reach & got a reading around 22. All these readings were at least 50 feet & with several walls in between! During the next week or 2 the generator motor broke, so we were without power until normal power was reconnected in about 3 weeks. That is when we returned. About a month later the generator company came to see about moving our generator. That side of our house has a 6foot wood fence around it & I think the generator exhaust was directed toward our garage wall. We had the generator moved to our backyard, outside the fence, with the exhaust pointed to the golf course behind us. The installers suggested it might be safer to be inside the fence, but we feel no one’s going to steal it, & that the wood fence might even keep the exhaust contained near our house, that being totally in the open was better. The company was very cooperative, got a new motor for the generator, moved it 50 feet without charge.
- Model
- ?
- UPC
- ?
- Serial number
- ?
- Bought from
- Custom Power Solutions
- Bought
- Jun 20, 2021, about then
- Where
- Luling, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 51, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- My Child
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jul 5, 2022, sent to the company Aug 30, 2022, published by CPSC Sep 14, 2022
The product, in the report: Standby home generator
The consumer had the generator’s oil changed and the filter cleaned, along with basic maintenance. Nothing extravagant was done.
The dealer serviced it annually for a few years. Then he performed the annual maintenance service himself, a couple times. He is a journeyman, and qualified to work on generators.
(11/2021) The consumer called the manufacturer’s Resolutions Department, because the plenum leaked hydrocarbons and they got into his A/C unit, which were then transferred into his home. The firm’s rep. (name unavailable) asked the consumer who installed the generator. When the consumer told them, the rep. informed him that he would contact the dealer and make arrangements for them to replace that part.
(11/2021) The consumer replaced the generator’s controller himself, but the dealer had to install another plenum in it. The replacement plenum, was identical to the one that was in there. The consumer said that one was rusted out and he asked the service company if this new one would rust out as well, since it was identical. The service technician told the consumer that he did not know and could not answer that.
NOTE: The consumer said that luckily, the dealer had an extra plenum, that they could use. The dealer installed that plenum.
The consumer followed up with the dealer and asked if the manufacturer provided the new replacement plenum and the dealer said no. The consumer was lead to believe by the manufacturer, that they would provide a new replacement instead of one the dealer happen to have in their shop.
The consumer has corresponded with the firm since that time. However, he has not received what he considers a satisfactory resolution.
At this time, the consumer is unsure if or when he may experience adverse health issues.
- Model
- 0058720
- Serial number
- 6131768
- Bought from
- Transtar Electric, Ohio
- Bought
- Jun 1, 2008, about then
- Where
- Toledo, Ohio: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Emergency room Made Sep 9, 2021, sent to the company Oct 13, 2021, published by CPSC Oct 27, 2021
The product, in the report: portable generator
(09/03/2021) The consumer stated that he was trying to lift the generator out of his daughter’s SUV. When he grabbed the handle, he cut his middle and ring fingers. 98% of the tip of his fingers was cut.
The consumer was rushed to the medical center where the surgeon was able to re-attach his fingers. The consumer stated that they are hoping that his fingers can be saved.
The consumer found out that there was a recall on the product after the incident.
- Model
- G0076720 unit type GP6500
- Serial number
- 3004082495
- Bought from
- Lowes, Louisiana
- Bought
- Aug 28, 2021
- Where
- Pearl River, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 58, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Emergency Department Treatment Received
-
Hurt, no treatment Made Aug 6, 2021, sent to the company Aug 12, 2021, published by CPSC Aug 26, 2021
The product, in the report: Generac 6500 portable generator, orange
I was moving my generator across the yard with my left hand on the handle and my right hand pushing on the frame when I hit a hole and it came to a sudden stop, the back of the generator came up and then went back down my index finger went between the frame and the handle crushing it with bleeding and severe pain I with to my kneels. It was around six to seven months before I was able to use my finger and still to this day it is still sensitive.
- Model
- 6500 Generac portable generator
- Where
- Sulphur, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 66, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
-
No one hurt Made Jul 30, 2021, sent to the company Aug 19, 2021, published by CPSC Sep 2, 2021
The product, in the report: portable generator
The handle on my Generac XG8000E generator does not stay in locked up position making it drop suddenly and unable to be safely moved
- Model
- XG8000E
- Serial number
- 8192511
- Bought from
- Halls Power Equipment
- Bought
- Sep 27, 2013
- Where
- Clinton, Connecticut: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 67, Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Emergency room Made May 28, 2021, sent to the company Jun 3, 2021, published by CPSC Jun 17, 2021
The product, in the report: It is a Generac Generator 19.5/22KW, approx dimensions: 50”L x 24”w x 30” T Model 7043
We purchased a Generac standby generator and it has run on three occasions since Feb., and each time has filled the home with Carbon Monoxide. The first time we were evacuated by the Fire Dept. We have shut the unit down for fear of it coming on should we encounter an outage. We have contacted the contractor who put it in and they did move it away from the home, but we continued to get readings inside when it came on. We have also contacted Generac and both Generac and the contractor are unwilling to help any further and continue to tell us the unit is safe. Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated. I am also my Mom’s caretaker and she lives with me. She is disabled and also on oxygen. Thankfully the FD was able to get her out.
- Model
- 7043
- Bought from
- Canter Power Systems
- Bought
- Jan 24, 2018
- Where
- Pleasant Garden, North Carolina: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 61, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Emergency Department Treatment Received
-
No one hurt Made Feb 4, 2021, sent to the company Feb 25, 2021, published by CPSC Mar 11, 2021
The product, in the report: Generac Residential whole house standby generator 22kw model G0070432
Our new Generac whole house standby generator was professionally installed in June of 2020 and was serviced on two occasions by an authorized Generac service company since that time. In our winter storms we experienced a few short power outages and 36 hours of run time accumulated. Recently we had a severe series of storms where power outages caused the generator to automatically start as designed and it ran continuously for over 24 hours. When power was restored, it automatically turned off but a strong odor of burnt oul was coming from the generator enclosure. When I opened the enclosure, the entire interior was dripping with oil that had obviously come from the engine. This motor oil had been atomized by the strong cooling fan of this air cooled unit and the oil had been burnt onto the hot exhaust manifold and muffler while running automatically at 3800 rpm. This could easily have resulted in a fire that would have consumed the plastic enclosure and spread to the residence structure only four feet away where we were sleeping. That loss of oil was over 50% of the engine capacity and a catastrophic failure could have ruptured natural gas lines causing a major explosion and fire. The Generac factory authorized service company showed me how the plastic oil filler cap was defectively designed whereby only one thread of the cap has purchase of the filler hole. During normal operation, vibration routinely causes these caps to fall out unnoticed and resulting in the condition that I experienced. There is no labeling on the unit of this situation and the oil filler cap is actually concealed by the enclosure when otherwise routinely checking the oil level on the dipstick. In my situation there were no actual injuries but the risk as explained is very real and I have a very big mess to clean up.
- Model
- 22kw model G0070432
- Serial number
- 3004599463
- Bought from
- Tractor Supply Co.
- Bought
- Jun 1, 2020, about then
- Where
- Mount Hermon, California: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 60, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- My Spouse
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Aug 6, 2020, sent to the company Nov 3, 2020, published by CPSC Nov 18, 2020
The product, in the report: generator
I am writing to alert you all to a critical safety issue in connection the above referenced generator (Serial No.: 3001516885). This generator was installed at the above address in or about the Spring of 2017. Although I am no expert, as far as I can tell from reading the Installation Manual, it was installed consistent with the installation guidelines provided by Generac which I understand are based upon the standards of the National Fire Protection Association. Most importantly, it seems to meet or exceeds the required installation clearances. It is at about 7 feet away from the house. The guidelines say it must be installed at least 5 feet away. There are no obstructions around it, etc.
The power went out in our area on Tuesday, August 4th and the generator kicked on. On Wednesday, August 5th at 11:30 pm, the carbon monoxide detectors went off in our house. [REDACTED] police, fire and first aid responded. The readings in the basement were well in excess of 100 PPM, if I recall they were 112 or 120. This is well in the danger zone. There were also positive readings on the other floors of the house ranging from 20-50 ppm, if I recall correctly. Three of us were in the house at the time. My daughter was administered oxygen. Thankfully the carbon monoxide detectors functioned properly and we are all ok and unharmed.
I am attaching pictures. As you can see, the exhaust from the unit is blowing directly onto the house. Again, I am no expert. However, it appears the CO was aggregating in the basement door and window wells, as well as was probably getting into the house via the three white HVAC exhaust cones on the house. At the time the atmosphere/air was rather heavy and still; there was no wind. It had been running for about 30 hours.
I am alerting you all to this because it is a critical safety hazard. A family could have been killed. This kind of thing should never happen again.
It seems clear that the NFPA and Generac should do an immediate review of their standards and installation guidelines to fix this situation. At a minimum, it seems the exhaust from the unit should be directed away from the house. You should also issue an immediate recall, update and critical safety bulletin about these installation standards.
