Reports of fires involving Whirlpool microwaves prompted the company to recall certain models this week.
15,200 Whirlpool microwaves are being recalled after they were linked to fires, including one home fire and two fires involving the surrounding cabinets, along with one report of smoke and another of a burning odor. The company has determined internal arcing during use can ignite an internal plastic component, posing a fire hazard.
Only certain Whirlpool brand microwave hood combinations are affected by the recall.
Consumers may have purchased these microwaves at Best Buy, HH Gregg, Lowes, Sears or other home improvement stores and retailers nationwide for $370–$470, or bought a home that included a microwave, between January 2014 and April 2016.
Consumers can locate the model number and serial number on the inside of the microwave, above the oven cavity on the left side. The exterior of the microwave may be stainless steel, black or white.
Recalled Whirlpool Microwaves
Model Numbers | Serial Numbers |
WMH53520CS | TR33500000 to TR34899999 |
WMH53520CW | TR33500000 to TR34899999 |
WMH53520CB | TR33500000 to TR34899999 |
WMH53520CE | TR33500000 to TR34899999 |
WMH53520CH | TR33500000 to TR34899999 |
WMH73521CS | TR33500000 to TR34899999 |
WMH73521CW | TR33500000 to TR34899999 |
WMH73521CB | TR33500000 to TR34899999 |
WMH73521CE | TR33500000 to TR34899999 |
WMH73521CH | TR33500000 to TR34899999 |
“Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled microwaves, unplug the units and contact Whirlpool for a free replacement product,” Whirlpool said.
For more information, consumers can visit www.whirlpool.com and click on “Product Recall” or call 800-990-6254.