CPSC, Whirlpool Announce Recall of Dehumidifiers

Recalled January 31, 2002 · CPSC recall 02096 · Whirlpool

Hazard

The dehumidifiers can overheat, posing a fire hazard.

Remedy

Consumers should stop using these dehumidifiers and unplug them immediately. Contact Whirlpool to arrange for a free repair.

Units

About 1.4 million

Incidents / injuries

Whirlpool has received 13 reports of the dehumidifiers overheating and causing fires, three of which resulted in extensive property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description

The recalled dehumidifiers were sold under the Whirlpool, Kenmore and ComfortAire brand names. The dehumidifiers are white plastic, about 2 feet high and have a front-mounted water bucket. They have serial numbers that begin with QG, QH, QJ, QK or QL. The serial number can be found on a label located on the wall behind the water bucket. Dehumidifiers with water buckets located in back are not involved in the recall.

What to do

Consumers should stop using these dehumidifiers and unplug them immediately. Contact Whirlpool to arrange for a free repair.

Contact

Contact Whirlpool at (866) 640-7139 anytime or visit the firm's web site at www.repair.whirlpool.com

Product

Dehumidifiers

Manufacturer(s)

Whirlpool Corp., of Benton Harbor, Mich.

Retailers

Department and appliance stores nationwide sold the dehumidifiers, from February 1997 through December 2001, for between $130 and $260.

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Official recall notice on cpsc.gov →