17,000 Whirlpool washer-dryer combinations recalled as fire hazard

WASHINGTON (AP) _ Whirlpool Corp. is recalling about 17,000 combination washer and gas dryer units because the dryers can overheat and start fires.

The company, based in Benton Harbor, Mich., has received two reports of overheating dryers, the Consumer Product Safety Commission said Tuesday. No injuries or property damage have been reported.

The 24-inch washer and gas dryer units are white or light tan and were sold under the Whirlpool, Kenmore and General Electric brand names. The brand is written on the control panel and the model and serial number are behind the dryer door at the top of the opening.

The recall includes:

_Whirlpool Compact Thin Twin models LTG5243DZ2, LTG5243DT2, LTG5243DQ2, LTG5243DQ3 and LTG5243DT3 with serial numbers beginning with MM, ML or MK.

_Kenmore Laundry Center models 110.98752792 and 110.98752793 with serial numbers beginning with MM, ML or MK.

_General Electric Unitized Spacemaker models WSM2480TBAWW and WSM2480TCAWW with serial numbers that have Z, A or D as the second character.

Combination units with electric dryers are not involved in the recall.

Home improvement and department stores, new construction builders and remodelers sold the recalled units nationwide from January 2000 through May 2002 for between $800 and $960.

The government said consumers should stop using these units and unplug them. Consumers shouldn't attempt to shut off the gas supply.

To arrange for free in-home service and repair, consumers can call the company toll-free at 1-866-251-1607.