About the Recalled Products
The expanded recall announced May 14, 2026 covers the following models manufactured by Generac Power Systems Inc. of Waukesha, Wisconsin:
- Generac Model G0089111
- Generac Model G0088941
- Generac Model G0088951
- DR Power Model DPW3109DEN
These approximately 16,260 units were sold at Menards, Home Depot, Amazon, and other major home improvement retailers from November 2021 through February 2026, priced between $500 and $590.
Latest Updates
The CPSC announced the expanded recall on May 14, 2026, citing six new reports of pressure washers self-starting and adding four models not covered by the original 2022 recall [1]. The original April 28, 2022 recall covered approximately 53,000 units after nine self-starting incidents were reported — meaning this same defect has now generated 15 documented incidents across four years and two separate recalls [2].
The Carbon Monoxide Danger
Gas-powered pressure washers produce carbon monoxide — a colorless, odorless gas that can reach lethal concentrations within minutes in a garage, shed, or other enclosed space. When the electric start/stop button malfunctions and activates the engine without the user’s knowledge, the unit can run unattended in whatever space it was stored, releasing CO before anyone realizes what is happening.
The CPSC has long warned that CO poisoning from gas-powered equipment is one of the leading causes of accidental poisoning deaths in the United States. A pressure washer that starts itself in a garage connected to a living space creates exactly the scenario federal safety standards are designed to prevent.
A Defect Generac Knew About Since 2022
The self-starting defect was first identified and publicly reported in April 2022, when Generac recalled 53,000 units after nine self-starting incidents. Despite that recall, Generac continued selling pressure washers — including the DR Power model and three additional Generac models — with the same defect for nearly four more years before the 2026 expansion. The 2026 recall adds 16,260 more units, all sold after the original recall was announced.
That timeline is legally significant. If Generac knew about the self-starting defect in 2022 and continued manufacturing and distributing units with the same design flaw, the four-year gap between the original recall and the expanded recall may support claims for enhanced damages beyond the product’s purchase price.
Reported Incidents
Six self-starting incidents have been reported in connection with the newly recalled models; no injuries or property damage have been documented in this expansion. The original 2022 recall similarly involved nine self-starting incidents with no reported injuries at that time.
The absence of reported injuries does not minimize the risk — a self-starting pressure washer in an occupied garage or storage space can reach dangerous CO levels before symptoms of poisoning appear. CO poisoning symptoms include headache, dizziness, and confusion, and victims may lose consciousness before they can exit the space.
Can I File a Lawsuit?
If you or a family member suffered carbon monoxide poisoning or another injury linked to a Generac or DR Power electric start pressure washer, you may have a product liability claim against Generac Power Systems. Contact an attorney promptly, as filing deadlines vary by state.
What to Do Now
Stop using the recalled pressure washer immediately. As a temporary measure, the battery can be removed and the unit operated using the pull-start only. Contact Generac at 800-396-9047 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. CT) or visit generac.com/about/recalls/pressure-washer to arrange a free repair.
References
1. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2026/Generac-Power-Systems-Expands-Recall-of-Generac-and-DR-Power-Electric-Start-Pressure-Washers-Due-to-Risk-of-Serious-Injury-or-Death-from-Carbon-Monoxide-Hazard-Includes-Additional-Models
2. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2022/Generac-Power-Systems-Recalls-Generac-and-DR-Power-Electric-Start-Pressure-Washers-Due-to-Carbon-Monoxide-Hazard
3. https://www.generac.com/about/recalls/electric-start-pressure-washer/