Washing machine could be time-bomb

BAME PIET
Staff Writer | Wednesday September 29, 2010 00:00

A warning has been issued about 10kg Twin Tub washing machines distributed between April 2009 and August 2010.

According to an advertisement issued by Electrolux South Africa (Pty) Ltd, consumers who bought the Kelvinator Twin Tub Washing Machine should contact the manufacturer and an appointment would be made to fix the a defect in the products.

They have a small hole located on the back panel of the washing machine below the electronic drain selector switch, which allows for water to be drained. 'If water and detergent are inadvertently spilt on to the electronics drain selector, it could penetrate the switch device and cause an electric spark. This could cause the switch to melt and/or burn,' the warning says.

The advert, however, says the washing machine is easily remedied by inserting a small rubber plug that has been specially designed to fit into the hole below the drain selector. 'Electrolux guarantees that this plug, if fitted by the appointed Electrolux agent, will completely remedy the defect,' the company says.

The advertisement says furniture retailers Lewis Stores and Best Home and Electric are some of the suppliers of the washing machine. Consumers are advised to unplug their washing machines and not use them until the defect has been remedied. There are serial numbers for affected machines.