Recall #13-073 · Published December 18, 2012

Top-Loading Washing Machines

LG Recalls Top-Loading Washing Machines Due to Risk of Injury

CPSC published a recall notice for Top-Loading Washing Machines from Top-Loading on December 18, 2012. CPSC identifies this hazard: An unbalanced load can cause the washing machine to shake excessively and the drum to come loose during use, posing a risk of injury to consumers and property damage to the surrounding area. The official remedy states: Consumers should immediately contact LG or Sears for a free in-home repair of the machine. Consumers will also receive supplemental information to be inserted into their owner's manual and a new caution label to be placed on the washing machine. Consumers who have observed their recalled washing machine shaking excessively should immediately stop using it. Consumers should be aware that loading their machines with water-proof or water-resistant items, such as mattress pads, mattress covers and similar items, increases the chances of loads being unbalanced.

LG WT5001CW
LG WT5001CW
Image: CPSC recall notice

What to check on the product label

Compare every letter, number, space, and suffix. A similar-looking product may not be included in this recall.

The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.

Additional identifying details

Recalled washing machines have the following model and serial number ranges: Brand Model Serial Number Range LG WT5001CW 002KW******* through 111KW******* WT5101HV WT5101HW Kenmore Elite 29002 005KW******* through 111KW******* 29272 29278 The model and serial number can be found on a label fixed on the rating plate on the top back of the washing machine.

Why it was recalled

An unbalanced load can cause the washing machine to shake excessively and the drum to come loose during use, posing a risk of injury to consumers and property damage to the surrounding area.

Incidents and injuries

LG has received at least 343 reports of washing machines vibrating excessively, of which at least 187 involved minor property damage. One minor injury has been reported.

Official remedy

Consumers should immediately contact LG or Sears for a free in-home repair of the machine. Consumers will also receive supplemental information to be inserted into their owner's manual and a new caution label to be placed on the washing machine. Consumers who have observed their recalled washing machine shaking excessively should immediately stop using it. Consumers should be aware that loading their machines with water-proof or water-resistant items, such as mattress pads, mattress covers and similar items, increases the chances of loads being unbalanced.

Remedy type: Repair

Product and sales details

Manufacturer
LG Electronics Inc., of South Korea
Recall number
13-073
Units
About 457,000
Manufactured in
South Korea
Sold at / sales period
LG models were sold at Best Buy, Home Depot, Kmart, Sears and local retailers nationwide. Kenmore Elite models were sold at Kmart and Sears. All were sold from April 2010 to December 2012 for between $899 and $1,099.

Top-Loading Washing Machines

CPSC product type: Washing Machines

Recall contact information

For LG; toll-free at (855) 400-4639, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. CT Saturday, or online at www.lg.com/us and click on Public Notices. For Kenmore or LG washers purchased at Sears or Kmart; toll-free at (888) 812-2935, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT Saturday, or online at www.sears.com and click on Customer Service Home then Product Recalls in the Product Information section.

Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.

Publication and verification

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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.