If You Have This Washing Machine, You May Want A Replacement — It Could Be A Fire Hazard

Appliance recalls are nothing new, and while some may not affect you, others can pose a serious safety risk if not addressed. In 2022, Samsung initiated a voluntary recall of several models of top-loading washing machines due to a fire hazard. While this recall was several years ago, affected models may appear secondhand or in clearance stock at a discount store. Or, you might have bought one new before they were recalled and never learned about the issue. Knowing the potential risks associated with the washer, as well as how to fix the issue with a software update, is key.

The recalled Samsung washing machines were sold in the United States between June 2021 and December 2022. There are over 663,000 units affected, according to Consumer Reports. The recall concerns only top-load washing machines with the company's Super Speed Wash setting. It affects units with model numbers of WA49B, WA50B, WA51A, WA52A, WA54A, and WA55A, which were sold at various retailers, including Best Buy, Costco, Lowe's, and Home Depot. The recall came after Samsung received 51 reports of incidents where the washers smoked, melted, overheated, or caught on fire within the control panel while running the Super Speed Wash cycle. Samsung investigated and has released a software update that fixes the issue.

To determine whether your washing machine is affected, look for the model number on the unit. The model numbers and serial numbers are listed underneath the top lid of the washer, with an additional label on the back of the washer. Then, you can take a few steps to reduce the potential fire hazard. Even if your model isn't one of the recalled washers, keep in mind that Samsung is the popular washing machine brand you might want to avoid, for a host of reasons.

If your washing machine is part of the recall, the first thing to do is to see if you already received the software patch. Samsung sent them to all affected washing machines connected to WiFi via their SmartThings app. You can consult the SmartThings app to determine whether you have the patch already by checking underneath the Information section. Washers with the update will have a software version ending in the number 85 or higher. If you're buying a used washing machine or one from a store's clearance inventory, it's crucial to check the Samsung software version number before using the super speed cycle. Then, if you don't have a proper version, you can go through the steps of installing it via the app.

Samsung also made the update available for washers without WiFi capabilities, requiring customers to contact them directly for a dongle to plug in for the update. If your washer can't connect to the internet, you can visit the Samsung software update page for information on how to receive the dongle. And if you decide to replace the washer completely, consider brands other than Samsung for the replacement — it's one of the washing machine brands experts say to skip because they tend to have lots of problems.