By Craig Zammit
SYDNEY: Asko Australia has confirmed to Current.com.au that a recall of over 130,000 dishwashers recently in the United States will have no affect on the Australian market, with the Australian models being designed differently to those in the U.S.
“The affected models were not sold in Australia, and the machines are designed differently for the Australian market as opposed to the U.S,” Asko product manager, James Vogdanos, told Current.com.au.
“In no way does the US recall effect Asko Australia’s dishwasher range,” he said.
The product in question is the Asko DW95 Series dishwasher, with approximately 130,000 units said to be affected.
“An electrical component in the dishwasher can overheat, posing a fire hazard to consumers,” a statement from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said.
“The firm has received 21 reports of dishwasher fires. Product and property damage has been reported, but no injuries have been reported.
“The recalled dishwashers include the Asko model series DW95 with model numbers 1355, 1375, 1385, 1475, 1485, 1555, 1585, 1595, 1655, 1805, 1885, and 1895 manufactured from January 1995 through April 2000.
“The model number, serial numbers and manufacture date are printed on the name plate on the right interior side of the dishwasher door. Asko dishwashers manufactured after April 2000 are not included in the recall.”
The statement claimed that the units were sold through major kitchen appliance distributors across the U.S from January 1995 through April 2000 for between $US750 and $US1,300.
“Consumers should stop using the dishwashers immediately and contact Asko to arrange for a free inspection and repair or to participate in a rebate program,” the statement said.