GE Recalls Front Load Washers Due to Fire and Shock Hazards

Recalled June 10, 2010 · CPSC recall 10259 · GE

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.

Remedy

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.

Units

About 181,000

Incidents / injuries

GE is aware of seven incidents in which flames escaped the units and caused minor smoke damage. No injuries have been reported.

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

What to do

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

Product

GE Front-Load Washing Machines

Manufacturer(s)

GE Appliances & Lighting, of Louisville, Ky.

Retailers

Department and various retail stores nationwide from December 2006 through May 2010 for about $700.

Made in

China

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