- Serial number
- 3001516885
- Bought
- Mar 4, 2017
- Where
- Spring Lake, New Jersey: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- My Child
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac 20KW Home Standby Generator, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
No incident, no one hurt Made Jun 24, 2020, sent to the company Jul 2, 2020, published by CPSC Jul 17, 2020
The product, in the report: Home standby propane powered electric generator
In March 2020 I received a letter from the Generac Company stating that there is a potential corrosion problem with a part called a “plenum” that could cause a fire and risk to life and property. The letter states that it is recommended that the unit be inspected by a qualified technician and if the unit is found to have a corrosion problem, Generac will absorb the cost of inspection and part replacement.
However, they will not offer to pay the approx. $80 cost of inspection if the technician does not find a corrosion problem with the subject part.
In my opinion, if Generac knows there is the potential of part corrosion that could cause a fire and risk life and property, then they should be liable to pay for the inspection, bad part or not. The consumer should not have to pay to inspect a product they designed to verify if a flaw exists. Generac should know that these units are highly likely to experience humid weather conditions and should have designed the part using a material that does not corrode and this risk would not exist. This notification should be treated the same way as a product recall.
I am asking for help from the CPSC to investigate this matter and on behalf of myself and other Generac generator owners, to hold Generac responsible to cover the cost of the inspection. It is likely some owners will not want to pay $80 to have the unit inspected and thus creating the potential for fire and risk to life and property.
Please advise. Thank you.
- Model
- 0058961
- Serial number
- 8109149
- Bought from
- Lowes
- Bought
- Oct 1, 2013, about then
- Where
- Glen Mills, Pennsylvania: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- No Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Apr 16, 2020, sent to the company Apr 24, 2020, published by CPSC May 8, 2020
The product, in the report: Generac Generator Full house generator Model 0060531
I received a March 2020 letter from General wherein they indicated that there maybe a safety issue with my Generac Generator. They advised that the issue may be a significant corrosion of the fuel plenum may lead to a potential fuel leak during generator operation, resulting in the risk of a unit fire. They indicated that the corrosion can occur over time when the generator is exposed to various factors.
The letter recommended that I contact immediately with an independent Generac Authorized Service Dealer to perform a maintenance inspection.
The letter said that there was a cost for this inspection. I contacted Generac and asked questions. One being if safety issues cannot afford to pay. They agreed to pay for the inspection.
The inspection was performed on April 9th. The gentleman told my husband that there was corrosion and he would have to replace parts. He also told my husband that was going to happen again. I contacted [REDACTED] from Generac and advised him of this and told him that we do maintenance on the generator twice a year. I do not have the special equipment needed to check for corrosion And can not afford to pay AC/DC to come out twice a year at a cost of $220.00 if no issues. If the parts need replaced it is at my costs.
I told Generac That the system should not be getting corroded. I asked if had any intentions on making sure this doesn’t happen and was basically told they paid once and that it.
I believe that this is a design flaw and they should either have to replace generator or make replacement as I worry now about possible fire.
- Model
- 0060531
- Serial number
- 7214949
- Bought from
- MACNeil Electric, Connecticut
- Bought
- Aug 5, 2012, about then
- Where
- Uncasville, Connecticut: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac Generator, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No incident, no one hurt Made Jun 18, 2019, sent to the company Jul 12, 2019, published by CPSC Jul 26, 2019
The product, in the report: Generator
Consumer responded to letter from Generac advising of a potential hazard with the company’s generator. The potential hazard is corrosion at the fuel plenum and gas leaking which could cause a fire. Consumer does not feel they should be responsible for the advised inspection. Generac offered to reimburse inspection costs if the individual generator was faulty. Consumer feels the generator should be recalled.
- Where
- Berkeley Heights, New Jersey: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- No Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made May 9, 2019, sent to the company Jul 1, 2019, published by CPSC Jul 16, 2019
The product, in the report: Generac standby generator
Generator safety notice:
Significant corrosion of the fuel plenum may lead to a potential fuel leak during generator operation, resulting in the risk of a unit fire. This corrosion can occur over time when the generator is exposed to high moisture due to improper installation, lack of proper maintenance and subject to harsh environmental conditions. Other conditions may also apply.
- Model
- 0058720
- Serial number
- 6095864
- Where
- Portsmouth, Virginia: Unspecified
- Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- Reports CPSC links to it
- 20190523-18209-1875297
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made May 2, 2019, sent to the company Jul 2, 2019, published by CPSC Jul 17, 2019
The product, in the report: Standby Generator
Submitter is reporting that the standby generators have a designed flaw , the fuel delivery systems rust/corrodes which causes the fuel to leak into the generator causing fire and explosion. These generators were manufactured 2008 - 2012 by the company.
The company has issued an important notice initiating a voluntary inspection program. He is concerned that this notice is not enough because an inspection is subjective and can be missed which places the consumers at risk. He has contacted the company several times about the issue but they have treated the matter with disregard.
Submitter is concerned about this problem and would like the agency to investigate this problem. Have investigator call please There are thousands of serial #’s affected
- Where
- Clarksville, Maryland: Unspecified
- Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Feb 7, 2019, sent to the company Mar 13, 2019, published by CPSC Mar 27, 2019
The product, in the report: natural gas generator
(1/22/2018) The consumer is concerned about the product because there is a gas leak and the firm refuses to replace the product. The consumer stated that he has had issues with the product since it was delivered to his home. There have been several repairs.
The consumer stated that he called the firm about the problem. A service technician was sent out. The consumer was advised that it would cost him $700 to replace the gas valve. Since the product was still under warranty, the consumer contacted the firm . The firm refused to replace the product.
The consumer bought a Generac from Winns Electric on 1-21-14. Winns recommended Brandom Family Electric LLC to install Generator fail appox 9-18- 14 he called Brandom Electric They came out and looked at it and recommended one of there Tec Groups Porter and Heckman Inc [REDACTED]. They recommended a new unit and contacted Generac Generac refuse to honor there recommendations. They replaced the broken parts and told him they would give him a 3-5 yr bumper to bumper warenty. They would even replace a light bulb if needed. This generator has broke several times and Generac has a record of 9-10 service calls but the gas leaks are very bad. The consumer has since bought a smaller generator to help him out in case of emergency.
- Model
- GEN 2 148W5057L
- Serial number
- 85879G
- Bought from
- Winn’s Electric, Michigan
- Bought
- Jan 21, 2014
- Where
- Flint, Michigan: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jan 7, 2019, sent to the company Feb 1, 2019, published by CPSC Feb 15, 2019
The product, in the report: 20KVA power Generator
Original Report Number Submitted 20190104-C782E-2147383419. This is to provide an update on the result of the explosion and fire. The problem resulted in the corrosion of a Fuel Plenum that is in the propane supply system. The fuel plenum became corroded and had a wall failure that allowed propane to leak into the unit enclosure and when the weekly maintenance run was initiated the propane was ignited and a explosion and fire occurred. Photos were previously submitted with the original report dated 1/4/2019
- Model
- Generac 20KVA Power Generator Model Number 0058750
- Serial number
- 5957862
- Bought from
- Cape Fear Generators, North Carolina
- Where
- Kure Beach, North Carolina: Mobile/
Manufactured Home - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac 20KVA propane fueled Power System, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- Reports CPSC links to it
- 20190104-C782E-2147383419
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Hurt, no treatment Made Aug 10, 2018, sent to the company Aug 28, 2018, published by CPSC Sep 12, 2018
The product, in the report: Generac Generator 22Kw and Automatic Transfer switch
I purchased a brand new Generator and automatic transfer switch by Generac and had it installed and activated on 6/21/2018. A power outage occurred on 8/7/2018 and the transfer switch caught on fire when the generator kicked in. The generator kicked in and turned on but never provided any power to my house. The only thing that happened was that the transfer switch caught on fire.
- Model
- Generator G0070431; Transfer switch
- Serial number
- 3002221153; 3002223612
- Bought from
- Lowe’s, Florida
- Bought
- May 20, 2018
- Where
- Land O Lakes, Florida: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 61, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
-
No one hurt Made Mar 28, 2018, sent to the company Aug 13, 2018, published by CPSC Sep 10, 2018
The product, in the report: 20kw generac full house generator serial no. 6301038
in sept. 2017 my full house 0n demand generator by generac. blew up while running.durning hurrican irma it was 6 yrs. old but it had very low hrs. on it.i was told by my local generac repair man he saw this before.
