The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Generac Power Systems Inc. of Waukesha, Wis., has announced a voluntary recall of the 12-inch Braided Flex Fuel Hose sold with certain Guardian Home Standby Air-Cooled Generators.

The fuel hoses can leak if bent in an unreasonable fashion during installation or upon completion of installation. If an ignition source is present, a fire or explosion can occur.

The recalled fuel hoses are used with Guardian Home Standby Air-Cooled Generators with serial numbers 3789827 and below. The generators are about 4 feet by 2 feet by 2½ feet, tan in color, and have identification decal tags displaying the serial number. The decal tag is affixed to the black divider plate that separates the engine from the control panel and can be found by lifting the top/lid of the metal enclosure. The fuel hose came supplied with the generator kits and connects the fuel supply to the generator. The hose is 12 inches long and covered with braided steel.

Independent and national dealers sold these generators with the flex fuel hoses between March 2001 and September 2003 for about $1500 to $2500.

Consumers should stop using the generator if the fuel hose is bent or if the ferrules (connectors) are cracked, split or damaged in any way. Consumers with a bent hose or damaged connector should contact Generac Power Systems or a Generac authorized service dealer to arrange for a free inspection and replacement of the flex fuel hose.

For more information, call Generac Power Systems at 800-949-7440 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CST Monday through Friday, or download the PDF from their Web site at www.generac.com.