Millions in Fire Damage Prompt Dehumidifier Recall

About 98,000 dehumidifiers that pose a serious fire and burn hazard are believed to be responsible for more than one million dollars in property damage according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

LG Electronics Tianjin Appliance Co. is urging consumers to check if they have recalled Goldstar or Comfort-Aire dehumidifiers because the power connector for the dehumidifier's compressor can short circuit, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers and their property.

Fires are reported to have caused more than $1 million in property damage in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and three oher states.

Anyone who has the recalled dehumidifiers is strongly encouraged to immediately stop using them, unplug them, and contact LG Electronics for the free repair.

The recall involves the 30 pint portable dehumidifiers sold under the Goldstar and Comfort-Aire brands. The dehumidifiers are white with a red shut-off button, controls for fan speed and humidity control, and a front-loading water bucket.

The recalled dehumidifiers were sold at The Home Depot, Walmart, Ace Hardware and other retailers nationwide from January 2007 through June 2008 for between $140 and $150. They were manufactured in China.

For additional information about the recall visit the firm's website at www.30pintdehumidifierrecall.com