The Virtual Repairman's Appliance Help

LG Recalls Washers Due To Risk Of Injury

Virtual Repairman — Sat Jan 12, 2013 7:54 am

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Sat Jan 12, 2013 7:54 am

Dec. 18, 2012

LG Recalls Top-Loading Washing Machines Due to Risk of Injury

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of Product: Top-Loading Washing Machines

Units: About 457,000

Manufacturer: LG Electronics Inc., of South Korea

Hazard: An unbalanced load can cause the washing machine to shake excessively and the drum to come loose during use, posing a risk of injury to consumers and property damage to the surrounding area.

Incidents/Injuries: LG has received at least 343 reports of washing machines vibrating excessively, of which at least 187 involved minor property damage. One minor injury has been reported.

For all the information, including models that are affected, please visit http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml13/13073.html?tab=recalls

GE Recalls Front Load Washers Due to Injury Hazard

Virtual Repairman — Thu Oct 04, 2012 4:59 pm

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Thu Oct 04, 2012 4:59 pm

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Communications Washington, D.C.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 3, 2012
Release #13-003 Firm's Recall Hotline: (888) 641-9739
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908
GE Media Contact: (888) 240-2749

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of Product: GE Profile� Front Load Washers
Units: About 62,000
Importer: GE Appliances, of Louisville, Ky.
Hazard: The washer�s basket can separate during use and break the washer�s top panel, posing an injury hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: GE has received 19 reports of washer baskets separating, including 10 reports of top panel breakage. No injuries have been reported.
Description: This recall involves GE Profile� frontload washing machines with model numbers beginning with WPDH8800, WPDH8900 and WPDH8910. All serial numbers with these models are included in this recall. The washers were sold in gold, red and white colors. The model number is located on the washer�s right side near the bottom and behind the door near the door frame visible when the door is opened.

Brand Model Number Begins With: And Serial Number Begins With:
GE Profile� WPDH8800
WPDH8900
WPDH8910 All serial numbers with these models are included.
Sold at: Best Buy, Lowe�s, Sears, The Home Depot and other department and retail stores nationwide, from July 2008 to August 2011 for between $1,199 and $1,599.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled washers and contact GE for a free repair.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact GE Appliances at (888) 641-9739 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm�s website at www.geappliances.com/products/recall

Location of model and serial number

---
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is still interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are either directly related to this product recall or involve a different hazard with the same product. Please tell us about your experience with the product on SaferProducts.gov
CPSC is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of the thousands of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $900 billion annually. CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed to a decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.
Under federal law, it is illegal to attempt to sell or resell this or any other recalled product.
To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, go online to: SaferProducts.gov, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or teletypewriter at (301) 595-7054 for the hearing and speech impaired. Consumers can obtain this news release and product safety information at www.cpsc.gov.

LG Electronics and Sears Recall Gas Dryers !!

Virtual Repairman — Thu Aug 23, 2012 2:56 pm

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 2:56 pm

Aug. 21, 2012

LG Electronics and Sears Recall Gas Dryers For Repair Due to Fire Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firms named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately until a repair is completed on affected dryers. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of Product: LG Electronics and Kenmore Elite� Gas Dryers

Units: About 21,000

Manufacturer: LG Electronics, Inc., of South Korea

Hazard: The gas valve in the recalled dryers can fail to shut off properly, continuing to heat the dryer and its contents after the drying cycle is complete. High temperatures inside and on the exterior surface of the dryers can scorch the drum, as well as burn or damage the dryer contents, posing a risk of burn, fire and smoke inhalation.

Incidents/Injuries: LG Electronics and Sears have received 141 consumer complaints about dryers continuing to heat after the drying cycle is complete. There were three reports of minor burns to hands or arms. Burnt or scorched clothing was reported in more than 50 incidents.

