Maytag Dishwasher Fire Hazard Recall — CPSC #10-255

Advisory summary — On June 3, 2010, Maytag and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall of approximately 1.7 million dishwashers due to a heating element fire risk (CPSC Recall #10-255).

Hazard

An electrical failure in the dishwasher’s heating element can cause it to overheat and ignite surrounding plastic components, posing a serious fire hazard. At the time of the recall, Maytag had received 12 confirmed reports of heating element failures resulting in fires and appliance damage, including at least one incident involving extensive kitchen damage. No injuries were reported, but the risk of property damage — and potential bodily harm — was considered significant enough to warrant an immediate recall and voluntary cessation of use.

Affected units

Brands: Maytag, Amana, Jenn-Air, Admiral, Magic Chef, Performa by Maytag, Crosley
Product type: Built-in dishwashers with plastic tubs
Sold: February 2006 through April 2010
Retail price at time of sale: from $250
Estimated units recalled: Approximately 1.7 million (United States)
Serial numbers (starting with): NW39–NW52, NY01–NY19
Serial numbers (ending with): JC, JE, JG, JJ, JL, JN, JP, JR, JT, JV, JX, LA, LC, LE, LG, LJ, LL, LN, LP, LR, LT, LV, LX, NA, NC, NE, NG, NJ, NL, NN, NP, NR

How to identify

The serial number label is located on the inside door frame of the dishwasher — open the door fully and look along the top or side edge of the tub opening. Serial numbers are formatted as a two-letter prefix followed by a numeric string and a two-letter suffix. Match the first two characters or the final two characters of your serial number against the affected ranges listed above. The recall applies only to plastic-tub models; stainless-steel interior tubs are not affected. If you are unsure, call Maytag at (800) 544-5513 or visit repair.maytag.com with your model and serial number.

What to do

Stop using the dishwasher immediately and do not run it unattended or overnight.
Disconnect power by switching off the dedicated circuit breaker or removing the fuse for the dishwasher circuit.
Call Maytag at (800) 544-5513 (24/7) or visit cpsc.gov recall page to register for a free in-home repair or a rebate of from $150 toward a new stainless-steel tub model.
Do not hand-wash dishes inside the recalled unit — remove the dishwasher from service entirely until repaired.

Urgency level

High. Fire hazards with documented incidents of kitchen damage require immediate action. Stop using the appliance and schedule the free repair before restoring power.