The Recall Desk
Our severity:SevereCPSC·01116·Announced 2001-03-28

White Consolidated Industries Recalls 240-Volt Air Conditioners for Fire Risk

White Consolidated Industries is recalling about 17,000 240-volt air conditioners because they can short circuit, posing a risk of fire, shock, and burn injuries.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).

The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a significant property damage report ($14,000) from a fire caused by a short circuit, which meets the criteria for a Severe rating under the rubric.

Plain-English summary

White Consolidated Industries Inc. of Cleveland, Ohio, is recalling about 17,000 240-volt air conditioners installed through the wall. The units can short circuit, posing a risk of fires, and shock and burn injuries to consumers. The company has received one report of a fire caused by a short circuit, resulting in $14,000 in damage. No injuries have been reported.

The recalled air conditioners were sold under the following brands and model numbers: Frigidaire FAH096J2T1; White-Westinghouse WAH09EH2T1 and WAH096H2T1; and Kenmore 253.79093990 and 253.70093000. The brand name is written on the front of the air conditioner under the control dial. The model number is written on a label inside the air conditioner, which can be viewed by lifting the filter in the front of the unit and reading the number through the slats.

These air conditioners were sold nationwide from November 1998 through November 2000 for about $300 at department, appliance, home and hardware stores, and by independent contractors. Consumers should stop using these units and contact the company toll-free at (800) 374-4432 to arrange for a free repair.

The recalled product

Product
240-volt air conditioners
Manufacturer
White Consolidated Industries Inc., of Cleveland, Ohio
Category
Consumer Product — Air Conditioners
Hazard
Affected units
17,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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