Whirlpool has asked the U.S. International Trade Commission to block imports and sales of certain over-the-range microwaves from Samsung, LG, Midea and Haier, alleging infringement of five patents covering low-profile microwave-hood combination products (LP-MHCs). The company says it pioneered the LP-MHC category — microwaves that also provide integrated ventilation — and that the alleged copying jeopardizes its U.S. market position. Rivals named in the complaint did not immediately respond to requests for comment. If the ITC finds infringement, it could bar the import of the accused products.
Whirlpool Seeks U.S. Import Ban on Samsung, LG Microwaves Alleging Patent Infringement
Whirlpool has asked the U.S. International Trade Commission to block imports and sales of certain over-the-range microwaves from Samsung, LG, Midea and Haier, alleging infringement of five patents covering low-profile microwave-hood combination products (LP-MHCs). The company says it pioneered the LP-MHC category — microwaves that also provide integrated ventilation — and that the alleged copying jeopardizes its U.S. market position. Rivals named in the complaint did not immediately respond to requests for comment. If the ITC finds infringement, it could bar the import of the accused products.
04:23 AM, 11/19/2025Economy
By Blake Brittain
Whirlpool on Tuesday asked the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) to block the importation and sale of certain over-the-range microwaves made by rivals in South Korea and China, saying the products copy its patented design for low-profile microwave-hood combination units.
The complaint, filed with the Washington-based trade agency, names Samsung and LG of South Korea and China-based Midea and Haier as respondents. Whirlpool alleges the companies infringed five patents that cover what the company calls "low-profile microwave-hood combination products," or LP-MHCs — appliances that combine cooking functionality with integrated ventilation.
Whirlpool, based in Benton Harbor, Michigan, said it pioneered the LP-MHC category and that the alleged copying threatens its position in the U.S. market. The company added it "will not hesitate to defend our innovation and intellectual property when a competitor steals a patent-protected design."
"Whirlpool created the LP-MHC product category, and until the Proposed Respondents began their unlawful conduct, Whirlpool was the sole provider of LP-MHCs in the United States," the complaint says.
Spokespeople for Samsung, LG, Haier-owned GE Appliances and Midea did not immediately respond to requests for comment. If the ITC finds infringement, it can issue an exclusion order that would bar the importation of the accused products into the United States and recommend other remedies.
This filing underscores growing global tensions over appliance design and intellectual property as established manufacturers seek to protect market share from international competitors.