Nearly 1 million Frigidaire-branded minifridges are being recalled due to a potential fire hazard. This action is part of an expanded recall initiated by Curtis International, a Canadian manufacturer and distributor of electronics and appliances. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced on Thursday that the recall includes an additional 330,000 minifridges, building on the 634,000 units previously recalled in July 2024.
CPSC reports that internal electrical components in the affected appliances can short-circuit, leading to ignited plastic and posing serious fire and burn hazards. The recall specifically targets the Curtis International 6-can minifridge model EFMIS121, which was sold exclusively at Target stores and on Target.com from January 2020 through October 2023. The minifridges are identifiable by their red color and the word “Frigidaire” printed on the front.
According to the recall notice, Curtis International has received at least six reports of the EFMIS121 model catching fire. The initial recall earlier in the year involved different models of Frigidaire minifridges and recorded 26 instances of appliances smoking, sparking, burning, melting, overheating, or igniting. Property damages from these incidents have exceeded $700,000.
CPSC strongly advises consumers who own the EFMIS121 model to stop using the appliance immediately. Owners should unplug the minifridge, cut the power cord, and clearly mark “Recall” on the front using a permanent marker. When disposing of the appliance, consumers must comply with local and state regulations.
For those affected, further information is available at www.recallrtr.com/minifridge, where consumers can also request a refund. The product recall number is 26-199.
As recalls of this nature highlight ongoing safety concerns, consumers are urged to remain vigilant and promptly address any potential risks associated with their appliances.
