Expanded Recall of Frigidaire Mini Refrigerators

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has expanded a recall on Frigidaire-brand mini refrigerators to a total of 964,000 units due to multiple reports of fires. This action comes after Canada-based Curtiss International initially recalled 634,000 of these refrigerators last summer, adding another 330,000 of a different model to the recall this past Thursday.

The mini refrigerators pose a fire risk because their electrical components can short-circuit, igniting the plastic materials used in their construction. So, this is definitely something to take seriously.

Specifically, the recalled model is the Frigidaire EFMIS121. These units were sold exclusively at Target stores and online, priced around $30, from January 2020 through October 2023. At least six incidents have been reported where these mini-fridges caught fire, leading to property damage.

Last year, there was a recall involving other models: EFMIS129, EFMIS137, EFMIS149, and EFMIS175. During that recall, there were 26 reported incidents of overheating or even melting, with two consumers suffering from smoke inhalation. The total property damage was estimated at over $700,000. Interestingly, those mini-refrigerators were sold at various retailers, including Walmart and Amazon.

As for the recent recall, it’s important for consumers to stop using these mini-fridges immediately and ask for a refund. The commission advises unplugging the units and marking “Recall” on the door using a permanent marker. Additionally, disposal should follow local and state guidelines.