The woes keep piling up for Samsung. The Korean company is now recalling 2.8 million washing machines in the United States.
The decision came about after Samsung received more than 700 reports wherein the machines vibrated excessively. The excessive vibrations caused the lids of the top-load washers to detach in some cases. Of the 733 reported cases, nine people were hurt from getting hit by the flying or falling lid. One of the victims suffered from a broken jaw while another injured a shoulder.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, "the washing machine top can unexpectedly detach from the washing machine chassis during use, posing a risk of injury from impact."
Is my washer included in the recall?
The washers were made between March 2011 and November 2016, according to reports. The models involved have a price range of $450 to $1,500 and were mainly purchased from Best Buy, Lowe's, Sears, The Home Depot and other home appliance stores around the country. Refer to this list to know the serial numbers of the affected models.
Only top-load washers are affected by the recall. Front-load machines are not included.
What to do?
Samsung advises those who bought the washers in question to report their concern so the company can take the necessary actions. One option Samsung is offering is a free in-home repair. The repair will involve reinforcing the top of the washer. Those who choose this option will receive a one-year extension of the manufacturer warranty. The other option is to receive a "loyalty incentive" worth $150 on the purchase of a new Samsung washing machine. Those who prefer a different brand will also receive a rebate.
In the meantime, the company suggests that the owners refrain from using the high-speed cycle. And use the delicate or waterproof cycles instead. Samsung will provide a Home Label Kit which includes updated information on how to use the washer properly.
Samsung's series of unfortunate events
This recall comes after Samsung was forced to scrap the Galaxy Note 7 because of battery issues that caused the handsets to catch fire and explode. An estimated total of 1.9 million Note 7s were recalled as a result.
