Maytag dishwasher rinse aid dispenser fire recall — On June 25, 2015, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Whirlpool Corporation announced a voluntary recall of approximately 1.3 million dishwashers across multiple brands, including Maytag, due to a defective rinse-aid dispenser that can leak during the wash cycle and cause an electrical failure or fire.
Recall Details
- CPSC Recall Number: 15-163
- Date Announced: June 25, 2015
- Units Affected: Approximately 1.3 million (across all Whirlpool brands)
- Affected Models: Maytag MDB8959, MDB8969, MDB8979 and select Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Jenn-Air dishwasher models
- Manufacturing Period: February 2009 through September 2013
Hazard Description
The rinse-aid dispenser in affected dishwashers can develop a crack or seal failure that allows rinse-aid solution to leak onto the dishwasher door latch and electrical components. When rinse-aid fluid contacts these components during normal operation, it can cause a short circuit or electrical arc. This failure has resulted in overheating, smoke, and in some cases fire damage to the dishwasher door and surrounding cabinetry. The risk is amplified when the dishwasher runs unattended or overnight, as a smoldering failure can progress to an open flame before anyone notices the problem.
Incidents Reported
At the time of the recall announcement, Whirlpool had received approximately 557 reports of the rinse-aid dispenser leaking, including 7 reports of fires and 23 reports of smoke or burning smells. Two reports involved minor property damage. No injuries were reported at the time of recall, but the CPSC classified the hazard as serious due to the fire risk associated with unattended dishwasher operation.
What You Should Do
- Locate your dishwasher model number on the label inside the door frame and compare it to the affected model list on the CPSC recall page.
- If your model is affected, stop using the rinse-aid dispenser immediately — you can continue washing dishes without rinse aid while awaiting repair.
- Contact Whirlpool at 1-800-553-4022 or visit the CPSC recall page to schedule a free in-home repair, during which a technician will replace the rinse-aid dispenser assembly at no cost.
- Do not attempt to repair or seal the rinse-aid dispenser yourself, as improper repairs can create additional electrical hazards.
Contact Information
Contact Maytag (Whirlpool Corporation) at 1-800-688-9900 or visit maytag.com/support. You can also reach the dedicated recall line at 1-800-553-4022 for immediate assistance with scheduling a free repair.