What was recalled
On December 7, 2017, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving specific models of portable inverter generators manufactured by Westinghouse and sold under the ownership of MWE Investments. This action targets two distinct product lines: the Westinghouse iGen2500 and the Westinghouse iPro2500. These units were marketed as versatile power sources for consumers who needed to run appliances, charge cell phones, or operate other essential electronic devices during power outages or while camping. The recall is not limited to a single color or finish; it encompasses both the blue-covered iGen2500 and the gray-covered iPro2500, ensuring that all affected units are identified regardless of their aesthetic design.
To help you determine if your generator is part of this recall, it is important to look closely at the physical characteristics of the unit. The Westinghouse iGen2500 features a bright blue plastic cover with "Westinghouse iGen2500" printed in white lettering on both the side and the front panels. In contrast, the iPro2500 model has a plastic gray cover, but it shares similar labeling conventions, displaying "Westinghouse iPro2500" in white text on its side and front. A key identifier for the iPro2500 is the wattage information printed on the side, which reads "2200 Running Watts and 2500 Peak Watts." Both models share similar physical dimensions, measuring approximately 20 inches in length, 18 inches in width, and 11 inches in height, with a weight of about 49 pounds. These specific measurements and labeling details are critical for accurate identification.
The affected units were distributed widely across the United States through various retail channels. Consumers may have purchased these generators at major home improvement stores, including The Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards. Additionally, they were available through online retailers such as Amazon.com and Wal-Mart.com, as well as directly from Westinghouse’s own website. Because the distribution network was so broad, it is possible that many of these units are currently in use across the country without owners immediately realizing they are part of a safety recall. The CPSC emphasized that identifying the model number and verifying the purchase history against these retailers is the first step in confirming whether your specific generator is included in this notice.
While the recall notice does not specify the exact total number of units sold or returned, it highlights that the scope of the issue is significant enough to warrant immediate attention from MWE Investments. The company has taken responsibility for these products and has established a dedicated remedy process for affected consumers. It is crucial to note that this recall applies to all units matching the described model numbers and physical descriptions, regardless of when they were purchased within the general sales period leading up to the announcement. If you own a Westinghouse generator that matches the iGen2500 or iPro2500 specifications described above, it is essential to verify its status through the official contact channels provided by MWE Investments.
The hazard, explained
At its core, this recall addresses a serious thermal failure within the engine assembly of specific Westinghouse portable generators. When a generator operates normally, it converts mechanical energy into electrical energy through a process that inherently generates heat. However, in the recalled units, components within the internal cooling or ignition systems appear to be failing prematurely. Instead of dissipating this heat effectively, the excess thermal energy accumulates within the engine block and surrounding casing. This is not merely a matter of the unit feeling warm to the touch; it is a case of uncontrolled overheating where temperatures rise far beyond safe operational limits.
The danger escalates quickly because these generators are often used in environments that are highly flammable or poorly ventilated, such as near tents, under awnings, or inside garages during power outages. As the internal temperature spikes, it can ignite nearby combustible materials, including the generator’s own plastic housing, fuel lines, or oil residues. The report confirms that this mechanism has already resulted in four separate incidents where the units caught fire. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm is significant. A sudden flare-up from a small appliance like a portable generator can spread rapidly, especially if the unit is situated close to sleeping areas or other valuable property.
It is important to understand that this hazard is not always obvious until it is too late. Portable generators are designed to be robust and durable, which can give users a false sense of security. A unit might continue to run even as internal components degrade, masking the severity of the overheating issue. The plastic covers on both the iGen2500 and iPro2500 models may initially just feel hot, but this is a critical warning sign that should never be ignored. In many cases of generator fires, the initial spark or flame originates from within the engine compartment, making it difficult for users to intervene without shutting off the fuel supply immediately.
This type of thermal failure is particularly concerning because these devices are often used as emergency backups during storms or blackouts. In such stressful situations, people may rely on them to power critical medical equipment or keep homes warm. A fire caused by an overheating generator not only destroys the device but can also compromise the safety of the entire structure it is powering. The fact that MWE Investments has identified four confirmed fires indicates a systemic defect rather than isolated user error, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue through immediate repair or replacement.
