Monday, June 7, 2010

Maytag Dishwasher Recall - 1.7 million fire hazards

The Consumer Product Safety Commission and Maytag have issued a Maytag dishwasher recall for 1.7 million machines. Twelve fires have been blamed on the recalled dishwashers. There are several brands effected by the Maytag dishwasher recall – Amana, Admiral, Crosley, Jenn-Air, Magic Chef, and Performa – all brands manufactured by Maytag.

Resource for this article: Maytag Dishwasher Recall – 1.7 million fire hazards

Danger of the Maytag Dishwasher Recall

The defect that prompted Maytag and the Consumer Product Safety Commission to undertake the recall is a safety hazard. If the heating element overheats, which can happen because of the defect, the dishwasher can start a fire. The fire can easily melt through the plastic housing of the dishwasher, causing significant kitchen damage.

What to do if you’re affected by the Maytag dishwasher recall

Serial numbers in a wide range are affected by the Maytag dishwasher recall. If you do have a recalled Maytag dishwasher, you can do two things – either get a rebate check to get a new one, or have your current dishwasher repaired. The website at repair.maytag.com includes a search tool to see whether your dishwasher is included in this Maytag recall.

Maytag recalls keeping the repairman busy

The bored Maytag repairman has been the image of Maytag for years. This Maytag recall, though, is far from the first for the kitchen appliance manufacturer. 1.7 million fridges were recalled in 2009, for an issue that would cause fires. Just two years before that, Maytag recalled 2.3 million dishwashers because of a design problem that could also cause troubles.

Costs of Maytag Recall to Whirlpool Corporation

Whirlpool Corporation, which owns Maytag, is facing dire stock consequences for this recall. In early March, the stock for Whirlpool was at about $ 86. Since then, the stock has climbed to $ 102. Whirlpool is also closing a machining plant, which is helping keep stock prices stable. This recall will end up costing Maytag, and Whirlpool, quite a bit of money and reputation. Whirlpool is rated a "stable" investment, although the company has almost 3 billion in debt.



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