LG Electronics, Sears Recall 21,000 Gas Dryers for Fire Hazard

   By Nathalie Tadena 
 

LG Electronics Inc. (066570.SE) and Sears Holding Corp. (SHLD) have agreed to recall about 21,000 gas dryers due to a fire hazard.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said the gas valve in the recalled LG Electronics and Sears' Kenmore Elite brand gas dryers can fail to shut off properly. High temperatures inside and on the exterior surface of the dryers can scorch the drum, as well as burn or damage the dryer contents, posing a risk of burn, fire and smoke inhalation, the CPSC said.

LG and Sears have received 141 consumer complaints about the dryers continuing to heat after the drying cycle is complete. There were three reports of minor burns to hands or arms and burnt or scorched clothing was reported in more than 50 incidents.

The recalled products were sold nationwide from November 2009 through August 2010. The LG Electronics brand gas dryers were sold by various appliance stores, including Sears, while the Kenmore Elite brand dryers were sold only at Sears stores. The recalled dryer costs between $650 and $1500 for the various models.

The CPSC said consumers should stop using the recalled dryers immediately until repaired.

Sears shares closed at $56.39 and were unchanged after hours. The stock is up 77% since the start of the year.

Write to Nathalie Tadena at [e-mail]

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