On November 13, 2012, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a recall that could potentially affect consumers currently using generators for power after Hurricane Sandy.  The specific recalled generator is the Powermate Sx 5500, and consumers need to stop using this product immediately.  

About 7700 generators are affected by this voluntary recall, and many consumers in the Northeast may be affected.  The generators were sold exclusively at Home Depot stores in the Northeast, Midwest, and Southeast of the United States from February 2012 to August 2012.  The generators sold for about $550.  

The generators were manufactured in China by Am Pride Chongqing Senci IMP & EXP Trade Co. and imported by Pramac America LLC in Kearney, Nebraska.  Pramac America announces that it has received 51 different reports of the fuel filter leaking.  Although no injuries or fires have been reported, a gasoline leak is still a huge fire hazard.  

In order to identify the generator, look for “Powermate 5500” printed on the side of the generator.  The item is black and red and comes with wheels, and the product has a model number of PM0125500.  The model number is printed on a plate on the back of the generator, and the serial numbers for the recalled products range from K003xxxxxQ to K090xxxxxQ.  

Consumers need to stop using this product immediately.  If you’re in an emergency situation, you should still stop using the generator and find an alternative method of power.  You can contact Pramac America to receive a new replacement filter, hose, and clamps to replace the old fuel line.  You can contact Pramac America at (800) 445-1805 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT on Monday through Friday.  You can also visit the company’s website for more information about the recall.  

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission