Frigidaire Microwave Class Action Lawsuit Alleges Overheating Handles

A proposed Frigidaire microwave class action lawsuit has been filed against Electrolux alleging that the appliance maker sells defective and harmful microwaves throughout the U.S.

The Maryland lawsuit involves a Frigidaire Gallery Over-the-Range Microwave Oven with stainless steel handles.

The product defect, according to the Frigidaire microwave class action lawsuit, causes the handle to overheat to temperatures above 168 degrees Fahrenheit in minutes when the stove below is in use.

The product’s design is not up to industry standards, according to court documents, and does not feature an insulation system or other protective measure.

The defect is “unreasonably dangerous, as it can result, and has resulted, in injury … including burns to the skin,” the lawsuit states.

Frigidaire Microwave Class Action Lawsuit Allegations

Plaintiff Alex Kukich, who filed the complaint, purchased his Frigidaire Gallery Over-the-Range Microwave Oven in October 2013 for approximately $249.00.

He states that in his brief contact with the microwave’s stainless steel handles, he discovered the exceedingly high temperature of that handle.

He further alleges that Electrolux was aware that the stainless steel of the handles caused the exterior of it to reach temperatures that created a substantial risk of harm to consumers when the cooking range is in use below the microwave.

He claims the company was aware of the risk since February 2015.

The Frigidaire microwave class action lawsuit alleges that Electrolux had a duty to, but failed to, disclose the defect and when notified of the problem, refused to recall it, repair it, or reimburse customers who have asked for a refund.

Kukich is asking for injunctive and declaratory relief for a Class of consumers who own a microwave with a 400-grade stainless steel handle.

He is also seeking to represent a Maryland Class consisting of all individuals in the state of Maryland who own a microwave with a 400-grade stainless steel handle that was purchased during the four years preceding the filing of this action.

This is not the only Frigidaire microwave class action lawsuit Electrolux is facing.  The home appliance maker is facing a similar class action lawsuit, filed in 2015 in Pennsylvania federal court.

The plaintiffs in this Frigidaire microwave class action lawsuit claim the microwave’s handle can overheat, reaching extremely dangerous temperatures within minutes of the stove’s cooking surface being in operation, causing a risk for serious injury to anyone who touches the handle with a bare hand.

Were You Harmed by an Electrolux or Frigidaire Microwave?

When a company releases a defective product into the marketplace, those who bought the product may be able to file a class action lawsuit against the manufacturer.

Often, these cases seek compensation for the cost of the product itself, as well as any damage it caused to the consumer and his or her property.

If you or a loved one has suffered similar damages or injuries as a result over an overheating Frigidaire over-the-range microwave, contact an experienced products liability attorney who may evaluate your claim at no cost or obligation.

The Frigidaire Microwave Class Action Lawsuit is Kukich v. Electrolux Home Products Inc., Case No. 1:16-cv-03412-ELH in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, Baltimore Division.