One Million Greenworks and Powerworks Pressure Washer Spray Guns Recalled Due to Impact Injury Hazard; Distributed by Hongkong Sun Rise Trading

What was recalled

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a significant recall involving specific Greenworks and Powerworks pressure washer spray guns due to safety concerns. This action affects approximately one million units distributed by Hongkong Sun Rise Trading. The core issue centers on the plastic spray gun connector, which is prone to breaking during normal operation. If this connector fails, the high-pressure hose or parts of the connector itself can become dislodged while under pressure, creating a dangerous situation for the user. This recall is not limited to just one model but spans across several popular Greenworks pressure washer models and accessory kits sold over a period of years.

The affected products include the Greenworks brand 2000 psi plastic pressure washer spray gun when it was included in the Greenworks brand 2000 psi Plastic Gun Accessory kit. Additionally, the recall covers spray guns attached to Greenworks brand Pressure Washers with psi ratings ranging from 1500 to 1800 psi. It also extends to certain Powerworks brand Pressure Washer models that fall within the 1700-1800 psi range. To help you identify if your specific unit is part of this recall, please refer to the detailed list of model numbers and date codes below. The brand name, either Greenworks or Powerworks, will appear on the side of the spray gun itself. Furthermore, when you remove the spray gun from the hose, check the interior connector; on these recalled units, it is made of black plastic rather than metal.

• GPW1500: GREENWORKS 1500 PSI Pressure Washer (Date Codes: 1/1/17 - 10/31/19)
• GPW1501: GREENWORKS 1500 PSI Pressure Washer (Date Codes: 1/1/17 - 5/11/20)
• GPW1600: GREENWORKS 1600 PSI Pressure Washer (Date Codes: 1/1/17 - 10/31/19)
• GPW1602: GREENWORKS 1600 PSI Pressure Washer (Date Codes: 1/1/17 - 6/2/20)
• GPW1702: GREENWORKS 1700 PSI Pressure Washer (Sold at Lowe's: 1/1/17 - 10/31/19; Sold elsewhere: 1/1/17 - 6/8/20)
• GPW1704: GREENWORKS 1700 PSI Pressure Washer (Date Codes: 1/1/17 - 10/31/19)
• GPW1800: GREENWORKS 1800 PSI Pressure Washer (Date Codes: 1/1/17 - 7/7/20)
• GPW1803: GREENWORKS 1800 PSI Pressure Washer (Date Codes: 1/1/17 - 12/17/19)
• 5202002: Plastic Gun Kit (All with that model number)
• PWA101: POWERWORKS 1700 PSI Pressure Washer (Date Codes: 1/10/20)
• PWA104: POWERWORKS 1800 PSI Pressure Washer (Date Codes: 1/11/20)

The model number for your pressure washer unit is typically printed on the back of the device, near the top. This recall was announced on April 7, 2021, following reports from Hongkong Sun Rise Trading regarding the potential for injury. If you own any of these models within the specified date ranges, it is crucial to verify your specific unit against this list immediately.

The hazard, explained

To understand why this recall is so serious, it helps to look closely at what happens inside the spray gun when pressure washer is in use. You are likely familiar with the basic operation of these machines: a powerful pump forces water through a hose at high velocity, and the trigger on the spray gun controls that flow. In a properly functioning unit, the connection point where the hose attaches to the gun is designed to withstand immense force without giving way. However, in the recalled Greenworks and Powerworks units, this critical junction is constructed from black plastic rather than metal. While plastic can be durable for many household tools, it lacks the structural integrity required to handle the extreme internal pressures generated by these specific 1500 to 1800 psi models during active use.

The physical failure mechanism here is straightforward but dangerous. Under the intense pressure of operation, the plastic connector at the base of the spray gun can crack or shatter completely. When this break occurs, the seal that holds the hose in place is instantly compromised. Because the water inside is under such high tension, the sudden release of pressure can cause the hose and fragments of the broken plastic connector to become dislodged. This does not just result in a leak; it turns the end of the hose into an unpredictable, whipping projectile. The force required to break the plastic connection is significant, meaning that when the failure happens, the resulting motion is violent and rapid.

This is what leads to the impact injury hazard described in the CPSC report. When the connector fails, the heavy rubber or reinforced hose can snap back or flail outward with considerable energy. In the case of the 13 reported injuries, this uncontrolled movement struck users directly. The reports detail severe consequences, including broken bones and head trauma requiring medical treatment for post-concussion symptoms. It is important to note that these injuries are not caused by water pressure burns or chemical exposure, but by blunt force trauma from the physical components of the tool itself. The user is often holding the gun at eye level or in front of their body to direct the spray, placing them directly in the path of the whipping hose and flying plastic shards.

