GE dishwashers recalled for fire risk

General Electric is recalling more than a million dishwashers in Canada and the United States because of heating elements that can fail and cause fires.

The recall involves GE, GE Profile and Moffat plastic-tub dishwashers with controls on the front, Mabe Canada said. They came in black, white, bisque, stainless steel and GE's trademark CleanSteel colours and finishes.

The company, a manufacturer and distributor of GE appliances in Canada, said it has received three reports of heating element failures. There were a further 12 in the U.S. In all, seven of those incidents resulted in fire and smoke damage to homes.

No injuries have been reported.

Mabe said 90,400 of the faulty units, made between March 2006 and April 2008, were sold in Canada. Prices ranged from about $350 to $850.

People who have the affected machines should stop using them, immediately disconnect the electric supply and call the company toll-free at 1-888-943-5188 to schedule a free repair.

The recall is for the following model and serial numbers: