SurfaceMaxx – Product Liability Lawyer

2026-06-11 – A consumer reported a laceration hazard involving a SurfaceMaxx pressure washer hose purchased from Lowe's in Benton Harbor, Michigan. According to an incident report filed with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on SaferProducts.gov, the hose's factory-crimped end failed after only minutes of use, causing the hose to whip violently under full pressure. The consumer sustained a deep bruise on the leg and narrowly avoided a severe laceration.

Product Details

Brand Name: SurfaceMaxx
Manufacturer: SurfaceMaxx
Model: 1/4-in x 25-ft, up to 3200-PSI Pressure Washer Hose
Retailer: Lowe's Benton Harbor, MI
Incident Report Number: 6060456
Severity Type Name: No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
Severity Type ID: 6

Incident Overview

On May 22, 2026, a consumer purchased a SurfaceMaxx pressure washer hose from a Lowe's store in Benton Harbor, Michigan. The hose, rated for up to 3200 PSI, was used with a 2600 PSI pressure washer—well within its specifications. After only three to four minutes of use, the end of the hose nearest the pressure wand suddenly separated from the factory-crimped fitting. The threaded fitting remained attached to the wand, but the hose itself detached and began whipping uncontrollably while discharging water at full pressure.

The hose whipped across the consumer's leg. Fortunately, they were wearing jeans, which likely prevented a severe laceration. The consumer reported a visible, long red deep tissue bruise across the shin and calf. No first aid or medical attention was received. The consumer plans to return the hose to Lowe's and notify the retailer of the defect. The incident was reported to the CPSC via SaferProducts.gov (Report ID: 6060456).

Safety Concerns

Immediate Dangers: When a pressure washer hose fails at the crimped connection, the hose becomes an uncontrolled whip under high pressure (2600 PSI in this case). The water jet can cause deep lacerations or puncture wounds if it strikes a person. The thrashing hose itself can also cause blunt-force trauma or cuts from its metal fitting.

Long-Term Risks: Even if no immediate injury occurs, the sudden failure can cause the user to fall or lose control of the wand, potentially leading to secondary injuries such as sprains, fractures, or head trauma from striking nearby objects.

Who Might Be Affected: The primary user is at greatest risk, but bystanders—especially children or pets—can also be struck by the whipping hose or high-pressure water stream. In this case, the consumer was alone, but the risk extends to anyone nearby.

Warning Signs: Unlike gradual wear, a manufacturing defect like a poorly crimped fitting may show no warning before sudden failure. However, any visible kinking, bulging, or fraying near the crimped end could indicate an impending separation. Users should inspect the crimp area before each use.

What Our Clients Say

What Consumers Should Do

Stop Using Immediately: If your SurfaceMaxx or similar pressure washer hose shows any signs of failure at the crimped ends, stop using it right away. Continued use risks serious injury.

Preserve the Product: Keep the failed hose, including the separated fitting, in its current condition. Do not attempt to repair it. The product may be needed for evidence in a potential claim or recall investigation.

Document the Incident: Take clear photos of the damaged area, the separated crimp, and any injuries. Write down the date of purchase, date of failure, and how the product was used. Save the receipt and packaging if available.

Report to the CPSC: File a report at SaferProducts.gov with as much detail as possible. This helps regulators identify patterns and take action to prevent future incidents.

Check for Recalls: Visit CPSC.gov to see if SurfaceMaxx or other pressure washer hoses have been recalled. Even if no recall exists, your report may contribute to one.

Contact the Manufacturer: Notify SurfaceMaxx of the defect and request a refund or replacement. Keep records of all communications.

If you suffered injury or property damage from this product, you may want to speak with a product liability attorney to discuss your legal options.

Manufacturer's Response

The manufacturer's official response to this specific incident report is not publicly available at the time of this writing.

Legal Help Available

H Law Group is a California product liability law firm representing consumers injured by defective products. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our team offers free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your situation and explore your options. If you or a loved one was injured by SurfaceMaxx or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation.