Owners of Hotpoint and Indesit washing machines are being urged to re-check their appliances as three additional models have been added to a recall list due to a fire risk. The fault involves an overheating door locking mechanism that could cause fires, with 79 incidents reported so far.
Whirlpool, which owns both brands, announced that 5,000 more machines are now affected, bringing the total to 524,000 units sold since 2014. Around 20% of these models are considered defective. The company has identified 165,000 problem appliances and replaced or repaired 70,000 to date.
Customers who previously checked and received the all-clear are advised to check again using the online model checker, entering the model and serial number found inside the door or on the back. A free helpline (0800 316 1442) is available daily for assistance.
Jeff Noel, vice president of Whirlpool, stated: 'We are deeply sorry to our customers for the inconvenience this recall may cause but we are taking action because it is the right thing to do for people's safety.' The company is working seven days a week to address the issue.
This recall follows a larger campaign involving over five million Whirlpool tumble dryers sold over 11 years, which were also found to pose a fire hazard.