Description: LG Electronics and Sears' Kenmore Elite brand gas dryers come in the following colors: LG models in white; Kenmore Elite� in red, white and ginger (gold). Model and serial numbers can be found on a label fixed to the front of the dryer above the opened door, which can be viewed only when the dryer door is open. To confirm if your dryer is part of this recall, identify both model and serial numbers, since not all dryers with the listed models are recalled. Sold by: LG Electronics brand gas dryers were sold by various appliance stores, including Sears, nationwide from November 2009 through August 2010. Kenmore Elite� brand gas dryers were sold at Sears stores nationwide from November 2009 through August 2010. The approximate retail cost for the recalled dryers was between $650 and $1500 for these various models.

Manufactured in: South Korea

Remedy: Consumers should turn off the gas supply and stop using the dryers until repaired. LG brand owners who purchased their dryer at retailers other than Sears should contact LG customer service to arrange for a free gas valve replacement. Customers who purchased Kenmore or LG brand dryers from Sears should contact Sears' customer service to schedule a free repair to replace the gas valve. Some consumers have already been notified and have received the repair service.

ATTENTION: Dryers that have a colored sticker on the back, top, or a colored sticker or a plus sign ("+") on the back, bottom, near the gas valve assembly, have already been repaired. If accessible, consumers can check for these stickers or sign. If not accessible, contact LG or Sears as detailed below.

LG Consumer Contact: For additional information about the recall and to schedule a repair, contact LG toll free at (866) 223-5355 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, and between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. CT on Saturday, or visit the firm's website at www.lg.com/us and click on Public Notices.

Sears Consumer Contact: For additional information and to schedule a repair, contact Sears toll-free at (888) 375-9741 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, and between 7:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M. Saturday, or visit the firm's website at www.sears.com and click on Product Recalls under Customer Service.

FOR LIST OF MODEL NUMBERS AND SERIAL NUMBERS OF THE AFFECTED UNITS, SEE THE LINK BELOW:

http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml12/12251.html

GE Recalls Dishwashers Due to Fire Hazard

Virtual Repairman — Fri Aug 10, 2012 5:38 am

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Fri Aug 10, 2012 5:38 am

Aug 9, 2012

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of product: GE, GE Adora�, GE Eterna�, GE Profile� and Hotpoint�, Dishwashers

Units: About 1.3 million in the United States

Manufacturer: GE Appliances, of Louisville, Ky.

Hazard: An electrical failure in the dishwasher's heating element can pose a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: GE has received 15 reports of dishwasher heating element failures, including seven reports of fires, three of which caused extensive property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves GE, GE Adora, GE Eterna, GE Profile and Hotpoint brand dishwashers. They were sold in black, white, bisque, stainless steel and CleanSteel� exterior colors and finishes. The model and serial numbers can be found on a metallic plate located on the left tub wall visible when the door is opened. Model and serial numbers will start with one of the following sequences:

Brand
GE
GE Adora
GE Eterna
GE Profile

Model Number Begins With:
GLC4, GLD4, GLD5, GLD6, GSD61,
GSD62,GSD63, GSD66, GSD67,
GSD69, GLDL,PDW7, PDWF7,
EDW4, EDW5, EDW6,GHD4,
GHD5, GHD6, GHDA4, GHDA6

Serial Number Begins With:
FL, GL, HL, LL, ML, VL, ZL,
AM, DM, FM, GM, HM, LM,
MM, RM, SM, TM, VM, ZM,
AR, DR, FR, GR
Hotpoint HLD4

Sold at: Appliance dealers, authorized builder distributors and other stores nationwide from March 2006 through August 2009 for between $350 and $850.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled dishwashers, disconnect the electric supply by shutting off the fuse or circuit breaker controlling it and inform all users of the dishwasher about the risk of fire. For all dishwashers, contact GE for a free in-home repair or to receive a GE rebate of $75 towards the purchase of a new GE front-control plastic tub dishwasher, or a rebate of $100 towards the purchase of a new GE front-control stainless tub dishwasher or GE Profile top control dishwasher. Consumers should not return the recalled dishwashers to the retailer where they purchased as retailers are not prepared to take the units back.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact GE toll-free at (866) 918-8760 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm�s website at www.geappliances.com/recall

