Honda has issued a recall of approximately 200,000 portable inverter generators because gasoline can leak from the fuel valve and create a fire hazard. Honda dealers are offering a free repair.
There are three models being recalled, all sold between February 2018 and February 2019:
- EU2200i
- EU2200i Companion
- EB2200i
These generators were sold at Honda power equipment dealers and home improvement stores, including Home Depot. They retailed for between $1,100 and $1,300 and were sold in both red and camouflage appearance.
Although the Honda EG2800i was subject to an earlier recall involving potential fuel leakage from the carburetor, Honda says that the issue is unrelated. “The mechanism of the leakage in the earlier recall is completely different from this new recall activity,” said a spokesperson. “In fact, the models are actually produced at different factories.”
The problem with the newly recalled generators is a manufacturing defect, the Honda spokesperson said. “The screws used to assemble the fuel valve may loosen during use, allowing the valve to leak fuel,” he explained.
Honda has received 19 reports that fuel leaked from the fuel valves in the recalled models. According to Consumer Reports, the Consumer Product Safety Commission has not received any injury reports.
It’s clear, however, that the potential injuries from this product defect are serious, including burns and other injuries associated with fire.
Stop using the recalled generator immediately and schedule a free repair
Honda will be contacting all known buyers of the affected generators, but that only includes people who registered their purchase. If you did not register, or if you would like to know immediately whether your generator is affected, visit the CPSC’s recall notice and check your serial number. This can be found on a lower corner of one of the generator’s side panels.
Honda power equipment dealers will perform a repair, which includes replacing the fuel valve, at no charge. “Due to the complicated nature of replacing the fuel valve, this is a repair that can only be accomplished by an authorized dealer,” said the Honda spokesperson.
When a defective product injures someone, the manufacturer, the distributor and/or the retailer could potentially be held liable to compensate the injured person. If you have been injured by a household product, have a personal injury attorney who is familiar with product liability evaluate your situation and explain your options.
