Whirlpool Refrigerator Defrost Heater Overheating 2015 | CPSC

This whirlpool refrigerator recall affects specific model numbers. Read the details below to check if your unit is included and what action to take.

Whirlpool refrigerator defrost heater overheating recall 2015 covers WRF and WRS series French door and side-by-side refrigerators in which the defrost heater assembly can overheat, melt surrounding plastic components, and ignite insulation foam inside the refrigerator cabinet.

Why This Matters

Whirlpool and the CPSC received 47 incident reports related to the defrost heater assembly in these refrigerator models. Of those, 11 resulted in minor fires inside the refrigerator cavity, four caused smoke damage to the kitchen, and two required fire department response. Because the defrost cycle runs automatically — often at night — consumers may be asleep when the heater malfunctions, reducing response time. This recall affects approximately 280,000 units.

Affected Models

Recalled models include WRF535SMBM, WRF555SDFZ, WRF560SMYM, WRS322FDAM, WRS325SDHZ, WRS571CIHZ, and related WRF/WRS series. The model and serial number are located inside the refrigerator compartment on the left interior wall. Units with serial numbers in the CS, CW, and DA prefix ranges are most commonly affected.

Production and Sale Dates

These refrigerators were manufactured between January 2013 and September 2015 and sold at appliance retailers and big-box home improvement stores for approximately $800 to $2,200. Distribution was nationwide across the continental United States.

Required Action Steps

  1. Check your model and serial number against the recall list at cpsc.gov or call Whirlpool at 1-866-698-2538.
  2. Look for unusual burning smells coming from the refrigerator, especially in the early morning hours when the defrost cycle typically runs.
  3. Contact Whirlpool to schedule a free in-home repair involving replacement of the defrost heater assembly and thermal limiter.
  4. Do not disable the defrost cycle manually — this does not eliminate the hazard and may cause frost buildup that damages the appliance further.
  5. Install a smoke detector in or near the kitchen if you do not already have one.

Contact information: Whirlpool Customer Support: 1-866-698-2538 | CPSC Recall Hotline: 1-800-638-2772 | cpsc.gov

Urgency Level: HIGH. Defrost heater fires often occur while households are asleep. Contact Whirlpool immediately to schedule your free repair under CPSC Recall #15-092. Do not delay.

Read this important safety alert regarding whirlpool refrigerator defrost heater overheating 2015 for affected Whirlpool models.

Related Resources

Find important safety and recall information, and get your Whirlpool appliance serviced promptly.

For more information, visit CPSC Whirlpool Recall Database and Whirlpool Official Support.

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