CPSC recall 02-086, announced January 23, 2002, covers Black Cat™ Electric Pressure Washers (about 50,000 units). MCM International imported the pressure washers from a manufacturer in China, who installed counterfeit ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) plugs on some of the units, without MCM's approval. Consumers should stop using these pressure washers and discard the product. Recall contact: call 800-638-2772 or 301-595-7054.
Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.
The recalled Black Cat™ pressure washers have a sticker with a cat and the words "Black-Cat" on each side of the unit.
Which products are included?
The recalled Black Cat™ pressure washers have a sticker with a cat and the words "Black-Cat" on each side of the unit. The model numbers - either BC-2000 or TW-1750 - can be found on a label on the right side of the power station. The label also reads in part, "Made in China," "High Pressure Cleaning Machines," and the "Production Date" (which should fall between March 2001 and July 2001). The GFCI plugs have a green "Reset" button and a blue "Test" button - some plugs also have a label that reads "CONNECT TO INDIVIDUAL BRANCH CIRCUIT ONLY." On the back of the GFCI plug near the electrical prongs are the words "WELLONG" and "Rainproof." CPSC reminds consumers that any electrical product that is used near water should contain a GFCI, in the plug or outlet. Prior to the implementation of the voluntary standard calling for the inclusion of GFCI plugs with high-pressure cleaning machines, there were several electrocution deaths and injuries. These incidents did not involve the Black Cat pressure washer.
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhy it was recalled
MCM International imported the pressure washers from a manufacturer in China, who installed counterfeit ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) plugs on some of the units, without MCM's approval. All of the plugs are labeled "WELLONG"; however, the pressure washers with counterfeit "WELLONG" GFCI plugs appear virtually identical to those with genuine "WELLONG" GFCIs. It will require a professional inspection to identify the counterfeit GFCIs. GFCIs are important safety devices that are intended to protect consumers against shock or electrocution.
Incidents and injuries
CPSC and MCM International have not received any reports of incidents in which the GFCI plugs failed to operate. This recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.
Official remedy
Consumers should stop using these pressure washers and discard the product. A remedy is no longer available.
Product and sales details
- Brand
- Black Cat Electric
- Product type
- Pressure washers
- Recall number
- 02-086
- Units
- About 50,000
- Manufactured in
- China
- Sold at / sales period
- Target and Menard's stores nationwide sold these pressure washers, from August 2001 to September 2001, for between $85 and $100.
- Importer
- MCM International, of Eden Prairie, Minn.
Black Cat™ Electric Pressure Washers
CPSC product type: Pressure Washers
Recall contact information
The firm is out of business. Consumers should call the CPSC hotline at 800-638-2772 (TTY 301-595-7054).
Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.
Know someone who has one?
Recalls only work when owners hear about them. Send this notice to family or friends who might own the same product.
