Washing machine problem

Norfolk_Jim

I bought an Indesit washing machine from a local branch of a medium sized retailer 6 months and a few days ago.

I bought it using a mastercard

On Friday it blew up with two big bangs and filled the house with acrid burning smell.

I went to the shop to ask what could be done. They checked with Indesit who said they could come out on the 29th and look.
I explained I have children and am in a pickle without the machine. They checked and it was ok for their own engineer to come out sooner instead.

The engineer came Monday. I was out but had arranged for someone to be in to allow him access. Aparently within a few minutes he said it was all done, just a blown fuse in the plug.

My House sitter put a light load into the machine and it started to wash. However in 5-10 minutes there was a bang and it had stopped working again.

They called the shop and the shop said they wouldn't be able to keep coming out every time it blew a fuse but on this occasion they would come back out today.

Wife is at home this time but so far no engineer.

I'm just trying to figure out my next step if this becomes a saga. I really need a working washing machine now as we have no clean bedding or school clothes left. Wife does not drive so will find it difficult to go to launderette miles away.

I know machine has gone over 6 months old, hear that makes a difference but dont fully understand what difference.

Don't quite know what to do now.

Would be nice if they come and fix the machine but as far as I know a blown fuse in the plug does not make 2 loud bangs and fill the house with the acrid smell of burning - and the plug not even be hot. I've smelt enough burnt out drills to recognise that burning oil and grease smell of a burning motor. But having got the machine to start up again by putting a new fuse in, I think they now think we are making a foolish complaint.

What are my next steps consumer rights people please

unholyangel

As it is over 6 months, you may need to "prove" the item is inherently faulty. This is usually done via independent report - the cost of which will be refunded by the retailer if found in your favour.

First though, speak to the retailer and ask what proof they require. They may offer to send an engineer around and do a diagnostic test on it.

Once you have established the SoGA should apply, you can then try and enforce your legal rights - basically a remedy that will be carried out within a timely manner and without causing significant inconvenience/additional cost to you. However you do have a duty to mitigate your losses so perhaps ask friends/family members if you can use their washing machine, at least to let you guys get some clean clothes in the meantime!