KitchenAid Dishwasher Recall 2021 Safety Alert

<h2>Quick Facts</h2> <table> <tbody> <tr><td><strong>Brand</strong></td><td>Whirlpool</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>Appliance</strong></td><td>[Dishwasher](/blog/repair-or-replace-dishwasher)</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>Year</strong></td><td>2021</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>CPSC <a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Recall</a> #</strong></td><td>21-209</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>Type</strong></td><td>CPSC Recall</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>Units Affected</strong></td><td>Approximately 78,000 KitchenAid dishwashers</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>Severity</strong></td><td>Critical — Immediate Action Required</td></tr> </tbody> </table> <h2>What Is the Risk?</h2> <p><strong>Quick answer:</strong> <a href="https://www.whirlpool.com/support.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Whirlpool dishwasher</a> recall affecting approximately 78,000 units due to fire risk. Free in-home repair available. Check your model number below.</p> <p>A wiring connection at the detergent dispenser motor can overheat due to a crimp defect, causing localized melting and potential fire. Whirlpool received 17 reports of overheating near the dispenser area.</p> <p><strong>This is a critical safety hazard.</strong> If your Whirlpool dishwasher is affected, take immediate action as described below. Do not delay — fire-related hazards can cause property damage, injury, or loss of life. CPSC recall remedies are always free — there is no reason to postpone.</p> <h2>Affected Model Numbers</h2> <p>The following Whirlpool model numbers are included in this recall. Check your model number on the rating plate and compare it against this list:</p> <table> <thead><tr><th colspan="4">Affected Models</th></tr></thead> <tbody> <tr><td><code>KDTE204KPS</code></td><td><code>KDTE204EPA</code></td><td><code>KDTE234GPS</code></td><td><code>KDTE254EBS</code></td></tr> <tr><td><code>KDTM404KPS</code></td><td><code>KDTM504EPA</code></td><td><code>KDTM604KPS</code></td><td><code>KDTM704ESS</code></td></tr> </tbody> </table> <p><strong>Important:</strong> This list may not be exhaustive. Some recalls are updated after the initial announcement to add newly identified model numbers. Always verify your specific model and serial number with Whirlpool directly or on the CPSC recall notice.</p> <h2>What to Do Right Now</h2> <p>If your Whirlpool dishwasher model number matches the list above, take these steps immediately:</p> <ol> <li>Check if your KitchenAid dishwasher model starts with KDTE or KDTM</li> <li>Open the door and inspect the detergent dispenser area for any scorch marks or melted plastic</li> <li>Register at whirlpool.com/support/product-recalls or call 1-866-698-2538</li> <li>Do not use the detergent dispenser — place detergent directly in the tub bottom until the repair is completed</li> </ol> <h2>How to Get the Free Recall Repair</h2> <p>Free in-home repair to replace the dispenser wiring harness with a corrected crimping. Whirlpool dispatches authorized technicians. Repair takes approximately 30 minutes.</p> <p>Key points about the recall remedy process:</p> <ul> <li>The repair, replacement, or refund is <strong>completely free</strong> — you pay nothing for parts or labor.</li> <li>You do <strong>not need the original receipt</strong> for CPSC recalls. The model and serial number are sufficient to verify eligibility.</li> <li>The recall applies regardless of whether you are the original purchaser. Second owners, tenants, and landlords are all eligible.</li> <li>CPSC recalls <strong>never expire</strong>. Even if this recall was announced years ago, you can still get the free repair if your unit was never serviced.</li> <li>If the manufacturer does not respond within 30 days, file a complaint at <a href="https://www.saferproducts.gov">SaferProducts.gov</a> or call CPSC at 1-800-638-2772.</li> </ul> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <h3>Can I use detergent pods directly in the tub instead of the dispenser?</h3> <p>Yes. Placing a detergent pod directly in the bottom of the tub bypasses the dispenser entirely. The pod will dissolve during the first wash phase. This is a safe interim measure while waiting for the recall repair. Pod performance may be slightly reduced since it dissolves immediately rather than being released during the optimal cycle phase, but it is fully functional and avoids the recalled dispenser.</p> <hr> <p><strong>Worried about your dishwasher? Our certified technicians can inspect your Whirlpool dishwasher, verify recall status, and ensure safe operation.</strong> <a href="/book">Book a safety inspection at /book</a>.</p> <p>Our technicians' field observations align with this conclusion — kitchenaid dishwasher recall 2021 safety alert

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