U.S. Plans to Impose Tariffs on Appliances from South Korea

Virtual Repairman — Sun Aug 05, 2012 6:52 am

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Sun Aug 05, 2012 6:52 am

Jul 31, 2012

The U.S. Department of Commerce will impose tariffs on some imported appliances - this after it ruled on Monday that some appliances are being dumped on the U.S. market. The DoC made a preliminary determination in an anti-dumping investigation of large residential washing machines being imported from South Korea and Mexico. The investigation came in response to a petition filed by Whirlpool Corp. in December 2011. "Dumping" happens when a foreign company sells a product in the United States at less than fair value.

The DoC estimated 2011 imports of large residential washers from Mexico were valued at $434 million and imports of washers from Korea were valued at $569 million. As a result of the ruling, producers who make the appliances in Mexico and South Korea - such as Electrolux, LG, Samsung, and Daewoo - will be required to pay cash deposits to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) on washers imported to the U.S. starting in August 2012 at the rates found in the preliminary determination.

The DoC announced cash deposit rates for three Korean appliance makers:
LG: 12.15%
Samsung: 9.62%
Daewoo: 82.41%
all other Korean producers/exporters: 11.36%

The DoC said the margin for Daewoo was based on adverse facts available (AFA) because of its failure to cooperate in the investigation.

Cash deposit rates for Mexican producers are:
Electrolux: 33.30%
Samsung: 72.41%
all other Mexican producers/exporters: 33.30%
The DoC also announced a 72.41% cash deposit rate for Whirlpool Corp.'s Mexican operations - but Whirlpool no longer ships washers from Mexico for sale in the U.S. For that reason Whirlpool will not pay cash deposits related to this ruling. The DoC said the margins for Samsung and Whirlpool were based on AFA because of the companies' failure to cooperate in the investigation.

The anti-dumping investigation is ongoing, and the DoC will undertake an in-depth audit of the information provided by the appliance makers before issuing the final determinations in December 2012. The final step will come in February 2013 when the Doc and U.S. International Trade Commission issue final orders based on the determinations.

It is at this point in the process where an earlier anti-dumping complaint from Whirlpool fell apart. Whirlpool filed anti-dumping and anti-subsidy petitions in March 2011 bottom-mount refrigerators imported from South Korea and Mexico. While early reports did find dumping occurring, the ITC rules in April 2012 that the imports did not cause material injury to the U.S. industry.

Whirlpool Comments
Whirlpool has invested in U.S. appliance manufacturing to supply the U.S. market. By 2013 Whirlpool plans to have nearly 100% of its washers sold in the United States to be manufactured in the United States as well.

"The Commerce Department's preliminary finding shows that dumping is occurring, which supports the legal action we took on behalf of our employees and the U.S. appliance industry," said Whirlpool spokesperson Kristine Vernier. "Whirlpool is committed to building products in the regions where they are sold and investing in our U.S. manufacturing presence. Our investments will continue as long as we can compete on a level playing field, with all of our foreign competitors playing by the established rules."

Electrolux Responds-

ApplianceMagazine.com spoke to Electrolux's Caryn Klebba, Director, Corporate Communications NA. "The Department of Commerce uses an arcane methodology for determining dumping," she said. She added that Electrolux strongly disagrees with the Department findings. "U.S. anti-dumping rules were developed in 1911 and they don't take into account the global economy of today," Klebba told APPLIANCE.

Klebba also pointed out that Electrolux has just one-tenth the laundry appliances market share as Whirlpool, and therefore its washer imports from Mexico aren't harming Whirlpool. Citing statistics from the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, Klebba said Electrolux has 5.6% laundry appliances market share the United States, compared to Whirlpool's 56%. Klebba said she expects that the final ITC ruling in February 2012 will find - as in the April bottom-mount refrigerator case - the imports from Mexico are causing no harm to the U.S. industry.
LG Responds

LG Electronics said in a press release that it disputes the DoC preliminary determination of dumping margins. LG said that, in its early analysis of the DoC notice, "the government's calculations appear to be significantly overstated." LG pledged t continue to cooperate with the DoC but also to "aggressively contest the calculations before the final determination is issued in this investigation."

