I was sewing a month ago and the smoke alarms went off. I could not figure out what was going on but then I started to smell my iron (a 10 year old Rowenta). It never leaked and I liked the weight and the amount of heat. I had bought a Black & Decker from Target when I read an earlier post about the Rowenta so I had a replacement handy. I am not real happy with it -- if I put water in it the water spits all over so I have to use it dry and the temp does not seem as steady but I am keeping an open mind. My irons have always been on surge protectors since I don't want to put all the wear and tear on the plug.
DH says no more Rowentas.