Who is most at risk
When we discuss who is most at risk from the Westinghouse portable generator recall, it is important to look beyond just the mechanical failure of the device and consider the context in which these generators are typically used. The primary group at risk includes anyone who currently owns or operates a Westinghouse iGen2500 or iPro2500 portable inverter generator. These specific models were designed for consumers who need reliable power for everyday tasks, such as charging cell phones, powering small electronic devices, or running essential appliances during outages. Because these units are portable and intended for personal use, they are often found in residential settings, campgrounds, and recreational vehicles. The individuals most vulnerable to the consequences of this recall are those who rely on these generators for backup power, particularly during emergencies when other electrical options are unavailable.
The specific hazard here is overheating, which can lead to a fire. While any user is at risk if their generator fails, certain demographics face heightened vulnerability due to the nature of the environment and their physical or situational constraints. For instance, families with young children are particularly at risk because generators are often placed in garages, patios, or near windows where children might play or explore. If a generator overheats and catches fire in these proximity zones, the speed at which flames can spread and the presence of flammable materials like outdoor furniture, curtains, or toys can escalate the danger rapidly. Young children may not recognize the signs of smoke or heat early enough to react, making them more susceptible to injury from both the fire and potential carbon monoxide exposure if the unit is used in semi-enclosed spaces.
Elderly individuals or those with mobility challenges also fall into a high-risk category. Many people who use portable generators for backup power may do so because they rely on medical equipment or medications that require refrigeration or constant power. If a generator fails and causes a fire, the ability to evacuate quickly may be compromised for older adults or those with limited physical strength. Furthermore, the cognitive load of managing a generator during a stressful power outage can sometimes lead to user error, such as improper placement near combustible surfaces, which exacerbates the risk if the unit is already prone to overheating.
Additionally, campers and outdoor enthusiasts who use these generators for recreational purposes are at significant risk. These users often operate the devices in tents, RVs, or close to dry vegetation where fire can spread with little warning. The fact that four reports of overheating and catching fire have been received underscores that this is not a theoretical risk but an active one. While no injuries have been reported as of the recall date, the potential for harm is severe for anyone using these units in confined or highly flammable environments. It is crucial to understand that the risk is not just about the generator breaking; it is about the catastrophic outcome of that breakage in the specific, often unmonitored, spaces where these devices are commonly deployed.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you own a Westinghouse portable generator, taking a moment to verify whether your specific unit is part of this recall is an important step for your safety. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified two distinct models that are affected by this issue: the Westinghouse iGen2500 and the Westinghouse iPro2500. Because these units look quite similar at first glance, it is essential to examine the physical characteristics of your generator carefully. The primary difference lies in the color of the plastic cover. If your generator features a bright blue plastic cover, you likely have the iGen2500 model. On the other hand, if the cover is gray, you are looking at the iPro2500 model.
To confirm exactly which model you have, look closely at the lettering printed on the side and the front of the generator. Both models will have "Westinghouse" followed by their respective model name—either "iGen2500" or "iPro2500"—printed in white lettering. For the iPro2500 specifically, you should also see the wattage specifications printed on the side. It will clearly read "2200 Running Watts and 2500 Peak Watts." This detail is a helpful identifier for the gray-covered unit. If you do not see these specific white labels or if the model name does not match one of these two, your generator is likely not part of this particular recall.
In addition to the branding, you can check the physical dimensions and weight to help narrow down the identification. The recalled generators measure approximately 20 inches long by 18 inches wide by 11 inches tall. They are also quite heavy, weighing about 49 pounds. While these measurements alone do not confirm a recall, they match the description of the affected units used to power appliances, cell phones, and other electronic devices. If your unit is significantly smaller, lighter, or has a different color scheme, it may be a different product line.
