CPSCJune 10, 2010

GE Front Load Washers recall: Fire and Shock Hazards

GE Recalls Front Load Washers Due to Fire and Shock Hazards

Why was GE Front Load Washers recalled?

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 should I do if I have this product?

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. 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

What to do with a recalled product: refunds, receipts, safe disposal and how to report a problem.

Is my product affected?

Compare the item in your hand with every identifier below from the official CPSC record. Only products that match the listed product and identifiers are part of this recall.

Product
GE Front-Load Washing Machines
Company
GE Appliances & Lighting, of Louisville, Ky.
Quantity
About 181,000
Sold at
Department and various retail stores nationwide from December 2006 through May 2010 for about $700.
Recall date
June 10, 2010
Incidents / injuries
GE is aware of seven incidents in which flames escaped the units and caused minor smoke damage. No injuries have been reported.
Agency
CPSC

Product description

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

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