- Model
- 20kw generator
- Serial number
- 6301038
- Bought from
- home depot
- Bought
- Jan 12, 2011
- Where
- Altamonte springs, Florida: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Mar 16, 2018, sent to the company Jun 22, 2018, published by CPSC Jul 9, 2018
The product, in the report: Stand by home generator
We purchased a generator a few years ago. It was very expensive and between the unit and installation we paid about $12,000.00. For the past few years it has been serviced by the same business that worked with LOEWS store to install the unit. We have not had an emergency since we purchased the unit. We made our purchase to be ready for power outages. However, on March 2, 2018 during a power outage we experienced system failure on its very first test run. Shortly after our generator turned on we noticed our lights would flicker and remained flickering for the next few hours our generator was running. My husband and I was then alerted by our carbon monoxide detectors in our home of high levels of carbon monoxide rapidly rising. We immediately called the fire department who confirmed high levels of carbon monoxide in our home with the highest reading upstairs where our bedrooms were. After a thorough search they found the problem could be coming from our outside stand by generator. They advised us to turn it off. We were evacuated from our home and instructed to ventilate the home. They also instructed us to call the gas company and have them check and make sure there were no gas leaks present. We called our gas company and our generator service technicians the following morning. The gas company met with us at our home later in the afternoon to run their check. After turning on our generator during their check for gas leaks the gas technician also confirmed smelling fumes from our generator. Later explaining to us that there is a difference between propane fumes and exhaust fumes. He found no gas leak. The generator technicians came the following day to perform their check. In our absence he got our generator up and running, later explaining that there was condensation in the unit and that was the cause for the carbon monoxide. We are still working on getting a solid work order from them for the work performed because we are questioning the findings.
We are concerned and have questions about our unit. Is this a manufacture defective unit? Why didn’t our unit shut off? Should our unit be equipped with a shut off when it’s malfunctioning? Is it safe? Why did the servicing contractor did not handle this as a warranty issue? Our unit is up to date on routine services and still under warranty. We even invested on a three hundred dollar warming kit suggested by them as a preventive measure. Yet on its first test run our generator failed to run safely and properly. Can someone please contact us regarding our issues? Our unit is still under warranty and we are trying to get our generator running safely and the way it was intended to run. We were very lucky to have carbon monoxide detectors in our home, grateful to be well and happy to have the opportunity to address this issue and bring safety awareness to other that this can happen.
- Model
- Model# 0065520
- Serial number
- 9511680
- Bought from
- Lowes
- Bought
- Apr 1, 2015
- Where
- East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 46, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand GENERAC, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made May 30, 2017, sent to the company Sep 7, 2017, published by CPSC Sep 22, 2017
The product, in the report: 11 KW, propane fueled, emergency generator with automatic transfer switch.
Purchased a new 11KW emergency generator with automatic transfer switch manufactured by Generac Power Systems Inc, S45 W29290 Hwy. 59, Waukesha, WI 53189. Model #0064410, S/N 9382786. In September 2016, notified Generac and the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) which Listed the unit that the factory-installed power conductors from the generator’s stater to the unit’s output circuit breaker (CB) were not installed according to applicable UL Standards. The power conductors are #10 AWG (fine-stranded). The line-side terminals on the CB are UL Listed for a minimum wire size of #8 AWG and not Listed for termination of fine-stranded conductors. All of the strands of the conductors are not terminated. This creates high resistance terminations which will heat up and eventually burn off, thus making the generator inoperable for its intended use to provide power to my home for well water, heating, and lighting during a utility outage. It also creates the potential for a fire within the unit which may cause an explosion from the generator’s propane fuel supply. Since September 2016, UL has investigated this matter; however, neither Generac nor UL will disclose UL’s Findings to me. Generac has recently informed me via email that it has received UL’s Findings and recommendations for future manufacture of generators; but, Generac will do nothing to correct the aforementioned defects on any existing generators it has in the field, including mine, even though it is still under warranty. I believe that UL’s initial Listing of the generator was flawed and/or it was not auditing Generac for compliance.
- Model
- 0064410
- UPC
- Unknown
- Serial number
- 9382786
- Bought from
- Lowe’s
- Bought
- Jan 9, 2015
- Where
- Leeper, Pennsylvania: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 68, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Apr 12, 2017, sent to the company Jun 9, 2017, published by CPSC Jun 23, 2017
The product, in the report: Generac GP5500 portable home generator, model # 0057360, orange & black in color
In 2011, I purchased the Generac GP5500 portable generator (model# 0057360). I had purchased the generator to provide power back-up to my house whenever there is a power outage. I didn’t even wind up using the generator the first 2 years that I had it because we were fortunate those years not to have severe enough weather that knocked out our power. Once I did use it, I only used it 2-3 times. There are only a few hours actually on the generator. Fast forward to 2016 when I go out to my garage only to smell strong fuel odors. I was shocked to find the gasoline in my generator leaking all over my garage floor. There wasn’t that much gas in the tank because of the simple fact that I don’t use it that much. I always tried to make sure I only had enough fuel in the generator to run it for each situation. At the end of each summer/fall season, if there was any fuel left I would either drain it out or actually just let the generator run until the remaining fuel was used up. In 2016 when the fuel was leaking all over, it was fuel that had only been in the tank a short time - it was not old gas. Once I was able to clean up the gas, I checked my shut-off valves & all my connections. Everything appeared to be okay - I couldn’t see any visible damage but not being a mechanic, I couldn’t tell if things were okay internally. Being on a fixed income, I didn’t have the money to take it in to have it serviced because, naturally, it was out of warranty. Now this spring 2017 season, we got our first storm of the year where we lost power. I went to get the generator started & I got NOTHING. As a result, the sump pumps in my basement wound up backing up & I had water all over my basement. A neighbor of mine who works on small engines was kind enough to look at the generator for me & advised me that even though the generator was like brand-new, the carburetor was completely gummed up. I would need a carburetor repair kit. I called Generac & they were of absolutely no help. Not only did they inform me that they don’t sell parts to their own equipment, but they couldn’t tell me who did or what the part #s were that I would need. Upon doing some further research, I was extremely surprised to see that there are TONS of people who have posted complains of this very same problem with this particular model of their generator. Many of these people suggested filing a complaint here with CPSC because going through Generac was of no help. I’m just really shocked that with all the complaints I’ve seen, that there has not been any type of recall or class action suit. I assume nothing will come of this based on the other responses I’ve seen but I want it on file that yet one more consumer is dealing with a defective Generac product.
- Model
- 0057360
- Serial number
- 5543357A
- Bought from
- Home Depot
- Bought
- May 16, 2011
- Where
- Caledonia, Wisconsin: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 44, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jan 26, 2017, sent to the company Feb 10, 2017, published by CPSC Feb 27, 2017
The product, in the report: Generac generator, 20 kw, fueled by propane gas, that “exercises” once a week and automatically goes on when the electrical power is interrupted. Model # OH4653 Serial # 859349911306
We live on the [REDACTED] a sparsely populated area of the State. We have a whole house Generac generator, 20 kw, fueled by propane gas, that “exercises” once a week and automatically goes on when the electrical power Is interrupted. It was installed by a certified Generac Installer who is also a certified electrician. On Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at about the time the generator was due to exercise there was a considerable explosion and a fire ensued. We as owners, were not home at the time but we had cleaning people In the house who heard the noise, could not find a reason for the explosion in the house, so looked outside and saw the fire. They were able to alert maintenance workers who were in the area, who came to the house and using an outdoor garden hose, put out the fire. Eventually the local volunteer fire department arrived on the scene, using a chemical extinguisher, sprayed the generator, shut off the propane gas to the house and the generator and as a precaution entered the house and threw several circuit breakers. They are in the process of preparing a report. Fortunately the extent of the damage was limited to the generator itself. After visits from the propane gas supplier, the certified installer and from talking with a neighbor In this same area, we learned that ours in not an isolated incident and are concerned that other generator owners who have this same type of generator may be at risk.
- Model
- OH4653
- Serial number
- 859349911306
- Bought from
- Through the installer, North Carolina
- Bought
- Oct 1, 2011, about then
- Where
- Avon, North Carolina: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jan 18, 2017, sent to the company Feb 10, 2017, published by CPSC Feb 27, 2017
The product, in the report: It is a transfer switch for a generator - when the Public utility power fails - the generator comes on and the transfer switch changes the source of the power
I have Generac Standby Generator. it is controlled by a Transfer Switch. We lost power from Tillamook PUD. Normally the generator is supposed to automatically start and switch the power from PUD to the generator. We did not have power from the generator even though the generator was running. I checked the circuit breakers and everything was OK. I smelled burnt wires and removed the cover from the transfer switch. I noticed burnt wires and the Generator Closing Coil was burned. It was damaged quite badly.
- Model
- OL32176
- Serial number
- 3000723552
- Bought from
- Lowe’s, Oregon
- Bought
- Aug 10, 2016
- Where
- Neskowin, Oregon: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 69, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Not said Made Oct 12, 2016, sent to the company Oct 20, 2016, published by CPSC Nov 10, 2016
The product, in the report: GENERAC GH-530 ENGINE 11 kW UNIT STANDBY GENERATOR SERIAL NUMBER 8222303
Generac 11 kW aux generator battery exploded while in idle mode. Destroyed battery and splashed electrolyte in compartment. Extent of damage not yet determined. Explosion was very loud as from aereal firework bomb. Occurred on or about 10/05/2016 to best memory.
