Frigidaire Mini‑Fridge Recall Expanded to 964,000 Units After New Reports of Fires — Target EFMIS121 Recall Adds 330,000 Units
Curtis International and the CPSC recall notice expands a Frigidaire mini‑fridge recall to about 964,000 units after new fire reports, adding roughly 330,000 Target‑sold EFMIS121 models; owners should stop use and seek refunds immediately and follow CPSC guidance.
- Scope: Recall now totals ~964,000 Frigidaire mini‑fridges after adding model EFMIS121 (Target‑exclusive).
- Hazard: Internal electrical parts can short‑circuit and ignite the plastic housing, posing fire and burn risks.
- Action: Owners should immediately stop using affected units, unplug and register for a refund at the designated portal.
Main details
What models are affected
The expansion adds the newly included model EFMIS121 (serial numbers A2001–A2310). These units are red with “Frigidaire” on the front and display model and serial numbers on the back label. They were sold January 2020–October 2023 at Target stores and Target.com for about $30. See the CPSC recall notice for details.
Previously recalled models include EFMIS129, EFMIS137, EFMIS149 and EFMIS175, which were sold at retailers including Walmart and Amazon in red, black and blue.
Reports and damage
The CPSC recall notice lists at least six new fire incidents tied to EFMIS121 that caused property damage; no injuries were specified in those new reports. In the earlier recall covering other models, investigators logged 26 incidents of overheating, melting or fire, including two smoke inhalation injuries and more than $700,000 in property damage.
What consumers should do now
The CPSC and Curtis International urge owners of affected mini‑fridges to take these steps:
- Immediately stop using the product.
- Unplug the unit, cut the power cord, and clearly mark the front door “Recall” with a permanent marker to prevent further use.
- Register for a refund at the refund and return portal.
- Dispose of units in line with local and state appliance disposal rules.
- Contact Curtis International’s recall line at 888‑727‑0198 (toll‑free; 8 a.m.–12 a.m. ET, Mon–Fri) or email recall@curtiscs.com for refund information.
Background and investigation
Curtis International initially recalled about 634,000 Frigidaire mini‑fridges in July 2024 after reports of overheating, melting and fires in multiple models. Investigators determined the root issue involves electrical components that can short‑circuit and ignite the plastic housing. The January 2026 expansion adds roughly 330,000 EFMIS121 units sold exclusively through Target.
Investigators say the fault can develop during normal use. A failure in compact compressors or small power assemblies can create sparks near plastic parts; the plastic can ignite, producing a rapid fire hazard and smoke that endangers people and property.
Retailer and legal context
Target was the exclusive seller of the newly recalled EFMIS121 model. Federal rules require retailers to stop selling recalled products. The recall expansion highlights challenges in tracking recalled inventory across retailers and the need for swift action when new risk data emerges. The CPSC recall notice outlines the agency’s enforcement role; failures to comply with federal recall laws can result in fines or other penalties.
Consumer advocates stress that registration and prompt incident reporting are critical. Retailers must identify and remove remaining units from store shelves and online listings; secondary markets should verify make, model and serial numbers against the recall list before reselling.
Why the recall expanded now
The expansion follows new fire reports tied to the EFMIS121 model. The CPSC references at least six fire incidents for EFMIS121, prompting Curtis International to add the model and offer refunds. Company and regulator notices did not identify a single manufacturing batch or supplier part as the lone cause, attributing the hazard to components that can short‑circuit and ignite the housing.
Implications for United States
Economic: Nearly one million recalled units means significant refunds, logistics and disposal costs for Curtis International and retailers; the outlay may affect pricing and supply of low‑cost refrigeration items.
Public safety: Fire departments and insurers may see more claims tied to small appliance fires. Homeowners and renters should check for affected units to avoid damage or liability.
Regulatory and political: Expanded recalls fuel discussion about product safety enforcement, import oversight and retailer responsibility. The CPSC’s actions and corporate responses could prompt calls for clearer labeling, stronger supplier vetting, or faster recall notifications.
Reporting and sources
This report draws on official notices and media coverage. Key sources:
- CPSC recall notice
- Fox13 Seattle coverage
- Fox Business reporting
- Parade coverage
- Official refund and return portal
- Consumer reporting portal (SaferProducts.gov)
How to get more information or report a problem
- Visit the CPSC recall notice for full details.
- Register for refunds at the refund and return portal.
- Report issues at SaferProducts.gov.
- Contact Curtis International recall line: 888‑727‑0198 (8 a.m.–12 a.m. ET, Mon–Fri) or email recall@curtiscs.com.
Key advice: If you own a Frigidaire mini‑fridge listed in the recall, stop using it now, unplug and register for a refund at the designated portal to avoid fire and burn hazards.
