Electrolux Group has re-anounced its recall of Frigidaire and Kenmore electric ranges after reports of multiple fires and injuries. The company recalled 203,000 of the stoves for the same issue in 2009.
Depending on the model, the surface heating elements can turn on spontaneously without being switched on. The recall notice says they can also fail to turn off after being switched off. Finally, the burners can heat to different temperatures than those that were selected.
The company says these issues can pose burn hazards to consumers. Since the recall was announced in August 2009, Electrolux has received at least 212 reports of the ranges behaving erratically, including 14 reports of fires and eight reports of injuries involving burns to hands or arms, as well as smoke inhalation.
This recall re-announcement involves Frigidaire, Frigidaire Gallery, Frigidaire Professional, and Kenmore Elite smooth-top electric ranges. The smooth-top electric ranges have rear panel rotary knobs and digital displays.
They were sold in the following colors: white, bisque, black and stainless steel. The brand name, model, and serial number for each unit are located on the frame of the drawer at the bottom of the unit when the drawer is opened.
A list of the serial numbers can be found in the recall announcement. Sears and independent appliance stores nationwide from June 2001 through August 2009 for between $1,000 and $2,500.
What to do
Contact Electrolux or register online to participate in the recall. Based on the serial number, it will be determined if consumers have a range that can be repaired or not.
Consumers with impacted ranges should contact Electrolux for steps to avoid a burn injury, including not leaving anything on the range when it is not in use. If the range is repairable, a free inspection and repair will be scheduled.
If the range is not repairable, consumers will receive a refund in the form of a $50 electronic gift card and reimbursement of up to $60 for the haul-away fee for their recalled range, once they have submitted proof of purchase of a new range and the haul-away fee paid.
Electrolux may reimburse haul-away fees over $60 when consumers provide receipts or other documentation showing paid haul-away fees.
Consumers may contact Electrolux Group toll-free at 888-845-8226 from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, by email at potentiometerrecall@electrolux.com or online at https://www.ema-recall.com/potentiometer or www.potentiometerrecall.com or www.frigidaire.com and click on “Recall Information” at the top of the page for more information.