Proctor-Silex Voluntarily Recalls Certain Automatic Drip Coffeemakers Made In 1985/86 That May Pose Fire Hazard

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Proctor-Silex, Inc. today announced the voluntary recall of certain discontinued Proctor-Silex, Sears and J.C. Penney brand automatic drip coffeemaker models manufactured in 1985/86 which present a potential fire hazard.

The recall includes certain Proctor-Silex coffeemakers with model numbers that begin with A4 or A5 and series numbers that end with 58 or 68. Recalled Sears Counter Craft and Sears Kenmore coffeemakers are models 360.480293 and 360.480272 (last digit may vary). Recalled J.C. Penney coffeemakers have the model number 784-2178H (or G) and a "C" number ending in 58 or 68. (See step-by-step instructions and full listings attached.) Coffeemakers manufactured after 1985 with model numbers beginning with A6 are not being recalled.

Owners of these coffeemakers should call a toll-free number, 1-800-341-3333, to determine whether their coffemakers are included in the recall, and to get instructions on how to return them and to obtain reimbursement for shipping. The recalled coffeemakers are not repairable, and owners should unplug and stop using them immediately. Proctor-Silex will send each owner a new coffeemaker free of charge. Consumers are being asked to check the automatic drip coffeemakers at their place of work, as well as at home, to see if they have been recalled.

The company believes that thermostats and thermal fuses purchased by Proctor-Silex for use in the coffeemaker may both malfunction causing overheating and a potential fire hazard. Proctor-Silex has received approximately 181 reports that their coffeemakers caught fire, including a number with property damage and a report of one minor burn injury that occurred when an owner attempted to pick up an overheated unit. Proctor-Silex estimates that approximately 800,000 of these coffeemakers are still in use.

Owners of other Proctor-Silex, Sears Counter Craft, Sears Kenmore and J.C. Penney coffeemakers, which are not being recalled, should not call the 800 number. The lines need to be kept open for the owners of the recalled coffeemakers.

Grocery stores nationwide and retail outlets who sold these coffeemakers have been provided detailed information available to consumers to assist them in the identification of the recalled units.