"Regardless of the Commerce Department's final determinations, LG Electronics is confident that the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) will find that imports of LG washing machines from Korea have not injured the domestic industry, principally Whirlpool Corporation, which launched this investigation," LG said.

Samsung Responds

Samsung in a statement said it is affected by the Department of Commerce antidumping margins South Korea but not for Mexico, as it no longer manufactures washing machines in Mexico.

An unnamed Samsung spokesperson said the company strongly disagrees with the DoC's finding, and is confident that, in the final investigation phase, the department will find that Samsung has not engaged in dumping and is in compliance with U.S. trade laws.

"The preliminary margin is based on the Department's use of two flawed calculation methodologies known as 'targeted dumping' and 'zeroing," the Samsung spokesperson said. "Zeroing has been found in several instances to violate the World Trade Organization rules upon which U.S. laws are based. The use of this methodology created an antidumping margin where dumping did not, in fact, occur. Targeted dumping employs zeroing and is equally prohibited under the WTO's rules. Therefore, we are disappointed that the Commerce Department continues to use zeroing, which it has eliminated in several other contexts as a result of the WTO's decisions. Other aspects of the targeted dumping finding are also arbitrary and unlawful."

Home Depot Is Expanding Its Major Appliance Business

Virtual Repairman — Wed Jul 18, 2012 12:54 pm

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Wed Jul 18, 2012 12:54 pm

By Alan Wolf -- TWICE, July 16, 2012

ATLANTA � No. 3 majap chain The Home Depot is adding Whirlpool, Electrolux and Frigidaire to its brand roster and will expand its appliance departments in select stores in a major bid to grow market share. The new brands, and the expanded 2,400-squarefoot majap showrooms, will roll out to 120 locations nationwide by mid-fourth quarter. According to Bob Baird, Home Depot�s appliances and kitchens merchandising VP, the first department remodels will begin appearing this summer.

The Whirlpool, Electrolux and Frigidaire assortment will also be available online at HomeDepot.com and can be ordered at any U.S. store through the retailer�s Depot Direct delivery network. Products will include ovens, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers and laundry pairs. Whirlpool joins sister brands Maytag and Amana at Home Depot, while Electrolux�s Frigidaire, step-up Frigidaire Gallery and premium Electrolux badges are new to the chain. The new additions are presently available at home improvement rival Lowe�s.

Home Depot�s expanded assortment, and Whirlpool�s and Electrolux�s broadened distribution, come as No. 1 majap chain Sears continues to face weak financials and an uncertain future.
According to TWICE�s latest Top 100 Major Appliance Retailers Report, Sears� white-goods sales slipped 3 percent in 2010 to $7.3 billion, while sales declined nearly 2 percent at No. 2 majap chain Lowe�s, to $5.5 billion. In contrast, Home Depot enjoyed a 1 percent uptick last year, to $3.4 billion.

Best Buy and hhgregg occupy the fourth- and fifthplace berths on the Top 100, with respective white-goods sales of $1.8 billion and $795 million last year. In a statement, Home Depot�s merchandising executive VP Craig Menear said, �We are dedicated to offering the widest selection and assortment of top brands to our customers and this expansion helps us deliver on that commitment. We are always looking for ways to improve the shopping experience for customers.�

Added Jack Truong, head of Electrolux Major Appliances North America, �This is a new customer for us, and a fantastic opportunity to grow Electrolux while offering more consumers our innovative products. This new business accelerates our growth in North America and provides the opportunity to intensify our investments in innovation and benefit-driven design across the Frigidaire and Electrolux brands. All of our customers � including The Home Depot � will benefit from the investment to drive growth.�

Sub-Zero and Wolf Launch Smart Appliance App

Virtual Repairman — Wed Jun 20, 2012 2:50 pm

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Wed Jun 20, 2012 2:50 pm

Sub-Zero and Wolf Appliance have made the new Smart Appliance App and Smart Appliance Module available. The system is engineered by Card Access to integrate into Control4 wireless home control systems.

