Generac Power Systems, a leading manufacturer of home backup generators and other power equipment, has been involved in several lawsuits in recent years. These lawsuits allege a variety of issues, including defects in generators, supplier disputes, and safety hazards.
Defective Generators
Generac has faced several lawsuits alleging that its generators are defective and cause a variety of problems, including:
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Overheating and fire hazards: Several lawsuits have alleged that Generac generators are prone to overheating and catching fire, posing a significant safety risk to homeowners.
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Failure to provide backup power: Some lawsuits have claimed that Generac generators fail to provide backup power during outages, leaving homeowners without essential electricity.
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Erratic performance: Other lawsuits have alleged that Generac generators experience erratic performance, such as sudden power fluctuations or complete shutdowns.
Supplier Disputes
Generac has also been involved in lawsuits with suppliers who allege that the company has not paid them for goods and services. These lawsuits have highlighted potential financial issues within the company.
Safety Hazards
In 2023, Generac agreed to pay a $15.8 million civil penalty to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) for failing to immediately report portable generators posing finger amputation and crushing hazards. The company received multiple reports of incidents involving its portable generators, but it did not notify the CPSC as required by law.
Ongoing Legal Matters
Generac is currently facing several ongoing lawsuits, including:
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A class action lawsuit alleging that Generac’s PWRcell home solar energy systems contain defective SnapRS components that can overheat and melt, posing a fire hazard.
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A lawsuit filed by a supplier seeking $44 million for unpaid generator parts.
These ongoing lawsuits could have significant financial implications for Generac and could further damage the company’s reputation.
Recommendations for Consumers
If you own a Generac generator, it is important to be aware of the potential safety hazards and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. You should also regularly inspect your generator for any signs of damage or malfunction.
If you have any concerns about your Generac generator, you should contact the company’s customer service department or a qualified technician.
Conclusion
Generac’s involvement in numerous lawsuits raises concerns about the quality and safety of its products. Consumers should be aware of these issues and take steps to protect themselves from potential hazards.
