Safety alert issued on Swan washing machines due to fire risk

Swan has issued an important safety notice on SW1010 and SW1020 washing machines sold between 2010 and 2012.

The internal control unit has failed in a small number of these washing machines. There's a risk of the unit overheating, which could lead to a fire. As a precautionary measure, Swan is replacing the control units on all of the models concerned.

Both Very and Littlewoods have posted the safety notice. A spokesperson from Shop Direct (which owns both retailers) told us that there have been five fires where these Swan washing machines were present, but that each fire was small and isolated. Each customer's case was settled.

The affected models are:

• SW1010W
• SW1010Wa
• SW1010B
• SW1010Ba
• SW1020W
• SW1020Wa
• SW1020B
• SW1020Ba

We haven't reviewed these models. Go to our washing machine reviews to see every model we've tested.

How to check your Swan washing machine

If you're concerned that your appliance might be affected, check the model number on the front of your machine against the model codes listed above. If the numbers match, stop using it immediately and unplug it or switch it off at the wall.

Next steps

If your washing machine is subject to the safety notice, Swan promises a free replacement of the control unit through its repair partner 0800 Repair.

To arrange an appointment, call the 0800 Repair free phone helpline on 0800 888 6124, open from 9am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm on Saturday. Alternatively, you can email productmodifications@0800repair.com. The appointment is free of charge and should take approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

If you have sold or given away an affected machine and have the current owner's details, use the contact information above to pass on the new owner's details. Swan will then contact the owner directly to arrange the replacement control unit.

Find out about your rights when a product is recalled with ourconsumer rights guide.

Appliance fires

Which? is working to reduce the risk of a fire in your home caused by a faulty appliance. We're pushing for fire-risk tumble dryers made by Whirlpool to be recalled, and are checking the modifications to ensure that they're making affected appliances safe to use.

We also test the backing material of fridges, fridge freezers and freezers to ensure they aren't likely to spread an existing fire. If an appliance does have non-flame-retardant backing we make it a Don't Buy regardless of its test score.

See our guide to product safety for more information.

Which? campaign to End Dangerous Products

We're committed to keeping dangerous products out of Britain's homes. You can help by signing our petition demanding the government reform the UK's deficient current product safety standards.