Whirlpool has issued a recall of some models of tumble dryers over a "risk of fire".
The affected models include brands Indesit, Hotpoint, Creda, Swan and Proline.
Any dryers by these brands made before September 2015 may be affected by an issue where lint or fluff builds up at the rear seal and may come into contact with the heating element, causing a fire.
Customers are being warned to unplug the dryers immediately and stop using them. A free replacement or repair will be made available to those affected.
The product recall starts on August 4, 2019.
Check your model and serial numbers on the machine (see picture below) and call 1800 804 320 or visit www.indesithotpointsafety.com.
A safety notice on the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission's (CCPC) website reads: "If your dryer was made before September 2015 and you have not had it modified by the manufacturer, it may pose a risk of fire.
"If your dryer is affected by this warning, you must unplug it immediately and stop using it until it has been made safe.
"Please contact the number above to choose from a variety of free replacement or repair options that are outlined below available to you. THE CALL CENTRE IS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK.
- A free replacement dryer:
"Consumers can choose between a new vented or condenser dryer, provided free-of-charge. Whirlpool will also arrange for free-of-charge collection and disposal of the consumer’s old dryer.
- A free-of-charge in-home modification:
"A Whirlpool engineer will visit the consumer’s home to carry out the free-of-charge safety upgrade. The appointment takes approximately one hour and consumers can schedule the engineer visit for a date and time that is convenient to them.
- A heavily discounted upgrade:
"Consumers can return their affected dryer and upgrade to a superior model for a fraction of the retail price – €85 for a vented model or €136 for a condenser dryer. Whirlpool will also arrange for free-of-charge collection and disposal of the consumer’s old dryer.
"These dryers are a higher specification than the free replacement option.
- An age-based refund:
"Consumers can return their affected dryer and receive a refund up to €165, with the value dependent on the age of the appliance. Whirlpool will also arrange free-of-charge collection and disposal of the consumer’s old dryer."
Whirlpool vice president, Jeff Noel, issued an alert saying it was “vital” owners of affected machines got in touch before they caught fire.
He said: “Please contact us immediately if you still own one and haven’t had it modified or replaced by us.”
