Frigidaire minifridge recall expanded to nearly 1 million units after reports of fires tied to faulty parts
Curtis International expanded its recall of Frigidaire-branded minifridges sold at Target, adding about 330,000 EFMIS121 units to a prior action — nearly 964,000 total — after reports that faulty electrical components caused fires and burn hazards.
Key takeaways
- Who: Curtis International (maker of Frigidaire-branded minifridges sold at Target).
- Scope: Expansion adds ~330,000 EFMIS121 units (serials A2001–A2310) to earlier recalls, bringing the total to about 964,000 units due to fire and burn hazards.
- Immediate action: Stop using affected units, unplug, cut the power cord, mark the door “Recall” and register for a refund at the recall website.
- Where sold: Exclusively at Target stores and Target.com in the U.S. from January 2020–October 2023 for about $30.
What happened and why investigators say the units are dangerous
Federal safety officials with the CPSC recall state the recalled Frigidaire minifridges contain internal electrical parts that can short-circuit. That short may spark and ignite the unit’s plastic housing, creating flames, heavy smoke and burn injury risks.
Reported incidents: Combined reports across models include at least 32 incidents of overheating, melting or fire, six new fire reports tied to EFMIS121, two injuries from smoke inhalation and over $700,000 in property damage.
Which models were recalled and where they were sold
The expanded recall adds the EFMIS121 (6-can minifridge, serial numbers A2001 to A2310) — these units are red with “Frigidaire” on the front and model/serial details on a back label. Earlier models recalled in July 2024 include EFMIS129, EFMIS137, EFMIS149 and EFMIS175.
All affected units were sold exclusively at Target stores and via Target.com in the U.S. between January 2020 and October 2023 for about $30. Federal law bans the sale of recalled products; report any listings to the CPSC.
What consumers should do now
- Immediately stop using the minifridge.
- Unplug the unit and cut the power cord.
- Mark the front door “Recall” with a permanent marker so others do not use it.
- Register for a refund at the recall website or call Curtis International’s hotline at 888‑727‑0198 (8 a.m.–midnight ET, Mon–Fri) or email recall@curtiscs.com.
- Dispose safely: Follow local electronic-waste rules; the CPSC recall page includes guidance for safe disposal and reporting additional incidents.
Timeline of recall and reported incidents
January 2020–October 2023: Target sold the Frigidaire minifridges. July 2024: Curtis International recalled about 634,000 units (EFMIS129/137/149/175) after reports of overheating, melting and fires. January 2026: Recall expanded by ~330,000 EFMIS121 units after at least six new fire reports, bringing the total to ~964,000 units.
Implications for Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles has many apartments, shared living situations and student housing where minifridges are common. A small-appliance fire can spread quickly in crowded or multiunit buildings, producing heavy smoke and posing risks of smoke inhalation to neighbors.
Property managers and landlords should notify tenants if affected units are present and arrange safe removal. Residents should keep a clear area around appliances, ensure working smoke alarms, and evacuate and call 911 if they detect smoke or burning plastic from a minifridge.
For disposal assistance and local e-waste rules, contact your city sanitation office or consult the Los Angeles Sanitation and Environment website for drop-off locations and guidance.
Retail, resale vigilance and reporting
Federal law prohibits selling recalled items. Be cautious when buying used minifridges from thrift stores, online marketplaces or local classifieds. If you find an affected unit for sale, report it to the CPSC and the platform where it’s listed. To report incidents, use SaferProducts.gov.
How to get help and more information
- CPSC recall page: CPSC recall page
- Refund/registration site: recall registration site
- Curtis International recall hotline: 888‑727‑0198 (8 a.m.–12 a.m. ET, Mon–Fri); email: recall@curtiscs.com
- Report incidents: File reports on SaferProducts.gov or contact the CPSC.
Sources and reporting
This report is based on the CPSC recall notice and coverage by national outlets and consumer news sites including Fox Business, Fox13 Seattle, Parade and related summaries.
Investigative notes
Compiled from the CPSC recall and public reporting. Readers in Los Angeles with questions about local disposal or safety steps can contact city sanitation or their local fire station.
