A pressure washer can make a grimy driveway, a weathered deck or a muddy truck look new again, and cheap ones sold online look like a bargain. But the federal government is now warning that a brand called PowRyte is missing a basic safety feature at the plug, the kind that is meant to protect you from a deadly shock. And the seller has not answered requests to recall them.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a warning on October 22, 2026, telling consumers to stop using PowRyte pressure washers immediately.
What Is Missing
According to the warning, the PowRyte pressure washers do not have a ground fault circuit interrupter, usually called a GFCI, on or near the plug. A GFCI is a safety device that is designed to cut off power quickly if it detects electricity going where it should not, for example through water or through a person. Pressure washers are used outdoors, in wet conditions, with water and electricity in the same place, which is why a GFCI is so important on this kind of tool.
The commission lists the hazard as serious shock and electrocution. One incident has been reported. The notice does not give details beyond that, so it would be wrong to guess at what happened. But the warning is clear that the risk is serious injury or death.
Where They Were Sold
The commission says the PowRyte pressure washers were sold on Amazon.com and eBay for roughly $92 to $320. The seller is listed as Powell Works, Inc. of China, and the commission says that company has not responded to requests for a recall.
That is the second problem. When a company will not answer, there is no refund or repair on offer through the usual channels. The commission is left to warn the public, and it is up to owners to protect themselves.
What To Do If You Own One
- Stop using the pressure washer immediately.
- Unplug it.
- Cut the cord so it cannot be plugged in again.
- Dispose of it. The commission says not to sell it or give it away. Passing along a washer with a known shock hazard just moves the danger to someone else’s driveway.
Since the warning does not mention a refund, do not expect one from the seller. If you bought through a marketplace, it may be worth checking the order page for a return or claim process, but that is up to the marketplace and there is no guarantee. Keep your order confirmation and any photos in case you need them.
Another Warning With The Same Problem
The commission has issued a related warning about FOTING pressure washers, No. 26-795, on September 24, 2026. That one also points to a missing GFCI. It lists one report and no injuries. If you shopped for a budget pressure washer online this year, check the brand name on yours and read both notices.
Buying A Cheap Tool Online
It is easy to be tempted by a low price and a long list of features. But an electric tool that is used near water has to be built with safety in mind, and there are a few simple ways to protect yourself before you hit the buy button.
- Look at the plug in the product photos. Some cords have a box built into the plug with a test and a reset button. That is typically a GFCI. If the plug is a plain one, ask yourself why.
- Check the seller. A company with a clear address, a customer service number and a track record is easier to reach if something goes wrong.
- Be wary of brands you have never heard of with a price that looks too good to be true. Compare the price with better-known models.
- Save the model name and order details so you can look up recalls later.
- Search the brand name together with the word recall before you buy. It takes a minute.
Staying Safe With Any Electric Tool Outdoors
Even with a good machine, a few habits help. Plug outdoor tools into an outlet that has GFCI protection, which many modern outdoor outlets and garages do. If your outlet does not, a portable GFCI adapter is available at most hardware stores. Do not use a damaged cord. Keep plugs and connections off wet ground. And do not handle the plug with wet hands.
If you are using an extension cord, make sure it is meant for outdoor use. Read the manual that comes with your pressure washer before the first use, and keep it handy.
The Takeaway
If you have a PowRyte pressure washer in the garage, it is time to stop using it, unplug it and cut the cord. There is no sign that the seller will fix the problem. And if you are shopping for a pressure washer this fall, look closely at the plug, because a few minutes of checking can matter far more than a few dollars saved.
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