Whirlpool and Kenmore Dishwashers Recalled for Fire Hazard

Plain-English summary

Whirlpool Corporation is voluntarily recalling approximately 500,000 Whirlpool and Kenmore brand dishwashers in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The recall is due to a defect where wiring in the door latch may overheat and catch fire. Whirlpool has received 20 claims of property damage, but no injuries have been reported to date.

The affected dishwashers were sold nationwide from June 1991 through October 1992 for $350 to $475. About half of the units were sold by Sears, Roebuck and Co. Affected Whirlpool brand dishwashers have model numbers beginning with DU8, DP8, DU9, and GDP, such as DU8700XY-1. Affected Kenmore dishwashers have model numbers beginning with 665, such as 665.1665591. Both brands have serial numbers ranging from FA2400000 through FA5299999 or from FB0100000 through FB1899999. These numbers can be found on a plate on the right front edge of the tub, inside the dishwasher door.

Owners of the affected models should immediately stop using them and unlatch the dishwasher doors until service is completed. Owners of Whirlpool brand dishwashers should call (800) 874-9481 with their model and serial numbers available. Whirlpool will arrange a service call or repair at no cost. Consumers who purchased affected dishwashers from Sears will be notified directly by Sears representatives, who will also arrange service at no cost. Sears customers needing information before notification can call (800) 927-1625.

The recalled product

Product

Kenmore dishwashers

Manufacturer

Sears

Category

Consumer Product — Dishwashers

Hazard

• fire
• burn-injury

Distribution

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