On May 29, 2008, Miele Inc. recalled about 3,100 Residential Super-large Gas Dryers after receiving 11 reports of a gas smell and one report of a fire. If the recalled dryer is improperly installed, its internal gas fitting can loosen, creating a risk of a gas leak. This can cause asphyxiation, a fire hazard or an explosion.

Also, one or both caps on the internal exhaust duct can become dislodged, leading to lint build up that can be carried through the gas burner. This also poses a fire hazard.

Included in the recall are white residential Miele gas dryers with model T 9820. The serial number is found on the rim of the door opening, and is written as ?NR:xx/?, followed by an 8-digit number in the range from 66461685 to 89921848.

Miele distributors sold the recalled Residential Super-large Gas Dryers from March 2007 through December 2007 for about $1,300.

Consumers are advised to immediately stop using the recalled gas dryers and turn off the gas supply to the unit. Consumers who have not had their dryer inspected should contact a Miele service provider for a free inspection and repair, if necessary. For more information, customers may contact Miele at 800-420-1813, or visit the company?s website.

Source: ?Miele Recalls Gas Dryers Due to Risk of Gas Leak or Fire,? US Consumer Product Safety Commission Release #08-577, May 29, 2008.