- Model
- GH-530
- Serial number
- 8222303
- Bought from
- LOWES
- Bought
- Sep 15, 2016
- Where
- Grayling, Michigan: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand GENERAC, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Unspecified
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Sep 28, 2016, sent to the company Oct 6, 2016, published by CPSC Oct 21, 2016
The product, in the report: 18 KW Generac Home Generator (air-cooled)
18kw and 16kw Generac generators produced with a faulty charging system that causes the battery to explode upon activating the start procedure either manually or automatic. This generator and others like it are unsafe for consumer operation. I have knowledge that this is NOT an isolated incident. I personally saw an exploded battery in a 16kw generator. Luckily no one was injured because it was an automatic start. Several technicians have informed me that this happens very often. I suggested to Generac at the time of the incident to voluntarily recall the product and after more than 2 years nothing has changed. The only solution suggested is to change the battery every 3 or 4 years.
- Model
- 0054160
- Serial number
- 4961827
- Bought from
- Home Depot
- Bought
- Feb 5, 2008
- Where
- Mechanicsville, Virginia: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 66, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
No one hurt Made Jun 23, 2016, sent to the company Jul 18, 2016, published by CPSC Aug 10, 2016
The product, in the report: 12” flexible gas line to standby generator
In [REDACTED], we had an electrician install a Generac 11KW standby generator. A flexible hose for gas delivery to the generator was included with it. Our propane company installed the gas line and used the flex hose that came with the generator. About two weeks ago, we noticed the strong odor of gas around the generator. The gas company discovered that an animal, probably a squirrel, had eaten a hole into the flex hose and gas was pouring out of it. We have no idea how long it might have been leaking. We were fortunate that no-one was injured and there was no property damage. This incident is costing us more than $1000. We estimate that we lost about 300 gallons of propane.
I contacted Generac customer service and was informed that the warranty only covers manufacturers’ defects and they don’t consider animal damage a defect in the product. I understand their point, however, an animal-proof hose should have been provided in the first place. I am aware that there was a recall of metal mesh-covered hoses in 2006. Apparently, this is not an adequate replacement.
- Bought from
- New London Electric, Pennsylvania
- Bought
- Dec 1, 2014
- Where
- Cochranville, Pennsylvania: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Not said Made Jun 13, 2016, sent to the company Jun 21, 2016, published by CPSC Jul 6, 2016
The product, in the report: Generac 16kW generator
I have a Generac home generator. Every 2 to 3 years the battery blows up spreading acid inside the generator housing. The Generac repair man stated the battery charger over charges the battery causing hydrogen gas which causes the explosion. I have several friends who tell me they have the same problem. This is a dangerous and could injurer anyone standing close by.
- Model
- model # 4390 16 kW propane
- Serial number
- 4171514
- Bought from
- Home Depot
- Bought
- Jun 14, 2006
- Where
- CAPE CORAL, Florida: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Unspecified
-
First aid Made Jun 11, 2016, sent to the company Jun 20, 2016, published by CPSC Jul 5, 2016
The product, in the report: Generac GP5500 Gasoline Electiricity Generator
As of March of this year lowes at 2790 Arthur Kill Road Staten Island, 10309, has affectively either stolen or lost a Generac GP5500 Gasoline Generator( according to head cashier [REDACTED]) when I forced to try to sell it because the stire had neither hinor the stated salesmans 90 day return policy, the returns clerk who said she would take it back wasnt there, They refused to repair it, lowes hq refused to repair it, and generac said it wasnt their responsibility, despite lying to me about it being an American made product. Lowes refuses to tell me what they did with the generator and refuses to talk to BBB. The product was originally not running correct leaking gasoline from the carburetor and then refused to start and got harder and harder to pull until the point that it kicked back so hard it tore my arm and pulled the cord in. Since I am off the grid and had no vehicle I had to arrange for someone to get it back into them with the intention that they take it back because I noticed in looking at the carburetor it was either notmaschined correctly or I had received a potential refurbished unit sold to me as new. The salesman sold it to me as 90 days return policy for cash and one of the customer service clerks said she would honor that byt when I finally got it in there ( within the 90 days) lowes refused to return cash, no store credit, and refused to fix it! They ordered me to take it iut if their store that it was not their responsibility despite having being within 90 days and having paid for eztended warranty
- Model
- GP 5500
- Bought from
- Lowes, New York
- Bought
- Oct 29, 2013, about then
- Where
- StatenIsland, New York: Other
- Who was involved
- Age 48, Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
-
No one hurt Made Mar 28, 2015, sent to the company Apr 6, 2015, published by CPSC Apr 20, 2015
The product, in the report: “GENERAC” by Briggs & Stratton, 5000 Watt rated Generator, pull start, wheeled.
This generator is used for intermittent power supply at my farm, to run coffee processing equipment. I purchased it from Costco, and first put it into service in July 2005. It probably has about 300 hours of run-time, up until this date, (March 2015) Typically, I roll it out of it’s locked storage room in my “barn” to a roofed open-sided work area; check it for fuel, oil, etc. It is a manual start unit, so I start it, and connect heavy extension cords to it to run a gas-fired roaster, and it’s blower, also lights in the barn work-area. I’ve also used it to run power saws and other tools, and a small “buzz box” stick welder.
I’ve had no problems with in before now, except it does not run well on alcohol based gasoline, so I purchase non-OH Gasoline for it and my other small engines. It has a 5 gallon tank over the large alternator unit with a shut-off valve beneath the tank, and a rubber hose leading to the carburetor of the 10 hp Briggs & Stratton engine.
On Mar. 22, 2015, I setup the generator as usual, started it, and used it to arc-weld a brace from my disc harrow that had snapped, and a heavy-duty grinder to prep and finish off the repair area. Both pieces of equipment throw off a lot of sparks when they’re being used. After I was done, I stopped the unit, by shutting off the valve beneath the gas tank. I noticed it was wet and dripping but seemed to stop after I turned off the valve. I cooled the unit down, then put it away in its locked storage room, thinking I’d take a look at it later, believing it was the “ball” valve that was leaking.
The next day, when I went to the barn, I noticed a strong odor of Gasoline. I unlocked the small storage area, and wheeled the unit out, it still had traces of gasoline on its frame. I checked the valve, and it was hanging beneath the tank by the rubber hose. About 3 gallons of gasoline had leaked onto the concrete floor and evaporated over night. The valve is pressed into a rubber grommet, which in turn has been pressed into a 1/4” hole in the bottom of the tank. Nothing else attaches the shutoff to the tank, Upon subsequent inspection, I found that half of the grommet was still around the neck of the valve, but the other half had broken away at its thin spot, and I later found the top half loose inside of the empty tank.
It would seem that something more substantial than a rubber grommet would be used to secure a main fuel shutoff valve to the bottom of a tank holding 5 gallons of gasoline, especially considering that the tank sits above a brushed electrical generator, and that the entire unit is often used in close proximity to spark creating devices, such as power grinders, and arc welders, and of course it’s own heat creating engine.
- Model
- 01669-0
- UPC
- 0 11675 01669 2
- Serial number
- 7524925
- Bought from
- Costco, Hawaii
- Bought
- Mar 30, 2001
- Where
- Kula, Hawaii: Farm/
Ranch - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by Briggs & Stratton Corporation
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Dec 17, 2014, sent to the company Dec 29, 2014, published by CPSC Jan 13, 2015
The product, in the report: gererator portable
Purchased a new Generac 5500 Generator, followed directions for periodic use to kept unit operating. Total hours on unit 4. First year gas leak in storage. Had carburetor replaced. Second year same problem, having carburetor replaced again. Concerned that this problem has not been addressed properly. Concerned that unit will again start leaking gas. Seeing online multiple complaints. Has there been a recall? I am concerned of a fire as the result of this unit. Also if the unit cannot do as described…be my back-up should I loose power, it is useless. I experienced a week without power in 2012 which is why I bought a generator. I lost food in my refrigerator and freezer.
I want to be assured that the new carburetor from Generac is different and will resolve this problem. I use stabilizer in my gas. There is nothing in the manual that shows how to drain gas from the unit. Do you run it dry and then turn it off or do you leave some gas to prevent gaskets from drying out. Two very different approaches and experts can’t agree.
- Model
- 0057360 GP5500
- Serial number
- 5820049
- Bought from
- Lee Hardware
- Bought
- Jul 1, 2014, about then
- Where
- Terryville, Connecticut: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Gererac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Dec 9, 2014, sent to the company Jan 21, 2015, published by CPSC Feb 4, 2015
The product, in the report: Generator S/N # 6846268
The consumer stated that he received the unit on 02/3/12. He followed the manuel for set-up. The consumer plugged in an electric leaf blower and ran it for 10 minutes. The consumer shut it off afterward since the generator was working fine.
In 08/2012, the consumer started the generator and plugged in an electric leaf blower, ran it for 10 minutes and the put it away. The consumer just wanted to check that the unit was functioning.
The consumer lost power during hurricane Sandy. The consumer set up a heavy duty extension cord with the generator. The cord came into the house. The consumer plugged in a light and a refrigerator into the extention cord. The generator ran for 1 hour. The engine started to rev up and down. The electrical powers began to surge. The consumer unplugged things from the extension cord and shut off the generator. The consumer let the generator cool down and started it up again. The consumer ran the generator for about an hour with the extention cord that had only the light plugged into it. The engine began to rev up and down. The power began to vary. The bulb and the light melted.
The consumer shut everything down.
The consumer ended up leaving the house until the power came back on.