"Our non-exclusive relationship with Control4 allows us to meet modern consumers' desire for products that add convenience to their everyday routine and appliances with home automation technology deliver on that promise," said Michele Bedard, vice president of marketing for Sub-Zero and Wolf. The Smart Appliance App builds on the premise that consumers are looking for solutions that enhance their lifestyle. The system's functions include notifications of pre-heat and timer completion, current oven temperature, and knowing when meals are finished cooking based on the internal temperature probe's reading.

System alerts can notify homeowners if the refrigerator door is left open, helping to prevent food spoilage. The app can also maximize energy efficiency by lowering the refrigerator's power consumption at different times of day. The app can also accommodate specific lifestyle needs such as increasing ice production prior to entertaining, saving energy in vacation mode, and choosing the Sabbath mode for religious observances. The system can also enhance service. General service requests can be sent directly to service through the Control4 system, leading to quicker diagnosis and resolution of problems.

"Consumers want to be able to monitor and control everything in their home anywhere, at any time. With Control4 and the new Smart Appliance App and Smart Appliance Module, homeowners can effortlessly manage their Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances," said Susan Cashen, senior vice president of marketing for Control4.

Fisher & Paykel Designs New Refrigerator Line

Virtual Repairman — Wed Jun 20, 2012 2:44 pm

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Wed Jun 20, 2012 2:44 pm

Jun 20, 2012

Fisher & Paykel Appliances' ActiveSmart refrigerator technology - designed to adapt fridge operation to the user's lifestyle - is offered in a new refreshed design line with enhancements to styling, storage, and lighting. The latest model will be available to consumers in the United States and Canada in July 2012 and will be released under the Fisher & Paykel brand. The ActiveSmart technology itself monitors how consumers use the fridge and adjusts airflow to keep temperatures stable, which helps keep food fresher longer.

The new E22B refrigerator line has a sleeker appearance that comes from a design elements such as seamless stainless steel styling. The design conceals the hinge from the side and front. Designers replaced the halogen lighting of older designs with LED lighting, to reduce potential glare problems and provide better illumination. Light will be more evenly distributed throughout the interior, for better visibility and food presentation. LED lighting also uses 88% less power than halogen. A faster icemaker is engineered to produce 75% more ice, and to produce better quality ice. The water delivery system is engineered to be that is 65% faster.

Storage capacity is enhance with the addition of individual bottle holders, which can be stacked on top of each other when not in use and stored within the refrigerator in a self contained storage area for convenience. The bottle holder is manufactured using a chemical resistant ABS plastic with rubber feet to provide better stability. This gives consumers the flexibility to place it anywhere in the fridge, allowing for more customized options of the available space to fit users' specific needs.

Scott Davies, Fisher & Paykel's marketing manager, said the new line refines the design platform and takes it to a higher level, "With focus on integration and designer elements."

VIKING RANGE RECALLS DISHWASHERS DUE TO FIRE HAZARD!

Virtual Repairman — Wed Apr 18, 2012 4:33 pm

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Wed Apr 18, 2012 4:33 pm

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Communications Washington, D.C.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 10, 2012
Release #12-147 Firm's Recall Hotline: (800) 241-7239
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908
Viking Range Recalls Dishwashers Due to Fire Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.
Name of Product: Viking dishwashers
Units: About 2,000
Manufacturer: Viking Range Corporation of Greenwood, Miss.
Hazard: An electrical component in the dishwasher can overheat, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Viking has received 21 reports of incidents, including five reports of property damage from fires. No injuries have been reported.
Description: The recall includes Viking 24" Professional, Designer and Custom Panel dishwashers manufactured between May and September 2010. They were sold in black, white and 24 other custom colors, stainless steel and with custom wood panels. The name "Viking" appears on the control panel at the top of the door. The model and serial number are located on the identification plate mounted on the inside on the left side of the dishwasher door opening. The first six numbers in the serial number are the manufacture date in mmddyy format, e.g., serial number 052610 was manufactured on May 26, 2010. Model and manufacture dates included on this recall are:
Model Numbers
Starting With*: Date Codes - first six digits
of serial number:
DDB325
DFB450
VDB325
VDB450 052610 through 091510
* Model numbers ending with an E are not included on the recall.
Sold at: Appliance and specialty retail stores nationwide from June 2010 through March 2012 for between $1,425 and $2,000.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled dishwashers and contact Viking's hotline for a free in-home repair.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Viking toll-free at (800) 241-7239 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday or visit Viking's website at www.vikingrange.com