Finally, remember that this recall was announced on December 7, 2017. If you purchased these generators from major retailers such as Amazon.com, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Walmart, or Westinghouse directly in the past, there is a chance your unit could be included. However, the most reliable way to know for sure is to inspect the generator itself using the visual and textual cues described above. If you are still unsure after checking the cover color, white lettering, and wattage details, it is best to contact MWE Investments directly for confirmation before taking any further action.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Westinghouse portable generators, your immediate safety is the priority. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is clear: you must stop using these units right away. This is not a suggestion to wait until you have time; it is an urgent instruction because the generators can overheat and catch fire without warning. Imagine leaving a generator running in your garage or on a patio while you sleep or run errands. The risk of a fire starting due to internal overheating is real, so disconnecting it from any power source and turning it off is the critical first step. Do not attempt to troubleshoot the issue yourself by opening the casing or testing the electrical components, as this could expose you to additional risks or worsen the condition. Once you have secured the area around the generator and ensured no one is near it, your next task is to initiate the remedy process arranged by MWE Investments. You need to contact them to arrange for a free repair. This is the official path provided by the manufacturer, so do not seek third-party repairs or try to fix it yourself, as this would likely void any warranty protections and leave you liable for future issues. You can reach MWE Investments toll-free at 855-944-3571. It is important to call during their specified hours, which are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or need to submit documentation for your repair request, you can send an email to info@wpowereq.com. When you make contact, have your generator ready to provide specific details. You will need to identify whether you have the iGen2500 with its bright blue plastic cover or the iPro2500 with the gray cover. Be prepared to confirm that the white lettering on the side and front matches the model names exactly. Since these units measure about 20 inches long by 18 inches wide by 11 inches tall and weigh approximately 49 pounds, you might need to plan for how to transport them if a repair center requires physical return. Alternatively, MWE may offer other solutions, so follow their specific instructions carefully during the call or email exchange. You can also visit www.westinghouseportablepower.com and click on “Product Safety” at the top of the page to find additional resources or forms that might streamline this process. Finally, keep records of all your communications. Save copies of emails sent and received, note the date and time of phone calls, and write down the name of any representative you speak with. This documentation is vital if there are delays in processing your repair or if questions arise later about the remedy. By following these steps precisely, you ensure that you remain safe from fire hazards while fulfilling the recall requirements efficiently. Do not hesitate to act quickly; the sooner you engage with MWE Investments, the sooner you can resolve this issue and restore peace of mind regarding your power equipment.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have one of the recalled Westinghouse portable generators, your immediate next step is straightforward: stop using the unit entirely and reach out to MWE Investments to arrange for a free repair. This remedy was established specifically because the generators have a known defect where they can overheat and potentially catch fire. The company has determined that repairing the affected units is the most effective way to resolve the safety issue without requiring you to purchase a new device. It is important to understand that you are not expected to bear any cost for this service. MWE Investments has committed to covering all expenses associated with the repair process, ensuring that your financial burden remains zero while your home and family remain protected from potential fire hazards.
To initiate this process, you will need to contact MWE Investments directly through one of their designated channels. You can call their toll-free number at 855-944-3571, but please note that they are only available to take calls between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or wish to review more details before speaking with an agent, you can send an email to info@wpowereq.com. Alternatively, you may visit their dedicated website at www.westinghouseportablepower.com. Once there, look for the “Product Safety” link located at the top of the page, which will guide you through the specific steps required to report your unit and schedule the repair service.
While the primary remedy offered in this recall is a free repair, it is natural to wonder about other options like refunds or replacements. However, based on the current information from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and MWE Investments, no refund or direct replacement unit has been listed as an available option for this specific recall event. The focus is entirely on correcting the overheating defect through professional repair. If you have questions about why a repair is being offered instead of a full refund, or if you encounter difficulties during the repair process, your best course of action is to discuss these concerns directly with the customer service representatives at MWE Investments when you contact them. They will be able to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your specific situation.
