Samsung, which is already facing a recall and negative publicity over its latest smartphone, now has problems with another of its products.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning owners of certain Samsung top-loading washing machines of potential safety issues. Customers in Georgia, Texas, and Indiana have filed a class-action lawsuit alleging that their machines exploded during use. One Texas woman claims that her machine exploded with such intensity that it penetrated her garage wall. The lawsuit also claims that Samsung attempted to collect and destroy evidence of the defective washing machines.
The warning covers machines manufactured between March 2011 and April 2016; however, the specific models are not identified. The commission is working with Samsung to remedy the problem. In the meantime, owners of washing machines included in the warning are urged to use the delicate cycle when washing bulky items, bedding, and water-resistant items. This will reduce the possibility of injuries or property damage in the event that the washing machine becomes dislodged. Although Samsung is not commenting on the litigation, a statement on the company’s website states that it is working with authorities to find ways to address potential safety concerns. According to Samsung, “affected units may experience abnormal vibrations that could pose a risk of personal injury or property damage when washing bedding, bulky or water-resistant items.”
This latest safety concern comes on the heels of a massive recall of 2.5 million Galaxy Note 7 smartphones following reports of fires caused by defective batteries.