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is still interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are either directly related to this product recall or involve a different hazard with the same product. Please tell us about your experience with the product on SaferProducts.gov
CPSC is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of the thousands of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $900 billion annually. CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed to a decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.
Under federal law, it is illegal to attempt to sell or resell this or any other recalled product.
To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, go online to: SaferProducts.gov, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or teletypewriter at (301) 595-7054 for the hearing and speech impaired. Consumers can obtain this news release and product safety information at www.cpsc.gov. To join a free e-mail subscription list, please go to www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx.

GE Appliances has new leader-

Virtual Repairman — Sat Dec 17, 2011 9:00 am

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2011 9:00 am

Campbell to Retire, Blankenship To Head GE Appliances

Dec 16, 2011

GE Home & Business Solutions named Charles (Chip) Blankenship to be president and CEO of GE Appliances. He takes over from James P. Campbell, will retire on Dec. 31, 2011, after 30 years with GE.

�It is with immense gratitude that we�d like to recognize Jim for his dedicated service to GE,� said GE Home & Business Solutions President and CEO Charlene Begley. �In his three decades of service to our company, Jim has distinguished himself as a leader known for his passionate focus on the customer and his employee development and advocacy.�

Chip Blankenship (pictured) will report to Begley. �Chip brings a wealth of business leadership and program and product management expertise to this role,� said Begley. �We see tremendous opportunity to leverage his background and look forward to growth under his leadership.�

Blankenship joined Appliances from his most recent role as vice president and general manager for the Commercial Engines Operation for GE Aviation. Prior to GE Aviation, Chip was the general manager for Aero Energy, a division of GE Energy. Blankenship began his GE career in 1992 as a staff scientist at the Global Research Center. He joined Aviation in 1996 and held several product and program management positions before taking on the business leadership role in Aero Energy. Blankenship earned a bachelor's of science degree in materials engineering from Virginia Tech and a doctorate in materials science and engineering from the University of Virginia.

Fisher-Paykel unveils the next generation dish drawer

Virtual Repairman — Sat Dec 17, 2011 8:55 am

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2011 8:55 am

Dec 13, 2011

Fisher & Paykel Appliances unveiled the next generation version of its iconic DishDrawer dishwasher line, with remote controls to eliminate external interface and other design features to allow for seamless cabinetry integration.

All integrated models have a wireless remote, to eliminate the need for an external interface and create clean lines in the kitchen design. Single integrated models' seamless cabinetry integration is facilitated with rear venting and an adjustable door option. 24-inch models now have the capacity to accommodate seven place settings per drawer instead of six, as in previous models. The new DishDrawer will be available in the United States and Canada in December 2011 under both the Fisher & Paykel brand name and the DCS by Fisher & Paykel brand name. The drawer dishwasher concept was conceived by F&P in 1986 and was unveiled at Domotechnica, the German event that was then the premiere global appliance trade show. It was released in North America in 1998

Electrolux breaks new ground in Tennessee

Virtual Repairman — Wed Oct 26, 2011 5:32 am

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Wed Oct 26, 2011 5:32 am

Oct 6, 2011

Electrolux leaders and state, county and city officials gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony yesterday at the site of a new North American Cooking Products manufacturing center in Memphis. The October 5th groundbreaking appears to end the uncertainty that manifested early in 2011 over government incentives and unexpectedly high construction bids.

