KitchenAid microwave internal arcing fire recall 2016 — Whirlpool Corporation and the U.S. CPSC announced a voluntary recall on August 25, 2016 covering approximately 15,200 microwave hood combinations including KitchenAid-branded units. Internal arcing during use can ignite an internal plastic component, posing a fire hazard to consumers.
Why this matters
The recalled microwave hood combinations have a defect where internal electrical arcing during normal cooking operation can reach and ignite a plastic component inside the microwave cabinet. Whirlpool received five reports of incidents related to this hazard — three reports of fires inside the microwave, and two reports of the fires spreading to surrounding cabinetry.
Affected units
- Brands: KitchenAid and Whirlpool microwave hood combinations
- Total units: Approximately 15,200 in the United States
- Manufactured: January 2014 through April 2016 in China
- Sold: January 2014 through April 2016 at Best Buy, HH Gregg, Lowes, Sears, other home improvement and appliance retailers, and through homebuilders nationwide
- Price range: from $370
Recommended action steps
- Stop using the recalled microwave immediately
- Unplug the unit or switch off its dedicated breaker
- Contact Whirlpool at the original recall number Monday–Friday 8 AM–6 PM ET or visit repair.whirlpoolcorp.com
- Whirlpool will provide a free replacement product (not a repair)
Urgency level
High. Active fire hazard with documented ignition incidents. Affected KitchenAid microwave owners should discontinue use immediately and arrange the free replacement.