The manufacturer previously identified faults in certain models of Hotpoint and Indesit washing machines which were made between 2014 and 2018, with half a million appliances to be recalled.

Now it has identified more models and estimates this will impact up to 55,000 machines. See the model checker here.

There is a risk that the door locks of affected machines could catch fire due to overheating during the washing process.

Users are advised to unplug their machine and register with Whirlpool for a replacement. Under the recall, consumers with an affected washing machine will be entitled to a free replacement. Old machines will be removed, and replacements installed, at no cost to the consumer.

In light of the coronavirus pandemic, Whirlpool said it is following government guidelines, with strict health and safety processes across its operations. All delivery drivers and engineers are equipped with personal protective equipment and hand sanitiser.

Customers will also have the option of contactless delivery and removal of affected appliances.

Whirlpool vice president, Jeff Noel, said: “Firstly, I want to apologise sincerely for the worry and inconvenience I know this will cause, especially during these difficult times.

“I’d also like to reassure you that we are working as quickly as we can to provide solutions to affected customers as soon as possible. Nothing is more important to us than the safety of our customers, and working quickly to remove the affected appliances from customers’ homes is our number one priority.”

‘Five months for this to come to light’

Sue Davies, head of consumer protection at Which?, said: “It’s really concerning that Whirlpool has announced that there are tens of thousands of additional unsafe washing machines in people’s homes. Whirlpool customers are being drip fed information and serious questions need to be asked about why it took almost five months for this to come to light.

“Some Whirlpool customers may be understandably concerned about dealing with this problem during a nationwide lockdown. Whirlpool has provided reassurances that it has suitable safety measures in place so customers should report their affected machine to the company as soon as possible.”