My GE Profile Dishwasher Is Causing Fires

The Recall

• On Oct. 26, 2010, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, along with General Electric Appliances and Lighting of Louisville, Kentucky, issued a press release announcing a dishwasher recall. The products specified in the recall were GE Profile and GE Monogram dishwashers. These items were recalled because routine operation of the appliances posed a fire hazard.

The Problem

• According to the press release, the formation of condensation can drip on the dishwasher’s electronic control board. This contact causes a short circuit, which produces an overheated connector. This chain of events produces the potential for the dishwasher to catch on fire.

Fire Statistics

• At the time of the press release, there were five documented cases of fires that occurred as a result of operating the GE Profile and Monogram dishwashers. Fortunately, no one sustained injuries in either of the fires. However, in four of the cases, the kitchen countertop above the appliance was damaged, and in one case, there was fire damage to the cabinets and also smoke damage to the residence.

Recall Description

• The recall targets 174,000 GE Profile dishwashers manufactured between July 2003 and December 2005. There are three specific model numbers involved in the recall. The 9200 series begins with the model numbers PDW9200J and PDW9280J. The 9700 series begins with the model number PDW9700J. The 9800 series begins with the model numbers PDW9800J and PDW9880J. The model numbers are listed inside the dishwasher on the front left side.

Considerations

• To avoid the risk of fire, discontinue use of the recalled dishwasher. Also disconnect it from the power supply and make sure everyone else in the residence is aware of the potential dangers of operating the appliance. At the time of the press release, GE offered a $200 rebate to consumers who wanted to purchase a new GE Profile dishwasher and also offered free repairs to those who wanted to keep their existing appliance.