CPSC, Whirlpool Announce Recall of Microwave-Hood Combinations

WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Whirlpool Corp., of Benton Harbor, Mich., is voluntarily recalling about 1.8 million microwave-hood combinations. These units can overheat and catch fire.

Whirlpool has received seven reports of fires involving these microwave- hood combinations. These incidents have resulted in extensive property damage. No injuries have been reported.

These are microwave oven and exhaust fan hood combination units that are installed above ranges. They were sold under the Whirlpool®, KitchenAid® and Kenmore® brand names. They have serial numbers that begin with XC. Open the door to locate the serial and model numbers. Department, electronics, home and appliance stores, as well as builder and remodelers, sold the microwave-hood combinations nationwide from January 1998 through September 2001 for between $249 and $749.

If the unit in question has a green tape/lable on the bottom of the inside door frame, this indicates that the warranty service has been preformed and the unit should be safe for service at this time. If you question this green lable contact Whrilpool.

Consumers with recalled microwave-hood combinations should immediately stop using them and disconnect the units by unplugging them. Consumers can call Whirlpool Corp. for a free repair. Consumers can contact Whirlpool at (800) 785-8897 anytime. Consumers also can visit Whirlpool's web site at www.whirlpool.com. Consumers should have the model and serial number of their unit available when they call or visit the web site.

Whirlpool has developed a new Consumer In-Home Service Repair Information Pamphlet. This pamphlet will provide consumers with detailed information concerning the cause of the fires and what the in-home repair will entail.

Countertop microwaves are not included in this recall.