The severity of this hazard is underscored by the fact that seven of the reported injuries required medical attention for impacts to the eyes, mouth, and head. These are highly vulnerable areas of the body. A broken bone from a heavy hose whip is painful enough, but an impact to the eye or face can lead to permanent damage. The combination of high-pressure water discharge and heavy, dislodged mechanical parts creates a chaotic environment where it is nearly impossible for the user to brace against the force. This is why stopping use immediately is not just a recommendation, but a necessary step to prevent serious physical harm.

Who is most at risk

The primary group facing danger in this recall consists of homeowners and DIY enthusiasts who have purchased Greenworks or Powerworks pressure washers within the specified date ranges. Because these units are widely distributed consumer products, the risk extends across a broad demographic of individuals who use high-pressure water for seasonal maintenance tasks such as cleaning driveways, siding, decks, and patios. The hazard is not limited to professional contractors; it affects anyone who owns or has borrowed one of the affected models, including GPW1500 through GPW1803 series Greenworks units and PWA101 and PWA104 Powerworks units distributed by Hongkong Sun Rise Trading.

However, the severity of the potential injury makes certain individuals particularly vulnerable. The recalled defect involves the spray gun connector breaking under pressure, which causes the hose and heavy plastic components to become dislodged violently. This creates an uncontrolled whipping motion that can strike a user with significant force. Children are at heightened risk for several reasons. First, they are often present in yards and driveways where these cleaning tasks occur. Second, their smaller stature means they may be closer to the ground or positioned in ways that make them more likely to be struck by the flailing hose if an adult is operating the unit nearby. Even a minor impact from a high-pressure object can cause disproportionate harm to a child’s developing body compared to an adult.

Elderly users and those with pre-existing physical vulnerabilities also face increased danger. The injury reports indicate that impacts have resulted in broken bones, post-concussion symptoms, and injuries to the eyes and mouth. For older adults, whose bone density may be lower or who may have slower reflexes to evade a sudden whipping hose, a strike that might only cause bruising on a younger, fit person could result in serious fractures or permanent damage. The risk is not just about the force of the impact but also about the inability to quickly move out of the way due to limited mobility.

Additionally, anyone operating these machines without proper protective gear is at greater risk for severe outcomes. The recall data highlights injuries to the eyes and mouth, underscoring the danger of flying debris or broken plastic parts becoming projectiles. Users who do not wear safety goggles are exposed to a direct threat of vision loss or facial trauma. Similarly, individuals standing directly in the line of fire—often because they are trying to correct a spray angle or inspect the unit while it is still pressurized—are at the epicenter of the danger zone. The combination of high-pressure water and heavy, broken plastic components turns what should be a simple cleaning tool into a potential weapon for anyone who fails to heed the immediate stop-use warning.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before you take any action, you need to confirm whether your specific pressure washer is part of this recall. Because the issue centers on a specific component—the spray gun connector—rather than the entire machine’s motor or pump, it is crucial to check the exact model number and date code. The recall affects Greenworks brand 2000 psi plastic pressure washer spray guns. These were sold as standalone accessories in the Greenworks brand 2000 psi Plastic Gun Accessory kit, but they were also bundled with various Greenworks and Powerworks pressure washers. If you own a machine from either brand, do not assume it is safe just because it looks similar to newer models; the internal construction of the connector is the deciding factor.

The most reliable way to identify your unit is by looking at the model number printed on the back of the pressure washer itself, typically located near the top. You should also look for the date code stamped on the same label. The recall covers a specific window of production dates ranging from January 1, 2017, through late 2019 or early 2020, depending on the specific model. If your unit falls outside these date ranges, it is not part of this recall. However, if your machine matches any of the following model numbers and date codes, you must stop using it immediately:

• Greenworks GPW1500: Produced between 1/1/17 and 10/31/19.
• Greenworks GPW1501: Produced between 1/1/17 and 5/11/20.
• Greenworks GPW1600: Produced between 1/1/17 and 10/31/19.
• Greenworks GPW1602: Produced between 1/1/17 and 6/2/20.
• Greenworks GPW1702: Produced between 1/1/17 and 10/31/19 (sold at Lowe's) or between 1/1/17 and 6/8/20 (sold elsewhere).
• Greenworks GPW1704: Produced between 1/1/17 and 10/31/19.
• Greenworks GPW1800: Produced between 1/1/17 and 7/7/20.
• Greenworks GPW1803: Produced between 1/1/17 and 12/17/19.
• Greenworks Plastic Gun Kit (Model 5202002): All units with this model number are included.
• Powerworks PWA101: Produced on or after 1/10/20.
• Powerworks PWA104: Produced on or after 1/11/20.

