Sunbeam Recalls 86,00 Drip Coffeemakers

WASHINGTON, DC - In cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the Sunbeam Appliance Company of Oak Brook, Illinois today announced the voluntary recall of 8,00 under-cabinet Model 15306 Sunbeam Coffeemaker Flavor-Lock drip coffeemakers, date coded as GJA, GJB, and GJC. Sunbeam has learned that the heating element in some of these coffeemakers can loosen with use and shift position to cause a hot spot. Under certain conditions, the plastic shell of the coffeemaker can ignite to create a fire hazard.

From January 1985 to date, Sunbeam received fifteen reports that this model coffeemaker caught fire. These reports involved some property damage to near by combustibles, and included a January 1986 minor incident hand burn in Illinois. No other injuries were reported.

Recalled units can be identified by the model number 15306, the service number 15-30AC, and the date codes GJA, GJB, and GJC all stamped into the metal plate on the back of the coffeemaker. This recall is limited only to the indicated model number, service number, and date codes.

Owners who identify their coffeemaker as being recalled should discontinue use of the product. To obtain a free replacement, owners should return their recalled coffeemaker via parcel post, with return name and address indicated, to: Coffeemaker Program, Sunbeam Appliance Company, 1329 Warford Street, Memphis, Tennessee 38108. Owners need no return the glass carafe with their unit.

Sunbeam will replace the model 15306 coffeemaker with an upgraded deluxe unit that has a digital clock and a 24-hour timer. Consumers are advised to insure the product against loss during shipment. Sunbeam will reimburse consumers for the cost of mailing and insurance, but only for recalled units bearing the identified model number and date codes.

The coffeemaker was distributed nationwide to a variety of retailers in September, 1984, and was sold to consumers thereafter for about $34-$44. Consumers who have questions or require further information may call Sunbeam's toll free number, 800-253-6119.

Sunbeam will replace the model 15306 coffeemaker with an upgraded deluxe unit that has a digital clock and a 24-hour timer. Consumers are advised to insure the product against loss during shipment. Sunbeam will reimburse consumers for the cost of mailing and insurance, but only for recalled units bearing the identified model number and date codes.

From January 1985 to date, Sunbeam received fifteen reports that this model coffeemaker caught fire. These reports involved some property damage to near by combustibles, and included a January 1986 minor incident hand burn in Illinois. No other injuries were reported.