After the recent Galaxy Note 7 fiasco where users across the globe reported the device either exploding or catching fire while charging, the Korean manufacturer is in the news again, and this time for its washing machines. Reports of Samsung washing machines exploding and catching fire have recently surfaced on the web.
According to a report by ABC News, a group of affected users is suing Samsung in a New Jersey federal court. In addition, the report also notes that a defective support rod is causing the issue which eventually damages wires and nuts. The report further adds that the issue pertains to some units of Samsung Top Load washing machines manufactured between March 2016 to April 2016. Following reports of some explosions, the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a warning and said it is working with Samsung to fix the issue.
Melissa Thaxton hailing from the city of Dallas initially reported the issue, while she was standing next to a running machine when it exploded. She said it was the loudest sound she ever heard, which sounded as if a bomb just exploded right next to her ear. Thaxton said –
There were wires, nuts, the cover actually was laying on the floor.
While in a similar case, North Carolina resident Sarah Price said her barely two-month-old top load Samsung washing machine was blown apart too. ABC News report further notes that since early last year, 21 people have reported to the CPSC about their Samsung top load washing machines either exploding or blown apart.
“In rare cases, affected units may experience abnormal vibrations that could pose a risk of personal injury or property damage when washing bedding, bulky or water-resistant items. It is important to note that Samsung customers have completed hundreds of millions of loads without incident since 2011,” said Samsung in a statement.
The CPSC and Samsung are advising users to use only the delicate cycle when washing bulky items until the issue is resolved. The lower speed reduces the risk of injuries or damage after the washing machine becomes dislodged.
