Standard&Poor's today said that there would be no effect on the ratings or outlook of appliance-maker Whirlpool Corp. (BBB+/Negative/A-2) following Whirlpool's announcement that approximately $68 million of its $96 million aircraft lease assets that are recorded in discontinued operations, and which relate to United Airlines Inc., could be reduced or written off should United file for bankruptcy protection. Any resulting charge would be non-cash and would not affect Whirlpool's core appliance business. Importantly, credit protection measures are expected to remain appropriate for the ratings.