After Hurricane Irene and consistent rainy weather on the East Coast, many consumers may be using dehumidifiers as they address any damage to their homes or belongings. East Coast residents should take special notice of this recall announcement regarding various makes of dehumidifiers.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and LG Electronics re-announced the recall of approximately 98,000 Goldstar and Comfort-Aire Dehumidifiers due to fire and burn hazards. The original recall was announced in December 2009 after 11 reported incidents, including four significant fires caused by the dehumidifiers. Since then, another 16 incidents have been reported, including nine significant fires. More than $1 million in property damage has been reported, including $129,000 in damage to a home in Brielle, NJ.
The recalled products were sold for between $140 and $150 at Walmart, Do It Best, The Home Depot, Ace Hardware, Orgill Inc. and other retailers across the nation from January 2007 through June 2008. They include Goldstar and Comfort-Aire 30 pint portable dehumidifiers. The models are white and include a red shut-off button, humidity control, fan speed controls and a front-loading water bucket. The brand name is printed on the front and the model and serial numbers can be found on the interior of the dehumidifier and may be seen when the water bucket is removed.
For a list of the recalled model and serial numbers, please visit the CPSC recall page. Consumers may contact LG Electronics at (877) 220-0479 to verify if their dehumidifier is included in the recall and then return it to an authorized LG service center for repair at no cost.
At Blume Forte, our experienced New Jersey defective consumer product attorneys have recovered significant compensation for clients with meritorious product liability claims when the use of a product resulted in an injury. To learn more about your legal rights and to determine whether you may have a valid claim, contact us at 973-845-4421 for a consultation at no-cost.