Frigidaire Minifridge Recall Expansion: Nearly 964,000 Units Recalled After Reports of Fires and Burn Hazards
Curtis International expanded a recall to about 964,000 Frigidaire minifridges after reports of units catching fire and creating burn hazards; owners of affected models, including red EFMIS121 units sold at Target, should stop using them immediately and register for refunds.
Key takeaways
- Recall size: Expanded to about 964,000 Frigidaire-branded minifridges per the CPSC recall page.
- New addition: ~330,000 red EFMIS121 units (serials A2001 to A2310) sold exclusively at Target from Jan 2020–Oct 2023 are included in the January 2026 expansion (Fox Business coverage).
- Hazard: Internal electrical components can short and ignite the plastic housing, causing fires and burn injuries; prior reports included injuries and >$700,000 in property damage (Fox13 Seattle report).
- What to do: Stop using, unplug, cut the cord, mark the door “Recall,” and register for a full refund at the recall website.
What happened and who is affected
Curtis International Ltd., a Canada-based importer and distributor, initially recalled 634,000 Frigidaire-branded minifridges in July 2024 (models EFMIS129, EFMIS137, EFMIS149, EFMIS175) after reports of overheating, melting and fires for units sold at Walmart and Amazon. In January 2026 the recall was expanded by roughly 330,000 additional units — red EFMIS121 minifridges with serial numbers A2001 through A2310 — sold exclusively at Target stores and Target.com from January 2020 through October 2023. These low-cost units (~$30) were commonly used in dorms, offices, RVs and bedrooms.
Why the minifridges pose a risk
The CPSC explains the hazard: affected minifridges have internal electrical components that can short circuit. When a short occurs, the surrounding plastic housing can ignite, creating both a fire and a burn hazard. For the EFMIS121 expansion, Curtis received at least six reports of units catching fire. Earlier models included 26 reports of overheating, melting or catching fire; two consumers reported smoke-inhalation injuries and property damage exceeded $700,000.
What Curtis International and retailers say
The recall notice on the CPSC recall page instructs consumers to stop using recalled minifridges, unplug them, cut the power cord, mark the door “Recall,” and register online for a full refund. Curtis International is administering refunds via the recall website and a recall hotline; the company has not issued an additional public statement beyond the recall notice.
“Stop using the recalled minifridge immediately. Unplug the unit, cut the power cord, mark the unit ‘Recall,’ and register online for a refund.” — CPSC/Curtis recall instructions
How to identify a recalled minifridge
- Check the model and serial number. EFMIS121 units with serial numbers A2001 to A2310 (red units sold at Target) are included in the January 2026 expansion.
- Earlier recalled models: EFMIS129, EFMIS137, EFMIS149, EFMIS175 (part of July 2024 recall for units sold at Walmart and Amazon).
- If unsure, visit the recall website or the CPSC recall page for photos and details, or call Curtis International for assistance.
Consumer steps: safety first
Follow the CPSC and Curtis instructions immediately:
- Stop using the recalled minifridge immediately.
- Unplug the unit and cut the power cord to prevent it from being reconnected.
- Mark the unit “Recall” on the front with a permanent marker so it is not used accidentally.
- Dispose of the unit per local electronic-waste rules; do not repair or modify the appliance yourself.
- Register for a full refund at the recall website.
For more information
Curtis International Ltd. recall hotline: 888-727-0198 (8 a.m. to 12 a.m. ET, Monday–Friday); email: recall@curtiscs.com; online registration at the recall website. Full recall details and photos are on the CPSC recall page. Additional reporting: Fox Business and Fox13 Seattle.
Implications for Utah
Economic impact: Many Utah households use low-cost minifridges in dorms, apartments, cabins and RVs. A large recall may increase returns and disposal needs at local waste facilities. Utah consumers who bought red EFMIS121 units at Target should register for refunds to recoup about $30 where possible.
Political and regulatory consequences: The recall highlights questions about import standards, retailer accountability and product oversight. Federal law bans reselling recalled products; local officials and lawmakers in Utah may review disposal rules and retailer compliance with recall notices.
Public safety: Fire departments urge residents to remove obvious fire hazards. Shared living spaces such as dorms and apartments should check for affected units in bedrooms, storage areas and basements and follow CPSC disposal guidance rather than reselling or donating recalled models.
Legal note
Federal law prohibits selling products subject to a CPSC-ordered recall. Utah retailers and online sellers must comply. Consumers who see recalled models offered for sale should report listings to the CPSC recall page and to local law enforcement if appropriate.
Where to get help / Next steps
Do not use recalled units. Unplug and disable them, mark them “Recall”, and register for a refund at the recall website. If a recalled minifridge causes a fire or injury, contact emergency services and report the incident to the CPSC.
