Portable generators recall 00-047

Portable generators

Safe Generator Use for Y2K: CPSC, DeVilbiss Air Power Company Alert Consumers About Gasoline Tanks on Certain Portable Generators

CPSC published a recall notice for Portable generators from DeVilbiss Air Power Company (DAPC) on December 30, 1999. CPSC identifies this hazard: CPSC and DAPC are investigating whether the fuel tanks on the generators can crack where the tanks mount on the frame, posing a fire hazard. As a precaution until that evaluation is complete, consumers should not put more than three gallons of gasoline in the fuel tanks at any time. The official remedy states: Any consumer who has seen leakage from the tank should not use the generator and should contact DAPC to obtain a free warranty replacement tank.

What to check on the product label

Compare every letter, number, space, and suffix. A similar-looking product may not be included in this recall.

The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.

Additional identifying details

The date is on the serial barcode label found on one of the gasoline tank support rails and on the shipping carton label.

Why it was recalled

CPSC and DAPC are investigating whether the fuel tanks on the generators can crack where the tanks mount on the frame, posing a fire hazard. As a precaution until that evaluation is complete, consumers should not put more than three gallons of gasoline in the fuel tanks at any time.

Incidents and injuries

Each year, carbon monoxide from fuel-burning appliances kills approximately 200 people and sends 10,000 people to hospital emergency rooms. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to the flu, including nausea, headache, dizziness, and irregular breathing. Exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide can cause death.

Official remedy

Any consumer who has seen leakage from the tank should not use the generator and should contact DAPC to obtain a free warranty replacement tank.

Product and sales details

Brand: DeVilbiss Air Power Company (DAPC)
Manufacturer: DeVilbiss Air Power Company (DAPC), of Jackson, Tenn.
Recall number: 00-047
Units: About 295,000
Sold at / sales period: These generators were sold nationwide from February 1996 until June 1999.