Frigidaire minifridge recall expands to nearly 1 million units after new fire reports
Mississauga, Ontario (High Desert News Online) – Curtis International has expanded a recall of Frigidaire-branded minifridges to about 964,000 units after reports that internal electrical components can short-circuit and ignite the plastic housing; owners are urged to stop using affected units and seek full refunds.
Key takeaways
- Recall expanded: Curtis International added 330,000 units (model EFMIS121) to an earlier recall, bringing the total to roughly 964,000 minifridges.
- Hazard: Internal electrical short circuits can cause sparking, smoke or fires, posing fire and burn hazards.
- Where sold: The newly added model was sold exclusively at Target (stores and Target.com) from January 2020–October 2023 for about $30.
- What to do: Stop use, unplug and disable the cord, mark the door “Recall” and register for a full refund.
Main content
What was recalled and how to identify affected units
The expanded recall covers Frigidaire-branded minifridges with model numbers and serial ranges printed on the back label. The newly added model is EFMIS121 (six-can size, typically red) with serial numbers A2001–A2310. These units were sold exclusively at Target outlets and Target.com.
Earlier, in July 2024, Curtis International recalled 634,000 units of models EFMIS129, EFMIS137, EFMIS149 and EFMIS175, available in multiple colors and sold through retailers including Walmart and Amazon. Combined recalls apply to units branded “Frigidaire” on the front with model and serial numbers on the back label.
Reports, injuries and property damage
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Curtis International say internal electrical short circuits can ignite surrounding plastic, producing sparking, smoke or full fires.
For the models recalled in 2024, the CPSC recorded 26 reports of smoking, sparking, burning, melting, overheating or fire, which included two smoke-inhalation injuries and more than $700,000 in property damage. For the newly added EFMIS121 units there are at least six reports of fires with property damage; no injuries have been specified in those new reports to date. The new incidents prompted Curtis International to expand the recall.
Timeline and scope
- January 2020–October 2023: Target sold EFMIS121 units for about $30 each.
- July 2024: Curtis International initiated a recall covering 634,000 units of four Frigidaire minifridge models (CPSC initial recall: CPSC initial recall (2025)).
- January 2026 (announced Thursday): Curtis added 330,000 more EFMIS121 minifridges, bringing the total to about 964,000 recalled units (see CPSC and reporting by Fox Business).
Consumer steps and remedies
The CPSC and Curtis International stress immediate action. Follow these safety steps:
- Stop using the minifridge immediately and unplug it.
- Cut the power cord to prevent accidental use and write “Recall” on the front door with a permanent marker.
- Register for a full refund: Recall repair/return (registration and refund site).
- Contact Curtis International: toll-free at 888-727-0198 (8 a.m.–12 a.m. ET, Mon–Fri) or email recall@curtiscs.com for return instructions. See Curtis’ recall notice at Curtis International.
Federal oversight and resale rules
The recall is overseen by the CPSC. Federal law bans the sale or resale of recalled products across marketplaces, thrift stores and private sales. Retailers and resale platforms are expected to remove listings for affected models; the CPSC and Curtis International public notices aim to stop further sales and inform consumers about safe disposal and refunds.
Implications for The High Desert
Economic impact: High Desert residents often purchase budget appliances for rentals and home offices. A large volume of recalled minifridges sold through Target could create local inconvenience as residents identify and return units. Retailers in Victorville, Hesperia, Apple Valley and Barstow should ensure inventory is clear of affected models and assist customers with recall steps.
Political and regulatory consequences: The recall highlights the need for consumer vigilance and stronger oversight of imported, low-cost appliances. Local officials and consumer protection offices may receive complaints as residents seek refunds or guidance. The CPSC’s enforcement could prompt calls for clearer retailer accountability.
Social and safety effects: The High Desert’s arid environment raises fire concerns. Even a small indoor appliance fire can spread in mobile homes, garages or poorly ventilated spaces. Residents should unplug suspicious items, store flammable goods away from appliances and verify smoke detectors are working.
Cultural relevance and practical steps: Community swapping groups, garage sales and local pawn shops should screen for recalled models and serial numbers and remove listings. Practical steps: check the back label for model and serial numbers, unplug and mark recalled units, and register for refunds. Follow local solid-waste rules for disposal of electronic appliances.
Investigative note: why these small appliances matter
At roughly $30 each, these compact minifridges were marketed as inexpensive convenience items for dorms, offices and small apartments. However, design or manufacturing defects that allow electrical components to overheat can create outsized risks. The pattern of reports across models and years suggests a recurring vulnerability in internal electrical systems or quality control. The CPSC documents incidents and requires corrective action; retailers and manufacturers share responsibility to prevent future hazards.
Where to get more information
- CPSC recall pages (expanded recall 2026)
- CPSC initial recall (2025)
- Curtis International recall details
- Refund and registration site
- News coverage: Fox Business
If you own a Frigidaire-branded minifridge: check the model and serial number now, follow the safety steps above to reduce fire risk and claim a refund, and contact your city’s waste management or fire department for local disposal and safety guidance.
