Portable generators are being recalled by Generac due to finger amputation and crushing hazards

Generac is recalling about 321,160 Generac and DR 6500 Watt and 8000 Watt portable generators in the United States and 4,575 in Canada.

An unlocked handle can pinch consumers’ fingers against the generator frame when the generator is moved, posing finger amputation and crushing hazards.

Generac has received eight reports of injuries, seven resulting in finger amputations and one in finger crushing. 

This recall involves 6500 watt and 8000 watt Generac portable generators with unit type numbers XT8000E, XT8000EFI, GP6500, GP6500E, and GP8000E; HomeLink 6500E portable generators; and DR models PRO 6500M and PRO 6500E portable generators.

The generators have gasoline-powered engines that are used to generate electricity for use as backup power. They have two-wheels and a single, U-shaped, two-grip, flip-up pin-lock handle to help move the generator.

Only the generators listed below are included in this recall. The unit type is identified on the front of the product. 

The model and serial numbers are printed on a label on the product. Consumers can also check specific unit type, model number, and serial number location information at www.generac.com/service-support/product-support-lookup.

The portable generators were sold at major home improvement and hardware stores nationwide and online, including Ace Hardware, Amazon, Blain’s Farm & Fleet, City Electric Supply, Costco, Do it Best, Fastenal, Home Depot, Lowe’s Stores, Napa Auto Parts, Northern Tool & Equipment, Orgill, Power Equipment Direct, Ravitsky Bros., True Value, and W.W. Grainger. They were sold from June 2013 through June 2021 for between $790 and $1,480.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled portable generators, unless the locking pin has been inserted to secure the handle in place before and after moving the generator, and contact Generac for a free repair kit, the company and U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission advise. 

For more information, call Generac 844-242-3493 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit www.generac.com/handleguard or www.generac.com and click on “Important Safety Information.”

For details on other recalls, see www.recalls.gov.