Recall#
12-251
Recall Date
August 20, 2012
Product Name
LG Electronics and Kenmore Elite® Gas Dryers
Product Manufacturer
LG Electronics, Inc., of South Korea South Korea
Units Affected
About 21,000
Recall Description
LG Electronics and Kenmore Elite dryers can overheat, burn clothing or start a fire. Companies have received reports of burns to hands or arms, burnt or scorched clothes and dryers heating after cycle is complete.
Possible Hazard
The gas valve in the recalled dryers can fail to shut off properly, continuing to heat the dryer and its contents after the drying cycle is complete. High temperatures inside and on the exterior surface of the dryers can scorch the drum, as well as burn or damage the dryer contents, posing a risk of burn, fire and smoke inhalation.
Reported Incidents
LG Electronics and Sears have received 141 consumer complaints about dryers continuing to heat after the drying cycle is complete. There were three reports of minor burns to hands or arms. Burnt or scorched clothing was reported in more than 50 incidents.
Remedy
Consumers should turn off the gas supply and stop using the dryers until repaired. LG brand owners who purchased their dryer at retailers other than Sears should contact LG customer service to arrange for a free gas valve replacement. Customers who purchased Kenmore or LG brand dryers from Sears should contact Transform for Kenmore branded products to schedule a free repair to replace the gas valve. Some consumers have already been notified and have received the repair service.
ATTENTION: Dryers that have a colored sticker on the back, top, or a colored sticker or a plus sign (“+”) on the back, bottom, near the gas valve assembly, have already been repaired. If accessible, consumers can check for these stickers or sign. If not accessible, contact LG or Transform for Kenmore branded products as detailed below.
Retailers
LG Electronics brand gas dryers were sold by various appliance stores, including Sears, nationwide from November 2009 through August 2010. Kenmore Elite® brand gas dryers were sold at Sears stores nationwide from November 2009 through August 2010. The approximate retail cost for the recalled dryers was between $650 and $1500 for these various models.
Information provided by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission