The Recall Desk
Our severity:HighCPSC·05123·Announced 2005-02-25

Whirlpool and Kenmore Dishwashers Recalled for Fire Risk

Whirlpool is recalling about 162,000 Whirlpool and Kenmore dishwashers because an electrical defect in the wash motor wiring poses a fire risk.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 3/5 (High).

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk of fire (high-risk hazard) with reports of overheating but no reported injuries or property damage, fitting the 'High' severity criteria for risk-of-harm products where injury has not yet been reported.

Plain-English summary

Whirlpool Corporation is recalling approximately 162,000 Whirlpool and Kenmore brand under-the-counter, plastic tall tub dishwashers. The recall involves specific model and serial number combinations sold nationwide from June 2004 through January 2005 for between $350 and $600. The affected units feature black, white, biscuit, or stainless front panels.

The recall is due to an electrical defect within the dishwashers' wash motor wiring, which poses a risk of the motor overheating and possibly catching fire. Whirlpool has received three reports of overheated wash motors, but there are no reports of personal injury or property damage.

Consumers should immediately stop using the dishwasher and disconnect the electric supply by shutting off the fuse or circuit breaker. They should call Whirlpool Corporation toll-free at (866) 769-7260 or visit repair.whirlpool.com to determine if their unit is included in the recall. If included, Whirlpool will schedule a free in-home repair. Consumers should not return the dishwasher to the retailer.

The recalled product

Product
Whirlpool® and Kenmore® brand dishwashers
Manufacturer
Whirlpool Corporation, of Benton Harbor, Mich.
Category
Consumer Product — Dishwashers
Hazard
Affected units
162,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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