Frigidaire minifridge recall expands to 964,000 after new fire reports; Target‑sold EFMIS121 model added
Curtis International expanded its recall of Frigidaire minifridges to about 964,000 units after new fire reports, adding Target‑sold model EFMIS121. Consumers should stop use and register immediately for refunds online.
Key takeaways
- Recall size: The recall now covers about 964,000 Frigidaire minifridges — expanded after new fire reports; see recall coverage.
- Newly added model: EFMIS121 (serial numbers A2001–A2310) was sold exclusively at Target; details at the CPSC expanded recall notice.
- Hazard: Internal electrical components can short circuit and ignite the plastic housing, creating a significant fire and burn risk as detailed by the CPSC.
- What to do: Stop using recalled units, unplug and cut the power cord, mark the door “Recall,” dispose per local rules and register for a refund.
What was recalled and why
Curtis International originally recalled four Frigidaire minifridge models in July 2024 after reports of overheating, melting and fires. The recall expanded to include EFMIS121 after additional reports that those units caught fire and caused property damage. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) expanded notice, internal electrical parts can short and ignite the plastic cabinet, posing both fire and burn hazards.
Models, serial numbers and where they were sold
The recall now covers five model numbers across two phases. The initial July 2024 recall included:
- EFMIS129
- EFMIS137
- EFMIS149
- EFMIS175
The expansion adds EFMIS121 with serial numbers A2001–A2310. The EFMIS121 units were sold exclusively at Target stores and on Target’s website from January 2020 through October 2023 and were commonly purchased for dorms, offices and rentals at a low price point (about $30).
Reports, damage and injuries
Curtis International reports at least six incidents of the EFMIS121 model catching fire and causing property damage. Earlier models recorded at least 26 incidents involving overheating, melting and fires, with more than $700,000 in property damage and at least two reports of smoke inhalation injuries. The growing incident count prompted the recall expansion and renewed warnings from the CPSC.
What consumers should do now
The CPSC and Curtis International advise owners of recalled units to follow these steps immediately:
- Stop using the minifridge immediately.
- Unplug the unit and cut the power cord so it cannot be used.
- Mark the door “Recall” with a permanent marker to warn others.
- Dispose of the unit in accordance with local and state regulations.
- Register for a refund through the official recall portal.
For assistance, contact Curtis International at 888‑727‑0198 (8 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET, Monday–Friday) or email recall@curtiscs.com.
Target’s role and retailer responsibility
The expansion specifically adds a model sold only at Target, raising questions about retailer safety checks and supplier oversight for low-cost appliances. Target carried EFMIS121 for nearly four years, making these units widespread in college dorms, rentals and workplaces. Consumers and local officials may expect retailers to clarify how supplier safety is evaluated and how quickly hazards are addressed; see coverage at Fox Business.
Investigation and accountability
The CPSC’s recall notice points to an electrical design or manufacturing issue that permits internal components to short and ignite the plastic shell. The agency monitors such defects and can coordinate remedies with manufacturers. For readers focused on consumer safety and market accountability, the case underscores that manufacturers must ensure safe designs and retailers must vet suppliers carefully.
Price point and risks in low-cost appliances
The recalled EFMIS121 units retailed at about $30. Low-cost appliances can be appealing to budget-conscious buyers but sometimes reflect compromises in design, manufacturing or testing. Buyers should weigh price against safety features, warranties and a manufacturer’s record on recalls and responsiveness.
Past recall history and broader safety context
This expansion follows Curtis International’s earlier 2024 recall that covered more than 700,000 units across several models and included incidents of overheating and significant property loss. The recurrence across models suggests potential systemic issues with internal electrical components. The CPSC’s public recall pages document these incidents and the remedies offered by the company.
Implications for Utah
Fire and property risk: Utah residents should check garages, rental units, guest rooms and student housing for recalled Frigidaire minifridges. A minifridge fire can spread quickly in wood‑framed homes and cluttered spaces — unplug and mark any recalled units.
Rental market impact: With a sizable student and rental population, Utah landlords and property managers should inspect and remove recalled units and notify tenants; failure to remove a known hazard could create liability.
Local fire departments: Officials may see increased calls about overheating appliances; consider public advisories reminding residents to unplug recalled units, maintain working smoke alarms and keep flammables away from appliances.
Consumer costs and refunds: Utah buyers who purchased EFMIS121 at Target can register for refunds; landlords and bulk buyers should document purchases to seek refunds for multiple units.
Political/regulatory lens: For conservative leaders in Utah, the recall highlights the need for strong consumer protections that balance business interests with safety and accountability, and may prompt calls for swifter retailer and supplier action.
Where to find more information
- CPSC recall notice (expanded)
- CPSC original recall notice (2025)
- Fox Business coverage
- Refund registration and recall portal
For immediate assistance, contact Curtis International at 888‑727‑0198 (8 a.m.–12 p.m. ET, Monday–Friday) or email recall@curtiscs.com. For official recall documentation and instructions, see the CPSC expanded recall page.
Quote: “Stop using the minifridge immediately, unplug it, cut the power cord and mark the door ‘Recall’ — then register for a refund,” advises the CPSC and Curtis International.