"With the addition of this facility, Tennessee will become the North American Center of Excellence for Electrolux cooking product development and manufacturing,� said Jack Truong, president and CEO of Electrolux Major Appliances, North America. �We are very excited to see the hard work of the past 10 months come to fruition and thank the city, county, and state for their support of Electrolux Company.�

Electrolux announced last December that it had chosen Memphis for its new North American Cooking Products manufacturing center. Electrolux detailed its reasons for choosing the site:
� Synergies with other Electrolux plants, which will allow the company to better leverage existing resources, especially those at its cooking plant in Springfield, TN.
� Memphis�s resources and location advantages, including the skilled labor pool, the area�s central location, and logistics, which will improve access to key markets, customers and suppliers.

Incentives, however, were also a factor, with the Memphis Commercial Appeal media outlet estimating that state, county, and local governments subsidized the plant to the tune of $188 million. In fact, the State of Tennessee promised $97 million in incentives to help convince Electrolux to build the plant in Memphis, but couldn't get the firm money commitments that it promised Electrolux would have by Jan. 31, 2011. The incentive commitments issue was solved, but new problems cropped up in August and September when construction bids started coming in at $30 million more than expected.

The Memphis plant is expected to employ 1,200 workers to build the company�s Electrolux, Electrolux ICON brand, and Frigidaire brand built-in and specialty cooking appliances. The plant is expected to be fully operational in 2014. "The state of Tennessee has been very supportive of Electrolux over the years and we appreciate their continued support as we realize our vision of making Tennessee the North American Center of Excellence for Electrolux Cooking Products,� said Truong.

Home Fires Prompt Dehumidifier Recall Reannouncement from LG

Virtual Repairman — Wed Sep 21, 2011 5:03 am

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2011 5:03 am

September 14, 2011
Release #11-324

More Than One Million Dollars in Property Damage Linked to Goldstar and Comfort-Aire Dehumidifiers

WASHINGTON, D.C. - LG Electronics Tianjin Appliance Co., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), is urging consumers to check if they have recalled Goldstar or Comfort-Aire dehumidifiers. The firm is re-announcing the recall of about 98,000 of the dangerous dehumidifiers that pose a serious fire and burn hazard, and are believed to be responsible for more than one million dollars in property damage.

The power connector for the dehumidifier�s compressor can short circuit, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers and their property.

The dehumidifiers were first recalled in December 2009 following eleven incidents, including four significant fires. Since that time, the company has received sixteen additional incident reports of arcing, smoke and fire associated with the dehumidifiers, including nine significant fires. No injuries have been reported. Fires are reported to have caused more than $1 million in property damage including:

$500,000 in damage to a home in Gibsonia, Pa.
$200,000 in damage to a home in New Brighton, Minn.
$183,000 in damage to a home in Hudson, Mass.
$192,000 in damage to a home in Valparaiso, Ind.
$139,000 in damage to a home in Salem, Ohio
$129,000 in damage to a home in Brielle, N.J.
$ 95,000 in damage to a home in Philadelphia, Pa.

Because of the severity of the risks, CPSC and LG Electronics are concerned with the lack of consumer response to the recall. Only two percent of the 98,000 consumers who purchased these units have received a free repair, which means that consumers and their property remain at serious risk. Anyone who has the recalled dehumidifiers is strongly encouraged to immediately stop using them, unplug them, and contact LG Electronics for the free repair.

The recall involves the 30 pint portable dehumidifiers sold under the Goldstar and Comfort-Aire brands. The dehumidifiers are white with a red shut-off button, controls for fan speed and humidity control, and a front-loading water bucket. �Goldstar� or �Comfort-Aire� is printed on the front. Model and serial number ranges included in this recall are listed in the table below. The model and serial numbers are located on the interior of the dehumidifier, and can be seen when the water bucket is removed.

