UK scandal extends to Australia.
The massive UK recall of the Whirpool brands, Hotpoint and Indesit has been extended to Australia and New Zealand. Recall advertisements have been placed in the media today by the local distributor Arisit P/L. The only difference between the UK and local recall is that the Hotpoint products are rebadged Ariston for this market.
The ordeal that Whirpool has endured following the purchase of the brands in 2014 appears to have spread globally. The company said on the site dedicated to the recall that it identified a potential concern with two types of tumble dryers manufactured between April 2004 and September 2015.
The company explained that, “In some rare cases, excess fluff can come into contact with the heating element and present a risk of fire.
“We are activating an extensive consumer outreach and service action plan in order to provide our consumers with products that are updated to higher safety and quality standards. We will arrange a visit from an engineer, free of charge, to modify your appliance. The service call will take approximately one hour. The improvements we believe are necessary will further enhance the safety and quality of your dryer.”
It also advised customers, “You may continue to use your tumble dryer whilst waiting for the modification, however, we require that you do not leave your dryer unattended during operation as an extra precaution (i.e. do not leave the house or leave the dryer on whilst asleep).
“Additionally, you should check and clean the filter after every cycle and ensure proper dryer venting, as directed in the original operating manual.”