October
16, 2001
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, (r) KitchenAid(r)
and Kenmore(r) 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.
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 beginning at 8:00 am ET on Wednesday, October 17, 2001. Consumers also
can visit Whirlpool's web site at http://www.whirlpool.com/.
Consumers should have the model and serial number of their unit available when
they call or visit the web site. Whirlpool Contact: Christopher Wyse (616)
923-2727