Gree Reannounces Dehumidifier Recall Following 450 Fires and $19 Million in Property Damage; Brand Names Include Frigidaire, Soleus Air, Kenmore and Others

What was recalled

On November 29, 2016, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving Gree dehumidifiers that were sold under a wide variety of well-known retail brands. This is not a minor issue affecting a single model; it is a broad recall covering dozens of specific units manufactured by Gree and distributed under at least sixteen different brand names. If you have purchased a dehumidifier in recent years, it is entirely possible that the unit you are using was one of these affected models, as Gree supplied the core technology for many major household appliance brands.

The recall encompasses 20, 25, 30, 40, 45, 50, 65, and 70-pint dehumidifiers. The sheer number of brands involved means this product was widely available across the United States. Consumers may know these units by any of the following brand names: Danby, De'Longhi, Fedders, Fellini, Frigidaire, GE, Gree, Kenmore, Norpole, Premiere, Seabreeze, SoleusAir, and SuperClima. Because Gree is the original manufacturer, their own branded units are included alongside those sold under partner labels. The units themselves are generally white, beige, gray, or black plastic, standing between 19 and 24 inches tall, with widths of 13 to 15 inches and depths of 9 to 11 inches.

To determine if your specific unit is part of this recall, you must look past the brand name on the front panel. The critical information is located on a sticker affixed to the back, front, or side of the dehumidifier. This sticker displays the model number and the date code. For example, Danby and Premiere models with DDR3011, DDR30P, DDR4511, DDR45P, DDR6511, or DDR65CHP model numbers are recalled regardless of when they were made. Similarly, many Gree-specific models like the 13-06090 (30-pint) or GDN70AF-A3EBA8A (70-pint) are included in full.

For other brands, such as Frigidaire and GE, the recall is tied to specific production dates. Frigidaire models like the FDB30R1 or FDL50R1 are covered if their date codes fall between January 2007 and September 2008. GE models, such as the ADER30LN or ADEW65LN, are included if they were manufactured between January 2008 and December 2010. Kenmore units like model 407.52301210 are only recalled if produced between April 2012 and September 2012. SoleusAir models have complex date ranges, with some GL-DEH series units covered from late 2011 through mid-2012. Because the list of model numbers is extensive, checking your specific sticker against the official CPSC database or contacting Gree directly is essential to confirm if your unit is part of this large-scale safety action.

The hazard, explained

When you look at a dehumidifier, it is easy to view it as a passive appliance that simply sits in the corner and quietly pulls moisture from the air. However, these units are complex machines containing powerful compressors, fans, and electrical components that generate heat as part of their normal operation. In the specific case of this recall, a critical safety failure has been identified within the internal wiring or electrical connections of Gree-manufactured units sold under various brand names. While the exact technical root cause is detailed in engineering reports from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the physical manifestation is clear and dangerous: the components responsible for managing electrical current are overheating far beyond their designed tolerance levels.

This overheating does not happen gradually in a way that gives you ample warning. Instead, the excessive heat can cause plastic casings to warp, insulation on wires to melt, and internal components to smoke. When electrical parts overheat to this degree, they can ignite surrounding materials, turning the dehumidifier into a source of intense flame. This is not merely a malfunction that stops the machine from working; it is an active fire hazard. The report indicates that this specific defect has led to more than 450 confirmed fires, illustrating how quickly a minor electrical fault can escalate into a catastrophic event when flammable materials like plastic housing or nearby furniture are involved.

The danger to consumers extends beyond the immediate risk of a house fire. The heat generated by these units poses a severe burn hazard. If you touch the exterior of a dehumidifier that is internally overheating, the surface temperature may be high enough to cause serious burns to the skin, particularly for children who might touch the unit while playing or walking through a room. Furthermore, the smoke produced during the initial stages of this failure can contain toxic fumes from burning plastics and electrical insulation, creating an immediate respiratory hazard even before flames appear.

It is important to understand that this risk exists regardless of how often you use the unit. Whether the dehumidifier is running continuously in a damp basement or sitting idle for weeks, the defective component remains energized and capable of reaching dangerous temperatures. The CPSC notes that there have been over 2,000 reported incidents involving these units overheating, underscoring that this is a systemic issue with the design or manufacturing of these specific models, not an isolated accident. Because the heat builds up internally, you may not see any external signs of trouble until it is too late, which is why immediate unplugging is the only effective safety measure.

Who is most at risk

While the physical mechanics of an electrical fire can affect anyone, the specific nature of this dehumidifier recall creates a layered set of vulnerabilities that extend beyond the immediate danger of flames. The primary group at risk consists of homeowners and renters who have integrated these units into their daily living spaces to manage humidity, mold, or comfort. Because these appliances are designed to run continuously or for extended periods without constant supervision, they often operate in bedrooms, basements, and living areas where people spend significant amounts of time, particularly while sleeping or relaxing. This proximity means that the window of opportunity to react to early warning signs—such as unusual heat, smoke, or a burning smell—is often nonexistent.