In addition to checking the model number, you can perform a simple visual inspection of the spray gun itself. The brand name, either Greenworks or Powerworks, will appear on the side of the spray gun handle. More importantly, detach the spray gun from the hose and look at the interior connector. On the recalled units, this connector is made of black plastic, not metal. If you see a black plastic interior connector on any of the models listed above, your unit is part of this recall. Do not rely on color alone for other pressure washer brands, as specifications can vary; stick to the model numbers and the internal material check for Greenworks and Powerworks units.

What to do — step by step

If you own one of the recalled Greenworks or Powerworks pressure washer spray guns, your immediate priority is to ensure your safety and that of anyone else in your household. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a serious risk where the plastic connector can break under pressure, sending parts flying toward your face or body. Because this hazard involves high-pressure water and sharp plastic fragments, you should not attempt to fix the issue yourself or continue using the equipment for any reason, even for light cleaning tasks. Instead, follow these concrete steps to resolve the problem efficiently.

1. Stop Using the Equipment Immediately. The very first action you must take is to turn off the pressure washer and disconnect it from the power source. Do not pull the trigger, and do not attempt to test the spray gun again. The defect lies within the interior connector mechanism, which may fail without warning during operation. By ceasing use right now, you eliminate the risk of impact injuries such as broken bones, eye damage, or post-concussion symptoms that have already been reported by other consumers.
2. Contact Hongkong Sun Rise Trading for a Free Replacement. The official remedy for this recall is not a cash refund, but rather a free replacement of the spray gun handle. You need to reach out to the distributor, Hongkong Sun Rise Trading, to initiate this process. You can call them toll-free at 833-211-9185. Their customer service team is available Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, and on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time. When you call, have your model number ready, as it is printed on the back of the pressure washer unit near the top.
3. Alternatively, Visit the Official Website. If you prefer to handle this online, go to www.greenworkstools.com. Look for the "Important Safety Notices" link located at the very top of the homepage. This section contains detailed instructions on how to proceed with your claim. You will likely need to provide proof of purchase or specific details about your unit, such as the model number (e.g., GPW1500, GPW1803, PWA101) and the date codes (ranging from January 2017 to December 2019 for many models). Following these online instructions ensures you are following the correct protocol established by the manufacturer.
4. Wait for Instructions on Returning or Receiving Parts. Once you have contacted the company, follow their specific directions regarding the defective part. They will arrange for a free replacement spray gun handle to be sent to you. Do not discard the old unit until you have received the new parts and successfully installed them, unless instructed otherwise by customer service. This ensures that the recall process is completed correctly and that you are eligible for the free remedy.

Taking these steps promptly is crucial. The company has received 15 reports of the connector breaking, resulting in 13 injuries. By acting now, you protect yourself from potential harm and ensure your equipment is safe to use again once the correct handle is installed.

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have confirmed that your pressure washer matches the details in this recall notice, please take a moment to breathe and know that the path forward is straightforward. The good news is that the company responsible for this issue, Hongkong Sun Rise Trading, has committed to a specific remedy designed to make things right for you without any financial burden. You do not need to return your entire pressure washer unit, nor are you expected to keep using a potentially unsafe component while waiting for help. Instead, the official remedy is focused on providing you with a free replacement of the spray gun handle.

This means that the core issue—the plastic connector inside the spray gun that can break under pressure—will be addressed by supplying you with a new, safe handle assembly. This is a significant relief because it avoids the much larger hassle and cost of replacing your entire machine. The company understands that the spray gun is a critical part of the tool’s operation, and by sending just this component, they are ensuring you can resume your cleaning projects safely and efficiently once the repair is complete.

To initiate this process, you will need to reach out directly to Hongkong Sun Rise Trading. They have set up dedicated channels to handle these requests efficiently. You can contact them by calling their toll-free number at 833-211-9185. It is helpful to know their hours of operation so you can plan your call accordingly: they are available Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, and on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time. Having your model number and date code ready before you call will help speed up the verification process.

If you prefer to handle this through a website, you can visit www.greenworkstools.com. Once there, look for the "Important Safety Notices" link located at the top of the page. This section is specifically dedicated to this recall and should provide you with further instructions or an online form to submit your claim. When you contact them, be prepared to provide the model number (such as GPW1500, GPW1702, PWA101, etc.) and the date code of your unit. This information is printed on the back of your pressure washer, near the top, and helps them confirm that your specific item is part of this recall batch.

