Whirlpool has identified a further 21 models to be added to its list of recalled washing machines. The company estimates this will affect up to 55,000 machines in addition to more than 500,000 originally identified.
In light of Coronavirus, Whirlpool has today set out the measures that will apply during the recall to ensure the safety of both customers and staff, in line with government guidance.
Whirlpool statement and model checker
The initial recall campaign began in early January 2020 and is being undertaken by Whirlpool UK Appliances Ltd, which identified the fault in models of brands it owns. That recall was originally announced on 17 December 2019 when consumers were advised to contact Whirlpool to arrange a replacement.
The advice sets out that there is a risk that the door locks of affected machines could catch fire due to overheating during the washing process. Affected consumers are advised to unplug their machine and register with Whirlpool for a replacement.
Under the recall, consumers with an affected washing machine will be entitled to a free replacement. Old machines will be removed, and replacements installed, at no cost to the consumer.
This latest safety announcement and recall follows ongoing scrutiny by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) which has been monitoring data supplied by Whirlpool since the company first identified the issue.
Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection at Which?, said: “It’s really concerning that Whirlpool has announced that there are tens of thousands of additional unsafe washing machines in people’s homes.
“Whirlpool customers are being drip fed information and serious questions need to be asked about why it took almost five months for this to come to light.
“Some Whirlpool customers may be understandably concerned about dealing with this problem during a nationwide lockdown. Whirlpool has provided reassurances that it has suitable safety measures in place so customers should report their affected machine to the company as soon as possible.
“The OPSS must take control of this situation and ensure that all affected machines have now been identified so there are no more nasty surprises in a few months’ time.”
Additional information:
- Whirlpool will be required to provide regular updates to OPSS on progress made in the product recall.
- Consumers can contact the Whirlpool helpline on 0800 316 1442 for more information or visit the Whirlpool website for a full list of affected machines.
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