Children are among the most critically vulnerable demographic in this scenario. Dehumidifiers are frequently placed in lower levels of homes, such as basements, which can serve as play areas for young children. The recalled units are constructed from plastic and operate with internal heating elements that can reach dangerous temperatures. A curious child might lean against the unit, touch the vents, or attempt to interact with the controls. Given that the hazard involves overheating and potential electrical failure, a child’s thinner skin is far more susceptible to severe burns than an adult’s. Furthermore, children may lack the cognitive ability to recognize the subtle signs of appliance malfunction, such as a change in operational noise or a slight discoloration of the plastic casing, until it is too late.

Elderly individuals and those with limited mobility also face heightened risks. As humidity control is often prioritized for health reasons—such as preventing respiratory issues or managing arthritis pain through environmental comfort—older adults may rely heavily on these devices. If a unit begins to fail, the physical act of unplugging it might be difficult for someone with reduced strength or dexterity. Additionally, if a fire does ignite, the speed at which smoke and toxic fumes spread can outpace the reaction time of individuals who may have slower reflexes or impaired mobility. The psychological stress of a sudden electrical emergency can also exacerbate underlying health conditions.

Finally, anyone living in older housing stock is at increased risk. Many of these dehumidifiers were sold during a period when electrical systems in homes were less robust than modern standards. If the internal wiring of the dehumidifier faults while connected to an aging home circuit, the potential for sparking or short-circuiting increases. This is particularly dangerous for individuals who may not be able to evacuate quickly due to physical limitations or lack of immediate escape routes from lower levels of the home where these units are commonly installed.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Because these dehumidifiers were sold under so many different brand names, simply looking at the logo on the front of the unit might not be enough to confirm whether it is part of this specific recall. The manufacturer, Gree, produced these units for a wide array of retailers and brands, including Danby, De'Longhi, Fedders, Fellini, Frigidaire, GE, Gree, Kenmore, Norpole, Premiere, Seabreeze, SoleusAir, and SuperClima. This is why the most reliable way to identify your unit is by checking the specific model number and date code rather than relying solely on the brand name you remember buying.

To begin your check, look at the front of your dehumidifier. You will find the brand name and the pint capacity printed clearly there. This tells you roughly what size unit you have, as the recall covers 20, 25, 30, 40, 45, 50, 65, and 70-pint models. However, the critical details are located on a sticker attached to the back, front, or side of the unit. This sticker contains the model number and the date code, which are the two pieces of information you must match against the recall list.

The physical appearance of these units is also quite consistent across brands. They are typically made of white, beige, gray, or black plastic. In terms of size, they measure between 19 and 24 inches tall, 13 and 15 inches wide, and 9 and 11 inches deep. If your unit looks like a standard boxy dehumidifier within these dimensions, it is worth inspecting the sticker carefully.

When you locate the model number on the sticker, compare it to the extensive list provided by the CPSC. For example, if you have a Frigidaire unit, you need to check if your model is one of the FDB, FDD, FDF, FDL, or FDM series with specific date codes ranging from January 2007 through September 2008. Similarly, GE models like the ADER30LN or ADEW50LN are recalled if their date codes fall between January 2008 and December 2010. Gree’s own branded units, such as the 13-06090 or GDN40AH-A4EBB1A, are recalled regardless of the date code, meaning all units of those specific models are affected. Kenmore models like the 407.52301210 are only recalled if they were manufactured between April 2012 and September 2012.

If you cannot find a sticker or if the writing has faded, do not guess. The risk is too high to assume safety based on appearance alone. If your unit matches any of the model numbers listed in the official recall notice, treat it as recalled immediately. You can also visit Gree’s website at www.greeusa.com and click on the Recall section for a searchable database or further assistance if you are unsure about your specific code.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

When a product recall involves serious safety risks like overheating and fire, the remedy offered by the manufacturer is designed to remove the hazard from your home entirely. In this specific case involving Gree dehumidifiers, the official remedy provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is straightforward: you are entitled to a full refund. It is important to understand that there is no option for repair or replacement units offered in this recall. The defect is inherent to the design and manufacturing of these specific models, meaning that fixing one unit does not guarantee safety for another. Therefore, the only way to resolve the issue is to return the money you paid and stop using the device altogether.

To initiate this process, you must contact Gree directly. They have established a dedicated channel for consumers affected by this recall. You can reach their customer service team toll-free at (866) 853-2802. Their support staff is available to assist you from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer to handle the logistics online, you can visit www.greeusa.com and navigate to the "Recall" section on their website. This digital portal should provide further instructions on how to proceed with your claim.

While the recall facts do not specify the exact steps for returning the physical unit or providing proof of purchase, the primary instruction is clear: contact Gree to receive a full refund. The goal here is financial restitution and safety. By taking this step, you are not only getting your money back but also ensuring that a potentially dangerous appliance does not remain in your living space. Do not wait for a letter in the mail; proactive contact is the fastest way to secure your remedy.