Please remember that while you wait for your replacement handle to arrive, the most important step is to stop using the recalled spray gun immediately. The remedy offered is excellent, but it only takes effect once you have ceased use. Do not attempt to repair the connector yourself with glue or other materials, as this will not fix the structural integrity issue and could still pose a risk. Let the professionals handle the replacement to ensure your safety.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is easy to look at a piece of equipment and see only its function rather than its potential dangers, especially when that tool has been sitting idle in your garage or shed for a while. However, continuing to use the recalled Greenworks and Powerworks pressure washer spray guns is not merely an inconvenience; it is a significant gamble with your physical safety. The core issue here is mechanical failure under extreme stress. These specific units are equipped with spray gun connectors made of black plastic rather than metal. While plastic components can be durable in many applications, the internal mechanics of these recalled models are vulnerable to breaking when subjected to the high pressure for which they are designed.

When you ignore this recall and attempt to use the device, you are asking a non-metallic connector to withstand forces it was not engineered to handle safely. As the pump builds pressure, the plastic connector can snap or fracture unexpectedly. This is not a slow leak that gives you warning; it is a sudden structural collapse. When that connector breaks while the system is pressurized, the hose and fragments of the connector itself become dislodged. Because water in a pressure washer travels at such high velocity, these dislodged parts do not just fall to the ground. They are ejected with tremendous force, turning into projectiles.

The reality of this hazard is illustrated clearly by the data collected from consumers who have already experienced these failures. Manufacturers and safety agencies track these incidents to understand the severity of the risk, and in this case, the numbers are sobering. There have been 15 reported instances where the spray gun connector broke during use. More concerning is that 13 of those reports resulted in actual injuries. These were not minor scrapes or bruises. The force of the ejected parts caused serious trauma, including post-concussion symptoms from being struck in the head, broken bones from impact, and critical injuries to sensitive areas like the eyes and mouth.

Imagine the scenario: you are cleaning a patio or washing your car, focused on the task at hand. The spray gun is in your hands, connected to the hose. Suddenly, the plastic connector fails. The hose whips around, and sharp pieces of plastic fly toward your face and body at high speed. Without warning, you could be left with permanent vision damage, lacerations, or fractures. The "impact injury hazard" cited by the Consumer Product Safety Commission is not a theoretical risk; it is a documented outcome that has already affected real people. Ignoring the recall means continuing to expose yourself and anyone nearby to this specific, violent mechanism of failure. There is no benefit to taking this chance when the remedy is as simple as stopping use immediately and requesting a free replacement. Your safety is worth more than the few minutes it takes to call for assistance.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in certain Greenworks and Powerworks spray gun connectors, the underlying principle of pressure washer safety applies to all users of high-pressure cleaning equipment. Pressure washers are incredibly effective tools for removing dirt, mold, and grime, but they operate by forcing water through a narrow nozzle at extremely high velocities. This creates a focused stream capable of cutting through concrete, which also means it can cause severe lacerations or penetrate skin if the wand is pointed incorrectly or if components fail. Therefore, adopting a culture of proactive safety around your power tools is just as important as responding to individual product alerts.

First, always treat the spray gun and nozzle as active weapons rather than simple cleaning attachments. Never point the spray wand at yourself, other people, pets, or electrical outlets, even when you believe the machine is turned off. Residual pressure can remain in the hose for several minutes after shutdown, and accidental discharge can still occur if the trigger is bumped. Additionally, avoid using extension cords that are damaged or not rated for outdoor wet conditions, as this adds an electrical hazard to the physical danger of the high-pressure stream. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris and chemicals, and sturdy footwear to prevent slips on wet surfaces.

Regular maintenance is another critical layer of defense against accidents. Inspect your hoses for cracks, bulges, or signs of wear before every use. A hose that has become brittle from sun exposure or kinked from improper storage can burst under pressure, sending the wand whipping uncontrollably—a hazard similar to the connector failure described in this recall. Ensure that all connections are tight and secure before turning on the water supply. Start with the low-pressure setting if your machine allows it, and gradually increase the pressure only as needed for the task at hand. This gradual approach gives you better control and reduces the shock load on the equipment.

Finally, make checking for recalls a routine part of owning any major appliance or tool. Sign up for email alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and manufacturer websites, just as you would subscribe to software updates for your phone. Manufacturers often identify flaws after products are in the field, and early detection is key to preventing injuries. By staying informed and handling your equipment with respect for its power, you ensure that your cleaning projects remain productive rather than dangerous.