GE Appliances GE Washer caught fire before Recall and GE will not reimburse for new Washer Nationwide

Our Model WPGT9360E0WW GE HE Top Loading Profile Washer caught fire 18-May-2016. It appeared that the fire originated at the main control board, P/N WH12X10281. When this event occurred, we immediately unplugged the washer from its electrical supply, but smoldering continued for a few minutes. When the smoldering and smoking had slowed, we removed the backsplash and used a fire extinguisher as an additional safety measure as there did seem to be heat generated from the control board area. The Washer had been loaded with laundry, which then had to be taken to a laundromat along with all of our laundry as we of course would not reconnect the defective GE Washer to the electrical supply. We researched having the main control board replaced, but learned that a new washer could be obtained for a lower cost than the parts and labor for repair. We purchased a new washing machine of a different brand and paid to have the defective GE Washer hauled away at the time of delivery of our new machine.

GE issued a Recall Notice dated 28-Nov-2016 for this defective washer citing that there is a risk of fire. By that time, six months following the recalled defective GE washer catching fire, the defective GE washer had been removed from our home and replaced with an alternate brand.

Upon receiving the Recall Notice, I immediately contacted GE to request reimbursement for the replacement washer that I purchased, plus the expended fire extinguisher and laundromat costs, a total of $522.50. GE failed to respond and so I re-transmitted my request on 13-Feb-2017. Finally on 03-March-2017, GE called to advise that since I no longer have the washer for their "verification", my request will not be considered. I had provided photos indicating charring of the washer backsplash above the area where the fire originated, but GE used this weak excuse of the washer having been removed from our home nine (9) months earlier for not reimbursing for the replacement washer. The washer was no longer under warranty and I saw no reason to contact GE prior to my receipt of the Recall letter. And who in the world would keep a burned out washer at their home for months after it had been replaced?

Our home is still loaded with GE Appliances including dishwasher, clothes dryer, refrigerator, cooktop and range and vent hood. Hopefully these items will not catch fire, and as they reach the end of their service life, they will certainly not be replaced with GE products.