Please remember that this recall involves a serious fire hazard, as there have been four reported incidents of these generators overheating and catching fire. Although no injuries have been reported so far, the risk remains real for anyone continuing to use the defective units. Do not delay in contacting MWE Investments. By following their instructions for a free repair promptly, you ensure that your generator can be safely used again in the future, or you can make other arrangements if you decide not to proceed with the repair after speaking with them. Your safety is the priority here, and the company has set up these resources specifically to help you resolve this issue efficiently and without cost.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using your generator. Perhaps you are in the middle of a storm and need power for essential lights or medical equipment. Maybe you are camping and view this device as your primary source of electricity for cooking and charging devices. In those moments, the inconvenience of pausing to contact customer service can feel like a significant burden. However, ignoring the recall notice is not merely an administrative oversight; it is a direct engagement with a known physical risk that has already resulted in dangerous outcomes.
The core issue with the recalled Westinghouse iGen2500 and iPro2500 models is their tendency to overheat. This is not a minor glitch that causes a temporary shutdown; it is a fundamental flaw in how the unit manages thermal energy under normal operating conditions. When these generators overheat, they do not just stop working—they become ignition sources. The internal components reach temperatures high enough to ignite surrounding materials. As noted in the official reports from MWE Investments and the CPSC, there have already been four confirmed instances where these specific units caught fire. While it is a relief that no injuries have been reported so far, the potential for severe harm is very real. A fire involving a generator can spread rapidly to tents, vehicles, decks, or home structures, leading to catastrophic property damage and potentially life-threatening situations for you and your family.
Continuing to use these units also exposes you to secondary hazards beyond just open flames. Overheating electrical equipment can release toxic fumes from melting plastics and insulation, which poses a serious inhalation risk in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces like garages or campers. Furthermore, a fire started by an electrical fault can be difficult to extinguish with standard household fire extinguishers if it involves complex wiring and fuel sources within the generator itself.
The remedy offered is straightforward and free: MWE Investments will repair the units at no cost to you. This repair addresses the specific overheating mechanism that makes these particular models dangerous. By choosing not to participate, you are essentially gambling with your safety and property security for the sake of short-term convenience. The risk is not theoretical; it has already materialized in four separate events. Please do not wait for a fifth incident to occur before taking action. Stop using the device immediately, move it to a safe, non-flammable area away from your home or living quarters, and contact MWE Investments right away to arrange your free repair. Your peace of mind is worth far more than the few hours it takes to resolve this issue.
Staying safe: broader tips
Portable generators are incredibly useful tools for maintaining power during outages, but they come with significant safety responsibilities that extend far beyond avoiding a single recalled model. The most critical rule for any generator owner is proper placement. These devices produce carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas that can kill in minutes. To stay safe, you must never run a generator inside a home, basement, garage, or even a partially enclosed space like a porch. Always position it at least 20 feet away from your house, windows, doors, and vents to ensure exhaust fumes are carried safely away from living spaces. This distance is not just a recommendation; it is a vital barrier between your equipment’s emissions and your family’s air supply.
Equally important is the protection of your home’s electrical system through proper grounding and transfer switches. Never plug a generator directly into a wall outlet, a practice known as "backfeeding." This dangerous shortcut can send electricity back into utility lines, posing a lethal electrocution risk to linemen working to restore power, and it often causes severe damage to your home’s wiring. Instead, use a heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cord rated for the generator’s wattage, or install a permanent transfer switch by a qualified electrician. This ensures that when you flip the generator on, you are isolating your home from the grid safely.
Regular maintenance is another cornerstone of long-term safety. Just like cars, generators require care to prevent overheating and mechanical failure. Keep the air filter clean to ensure proper ventilation and cooling, which directly reduces the risk of the fire hazards mentioned in recent recalls. Check fuel levels frequently, but always refuel only when the engine has cooled down completely; adding gasoline to a hot engine can cause immediate fires. Store fuel in approved containers away from ignition sources and living areas.
Finally, stay informed about product safety through official channels. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regularly issues alerts for various household items, not just generators. Sign up for email notifications on the CPSC website to receive immediate updates on recalls affecting your specific appliances. Additionally, install carbon monoxide alarms with battery backup on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. These devices provide an essential layer of defense, offering early warning if ventilation issues arise, giving you time to act before a situation becomes critical. By combining proper usage habits with proactive monitoring, you can enjoy the reliability of portable power without compromising your safety.