A fix for Haier freezers

In September 2009, we alerted readers that our testing found an Energy Star freezer, the Haier HUF138EA, that consumed too much energy to qualify for such a designation. We labeled the $750 freezer as Don't Buy: Performance Problem.

Now, a follow-up Department of Energy investigation has prompted Haier to determine that a parts defect caused some of its freezers to use more energy than consumers were led to believe and that the freezers may have violated DOE energy-efficiency standardsand Energy Star requirements.

As a result, Haier stopped distribution of four models, including the one we cited. The others are the HUF138PB, HUF168EA, and HUF168PB. The units were sold between December 2008 and August 2009. Under an agreement with the DOE, Haier will contact affected consumers, repair the units, extend the warranties by one year, and voluntarily pay $150,000 to the U.S. government.