ADDITIONAL WASHING MACHINES IDENTIFIED AS BEING A FIRE RISK

Islanders are being urged to check their washing machines as manufacturer Whirlpool has identified even more Hotpoint branded machines that could catch fire.

In January 2020, Whirlpool began a recall campaign to identify more than 500,000 Hotpoint and Indesit branded washing machines in homes which may pose a potential fire risk. Whirlpool has now identified a further 21 Hotpoint branded washing machines which may also pose a risk.

The total number of affected models – produced between 2014-2018 – now sits at 45.

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The National Fire Chiefs Council – reiterated by the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service – is urging people to recheck their Hotpoint branded machines. People may have checked in the past and been told their machine is not affected but this may not now be the case. You do not need to contact the retailer you bought the machine from – you can deal directly with Whirlpool.

The full list of recalled models can be viewed here.

How to check your machine

• Find the model number and serial number of the machines. These can be found in the door recess. If you can access the back of the machine you will find the information there too.
• Once you have this information contact Whirlpool, either online https://washingmachinerecall.whirlpool.co.uk/ or by calling their free helpline which is open everyday on 0800 316 1442.
• If you are having trouble finding the model and/or serial number please phone Whirlpool on 0800 316 1442 and they will assist.
• Your machine will then be registered with Whirlpool and you will have confirmation if your machine is affected.

A repair or replacement will be arranged if your machine is affected.

The advice from the National Fire Chiefs Council is to unplug and stop using your machines if it is affected by the recall.

The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service mobilised to Leed Street, Sandown earlier this week when a washing machine started smoking.

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Whirlpool’s recall campaign has so far successfully located 40% (210,000) of the affected machines.