Certain Sears Kenmore Dishwashers May Pose Fire Hazard

FEBRUARY 15, 1993 Release # 93-042 PRODUCT: Sears Kenmore dishwashers sold after February 1990. PROBLEM: The dishwasher's timer may catch fire. There have been 30 reports of timer failures due to shorting out and overheating. Four units have developed fires resulting in smoke damage to the surrounding countertops and cabinets. WHAT TO DO: Consumers with affected dishwashers should immediately stop using them and call 1-800-998-8470 to arrange for free repair. WASHINGTON,DC -- CPSC, Sears Merchandise Group is voluntarily contacting customers regarding 21 Kenmore dishwasher models sold in the last three years that could experience a timer failure that may result in a fire hazard. Sears is providing free service to correct the problem. Currently, 30 units of about 400,000 units sold have experienced timer failures due to shorting out and overheating. To date, four units have developed fires which resulted in smoke damage to the surrounding countertop and cabinets. Sears has no reports of injuries due to the fires or timer failures. Sears said it is working closely with its source, Frigidaire Company, the manufacturer of the dishwasher and the supplier of the necessary new parts, to respond as quickly as possible to customer requests. Sears will be using additional technicians for service calls. On February 6, Sears began sending letters to more than 300,000 customers who purchased one of the affected Kenmore dishwasher models made between February 1990 and October 1992. Sears is asking customers who have not yet received letters to check the model of their dishwasher against the list below. Owners of listed models should discontinue using the dishwasher immediately and turn the power off or unlatch the dishwasher's door until serviced. Sears is asking customers to call toll- free, 1-800-998-8470 for free service. Owners should have the model and serial numbers on hand when calling. Model and serial numbers are on the inside right door seal of the dishwasher's tub. The