Explosion Risk: Samsung Recalls 2.8 Million Washing Machines

Samsung Electronics America has issued a voluntary recall of an estimated 2.8 million top-loading washing machines after reports of 730 units exploding. Nine people were reportedly injured as a result.

“The voluntary action was driven by reports highlighting the risk that the drums in these washers may lose balance, triggering excessive vibrations, resulting in the top separating from the washer,” Samsung noted in its recall statement. “This can occur when a high-speed spin cycle is used for bedding, water-resistant or bulky items and presents an injury risk to consumers.”

The recall affects certain top-load washers made between March 2011 and current production dates, according to the company. Front-loading washers are not included in the recall.

Click here to see if your Samsung top-loading washing is affected by the recall.

To check if a top-loading Samsung washer is included in the recall, the company asks consumers to visit its website. Consumers will need to enter their machine’s model number and then its 14- or 15-digit serial number. Serial number and model numbers can be found on the back of the control panel and on the back right of the washer.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, which received explosion reports along with Samsung, warned consumers to take the recall seriously.

“We’re talking about a very serious hazard of the top of these washing machines completely blowing off,” Elliot Kaye, CPSC chairman, told ABC news. The network reported the recall includes about 34 different Samsung top-loading models, totally about 2.8 million units.

Samsung is offering consumers two options to address the potential hazard:

• In-home repair – Samsung is offering free in-home repair on the problem, which includes reinforcement of the washer’s top. Consumers who choose this option will receive a free one-year extension on their machine’s manufacturer’s warranty, regardless of the age of the machine. This option, however, is not available for mid-control washers.
• A rebate – This will be applied toward the purchase of a new washer from Samsung or another brand washing machine, according to the company. It also comes with free installation of the new washer and removal of the old unit. The rebate amount will be based on the manufacturer date and model of the recalled machine.

For more information about the recall and to check of a model is affected, visit Samsung online.

Photo via Samsung Electronics America