If you purchased the dehumidifier through a third-party retailer, such as a major department store or online marketplace, it may be helpful to have your receipt handy when you call Gree. Although the recall notice does not explicitly state that a receipt is mandatory for the refund, having this documentation will streamline the conversation and ensure there are no delays in processing your claim. Remember, the brand name printed on the front of the unit—whether it be Frigidaire, Kenmore, Soleus Air, or another listed brand—does not change the remedy. All these units were manufactured by Gree under license, so Gree remains the responsible party for honoring the recall terms.

Taking action now is crucial. These dehumidifiers have been linked to hundreds of fires and millions in property damage. Securing your refund promptly removes the financial loss and, more importantly, eliminates the fire risk associated with keeping the unit. Please do not attempt to dispose of the unit yourself until you have spoken with Gree, as they may provide specific instructions on safe disposal or return shipping labels.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to unplug a dehumidifier that has been working faithfully in your basement or laundry room for months. These appliances are designed to be set-and-forget devices, helping maintain comfortable humidity levels without demanding much attention. However, ignoring this specific recall carries risks that extend far beyond simple inconvenience or wasted electricity. The core issue here is not merely that the unit might stop working; it is that the internal components have failed in a way that turns a standard household appliance into an active ignition source.

The reported incidents paint a clear and concerning picture of what happens when these units are left plugged in. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there have been more than 2,000 reported instances where these dehumidifiers began to overheat. This is not a minor glitch; it indicates that the electrical system is generating excessive heat due to a defect. When you ignore this warning, you are allowing a component that should be safely managing moisture to instead become a fire hazard. The result is often visible smoke emanating from the unit before flames take hold. In fact, approximately 450 fires have been directly linked to these models. These are not contained laboratory tests; these are real-world events happening in homes, basements, and crawl spaces where people sleep or spend significant time.

The consequences of ignoring the recall are severe and multifaceted. First, there is the immediate danger of personal injury. A fire starting from an electrical appliance can spread rapidly, especially if it ignites nearby combustible materials like carpeting, drywall insulation, or stored items common in utility areas. The heat generated by these units can cause serious burns to anyone who comes into contact with them, even accidentally. Second, the financial impact is substantial. The recall data notes that these fires have already resulted in more than $19 million in property damage. This figure represents destroyed homes, ruined belongings, and the high costs associated with fire suppression and reconstruction. By ignoring the recall, you risk adding your own home to this statistic.

Furthermore, many of these units are installed in areas like basements or crawl spaces that may be less frequently visited than main living areas. A fire starting in such a location might go unnoticed for a critical period, allowing it to grow larger and more dangerous before it is discovered. This delay can compromise the structural integrity of your home and endanger not just your property, but the safety of your family and neighbors. The defect does not fix itself over time; rather, the overheating components continue to degrade, increasing the likelihood of a catastrophic failure with each hour the unit remains plugged in. Taking action now is the only way to ensure that this appliance remains a helper rather than becoming a hazard.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a critical failure in certain Gree-manufactured dehumidifiers, the broader lesson applies to all major household appliances. Electrical fires are often preventable with simple, consistent habits. The first step is vigilance regarding your home’s electrical infrastructure. Many older homes were not wired for the power demands of modern high-capacity appliances. If you notice flickering lights when you plug in a dehumidifier or any other large device, or if the outlet feels warm to the touch, stop using it immediately. These are signs that the circuit is overloaded. In such cases, move the appliance to an outlet on a different circuit or consult a licensed electrician to upgrade your home’s wiring. Never use extension cords or power strips for high-draw appliances like dehumidifiers; plug them directly into a wall outlet to prevent overheating at the connection point.

Regular maintenance is another cornerstone of appliance safety. Dust and debris can accumulate inside the vents and coils of a dehumidifier, causing it to work harder and run hotter than designed. Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning schedule strictly. If your unit begins making unusual noises, emitting strange odors, or showing signs of water leakage, unplug it and have it serviced by a professional rather than attempting DIY repairs. Electrical components inside these machines are complex and dangerous if mishandled. Additionally, ensure that your home has working smoke detectors on every level and inside each bedroom. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. In the event of an electrical fire, early detection can mean the difference between a minor incident and a catastrophic loss.

Finally, make checking for recalls a routine part of owning any appliance. Manufacturers sometimes discover defects after products have been sold due to subtle manufacturing variances or design flaws that only appear under specific conditions. You can stay informed by visiting the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website at www.cpsc.gov and signing up for email alerts tailored to your interests. You should also register new appliances when you buy them; this ensures that if a safety issue arises, the manufacturer can contact you directly. By staying proactive rather than reactive, you protect not just your belongings, but the safety of everyone in your household.

• Direct Plug-In Only: Always plug high-wattage appliances directly into wall outlets. Avoid extension cords.
• Circuit Awareness: Do not overload circuits. If a breaker trips frequently, reduce the load on that circuit.
• Maintenance: Clean filters and coils regularly to prevent overheating due to restricted airflow.
• Registration: Register your appliances so manufacturers can notify you of future safety updates.