The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Champion Power Equipment, of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., announced a voluntary recall of about 8,600 Portable generators.
Hazard: Fuel can leak from the generator's carburetor, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: There have been 11 reports of fuel leaking from the generators, including eight reports of the generators catching fire and two of property damage.
Description: This recall involves two models of Champion Power Equipment portable generators. Both models have a black frame with black and yellow control panels, a bar handle and two wheels.
Model number 41332 has an open frame. The words "Champion Power Equipment" are on the control panel and "8250 starting watts" and "6500 running watts" are on the side of the fuel tank. Model number 41532 has side panels that cover the long sides of the fuel tank. The words "Champion Power Equipment" are on the side panel above the control panel, and "9000 starting watts" and "7000 running watts" are on the control panel. The model number and serial number are located on the side of the generator with the handle, on a tag on the crossbar above the yellow generator end cap.
Sold exclusively at: Costco Wholesale stores nationwide from December 2011 through July 2012 for about $699.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled generators immediately and contact Champion Power Equipment for a free repair kit to be installed by an authorized dealer. The consumer may also return the unit to Costco for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: Champion Power Equipment; toll-free at (855) 236-9424, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, e-mail support@cpeauto.com, or online at www.championpowerequipment.com, then click on the red "Important Product Recall Notice" link for more information.
