Owning a pressure washer can greatly simplify outdoor cleaning tasks for homeowners, making it easy to tackle jobs like washing decks and driveways. However, a recent safety recall has affected approximately 780,000 Ryobi-branded pressure washers sold in the United States and Canada, emphasizing the importance of checking the brand and model of your device. The recall has been initiated due to a serious hazard identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). It has been reported that the capacitor in these pressure washers can overheat and burst, leading to potential risks for both users and bystanders.
According to the CPSC notice, the overheating capacitors can eject parts forcefully, posing significant injury risks. Since the issue was identified, Ryobi has received a troubling number of reports, with 135 instances of overheating and 41 explosions that resulted in injuries. The injuries reported include damage to fingers, hands, faces, and eyes, highlighting the severe consequences of ignoring this recall. Consumers who own one of the affected models should take immediate action to ensure their safety.
The specific models at risk include the Ryobi pressure washers designated as RY142300 and RY142711VNM. These units were sold at prices ranging from $300 to $400 at Home Depot and Direct Tools Factory Outlet from July 2017 to June 2024. While the majority of these units were distributed in the U.S., approximately 16,000 units were sold in Canada. If you own one of these models, it is critical to stop using it immediately and check Ryobi’s recall website to verify whether your model is affected.
For those with affected pressure washers, there is a process to receive a remedy. Ryobi is offering a free replacement capacitor, which includes clear instructions for shipment and installation. Remarkably, no proof of purchase or receipt is necessary to claim this replacement, making it easier for consumers to address the issue without additional barriers. This initiative underscores Ryobi’s commitment to consumer safety and the responsibility manufacturers have in addressing product defects.
Interestingly, the recalled Ryobi models did not make it onto CNET’s best pressure washer list, which evaluates options based on affordability and specific job effectiveness. This highlights that while these units were popular among consumers, they were also vulnerable to serious safety hazards, calling into question their reliability and safety compared to other alternatives in the market. Homeowners looking for pressure washers should carefully consider the safety reviews and ratings before making a purchase.
In summary, the Ryobi pressure washer recall serves as a crucial reminder for users of such devices to stay informed about potential hazards associated with them. Safety should always be a priority, and this incident demonstrates the importance of monitoring product performance and attending promptly to recalls and manufacturer notices. Homeowners are urged to review their pressure washer models and take the necessary actions to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.
