Samsung is recalling more than 1.12 million electric ranges used for stovetops after reports of 250 fires and dozens of injuries. According to a Thursday notice from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, these slide-in ranges have front-mounted knobs that can be activated by accident if humans or pets unintentionally contact or bump into them. That poses a fire hazard.
To date, Samsung has received more than 300 reports of the knobs activating unintentionally since 2013, the product safety commission noted, and the now-recalled ranges have been involved in about 250 fires. At least 18 of those fires caused extensive property damage and seven involved pet deaths, according to the commission. In addition, the product safety commission added, about 40 injuries have been reported, including eight that required medical attention. Consumers can identify whether their slide-in electric range is included in this recall by looking at the model number printed on the product. Samsung and the CPSC have published a list of affected models online.
The recalled ranges were sold between May 2013 and August 2024 online at Samsung.com as well as in retailers nationwide — including Best Buy, Costco, Home Depot and Lowe’s. Consumers in possession of a recalled range are urged to contact New Jersey-based Samsung Electronics America for a free set of knob locks or covers compatible for installation with their model. In the meantime, those affected should take extra caution to keep children and pets away from the knobs, and check their range before leaving the house or going to bed to make sure it’s off, the product safety commission said. As part of general stovetop and oven safety, the commission added that consumers should “never place, leave, or store anything on the top of your range” when not in use — because such items can ignite if it’s accidentally activated.
To receive a set of free knob locks or covers, depending on their model, customers can visit https://www.samsung.com/us/support/range-knob-kit/, contact Samsung toll-free at (833) 775-0120 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or by email at [email protected]. Samsung has acknowledged the issue and is working with the CPSC to address it. The company has already introduced new models with improved safety features, including a three-step activation system for the knobs and a notification system for Wi-Fi-enabled ranges that alerts users when a burner is turned on. Despite these improvements, Samsung is urging consumers to take precautions to prevent accidental activation of the knobs on recalled ranges.
Keeping Children and Pets Safe Around the Stove
The CPSC and Samsung both emphasize the importance of keeping children and pets away from the stovetop, especially when the knobs are not being used. The CPSC has also recommended that consumers invest in safety knobs or covers for their stoves, particularly those with small children or pets. Even though Samsung has introduced new models with enhanced safety features, consumers should still take these precautions until their knob locks or covers arrive.
The Impact of the Recall
The Samsung electric range recall highlights the importance of product safety and the potential dangers posed by poorly designed or malfunctioning appliances. It is a reminder that even seemingly minor design flaws can have serious consequences, especially when it comes to products that pose a fire hazard. The CPSC has played a crucial role in bringing this issue to the public's attention, and it is important for consumers to be aware of potential safety risks associated with their appliances.
Moving Forward
While Samsung has taken steps to address the issue with its electric ranges, it remains important for consumers to be vigilant and to follow safety guidelines provided by the CPSC. By taking these precautions, consumers can help to protect themselves and their families from the risk of fire and injury.
Looking Ahead
The Samsung electric range recall is a reminder that product safety should always be a priority for manufacturers and consumers alike. With the growing popularity of smart appliances, it is essential for manufacturers to develop and implement robust safety features to ensure the safe operation of these devices. Consumers, in turn, should be aware of potential safety risks and take steps to minimize these risks. By working together, manufacturers and consumers can help to ensure a safer future for everyone.
