December 22, 2025 – A significant safety incident has been reported concerning a KitchenAid built-in microwave/oven combination (Model KOCE500EWH09) that experienced an internal fire during normal use. The fire, which originated within a sealed, inaccessible component, raises serious concerns about potential hazards to consumers.
Product Details
Incident Overview
On December 3, 2025, a consumer reported that their KitchenAid built-in microwave/oven combination, installed new in 2019, caught fire inside the microwave cavity during normal operation. The fire was traced to the waveguide/magnetron area, a sealed internal component that consumers cannot access. Flames were visibly observed, and the interior wall of the microwave burned and melted before the fire could be contained.
Following the incident, Whirlpool Corporation, the manufacturer, dispatched a certified technician to inspect the unit. The technician’s written report confirmed that “the magnetron is grounded to the frame, the unit is sparking when in use.” Whirlpool’s technical support subsequently deemed the appliance unrepairable. The case was also reviewed by Whirlpool’s safety team, which concluded that the fire was due to an internal mechanical failure where the magnetron shorted to the chassis, rather than improper use or installation. Given that the microwave is integrated into the oven chassis, the entire appliance was deemed compromised and beyond repair.
The consumer was fortunate that their husband, a firefighter, was home at the time and was able to quickly contain the fire. The report emphasized the potential for a far more serious outcome, especially as the family has three young children.
Safety Concerns
This incident highlights several critical safety concerns:
- Internal Fire Hazard: The most immediate and significant risk is the potential for fire originating from within sealed, inaccessible components of the appliance. Such fires can escalate rapidly, posing a severe threat to occupants and property.
- Electrical Malfunction: The technician’s report of the magnetron being grounded to the frame and the unit sparking indicates a serious electrical malfunction. This can lead to arcing, overheating, and fire, even during normal operation.
- Unrepairable Defect: The manufacturer’s declaration that the entire appliance is unrepairable due to the integrated design means that once such an internal failure occurs, the entire unit is rendered unsafe and unusable.
- Risk to Occupants: Fires, especially those in kitchens, can spread quickly, leading to smoke inhalation, burns, and other injuries. The presence of children in the home at the time of the incident underscores the heightened risk to vulnerable individuals.
- Property Damage: The reported burning and melting of the microwave’s interior wall demonstrate the potential for significant property damage, extending beyond the appliance itself to surrounding cabinetry and the home structure.
- Hidden Danger: Since the fire originated in a sealed component, consumers have no way to inspect for or prevent such an internal failure, making it a hidden and unpredictable danger.
What Consumers Should Do
If you own a KitchenAid KOCE500EWH09 microwave/oven combination or a similar integrated appliance:
- Check Your Appliance: Be aware of any unusual noises, sparks, burning smells, or erratic behavior from your microwave/oven combination.
- Immediate Action During a Fire: If you observe flames or sparks from your microwave, immediately unplug the appliance if safe to do so, or shut off power at the circuit breaker. Do not open the door, as this can provide oxygen to the fire. If the fire persists or spreads, evacuate your home and call emergency services immediately.
- Prevention: Ensure your appliance is used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid operating a microwave if you notice any signs of damage or malfunction.
- Reporting: If you experience a similar incident or suspect a defect in your KitchenAid appliance, it is crucial to report it.
* Contact the manufacturer, Whirlpool Corporation, to document your experience and seek their assistance.
* File a report with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at www.cpsc.gov. This helps the CPSC identify potential widespread issues and take appropriate action.
Manufacturer’s Response
Whirlpool Corporation responded to the incident by sending a certified technician who confirmed an internal mechanical failure (magnetron shorting to the chassis), leading to the fire. Whirlpool’s technical and safety teams deemed the appliance unrepairable due to the fire originating in a sealed internal component and the integrated design. While Whirlpool has offered partial cost coverage towards a replacement unit, the consumer reports that the manufacturer has declined to provide written documentation of their position regarding the internal safety defect. The consumer notes that they are still expected to pay thousands of dollars for an appliance replacement that failed due to a documented internal defect.
Legal Help Available
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product or suffered property damage due to a product malfunction, you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced product liability attorneys at Farzan Law understand the complexities of defective product cases and can help you navigate the legal process.
Contact us today for a free consultation: 424-325-3112
Our legal team has successfully represented clients in product liability cases involving defective appliances, automotive defects, medical devices, and consumer products. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Note: This information is based on incident reports provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. If you find information that is incorrect, please contact us immediately so we can correct the post to reflect accurate information.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. This article is based on publicly available incident reports. The incidents mentioned have not necessarily been independently verified or adjudicated.