Chinese Appliance Company’s U.S. Branch Recalls 1.56 Million Dehumidifiers Due to Fire Hazard
Gree USA, Inc., a subsidiary of Chinese appliance company Gree, is recalling 1.56 million dehumidifiers in the United States due to the risk of fire and burn hazards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has reported 23 fires, 688 instances of overheating, and approximately $168,000 in property damage associated with the recalled dehumidifiers.
The affected dehumidifiers, produced between January 2011 and February 2014, were widely available at major retailers such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, Menards, Sam’s Club, Sears, and Walmart. The prices ranged from $110 to $400, and a total of 42 models are included in the recall. Some of the affected brands include Kenmore, GE, SoleusAir, Norpole, and Seabreeze. The recall impacts approximately 1,560,000 units.
To ensure consumer safety, the CPSC strongly advises individuals who own these dehumidifiers to immediately stop using them, unplug them from electrical outlets, and contact Gree for a refund if their model number matches the recalled units.
In a related issue, a recent study suggests a potential link between air pollution and global antibiotic resistance. As pollution levels continue to rise, experts believe that the widespread use of antibiotics could be rendered less effective due to the presence of pollutants in the air.
Adding to Gree’s troubles, the company was also recently fined $500,000 as part of a criminal enforcement action. The fine comes after Gree pleaded guilty to failing to notify the CPSC about the defective dehumidifiers, which posed a significant fire risk.
Furthermore, court documents reveal that the Gree Companies were aware of the dehumidifiers’ safety issues and the potential fire hazard. However, they failed to promptly inform the CPSC, thereby endangering consumers.
To make amends, Gree has reached a resolution totaling $91 million with three related companies. This resolution includes the fine and ensures that restitution payments will be provided to the victims affected by the faulty dehumidifiers. Importantly, this is the first corporate criminal enforcement action under the Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA).
The recall serves as a reminder for consumers to stay vigilant and alert for potential safety risks associated with their appliances. It also underscores the importance of companies promptly reporting any significant safety concerns to regulatory authorities to prevent potential harm to consumers.
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