By Thirzah White

Fire risk is behind the recall of over 150,000 affected Samsung top loader washing machines nationwide. There is a chance that moisture may penetrate the electrical connectors of the affected machines, which can cause a fire hazard.

The ACCC (The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission) has issued a recall of six Samsung top loader models. Owners of the recalled models are advised by Consumer Protection to urgently seek a refund from their retailer or supplier.

Newsport has been alerted to the recall by local resident Ian Arcus from Mossman Appliances. Customers have reported smoke coming from at least six machines listed on the recall list to Mossman Appliances over the last 18 months.

Mr Arkus said many of his customers had not heard of the recall “we want our customer base to be aware, next week could be too late” he said.

The models being recalled were manufactured between 1st February 2010 to 28th February 2013. The model numbers associated with this recall are SW75V9WIP; SW65V9WIP; SW70SPWIP; SW80SPWIP; WA85GWGIP and WA85FWWIP.

Mr Arkus’s immediate advice is “to disconnect the appliance from the power and unplug immediately, do not use the machine under any circumstances”.

Acting Commissioner for Consumer Protection, Gary Newcombe said “Considering these top loader washing machines pose a fire risk we consider this a major failure and, in these circumstances, the Australian Consumer Law gives owners the right to a refund”.

“We are deeply concerned that reports now indicate that there have been cases where house fires have been allegedly caused by washing machines that had already been repaired by Samsung under the recall, so we are strongly recommending that the use of these machines is discontinued and they are removed from the home”, said Mr. Newcombe.

The recall, initially on a voluntary basis, has now been upgraded. Consumers are now advised not to seek repair, but should organise to obtain a refund and removal of affected washing machines from their homes as soon as possible.

To identify the model number on the washing machine, consumers need to check the model number located on the back of the washing machine.

Samsung’s Product Safety Hotline is 1800 239 655, 8am - 8pm AEST, everyday. Mossman Appliances, the allocated service centre, is also available for advice on the issue 07 40983880.

There is also social media group on Facebook called “Samsung Washing Machine Recall - Consumer Support, Samsung Washing Machine Recall - Consumer Support which has over two thousand members and may also offer useful information.