Microwave ovens have become standard equipment in most American kitchens, and many families rely on these appliances to help prepare meals, snacks and beverages in a hurry. However, a recently filed defective product lawsuit claims that one of the nation’s largest manufacturers of microwaves is selling units that can cause serious harm to users. For many in Nebraska, the following report will have them heading to the kitchen to check the make and model of their own microwave.

The lawsuit asserts that the Frigidaire Gallery Over-the-Range Microwave Oven exhibits a manufacturing defect that causes the handle to overheat. The handle is made of stainless steel, and it is claimed that this metal can reach temperatures as high as 168 degrees when the stove seated below it is in use. The suit states that consumers have experienced burns due to the fact that the microwave handle has no insulation or other safety features that would prevent excessive heat transfer.

Within the lawsuit, it is alleged that Electrolux was made aware of the issue but choose to take no action. No recalls have been issued for the microwaves, and there has been no extension of reimbursement to consumers who have purchased one of the allegedly defective units. Representatives for Electrolux have declined to comment on the matter, claiming that they have not yet reviewed the content of the lawsuit.

As this defective product case moves forward, many Nebraska residents will watch to see if a recall is issued or other protective measures are taken. Consumers expect that the appliances that they purchase will not only operate as intended, but will do so in a manner that is safe. When a product fails to meet these basic standards, a lawsuit is often the result. In many cases, a successful lawsuit not only leads to the award of damages to affected consumers, but also serves to improve safety standards within the industry in question.

Source: charlotteobserver.com, “Lawsuit alleges Electrolux sells defective, harmful microwaves“, Katherine Peralta, March 4, 2015