San Antonio, Texas, December 8, 2025
USAA General Indemnity Company has filed a lawsuit against Whirlpool Corporation following a significant payout to a homeowner whose residence was flooded due to a malfunctioning Whirlpool dishwasher. The issue stems from a fractured solenoid valve that caused extensive water damage. This legal action highlights ongoing concerns regarding appliance safety and manufacturer accountability, with multiple parties involved in the case. The lawsuit raises important implications for consumers and manufacturers in terms of product reliability and legal responsibilities.
San Antonio, Texas – Legal Battle Between USAA and Whirlpool Over Dishwasher Failure
San Antonio, Texas – USAA General Indemnity Company has initiated a lawsuit against Whirlpool Corporation, seeking reimbursement for a $123,513 payout made to a Colorado homeowner whose residence was flooded due to a malfunctioning Whirlpool dishwasher. The insurer alleges that the dishwasher’s solenoid valve, manufactured by Robershaw, was defective, leading to the water damage. This legal action, filed in June 2025 in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri, underscores the ongoing disputes over appliance-related damages and the responsibilities of manufacturers and insurers.
Details of the Incident
In February 2024, a USAA customer returned from a two-week vacation to find his home flooded. The source of the water intrusion was traced to a Whirlpool dishwasher, specifically a fractured solenoid valve. The homeowner had turned the water back on before returning, and upon his arrival, discovered the flooding caused by the dishwasher’s failure. USAA contends that Whirlpool and the valve manufacturer should be held accountable for the substantial damages incurred.
Legal Proceedings and Claims
The lawsuit filed by USAA is a subrogation claim, a legal process where an insurance company seeks reimbursement from a third party deemed responsible for a loss. In this case, USAA is pursuing Whirlpool and Robershaw for the damages paid to the homeowner. The court proceedings are ongoing, with Whirlpool having filed a third-party complaint against Methode Electronics, Inc., the manufacturer of the dishwasher’s electronic components, in July 2025. This move indicates the complexity of the case and the multiple parties involved in the alleged defect.
Background on Whirlpool’s Legal Challenges
This lawsuit is part of a broader pattern of legal challenges faced by Whirlpool concerning its dishwashers. Previous cases have involved issues such as electrical defects leading to fire hazards and design flaws resulting in water leakage. For instance, in 2010, Whirlpool recalled 1.7 million dishwashers due to fire hazards associated with the heating element. Additionally, class-action lawsuits have been filed alleging that certain dishwasher models have defects leading to water leakage, causing property damage to consumers. These ongoing legal battles highlight the importance of product safety and the responsibilities of manufacturers in ensuring the reliability of their appliances.
Implications for Consumers and Manufacturers
The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for both consumers and manufacturers. For consumers, it emphasizes the importance of being aware of potential defects in household appliances and understanding their rights in the event of product failures. For manufacturers, it underscores the necessity of rigorous quality control measures and transparent communication regarding product safety to prevent legal disputes and maintain consumer trust.
FAQ
What is the lawsuit between USAA and Whirlpool about?
The lawsuit involves USAA General Indemnity Company seeking reimbursement from Whirlpool Corporation for a $123,513 payout made to a homeowner whose residence was flooded due to a malfunctioning Whirlpool dishwasher.
When was the lawsuit filed?
The lawsuit was filed in June 2025 in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri.
What caused the flooding in the homeowner’s residence?
The flooding was caused by a fractured solenoid valve in a Whirlpool dishwasher, leading to water intrusion in the home.
What is a subrogation claim?
A subrogation claim is a legal process where an insurance company seeks reimbursement from a third party deemed responsible for a loss.
Has Whirlpool faced similar legal challenges before?
Yes, Whirlpool has faced previous legal challenges concerning its dishwashers, including issues related to electrical defects and design flaws leading to water leakage.
Key Features of the Legal Battle Between USAA and Whirlpool
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Parties Involved | USAA General Indemnity Company and Whirlpool Corporation |
| Nature of the Lawsuit | Subrogation claim for reimbursement of $123,513 due to water damage caused by a defective Whirlpool dishwasher |
| Incident Details | Homeowner’s residence flooded in February 2024 due to a fractured solenoid valve in a Whirlpool dishwasher |
| Legal Proceedings | Lawsuit filed in June 2025; Whirlpool filed a third-party complaint against Methode Electronics, Inc. in July 2025 |
| Background Context | Whirlpool has faced previous legal challenges concerning dishwasher defects, including electrical issues and design flaws leading to water leakage |
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