SEOUL • Samsung Electronics is recalling about 2.8 million washing machines in the United States amid reports that the top of the machine can become detached during use.

It is yet another setback for the company, which has recently ended production of its flagship Galaxy Note7 smartphone following a global recall, a debacle estimated to ultimately cost over US$6 billion (S$8.3 billion).

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) listed the washer recall on Friday, saying that Samsung has received 733 reports of faulty machines.

It is the biggest washing machine recall in history in terms of units and reported incidents, the CPSC said.

Customer complaints submitted to the government described washers that exploded and lodged debris in the walls, levitated or ripped sockets from their screws.

The washers can become dangerous when washing bulky items, such as comforters, which can cause the machines to vibrate violently or even burst apart.

Nine of the complaints resulted in injuries, including a "broken jaw, injured shoulder and other impact or fall-related injuries", the CPSC said.

The recall affects 34 models sold between March 2011 and this month. The CPSC website has a full list of the affected models.

Front-load washers are not included in the recall.

"Before you do another load of laundry, contact Samsung and respond to this recall.

"These top-loading washers present a risk of injury when used on a high-speed spin cycle," said CPSC chairman Elliot Kaye.

Samsung Electronics Singapore said in response to a query from The Sunday Times that the recall does not affect washers sold in Singapore. "We can confirm that this issue does not impact top-load washer models sold outside of North America," said the company.

Those affected by the recall can choose to have a technician go to their homes for free to reinforce their machines.

Those who have bought a new washer in the past 30 days can get a full refund.

WASHINGTON POST, BLOOMBERG