Ryobi pressure washer recall — if you own a green Ryobi electric unit, this is the moment to hit pause before your next clean-up. U.S. safety regulators and manufacturer TTI Outdoor Power Equipment have recalled roughly 780,000 pressure washers across the U.S. and Canada after reports that a faulty capacitor can overheat, burst, and eject parts like projectiles.
In the U.S. alone, there are 135 overheating reports, including 41 explosions and 32 injuries such as finger, hand, face, and eye fractures.
What’s being recalled (and why)
The recall covers two brushless electric models: RY142300 (rated 2300 PSI / 1.2 GPM) and RY142711VNM (rated 2700 PSI / 1.1 GPM). The hazard is specific: the capacitor can overheat and burst, sending parts flying and risking serious impact injuries to users or bystanders. The U.S. CPSC lists the official remedy as a free repair kit that replaces the capacitor.
Where and when they were sold: Home Depot and Direct Tools Factory Outlet stores nationwide (plus their websites), from July 2017 through June 2024, typically priced $300–$400. The products were made in Vietnam and China.
Geography & scale: About 764,000 units were sold in the U.S. and about 16,000 in Canada (totaling ~780,000). Canadian regulators say no injuries have been reported in Canada as of the latest notice, but the same hazard applies.
How to tell if yours is affected
These recalled washers are green, with Ryobi branding on the front, a spray nozzle, and a detergent tank with a blue cap. The model and serial number are on a data plate on the side of the motor housing. Check your model first—if it’s RY142300 or RY142711VNM, proceed to the serials.
Serial ranges (from CPSC):
- RY142300 — EU17121D010001 through EU20256N180999; LT20211D140001 through LT21166D090999; RG22154D090001 through RG23182N140999.
- RY142711VNM — LT21411D090001 through LT21425D090999; RG21411D010001 through RG23182N140999.
If your serial falls within these spans, your unit is part of the recall.
Exactly what to do next
- Stop using the washer immediately. Don’t “just finish the job”—the risk is a projectile hazard.
- Request the free repair kit (replacement capacitor) directly from Ryobi—no receipt required. The kit includes shipping and DIY installation instructions. If you’re not comfortable installing it, ask a qualified technician.
- Store the unit safely until it’s repaired: unplugged, away from children/pets, and not pressurized.
- Questions? Call TTI Outdoor Power Equipment 800-597-9624 (Mon–Fri, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. ET), or visit Ryobi’s recall portal. Official CPSC recall page.
Why you’re hearing about it now
The recall was announced August 28, 2025 (CPSC Recall No. 25-452) after accumulating incident data in the U.S.—including 41 confirmed explosions and 32 injuries. Newsrooms across North America have amplified the alert due to the severity of some injuries and the unusually large number of units on the market.
U.S. vs. Canada: Same models, different incident tallies
In Canada, Health Canada issued a coordinated recall covering the same two models. As of the most recent update, there were no incident reports in Canada, but Canadian consumers should follow the same steps: stop using, verify serials, and request the repair kit. Cross-border shoppers who bought in the U.S. should still check their serials against the CPSC list.
Can you keep using it until the kit arrives?
No. Regulators are crystal clear: stop using recalled units. A bursting capacitor can launch parts without warning. This is not a “monitor for symptoms” situation—it’s a do not use situation until the capacitor is replaced.
After the fix: Is it safe?
The official remedy is a replacement capacitor designed to eliminate the failure mode. Once installed correctly, the unit is considered remediated for the recall hazard. If you notice abnormal heat, smells, or performance after the repair, discontinue use and contact support immediately.
Practical safety tips while you wait
- Disconnect power whenever the washer is stored or moved. Never tug the cord to unplug.
- Keep a clear perimeter—even a repaired washer can eject debris from surfaces; make sure bystanders wear eye protection.
- Don’t bypass GFCI plugs or use damaged extension cords with high-draw tools.
- Log your serial number and take a photo of the data plate for your records.
How this recall compares to others (and why it matters)
Consumer product recalls aren’t rare, but this one stands out because of the projectile hazard and the injury profile—fractures to hands, face, and eyes. That’s why the guidance is exceptionally strict. It’s also why you’ll see consistent language across media—stop using immediately, get the repair kit.
Major outlets and local affiliates echo the same directive to minimize risk while capturing how widespread the recall is across 2017–2024 retail windows.
Frequently asked questions
Which retailers were involved? Primarily Home Depot and Direct Tools Factory Outlet (stores and online). If you bought secondhand, you still qualify for the remedy—proof of purchase isn’t required.
What if I can’t find my serial number? Check the side of the motor housing for the data plate. If the plate is missing or illegible, contact the hotline for next steps.
Can I resell the washer? No. Federal law prohibits selling recalled products. Complete the repair first.
How long will the kit take to arrive? Timelines can vary based on demand; request it as soon as possible and monitor email/shipping updates from the manufacturer.
The bottom line
If you own a Ryobi RY142300 or RY142711VNM electric pressure washer from 2017–2024, act now: stop using it, verify your serial number, and order the free repair kit. The recall is large and the hazard is serious—but the fix is straightforward, free, and officially endorsed by regulators. Handle the repair, keep your household safe, and get back to blasting grime with peace of mind.
