In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Maytag (Whirlpool Corporation) voluntarily recalled approximately 1.6 million refrigerators sold under the Maytag, Jenn-Air, Amana, Admiral, Magic Chef, Performa by Maytag, and Crosley brand names. An electrical failure in the compressor relay can cause overheating and pose a serious fire hazard.
CPSC Recall Details
- Recall Date: March 10, 2009
- Recall Number: 09-160
- Units Affected: Approximately 1.6 million (all brands combined)
- Manufacturer: Maytag Corporation (Whirlpool)
Affected Jenn-Air Models
Side-by-side refrigerators: Model numbers beginning with JC or JS.
Serial numbers ending with: AA, AC, AE, AG, AJ, AL, AN, AP, AR, AT, AV, AX, CA, CC, CE, CG, CJ, CL, ZB, ZD, ZF, ZH, ZK, ZM, ZQ, ZS, ZU, ZW, ZY, ZZ.
Available in black, bisque, white, and stainless steel. The model and serial number label is located on the top middle or left upper side of the refrigerator liner.
Hazard
An electrical failure in the relay — the component that turns on the refrigerator’s compressor — can cause overheating and pose a serious fire hazard. Maytag received 41 reports of refrigerator relay ignition, including 16 reports of property damage ranging from smoke damage to extensive kitchen damage. No injuries were reported.
Sold At
Department and appliance stores and by homebuilders nationwide from January 2001 through January 2004 for between $350 and $1,600.
Recommended Action
Contact Whirlpool/Maytag to determine if your refrigerator is included in the recall and to schedule a free in-home repair of the compressor relay.
Urgency Level
High — fire hazard. 41 relay ignition incidents with property damage reported. Contact manufacturer immediately.