Your pressure washer could be a ticking time bomb—780,000 recalled after explosion reports, so pause before your next cleaning spree!
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If you’ve ever tackled a grimy driveway or spruced up your patio with a pressure washer, you know the satisfaction of blasting away years of dirt in minutes.
But what if that trusty tool in your garage is hiding a dangerous secret?
This summer, nearly 780,000 electric pressure washers have been recalled across the US and Canada after alarming reports of explosions and injuries.
If you’ve been using one of these machines, you’ll want to stop immediately and check if yours is on the list.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a major recall for certain Ryobi-branded electric pressure washers, specifically models RY142300 and RY142711VNM.
These popular machines, sold at Home Depot and Direct Tools Factory Outlet from July 2017 through June 2024, have a hidden flaw: their internal capacitor can overheat and burst.
So far, there have been 135 reports in the US of capacitors overheating, including 41 actual explosions. Thirty-two people have suffered injuries, ranging from fractures to the fingers, hands, face, and eyes.
While no incidents have been reported in Canada, 16,000 units were sold there, so the risk is real on both sides of the border.
For those of us who aren’t electrical engineers, a capacitor is a small component inside many electric devices. It stores and releases energy to help the motor start and run smoothly.
But if it overheats—due to a manufacturing defect, poor ventilation, or electrical surges—it can rupture violently, sending bits of plastic and metal flying.
In the case of these Ryobi washers, the risk is high enough that the CPSC and Health Canada are urging everyone to stop using them immediately.
What Should I Do If I Own One?
Also read: 7 common DIY security setups that might leave your home vulnerable
This isn’t the first time Ryobi and its parent company, TTI Outdoor Power Equipment (a subsidiary of Techtronic Industries), have faced safety issues.
Earlier this year, they recalled certain Ryobi mowers due to fire hazards and hedge trimmers for laceration risks.
As power tools become more complex and powerful, even small design flaws can have big consequences.
Also read: Use it, then return it? The surprising trend retailers are seeing
Even if your pressure washer isn’t on the recall list, it’s a good time to brush up on safety:
Have you ever experienced a product recall or a close call with a power tool? Do you have tips for keeping your home workshop safe?
But what if that trusty tool in your garage is hiding a dangerous secret?
This summer, nearly 780,000 electric pressure washers have been recalled across the US and Canada after alarming reports of explosions and injuries.
If you’ve been using one of these machines, you’ll want to stop immediately and check if yours is on the list.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a major recall for certain Ryobi-branded electric pressure washers, specifically models RY142300 and RY142711VNM.
These popular machines, sold at Home Depot and Direct Tools Factory Outlet from July 2017 through June 2024, have a hidden flaw: their internal capacitor can overheat and burst.
So far, there have been 135 reports in the US of capacitors overheating, including 41 actual explosions. Thirty-two people have suffered injuries, ranging from fractures to the fingers, hands, face, and eyes.
While no incidents have been reported in Canada, 16,000 units were sold there, so the risk is real on both sides of the border.
When that overheats and bursts, parts can be ejected with enough force to cause serious harm. Image source: Ryobi
For those of us who aren’t electrical engineers, a capacitor is a small component inside many electric devices. It stores and releases energy to help the motor start and run smoothly.
But if it overheats—due to a manufacturing defect, poor ventilation, or electrical surges—it can rupture violently, sending bits of plastic and metal flying.
In the case of these Ryobi washers, the risk is high enough that the CPSC and Health Canada are urging everyone to stop using them immediately.
What Should I Do If I Own One?
- Stop Using It Immediately: Even if your washer seems to be working fine, don’t take the risk.
- Visit the Ryobi Recall Website: Ryobi has set up a dedicated recall page where you can register for a free repair kit. This kit includes a replacement capacitor and instructions for safe installation.
- Don’t Try to Fix It Yourself: Unless you’re comfortable with electrical repairs, consider having a professional or an authorized service center handle the replacement.
Also read: 7 common DIY security setups that might leave your home vulnerable
This isn’t the first time Ryobi and its parent company, TTI Outdoor Power Equipment (a subsidiary of Techtronic Industries), have faced safety issues.
Earlier this year, they recalled certain Ryobi mowers due to fire hazards and hedge trimmers for laceration risks.
As power tools become more complex and powerful, even small design flaws can have big consequences.
Also read: Use it, then return it? The surprising trend retailers are seeing
Even if your pressure washer isn’t on the recall list, it’s a good time to brush up on safety:
- Inspect Before Each Use: Look for cracks, frayed cords, or any signs of overheating.
- Wear Protective Gear: Safety glasses and gloves can prevent injuries from flying debris or accidental sprays.
- Keep Bystanders Away: Make sure no one is standing near the machine while it’s running.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Don’t modify your washer or use it for tasks it wasn’t designed for.