The consumer started looking into who he can take the generator into for a repair. The consumer dropped of his generator at Empire Power Tools and Repair (Patterson, NY) on 11/3/12. The consumer stated that they could not figure out what the problem was. The consumer went back and forth with them multiple times. The consumer has in-depth notes from them. The consumer stated that they could not fix the unit. The consumer picked up his unit on 06/01/13.
The consumer contacted Generac in June-July of 2013. The consumer was contacted from Generac Account Manager for Sears, [REDACTED] on 07/23/13. The consumer was informed that he would look into the matter. The consumer had this conversation through text. The consumer was informed to bring the unit into Skid Steer Rental (Danbury, CT).
The consumer took the unit to Skid Steer Rental on 8/10/13. The consumer followed up with them in fall of 2013. They informed him that they stopped working on his Generac unit because they were not being compensated for the time they spent on this unit even though they are an authorized service center. The consumer was informed that he can pay them for their time to get the unit back, even though the unit was not fixed. They still have the unit.
The consumer contacted the assistant attorney general in CT. The attorney general was contacted by staff attorney from Generac. The staff attorney provided incorrect information to the attorney general. They attorney general contacted the consumer and informed him that she can no longer assist with this since the consumer’s unit was out of warranty.
The consumer stated that the attorney general was provided incorrect information about commercial warranty instead of residential warranty. The consumer stated that his unit was under warranty when Skid Steer Rentals had it for repair.
As of 08/9/14, the unit was still with Skid Steer Rental. The consumer is hoping that they still have his unit.
- Model
- GP17500
- Serial number
- 0057351
- Bought from
- Sears, Connecticut
- Bought
- Nov 19, 2011, about then
- Where
- Danbury, Connecticut: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Nov 11, 2014, sent to the company Nov 18, 2014, published by CPSC Dec 4, 2014
The product, in the report: Generac Guardian whole-house standby generator, model #0052420
On Sunday Nov. 2, a powerful Nor’Easter knocked power out to customers of [REDACTED]in midcoast Maine. At approximately 3 pm, the power flickered, then went out. I have a 7 year-old Generac Guardian 13K whole-house standby generator, model # 0052420, serial # 4785168, which, as it is designed to do, started and picked up the power load approximately 20 seconds after the power went out. Approximately 30 minutes later, I heard a series of electrical “pops” (I realize now that it was four separate surge protectors blowing out), and then my main audio-video amplifier began smoking copiously. I got it unplugged and then went to the basement, where I smelled an electrical problem near the indoor generator control panel. I immediately ran outside and shut down the generator. The power remained out until late Wednesday, Nov. 5. An authorized repair tech came on Tuesday, Nov. 4, started up the generator, and found it was outputting 400 volts. He diagnosed the problem as a faulty voltage regulator. He said he would have to order a replacement. He also said that this problem would not necessarily been uncovered during a routine service of the unit. When power was restored, I had a master electrician in to go over the house wiring. He found a fried circuit breaker on a bedroom circuit on the indoor generator electrical panel. Meantime, I have discovered several appliances in addition to the A/V receiver that are no longer operable. He also told me that had I not been home and/or had not shut down the generator, a fire would likely have broken out. I have spoken to several people who say they have heard of this problem with this vintage of Generac Generator. That there is not a fail-safe surge protector on this generator that would shut it down automatically if voltage surges, I believe, is a dangerous omission. The company has been unresponsive to my queries. I urge CPSC to compel Generac to issue a recall on these generators, fix the problem safely at its expense, and to reimburse any consumer who has suffered losses and/or suffering (as in being without power for three cold days).
- Model
- 0052420
- UPC
- N/
A - Serial number
- 4785168
- Bought from
- Home Depot
- Bought
- Aug 1, 2007, about then
- Where
- Spruce Head, Maine: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac Guardian, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jul 2, 2014, sent to the company Jul 11, 2014, published by CPSC Jul 25, 2014
The product, in the report: Generace Guardian model 040794 10 Kx air-cooled standby generator
This is regarding a Generac Guardian 10 Kw air-cooled standby generator model 040794 serial # 3210726 installed professionally 1/18/2001. The battery exploded when the unit was attempting to start automatically for the weekly “exercise cycle” on 6/30/2014. This has happened a total of 3 times. The original, unbranded generic battery supplied by the installers exploded 5/19/2003. I replaced it with a reputable name brand auto battery. That lasted until I replaced it with another name-brand auto battery 7/7/2007. That battery exploded 7/25/2010, and I replaced it with yet another, different name-brand auto battery. That battery exploded 6/30/2014. When I reported the problem originally to Generac in 2003, Generac denied any responsibility (as did the installers) and told me to pursue any complaint with the battery manufacturer, which of course I could not do since the original battery supplied by the installers was unbranded. The subsequent 2 explosions have involved name brand auto batteries, and so I suspect there is NOT a battery problem but a design flaw in the battery charging circuit of the generator. This causes overcharging of the batteries, loss of electrolyte (boiling out), leading to exposure of the internal plates, and an internal arc under load when the unit attempts to start, leading to explosion of the hydrogen gas in the battery, destruction of the battery, showering of the internal generator cabinet and components with acid and battery case shrapnel. This is a serious problem with the potential for serious injury (blindness, acid burns, shrapnel injury) if I had the cabinet open to manually start the engine (which I had just the week before) and of course the accelerated corrosion of the internal metallic components due to the acid. I propose that Generac redesign and replace the battery charging circuit of the generator at their expense.
- Model
- 040794
- Serial number
- 3210726
- Bought from
- Home Depot
- Bought
- Aug 16, 2000
- Where
- Unspecified: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Apr 29, 2014, sent to the company May 6, 2014, published by CPSC May 20, 2014
The product, in the report: Generac Guardian whole home generator
I experienced a power outage and the generator came online and performed as it was supposed to. At ~3am, they restored power, but the generator did not switch off. At the same time my smoke detectors all began to go off. I went to investigate and found that the transfer switch (Part #C2237) had failed when the power was restored and ignited inside of the panel. I had to remove the panel cover and put the fire out. The switch seized in the “Generator on” position and I could not flip the power back to the house service line until the switch was removed. I disconnected the main service and manually turned the generator to off and then went about removing the failed component. I went to remove the first wire and it exploded off of the switch as soon as I applied pressure to separate it, this sent sparks and hot metal everywhere. I was eventually able to remove the part and manually switch the power from the generator back to the main, but now I am left with the remnants of smoke damage in the basement, the failed part, a singed utility box, and several burnt/damaged wires.
- Model
- Guardian whole home generator
- Where
- Monroe, Michigan: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 25, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand GENERAC, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Sep 3, 2013, sent to the company Sep 11, 2013, published by CPSC Sep 25, 2013
The product, in the report: Generac GP5500 Portable Generator
I have the Generac GP5500 portable generator. My unit is experiencing the same float needle sticking issues reported on CPSC and many internet venues. The plating is flaking off the needle, same as in all the pictures of other people’s units that I have seen. During a power outage last week, I found my running generator surrounded by a pool of fuel on the floor of my barn. I am amazed that everything did not go up in flames. My unit has under 20 hours on it and is about 2 weeks out of warranty. It has always been stored with the carb empty of fuel. I have also always used ethanol free premium Shell gasoline with Sta-Bil added. Generac has an obvious issue with a defective carburetor, specifically with the plating used on the float needle.
I have reported this issue to Generac via e-mail with no response so far. If their response is consistent with others I have seen, they will deny the problem and blame it on dirty fuel. Dirty fuel does not cause a float needle to virtually weld itself into place, as was the case here. The plating process used on the float needle is defective and needs to be addressed by Generac before somebody is killed as a result.
- Model
- GP5500
- Serial number
- 5993458A
- Bought from
- Amazon
- Bought
- Aug 10, 2011
- Where
- Unspecified: Farm/
Ranch - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Aug 3, 2013, sent to the company Aug 12, 2013, published by CPSC Aug 26, 2013
The product, in the report: 7,500 watt portable generator
GENERAC GP7500 E. Put fresh gasoline into NEVER USED, NEVER FUELED generator stored EMPTY in basement near outside door. Immediately Gasoline started to leak out of carburetor air filter weep hole. Never started generator. MFG referred me to local service center who said these all leak within a week of fueling but there is no recall or warranty coverage because MFG does not warranty fuel related problems.
This was fresh gas, just put in.
This problem seems to be a stuck open needle valve.
Champion Power Equipment has a similar problem with their carburetors and has issued a recall.
Generac does not seem concerned.
