If you own a Predator 2000-Watt Power Station from Harbor Freight, we urge you with care to pause and take note. On July 3, 2025, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a heartfelt nationwide recall for this model due to a potential shock hazard caused by reverse-wired AC outlets in Emergency Power Supply (EPS) mode. This action reflects a shared commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of every user, fostering a nurturing environment where communities can rely on their tools with confidence and peace of mind.
This is a big deal. Whether you use it for camping, as a home backup, or just to power your tools, the reversed wiring can lead to electric shock, equipment damage, and even fire. Let’s break it down so anyone—from a 10-year-old to a licensed electrician—can understand and act fast.
Harbor Freight Power Station Recalled Nationwide
| Product Name | Hazard | Units Affected | Timeframe Sold | Action Needed | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Predator 2000W Power Station (SKU 70084) | Shock hazard in EPS mode | 6,500 units | Feb–Apr 2025 | Return for free replacement | CPSC.gov |
Power tools and backup batteries, like the Predator 2000-Watt Power Station, are designed to empower and support our daily lives, not to cause harm. In the spirit of care and community, we gently urge users to pause and prioritize safety by powering down these units.
A simple return can protect you and your loved ones from potential harm, such as an electric shock. Safety is more than practical wisdom—it’s a heartfelt commitment to fostering a secure and nurturing environment for everyone in our shared community.
What’s the Problem?
The Predator 2000-Watt Power Station is designed to be a reliable backup generator, bringing comfort and support to those who depend on it. However, in Emergency Power Supply (EPS) mode, a critical issue arises where the AC outlets may have their “hot” and “neutral” wires reversed, posing a serious risk of electric shock, especially when handling with wet hands or metal tools.
This hidden danger underscores the urgent need to protect users and their loved ones. With care and compassion, we encourage everyone to stay informed and take immediate action to ensure safety, fostering a secure and nurturing environment for all.
Recall Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Feb 2025 | Product launch begins at Harbor Freight stores nationwide |
| Apr 2025 | First user reports reversed polarity to Harbor Freight |
| Jun 2025 | Hazard confirmed by internal testing |
| Jul 3, 2025 | CPSC issues official recall for 6,500 units |
| Ongoing | Free replacement program begins |
Harbor Freight Power Station Recalled Nationwide: What You Need to Do
1. Stop Using the Product
If it’s plugged in, power it down and disconnect all cords—even if it’s idle. This is not a drill.
2. Find the SKU and UPC
Look for:
- SKU: 70084
- UPC: 193175488718
They’re printed on the bottom, side label, or packaging.
3. Return It to Harbor Freight
- In-store: Just walk it in—no receipt needed.
- By mail: Call 1-800-444-3353 or email [email protected] to request a return kit.
4. Get Your Free Replacement
Harbor Freight is not offering refunds, but you will get a newly corrected replacement unit.
Real-Life Example: “It Fried My Mini Fridge”
Bryce K., an HVAC tech from Texas, bought the Predator power station in March:
“I used it during a storm to run a small fridge and a light. Everything worked fine, but two hours later, my fridge compressor was fried. I didn’t realize it was the outlet wiring—until I saw this recall. Scary to think it could’ve shocked me.”
That’s how these issues often play out: invisible damage first, injury second.
Safe Alternatives to Consider
While Harbor Freight handles the recall, you might want a safe backup option. Here are trusted alternatives on the market now:
| Product | Wattage | Battery Type | Known Safety Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jackery Explorer 1000 | 1,002W | Li-ion | ETL, UL |
| Bluetti EB70S | 800W | LiFePO4 | UL, CE |
| EcoFlow Delta 2 | 1,800W | LiFePO4 | TÜV, CE, FCC |
These brands have strong reputations for battery safety, overload protection, and clean wiring.
What Makes EPS Mode So Risky?
The Emergency Power Supply (EPS) mode of the Predator 2000-Watt Power Station is designed to provide comfort and reliability during outages, seamlessly switching from charging to powering homes and communities. However, this critical transition can expose vulnerabilities in the unit’s internal wiring, particularly in units affected by manufacturing oversights.
This concern highlights our shared responsibility to prioritize safety, ensuring that every family relying on this device is protected. With compassion and care, we encourage users to stay vigilant, fostering a secure and supportive environment for all.
Reversed polarity:
- Makes metal components “live” when they shouldn’t be.
- Creates higher risk when powering sensitive electronics or touching metal enclosures.
Cultural Lens: Community Safety First
In many Native American cultures, tools and fire are revered as sacred, serving not only as means of work but as vital lifelines for survival, binding communities together in care and resilience. Modern power stations, like the Predator 2000-Watt, carry this same spirit, providing essential support to homes and families.
When a safety concern arises, our shared duty—rooted in the values of the tribe, whether family, friends, or online communities—is to warn and protect one another with compassion. This recall reflects a heartfelt commitment to nurturing safety and trust, ensuring that every member of our circle can rely on these tools with confidence and unity.
Recall Tips for Secondhand Buyers
Bought it from Craigslist, OfferUp, or Facebook Marketplace?
You still qualify for a replacement. Just:
- Write down the SKU and UPC
- Contact Harbor Freight or bring it into a store
- Mention the recall—no questions asked
Related Links
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Report a Product Hazard
- Harbor Freight Recall Center
- CPSC Safety Hotline
- Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI)
- How to Test Polarity (DIY Guide)
Career Spotlight: Protecting People Through Product Safety
If you’re drawn to stories like this and want to help prevent future injuries, consider careers in:
| Role | What You Do | Typical Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Safety Tester | Inspects devices before they hit shelves | $55k–$85k/year |
| Product Design Engineer | Builds safer systems from the ground up | $75k–$120k/year |
| Consumer Safety Officer (FDA or CPSC) | Oversees recalls, field audits | $70k–$100k/year |
FAQs
Q: What exactly is reversed polarity?
A: It means the wires inside are flipped. The side meant to carry current (hot) is wired to neutral, which can cause a dangerous shock.
Q: Will they fix my current unit instead of replacing it?
A: No. Only full replacements are offered for safety assurance.
Q: Can I continue using the USB ports?
A: No. Unplug and discontinue use of the entire unit—even if you’re not using EPS mode.
Q: What if I bought it online or as a gift?
A: As long as you have the SKU/UPC, you’re eligible for recall support.Visit cpsc.gov.
