GE recalls 1.3 million dishwashers in US, Canada because of fire hazard

TORONTO – General Electric is recalling more than a million dishwashers in the United States and Canada because of heating elements that can fail and cause fires.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission in the US says the recall includes about 1.3 million GE, GE Adora, GE Eterna, GE Profile and Hotpoint dishwashers, including 94,500 units sold in Canada.

GE says it has received 15 reports of dishwasher heating element failures, three of which caused extensive property damage. No injuries have been reported.

MABE Canada, a manufacturer and distributor of GE appliances in Canada, says they have received three reports of heating element failures.

The dishwashers — sold between March 2006 and August 2009 for $350 to $850 — came in black, white, bisque, stainless steel and CleanSteel colours and finishes.

MABE Canada says people should stop using the dishwashers, immediately disconnect the electric supply, and call the company toll-free at 1-888-943-5188 to schedule a free repair.