- Model
- 005943
- Serial number
- 6007631A
- Bought from
- HOME DEPOT, Delaware
- Bought
- Aug 27, 2011
- Where
- Hockessin, Delaware: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand GENERAC, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Mar 7, 2013, sent to the company Mar 18, 2013, published by CPSC Apr 1, 2013
The product, in the report: Generac GP7000 Portable Generator
Generac GP7000 model 005625-0 portable generator caught fire. Generator was purchased new 6 months ago. This was the first time it was used for more than 30 minutes. After about 8 hours of continuous use, the rubber tire was found consumed with fire and the muffler was on the ground. I believe the muffler vibrated off of the generator and fell onto the tire, catching it on fire. I further believe that the manufacturer failed to install two bolts that hold the muffler in place, resulting in a failure in the connection between the engine and the muffler, which may also have been corroded, causing the muffler to fall off onto the tire
- Model
- CP7000 005625-0
- Bought from
- CPO
- Bought
- Sep 4, 2012
- Where
- Charlottesville, Virginia: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jan 30, 2013, sent to the company Feb 6, 2013, published by CPSC Feb 21, 2013
The product, in the report: Portable generator MFG = Generac Model GP5500
I own a Generac GP5500 generator purchased in May 2011. The problem I have experienced is massive fuel leakage from the carburetor after the unit has been stored for several months and then put into service. Storage of the generator was in a conditioned space (garage).
The procedure issued by the manufacturer is to run the unit with fuel shut off until the generator quits running. I followed this procedure before storing the unit. Having been trained to work on small and large engines and after the fuel spill occurred, I removed and disassembled the carburetor. I found that the float needle was stuck in the open position due to heavy corrosion of the needle valve, which caused it to remain in the open position, allowing fuel to continue to fill the float chamber.
This corrosion is definetly a defect which deserves an immediate recall by the manufacturer. If an open flame or ignition source had been present when this occurred there is no doubt in my mind this would have been a serious fire and likely explosion of the fuel tank.
- Model
- name = GP5500 number = 0057360
- Serial number
- 5543403A
- Bought from
- Home Depot, Pennsylvania
- Bought
- May 16, 2011
- Where
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 63, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Nov 14, 2012, sent to the company Jan 25, 2013, published by CPSC Feb 8, 2013
The product, in the report: Generator
The consumer stated that she purchased a generator and when she went to turn it on it started to leak gasoline from the carburetor. The consumer stated that she decided to turn off the generator immediately and also turned off the fuel switch.
The consumer stated that she was afraid that if the gas continued to leak if it came in contact with the hot engine it can cause a fire.
The consumer stated that she searched online and found many reports in regards to these defective generators. The consumer stated that she was upset because she lost $700 on a defective generator that could have caused a fire.
The consumer stated that she contacted the manufacturer and they referred her to an authorized repair services.
- Model
- GP5500
- UPC
- Unknown
- Serial number
- Unknown
- Bought from
- Lowes, Ohio
- Bought
- Mar 20, 2012
- Where
- Elyria, Ohio: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Aug 14, 2012, sent to the company Aug 29, 2012, published by CPSC Sep 13, 2012
The product, in the report: Generac Guardian 15KW Whole House
I have a whole house Generac Guardian generator with a GTS 12 breaker load center. This uses a Generac Transfer Switch Part # C2237. At 4:45am on 8/14/12 i was awoken by a very loud pop from the basement and my fire alarm sounding. The power had gone out over night and the generator ran all night without problem, when the power came back on at 4:45 the switch must have failed and overloaded causing it to burst into flames. I opened the smokey extremely hot box to flames and melting wires. The flames would not just blow out, i had to use a fire extinguisher. I contacted Generac customer service and was informed it is not longer under warranty, “Sorry”. My house could have burnt down and my family could have died, “Sorry” does not seem to cut it.
- Model
- Guardian 15KW
- Where
- Homer Glen, Illinois: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 34, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jul 11, 2012, sent to the company Aug 21, 2012, published by CPSC Sep 5, 2012
The product, in the report: Guardian Generator
08/2010 The consumer stated that her friend was taking care of her home while she was overseas. The consumer stated that the friend informed her that they had experienced a power outage and that the generator had not worked.
The consumer stated that she contacted that manufacturer and they send a technician to service the generator. The consumer stated that the technician informed her that the battery on the generator had exploded and that was the reason why it was not working. The consumer stated that the manufacturer charged her for the replacement of the battery.
07/01/2012 The consumer stated that she contacted the fire department and they informed her that there was oil all over the bottom of the generator. They advise that she turn it off because it poses a fire hazard.
07/02/2012 (Est.) The consumer stated that at the moment the generator was not working. She had experienced a power outage and the generator did not work properly. The consumer contacted the manufacturer and informed them that she was experiencing problems with the generator and that it was giving an error message warning about the oil. The consumer stated that the technician that looked at the generator stated that nothing was wrong with the generator.
The consumer stated that no one was injured.
The consumer stated that she was concern because of the fire hazard that it poses. The consumer believe that this product should be investigated.
- Model
- Guardian Generator /
0052400 - UPC
- Unknown
- Serial number
- 4670586
- Bought from
- John C Flood, Virginia
- Bought
- Jan 1, 2007, about then
- Where
- Falls Church, Virginia: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac Power Systems, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jul 9, 2012, sent to the company Jul 23, 2012, published by CPSC Aug 6, 2012
The product, in the report: Automatic Standby Generator, 7kw
The 12 volt lead acid battery in our generator exploded. The generator is made by Generac Power Systems, model 04389, 7kw air cooled automatic standby generator. The s/n is 4299489. The unit is about 6 years old. The battery is used to automatically start the generator in the event of a power outage. Luckily the enclosure contained most of the acid that was blown out of the battery, and no one was near the unit at the time.
- Model
- 0043893
- Serial number
- 4299489
- Bought from
- Colwell Diesel Service
- Bought
- Dec 5, 2005, about then
- Where
- Trenton, Maine: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 57, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac Power Systems, Guardian Plus, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Apr 13, 2012, sent to the company Apr 20, 2012, published by CPSC May 4, 2012
The product, in the report: GENERAC GP5500 GAS LEAK I
GENERAC GP5500 GAS LEAK I purchased 2 Generac GP5500 portable gas generators One unit from Lowe’s on 9/11/11 and the other unit from Power Equipment Direct on 8/30/11. Both generators are made in China. I thought I was purchasing a Generator made in the U.S.A., like Generac claims. NOT TRUE.
I filled one unit with gas, which was purchased the same day through the provided screen/filter, in the filler opening. The unit started and ran. After 6/10ths running hour on the built in hour meter, I happened to walk near the generator, and was hit with a tremendous gas smell. I looked down at the generator and saw gas pouring out of the front part of the air cleaner cover as well as the rear portion of the carburetor. I immediately shut the generator down, and closed the fuel supply. I then pulled the air cleaner cover off, removed the double foam filter, and opened the fuel supply. Gas was pouring out of the right side carburetor inlet.
I immediately called Generac and was told by a Customer Service representative to bring it to an authorized service center. (By the way, the nearest is 40 miles.) I had asked if there is a known problem with this carburetor. He would not answer my question. He replied again, “bring it to an authorized service center”. I called the service center to explain my problem, and asked if they have had other gas leak problems with these generators. They told me they had several units come in with the same gas leak.
Later that evening, I searched the Web. I found many posts and topics on this “GENERAC GAS LEAK PROBLEM”. There’s even a video on Youtube. I also found out it’s not just the GP5500 series. It has happened to the GP3250, GP6500, as well as other wattage models in the Generac line. Today, April 13, 2012, I called Generac again to file a formal complaint. I spoke to [redacted]. She noted my complaint and issued me a complaint case number.
I had a return call from [redacted], who is a resolution specialist for Generac. She told me to bring the units to an authorized service center to identify the problem. I will be bringing both units in for service, and to find out what’s really going on with these carburetors. I do not trust these units even if they are fixed. It’s a poor design. I saw one post that another consumer brought his generator in for service 3 times. The carburetor still leaked gas. I don’t feel safe having 5 gallons of gas sitting on top of the engine. This is just a major catastrophe waiting to happen. I WILL NOT ENDANGER MYSELF, OR MY FAMILY MEMBERS. GENERAC NEEDS TO ADDRESS THIS PROBLEM, AND START THE RECALL PROCESS. I’m sure, thousands of units sold within the last year, have this type of carburetor.
I KNOW GENERAC KNOWS OF THIS PROBLEM. THEY HAVE RESPONDED TO COMPLAINTS ON THIS WEBSITE.
- Model
- GENERAC GP5500 PORTABLE GENERATOR
- Serial number
- 6427036 and 6030135A
- Bought from
- Power equipment direct and Lowe’s
- Bought
- Aug 30, 2011
- Where
- New York: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand GENERAC, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Apr 2, 2012, sent to the company Apr 10, 2012, published by CPSC Apr 24, 2012
The product, in the report: Generac 5623 GP6500 8,000 Watt 389cc OHV Portable Gas Powered Generator
Generac 5623 GP6500 8,000 Watt 389cc OHV Portable Gas Powered Generator
I usually think “maybe the person on the other end of the review just got a bad unit or did something wrong” but there is a very serious issue here, I plan to put Amazon to their limit, Generac to theirs and file a complaint with what ever portion of the federal government has the authority to force these units to be recalled.
