19 December 2019

Hotpoint and Indesit washing machine recall

Whirlpool is proactively recalling certain models of washing machines manufactured under the Hotpoint and Indesit brands between 2014 and 2018.

This is due to a defective door catch on certain models, which can overheat during use giving a risk of fire.

If you have a washing machine from Hotpoint or Indesit, you are advised to:

  1. Unplug the machine and do not use it until you have checked if it’s a model with a known fault. You can find a list of models that have been recalled here.
  2. If your model is on the list, keep the machine unplugged and do not use it. Contact Whirlpool on their freephone hotline 0800 316 1442 or register on the Whirlpool website

For all electrical kitchen appliances, known as ‘white goods’, you should always be alert to signs that they are not working properly. Here is some useful safety advice from the London Fire Brigade:

  • If your appliance starts making a strange noise, don't ignore it – if you suspect there might be a problem, always unplug it and contact the manufacturer or a qualified repair technician.
  • Check your appliances haven't been recalled – most fires, where white goods are the source of ignition, are not down to anything you've done. The most important thing you can do to make sure you're safe is to regularly check your appliances haven't been recalled. You can do this by checking the Government's product recall site, the manufacturer's website or Electrical Safety First's recall register.
  • Always keep your white goods in a safe place out of the way – for example, don't be tempted to put a freezer in a hallway. If a fire does break out in your home, you need all escape routes to be clear.
  • Fit smoke and heat alarms – fit an alarm in every room where a fire could start, and make sure they are tested regularly. Find out more about smoke and heat alarms here.
  • Register your appliance – by registering your appliance, you'll be informed if the manufacturers identify any issues with the product you have bought.