Kenmore dehumidifier Gree fire recall 2013 — In September 2013, CPSC and Gree Electric Appliances announced a major recall covering approximately 2.5 million dehumidifiers across 12 brands including Kenmore. The Gree-manufactured Kenmore units could overheat, smoke, and catch fire. This recall was expanded and reannounced multiple times through 2017 due to continued fires and low consumer response.
Why this matters
The Gree-made Kenmore dehumidifiers had an overheating defect in the compressor and refrigerant circuit that could cause the unit to ignite. By the 2017 reannouncement, over 450 fires and $19 million in property damage had been reported across all 12 brands. Dehumidifiers run unattended for hours, making fires particularly dangerous and costly.
Affected models
- Kenmore-branded 20-, 25-, 30-, 40-, 45-, 50-, 65-, and 70-pint dehumidifiers manufactured by Gree Electric Appliances
- Manufactured between January 2011 and February 2014
- Sold at Sears and other retailers
- Part of approximately 2.5 million total units recalled across Kenmore, Frigidaire, GE, SoleusAir, and other brands
How to identify
Model and serial numbers are on a label on the back or bottom of the unit. The Gree-made Kenmore dehumidifiers have the Kenmore logo on the front. Check the manufacturing date against the 2011–2014 window. Verify through the recall lookup at greedehumidifierrecall.com.
Recommended action steps
- Stop using the dehumidifier immediately
- Unplug the unit and do not operate it in any enclosed or unmonitored space
- Contact Gree toll-free at 1-866-853-2802 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, or visit greedehumidifierrecall.com
- Remedy: full refund of the purchase price
Urgency level
High. Hundreds of confirmed fires and millions in property damage. Any Gree-made Kenmore dehumidifier from the 2011–2014 manufacturing window must be immediately retired.