My story: I bought this unit on Oct 31 2011, I have run it for < 1 hour in order to keep the gasoline in it moving, I have never run it under load (no power outages since I took delivery). This past weekend my garage was overwhelmed with gasoline fumes. I tracked the leak to the generator, it was leaking out of what appears to be an air filter in the from of the unit, the filters were soaked with gasoline, I removed them and see the leak is likely from behind the air filter unit. Today I went and did a [REDACTED] search for other Generac gas leaks and found another unit on Amazon with 4 other reviews that report gasoline leaks. http://www.amazon.com/Generac-5736-Portable-Powered-Generator/product-reviews/B001ET6WHQ/ref=cm_cr_dp_synop?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=0&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending#R1125IRXCQ0XOP
I guess I was lucky, if this had gotten this bad while the unit was running then I would have more problems, but I feel completely cheated out of my $, I will not stop until either one of these happens:
1) Amazon eats this purchase and removes all Generac generators from their site
2) Generace eats this purchase
3) the federal government forces #1 or #2
Please keep away from Generac.
[REDACTED]
- Model
- Generac 5623 GP6500
- Bought from
- amazon.com
- Bought
- Oct 31, 2011
- Where
- Westford, Unspecified: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jan 20, 2012, sent to the company Jan 30, 2012, published by CPSC Feb 13, 2012
The product, in the report: Model 0043902; Placed in service Sept 29,2005 Regular yearly service (oil, filter, battery check, etc.) Previous battery failure, one transfer switch replacement required.
Home Standby generator made by Genrac Power Systems installed at time of house construction and maintained on yearly Service Contract.
Date Placed in Service: September 29, 2005 Model Number: 0043902 Serial Number: 3905863 Starting Battery: installed by service technician - maintenance free battery.
Yesterday, generator failed to start when there was a residential power failure. Inspection demonstrated that the starting battery had exploded. Generator enclosure prevented the various bits of battery shrapnel and acid from causing injury. Ambient temperature was about 33 degrees F.
A cursory internet search reveals that this appears to be a common problem reported with these units. Internet forums theorize that the charging voltage is excessive for the suggested battery type. Many have reportedly jerry-rigged their generators to alternative charging methods to prevent battery explosions. The company does not have a solution or recall or response on their website/forms.
Please see: http://www.zillerelectric.com/forums/showthread.php?t=135&page=3 http://www.c-brats.com/viewtopic.php?t=16324 http://www.zillerelectric.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1504 http://www.saferproducts.gov/ViewIncident/1195204
- Model
- 0043902
- Serial number
- 3905863
- Bought
- Sep 29, 2005
- Where
- Zionsville, Indiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 51, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jan 10, 2012, sent to the company Jan 19, 2012, published by CPSC Feb 2, 2012
The product, in the report: Generac 6500 KW 120/240 Volt
I purchased a Generac 6.5 KW portable generator about 10 months ago. I was surprised and disappointed to see a Made in China label inside the fromt panel instead of made in Wisconsin, USA, but I had already made the purchase. Last week we lost power and I hooked up the generator and started it up. I began smelling gasoline and looked back at the generator and gasoline was flowing, not dripping, flowing from the carbuerator, pooling all around the generator. I crossed my fingers and turned the ignition switch to off. I turned the fuel valve closed and the fues stopped flowing shrtly after. My neighbor purchased a [REDACTED] generator early last summer, it was also made in China. The second time he turned the fuel valve on gasoline flowed freely from the carbuerator to the ground, pooling all around the generator, fortunately he didn’t try to start it. I witnessed the leaking gasoline. Apparently many name brands companies have imported Chinese made gernerators and placed their names on them, Generac, [REDACTED], [REDACTED], and others. I have looked at several generators made in China and they all have one thing in common, the same engine style and carbuerator. I had my carbuerator replaced today under warranty and asked the mechanic how many similar problems he had seen and he said only a couple. He said Generac has a 90 day right to request the faulty parts so I couldn’t get the old carbuerator. An emergency stand-by portable generator doesn’t get started very often and many owners may not turn the fuel valve on but once per year. It appears the float valve does not work on these carbuerators allowing fuel to flow freely without shutting it off. Extremely dangerous. If I had started my generator and went back into the house, I am certain I would have lost everything to a fire. Please investigate this matter with all Chinese made generators which are sold under most well known brands at a low cost. There is no doubt a real problem with these engines, it is more than a coincidence that 2 new generators of different brands, seperated by 3 houses, would have the same problem. Thank You, [REDACTED]
- Model
- 0059400
- UPC
- 6 96471 05940 3
- Serial number
- 6071845A
- Bought from
- Power Equipment Direct, Illinois
- Bought
- Mar 1, 2011
- Where
- Adrian, Michigan: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jan 2, 2012, sent to the company Jan 10, 2012, published by CPSC Jan 25, 2012
The product, in the report: Generac model 4389 7KW home standby generator
Battery inside Generac model 4389 standby generator overcharged and burst (exploded), spilling acid electrolyte.
- Model
- 0043893
- Serial number
- 4353972
- Bought from
- Home Depot, Louisiana
- Bought
- Jul 1, 2006, about then
- Where
- St. Amant, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Dec 22, 2011, sent to the company Jan 3, 2012, published by CPSC Jan 18, 2012
The product, in the report: Generac Portable Electric generator, 7500W Electric Start
Generac 7500W Electric Start Gasoline fuel leaks from unit when unit is shut off. With only 2.9 hrs of run time and I wake up to a pint of gas (&Fumes) on my garage floor. This situation is extremely dangerous as it causes uncontrolled release of highly flammable gasoline.
I considered it to be too dangerous to try starting the unit since I was unsure if the entire fuel system would explode.
I waited over 1 hr to talk to someone live at the main office and man I get is helpless and useless. He refused to connect me to someone in their engineering department, instead he suggested I complete an Incident Report Form, which I did on 12/20. I have heard nothing in response.
This is a safety issue associated with Generac equipment and their response is for me to take it to a local authorized dealer, or in my case, as I have no way to transport the generator, pay to have the dealer come to my house to diagnose. The authorized dealer I spoke with was not aware of any reports from the factory of defects and dangerous fuel leaks. He suggested the problem was caused by ethanol in the gasoline I used. That is ludicrous.
They refuse to admit that they have a problem, likely initiated with faulty parts in China.
I read the reviews posted on the Internet and found 3 other identical complaints since October (after I bought my unit for $1K).
This is a serious safety issue. How do I know that this defective piece of equipment now leaking gas will not explode when I try to use. Howe many other defective units are now in the homes of unsuspecting consumers who are now exposed to a fire hazard?
What any Quality Company should have said was, “WE KNOW WE HAVE A SAFETY PROBLEM WITH OUR EQUIPMENT YOU STORE IN YOUR HOUSE. WE HAVE IDENTIFIED THE ROOT CAUSE AND CORRECTIVE ACTION. WE WILL CORRECT OUR PROBLEM OR REPLACE THE UNIT WITH A NEW ONE, WHATEVER YOU CHOOSE. SAFETY IS OF UTMOST IMPORTANCE TO US”
I GOT NONE OF THAT. REDICULOUS.
The Federal Gov’t needs to be aware of the risks that consumers are exposed to and the lack of care and attention that Generac is providing.
- Model
- 5943
- Serial number
- 6073595A
- Bought from
- Electric Generator Direct
- Bought
- Sep 26, 2011
- Where
- Coatesville, Pennsylvania: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 48, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Sep 30, 2011, sent to the company Oct 12, 2011, published by CPSC Oct 26, 2011
The product, in the report: Generac Guardian 15KW LP Whole House Stand-By Generator, Yellow-orange.
I own a Generac Guardian Whole House Stand-By Generator, model 43903, serial # 4319281. I purchased this genset new in the spring/summer of 2006 and had it installed by a Generac Dealer - Crandford Electric.
This genset has always cooked/overcharged batteries, causing me to have to buy a replacement about every year or so. The charging voltage was WAY too high - like 14 volts.
Roughly a year & a half ago, I was standing right beside the genset (just finished cutting the grass) at the time it is supposed to crank for its weekly exercise run. When it tried to crank - it didn’t turn over or anything - the battery exploded!!! I cleaned it out, purchased a new battery and installed it and the genset cranked and ran normally.
Now flash forward to the date referenced, the genset will not stay running. It cranks and runs for ~15 seconds, then cycles back off. Then cranks again, runs, then back off. etc. Eventually, it shuts down with an “OVERCRANK” led flashing. Apparently, the exploding battery sent shrapnel into the stator, and damaged the run windings, which provide run voltage indication to the control circuit board.
Despite a tremendous amount of evidence online that MANY other people are having/have had this same problem with Generacs, their initial reply to me was that they were unaware of any issues with their chargers. That is completely unsatisfactory in my opinion. Which is why I am contacting you folks.
- Model
- Generac Guardian Whole House Stand-By Generator, Model 43903
- Serial number
- 4319281
- Bought from
- Cranford Electric - Certified Dealer
- Bought
- Jun 1, 2006, about then
- Where
- Oriental, North Carolina: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 42, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac Guardian, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Aug 16, 2011, published by CPSC Sep 8, 2011
The product, in the report: EMERGENCY GENERATOR - ELECTRICAL TRANSFER SWITCH (PART #C2237)
This involves a electrical transfer switch on an emergency generator. During operation one of the electrical coils which switches the power from the utility source to the generator suddenly burns up and catches fire. In a call to the manufacturer, Generac in wisconsin, the company representative said they have had similar reports of such failures. She also said there was no recall or investigation under way. The part is a Generac 100 amp 250 volt transfer switch, part # c2237. Warranty is only 3 years. I bought a new one, but this switch should be recalled and redesigned.
