GE Recalls Front Load Washers Due to Fire and Shock Hazards
CPSC recall 10259 · announced June 10, 2010 · Ge Appliances & Lighting · 181,000 units affected
The product
This recall involves GE front-load washing machines without auxiliary water heating. Model and serial numbers are listed in the chart below. Recalled washing machines were manufactured between December 2006 and February 2010. The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom right side and on the bottom door frame of the washers. Brand GE Model Number Begins With: WBVH5 Serial Number Begins With: AM, AR, AS, AT, DM, DR, DS, FM, FR, FS, GM, GS, HM, HR, HS, LM, LR, LS, MM, MR, MS, RM, RR, RS, SM, SR, SS, TM, TR, TS, VM, VR, VS, ZL, ZM, ZR, ZS
The hazard
A wire can break in the machine and make contact with a metal part on the washtub while the machine is operating, posing fire and shock hazards to consumers.
What to do (per CPSC)
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled washer, unplug it from the electrical outlet and contact GE for a free repair. Consumers should not operate the washer until it has been repaired.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): GE is aware of seven incidents in which flames escaped the units and caused minor smoke damage. No injuries have been reported.
Sold at: Department and various retail stores nationwide from December 2006 through May 2010 for about $700.
Consumer contact: For additional information, contact GE toll-free at (888) 345-4124 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's website at www.geappliances.com
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.