Model No. * Serial Number Range * Sold at
Goldstar GHD30Y7 611TAxx00001 through 08400
611TAxx08401 through 40600
612TAxx00001 through 20400
612TAxx21001 through 30600 Home Depot
Goldstar DH305Y7 612TAxx00001 through 00600
701TAxx00001 through 16800
702TAxx00001 through 03000 Walmart
Comfort-Aire BHD-301-C 611TA000001 through 001697
612TA000001 through 004200
701TA000001 through 000578
710TA000001 through 000599 Various retailers, including Ace
Hardware, Do It Best and Orgill Inc

For additional information about the recall and for the location of an authorized service center for the repair, contact LG toll free at (877) 220-0479 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, and between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. CT on Saturday, or visit the firm�s website at www.30pintdehumidifierrecall.com

New American Home 2012 under construction-

Virtual Repairman — Mon Sep 12, 2011 5:20 am

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2011 5:20 am

The New American Home (TNAH) 2012 is now being erected in Florida to be ready in time for the International Builders� Show, to be held Feb, 8-11, 2012. TNAH, now in its 29th year, is used to showcase the latest building products and construction technologies. Green building products are used in the home�s design with the intention of achieving "Emerald" status under the green building certification program administered by the National Association of Home Builders Research Center and based on principles set forth in the ICC 700-2008 National Green Building Standard. "Emerald" is the top tier of the four levels a home can earn.

Appliances in the home come from several companies, including:

� Whirlpool Corp. will provide Jenn-Air kitchen appliances, including a wine cabinet as well as Maytag front load laundry appliances.
� Broan � NuTone, LLC, supplying whole house ventilation, kitchen range hoods in the carriage house suite and outdoor kitchen, a central vacuum system, and an iron board station.
� CMHC International will provide a Napoleon � Bellagio Patio Heater.
� Eaton Corporation / Cutler Hammer will provide wiring and electrical components as well as an energy management system, and vehicle charging station.
� The Hearth Patio & Barbeque Association will supply R H Peterson Company fireplaces and Town and Country fireplaces.
� InSinkErator will provide garbage disposals, hot water dispensers, and a water chiller.
� Lennox Industries will provide HVAC equipment, including solar panels.
� Rinnai will supply tankless hot water systems.
� Schneider Electric will provide photovoltaic inverters.

TNAH 2012 is designed to qualify for a number of certifications:

� National Green Building Standard "Emerald Status"
� U.S. DOE Energy Star
� FGBC (Florida Green Building Coalition) Platinum certification
� Florida Yards and Neighborhoods designation
� Florida Water Star designation Progress
� Energy Home Advantage Program
� U.S. DOE Builders Challenge
� USGBC (U.S. Green Building Council)

TNAH 2012 is designed to be a re-interpretation of the Classic White Box of the 1960s and �70s, popularized by architects like Le Corbusier and Richard Meier. Phil Kean of Winter Park, FL, is architect and builder of the 2012 home, and designed it to focus on functional and transitional spaces and attention to detail rather than square footage. The home will take advantage of the Florida climate. Walls of movable glass panels and motorized screens allow for flow from indoor to outdoor spaces.

New Dishwashers Designed to Address Phosphate Phase-Out

Virtual Repairman — Tue Jul 12, 2011 6:27 am

Author: Virtual Repairman

Posted: Tue Jul 12, 2011 6:27 am

KitchenAid brand designed the sound levels of its new dishwashers to address those consumers who find that the sound of a running dishwasher is reassuring that the appliance is working and as well as the consumer who find that any �non-human� sound in the kitchen is unwelcome. Some models are designed with a built-in water softener, which can make a big difference under some use circumstances, according to Deb O'Connor, senior manager of brand experience for KitchenAid.

"Built-in water softening is particularly timely given that detergent manufacturers are removing phosphates that optimize hard water's ability to clean dishes, and cities are increasingly cutting back on water softening in their water supplies," noted O'Connor. "And as those living with hard water know, unsoftened water can stain and leave mineral deposits on dishes and glassware."

New Superba Series EQ dishwashers have advanced sound dampening technology and operate at 40 decibels in the normal cycle. "Anything quieter than that would be hard for the human ear to even notice,� O�Connor said.