- Model
- c2237
- Bought from
- home depot, Mississippi
- Bought
- Aug 15, 2006
- Where
- Gulfport, Mississippi: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Aug 3, 2011, published by CPSC Sep 13, 2011
The product, in the report: Emergency Standby 7kw Generator
Caller was not at home when battery in his standby generator blew up. This generator stays active but not running in case power goes off in house, it monitors power source in home. Once a week the generator automatically does a system check Battery inside generator comes on when the power goes off, battery has had a constant trickle that caller believes may have built up and caused the battery to blow up. Caller reporting this incident as a severe safety issue due to the chance of harm is intense if an owner were looking in the generator at the time the acid could enter his or her eyes, skin etc.
This CSR checked for recall but only fuel hose recall was for 12 inch braided flex fuel hoses used with Guardian® Home Standby Air-Cooled Generators with serial numbers 3789827 and below and this one’s serial number begins with above 400 digits.
- Model
- 0043893
- Serial number
- 4087156
- Bought from
- Anderson Power Supply, Georgia
- Bought
- Jun 7, 2005
- Where
- Atlanta, Georgia: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Aug 3, 2011, published by CPSC Aug 26, 2011
The product, in the report: Whole House Standby generator, Model 04456-1
The home standby generator I have is Model 04456-1, 12kw made by Generac Power Systems. It is a “whole house” type, and it starts up automatically when utility power is lost. The mean it requires a battery to run the starter. The problem is with the charging system that Generac utilized to keep the battery fully charged. It charged the battery at too high a voltage (approx. 14v DC). the proper voltage should be somewhere in the area of 13.4-13.5 vDC. When the battery is charged over a period of months, the excessive voltage level causes the electrolye to “boil off”, which eventually exposes the plates inside, and results in a build-up of gas. The battery then actually explodes, sending battery acid and parts of the battery case flying all over the interior of the unit, or on a person if they happen to start the generator manually during servicing or repair, resulting in severe acid burns. This problem has been discussed on generator “forums”, and is not an isolated thing. Generac Power Systems is aware of the flaw in these charging systems, but refuses to acknowledge any problems, or offer to repair the units....even when they were under warranty. Even after pictures have been sent by owners of exploded batteries. One way they have “acknowledged” the problem with out actually stating it, is that they have since reduced the voltage of the newer units to the acceptable levels I mentioned above. There is a very good chance that someone has gotten splashed by this battery acid, and in some cases the flying parts have just missed small children that were nearby. I am including some links to a well-known generator forum that has this problem discussed quite a bit: http://zillerstore.com/forums/showthread.php?t=506&highlight=exploding+battery http://zillerstore.com/forums/showthread.php?t=882&highlight=exploding+battery http://zillerstore.com/forums/showthread.php?t=531&highlight=exploding+battery http://zillerstore.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1022&highlight=exploding+battery www.zillerelectric.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1504
- Model
- Model 04456-1
- Bought from
- Home Depot
- Bought
- Jun 15, 2004, about then
- Where
- New Windsor, New York: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 50, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac, made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jul 1, 2011, published by CPSC Aug 4, 2011
The product, in the report: Generator
Earlier this year I purchased a new generator for the purpose of having back-up power in the event of a power outage, which actually happened within 24 hours of my purchase. I also have a hunting camp which does not have commercial power. I use a generator to run a well pump and charge batteries for approximately 3 hours a day. I should add that I have had this camp for almost 12 years now and have had no electrical issues in that period of time. I am in the process of trying to sell my camp due to health reasons. Because of this placement on the Market I switched my 12 KW generator for this 5 KW generator purely for economic reasons. The 5 KW generator in question is manufactured by Generac Corp. I should also add that prior to the acquisition of the 12 KW generator set that I had a Generac 5500 KW that served me very well for 9 -10 years when it finally failed. During those previous years the generator would run considerably more as I had not perfected my battery system until more recently. Now for the problem. As just stated I replaced a much larger generator set with this 5 KW Guardian Generac set. Prior to me taking it to my camp it had less than 2 hours of run time on it. As of this writing it still has only about 20 hours or less total running time, less than a 24 hour day. My problems began on June 3rd. I was inside my camp doing some painting and had the generator running to provide me with light to paint by. That first day of trouble it ran for about 5 hrs. On the 3rd, while I was painting, I had my stereo playing. Suddenly the stereo just decided to quit operating. I tinkered with it for a short time and simply gave up thinking it had simply gone bad for unknown reasons. For unexplained reasons, a short time later the stereo began working again. Next I got my digital volt/ohm meter out and checked the power at a receptacle to see what voltage was being produced by this new generator. It read 120.6-8 volts. At the time I thought this a bit peculiar as the generator is located between 100 and 150 feet away from the dwelling and there is generally a small voltage loss of 1-3 volts because of the distance. I told my friend what had happened and we both took a look at the new generator to see if there were any problems that may have caused the higher voltage and the stereo acting up. None were found at that time. I resumed painting and a short time later all the lights went out. Now I thought my friend was in the Generator hut tinkering with it still looking for a problem. Then they came back on. A short time later they went out again, same assumption, then came back on again. Then they went out again and this time my friend came in and I asked him why he had turned the generator off? HE DIDN’T, IT WAS STILL RUNNING AND THE LIGHTS WERE STILL OUT! I again checked the voltage and had the same results. 120.6-8 volts. We decided to shut it down and start it again later when we were going to do dishes and take our showers. It functioned perfectly the rest of the time it was on line that afternoon. On the 4th of June I resumed painting once again with the generator running and the stereo going trying to finish the job. I should also mention that on the 3rd one of the battery chargers we use to recharge our deep cycle batteries was buzzing very loudly. At that time I unplugged it and apparently upon doing so the voltage had dropped back to 120 volts as the other charger was not making any noise I could notice. I resumed my painting which was going well for awhile until my stereo quit again. I tried tinkering with it again but this time it was never going to work again. Suddenly, from over 30 feet away, I heard the other charger buzzing wildly! I quickly unplugged the other charger. Then suddenly all the lights in the camp got as bright as the sun! I quickly retrieved my meter and check the voltage again. This time, at the same receptacle, I was reading well over 170 volts! Assuming that both phases are producing the same voltage that adds up to 340 volts! We quickly shut it down! To make it short, after a final test and inspection this generating unit has probably ruined both chargers. It did ruin my stereo and my well pump. Since I had bought this unit from my local Lowe’s building center and the directions on the unit state that I should call the Lowe’s 800 number provided instead of bringing it back. This I did, and was immediately transferred to Generac Corp. I was told that my generator was not intended for use in any location where commercial power is not available as is “ apparently “ stated in the warranty conditions. I bought this unit off the floor and am not even sure if I even received any printed material. And the person selling it to me certainly did not tell me it was not intended for use in special situations only.
All of what I have just stated is my problem and not something you would normally get involved in. “ BUT “, the disturbing thing about all that I have just explained, and also explained in detail to Generac, is the fact that they express absolutely no concern at all that this style of generator, in all probability, will cause a house fire and could very well cause fatalities! It mattered not that this unit STILL has only about 20 hours on it. In normal power outage situations, power may be out for over a week. Most people I know do not know much at all about electricity and certainly not how to use a meter. Many people will fill their generators up with fuel and leave them running all night, especially in cold weather when heavy snow and ice storms take down many power lines. They will leave their generators running all night just to keep their homes warm and also to prevent water lines from freezing. This is something I have done myself in past years. I can only thank God that this did not happen under these circumstances and cause a house fire in my home! I find Generac’s lack of concern for the public’s welfare that they are selling these to be absurd and unconscionable! At the time I bought this unit, I was proud to do so as it is “ Made in America “! After this unpleasant experience I guess that fact is about as good as being made in China as they all have the same quality. I feel this is something that needs your attention. My problems are being covered by my insurance Co. so this is not a plea for money, though I feel they are responsible. My concern is one more of compassion for my fellow man, and I would hope others would feel the same about a similar situation.
- Model
- 5 KW Guardian
- Bought from
- Lowe’s
- Where
- Saginaw, Michigan: Other
- Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Generac Corp., made or sold by GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS, INC.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
CPSC’s disclaimer
Disclaimer: CPSC does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of the Publicly Available Consumer Product Safety Information Database on SaferProducts.gov, particularly with respect to information submitted by people outside of CPSC.
Word for word, from the disclaimer in CPSC’s export.
Sources
Sources
-
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, SaferProducts.gov public database export.
Released Nov 5, 2026 and checked Nov 5, 2026. Updated daily. Public domain (U.S. Government work). CPSC asks to be credited, and that no endorsement be implied.
Reports of harm are from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), on SaferProducts.gov. CPSC does not endorse Hearth Record.