Home Fires Prompt Dehumidifier Recall

Washington, DC: LG Electronics Tianjin Appliance is recalling 98,000 Goldstar or Comfort-Aire dehumidifiers because they pose a serious fire and burn hazard, and are believed to be responsible for more than one million dollars in property damage.

The problem appears to be that the power connector for the dehumidifier's compressor can short circuit, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers and their property.

The dehumidifiers were first recalled in December 2009 following 11 incidents, including four significant fires. Since that time, the company has received 16 additional incident reports of arcing, smoke and fire associated with the dehumidifiers, including nine significant fires. Fires are reported to have caused more than $1 million in property damage.

The recalled dehumidifiers were sold at The Home Depot, Walmart, Ace Hardware, Do It Best, Orgill Inc., and other retailers nationwide from January 2007 through June 2008 for between $140 and $150.

The recall involves the 30 pint portable dehumidifiers sold under the Goldstar and Comfort-Aire brands. The dehumidifiers are white with a red shut-off button, controls for fan speed and humidity control, and a front-loading water bucket. "Goldstar" or "Comfort-Aire" is printed on the front. Model and serial number ranges included in this recall are listed in the table below. The model and serial numbers are located on the interior of the dehumidifier, and can be seen when the water bucket is removed.

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Published on Sep-14-11