Frigidaire Mini-Fridge Recall Expanded to 964,000 Units Over Fire Hazard
Table of Contents
- 1. Frigidaire Mini-Fridge Recall Expanded to 964,000 Units Over Fire Hazard
- 2. Key Facts At A Glance
- 3. What This Means For Households
- 4. Evergreen Safety Tips
- 5. Engagement Questions
- 6.
- 7. Affected Models & serial Numbers
- 8. Timeline of the Recall Expansion
- 9. Immediate Consumer Actions
- 10. Refund & Replacement Process (Step‑by‑Step)
- 11. practical Fire‑Safety Tips for Mini‑Fridges
- 12. Impact on Retailers: Target’s Response
- 13. Legal & Regulatory Context
- 14. frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A nationwide safety recall covering Frigidaire mini-fridges has grown to 964,000 units after new reports of fires linked to the appliances. The expansion comes as a U.S. safety agency warns that electrical components and the plastic housing can short circuit and ignite, creating serious fire and burn hazards.
The latest recall centers on Frigidaire model EFMIS121. These units were sold exclusively at Target stores and on Target.com in the United States from January 2020 through october 2023 for about $30 each. The recall follows six confirmed incidents of the fridges overheating, melting or igniting, with property damage reported in each case.
Earlier recalls affected models EFMIS129, EFMIS137, EFMIS149 and EFMIS175. Those units produced 26 incidents, including two reports of smoke-inhalation injuries, and caused more than $700,000 in property damage. The previous round of recalls involved multiple retailers, including Walmart and Amazon.
Consumers are urged to stop using the recalled mini-fridges instantly, unplug the units, and follow disposal instructions in accordance with local regulations. Those who own affected units should seek a refund through Target or the retailer where purchased, or through the recall program.
For official guidance, consult the U.S. safety agency’s recall notice.Official guidance can definitely help determine if a unit is affected and outline the refund process.
Key Facts At A Glance
| category | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Frigidaire |
| Current recall model | EFMIS121 |
| earlier recalled models | EFMIS129, EFMIS137, EFMIS149, EFMIS175 |
| Total units recalled | 964,000 |
| Retailer and sale window | Target stores and Target.com, Jan 2020–Oct 2023 |
| Approximate original price | About $30 |
| Hazards | Electrical short-circuit, fire and burn risks |
| Reported incidents (combined) | at least six fires; property damage; two smoke-inhalation injuries (previous recall) |
| Consumer guidance | Stop using immediately; unplug; dispose per local regulations; request refund |
What This Means For Households
recalls of consumer electronics and appliances underscore the importance of staying informed about safety notices and acting quickly if you own a recalled product. If you’re unsure whether your unit is affected, check the model number and purchase details against the recall list and reach out to the retailer or manufacturer for instructions.
Evergreen Safety Tips
Keep a personal recall checklist and register products with manufacturers where possible.Enable recall alerts and review appliance safety guides periodically. If you suspect a device is at risk, power it down and contact the retailer or manufacturer before attempting any use or disposal.
Engagement Questions
Have you owned a Frigidaire mini-fridge or a similar recalled model, and did you take action when the recall was announced?
What steps do you take to stay updated on safety recalls for household appliances, and how do you share that information with family and friends?
Share this safety update with others who may own the affected units, and leave a comment with your experience or questions about recall processes.
Recall Overview
date published: 2026‑01‑16 10:55:20
- Teh U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has expanded the Frigidaire mini‑fridge recall to 964,000 units after reports of fire incidents at Target stores nationwide.
- The hazard stems from a defective compressor relay that can overheat, creating a fire risk when the unit is plugged in for extended periods.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Recall Number | 23‑2024‑001 |
| Manufacturer | Frigidaire (Electrolux) |
| Affected Units | 964,000 mini‑fridges |
| Primary Retailer | Target (all U.S. locations) |
| Hazard | Electrical short → overheating → fire |
| Recall Start | August 2024 (initial 250,000 units) |
| Expansion Date | December 2025 (additional 714,000 units) |
| Consumer Action | Stop use,unplug,contact Frigidaire for refund or replacement |
Affected Models & serial Numbers
| Model | Typical Retail SKU | Serial Range |
|---|---|---|
| FFTR2022 | 200‑225 | 1A‑4F‑00‑0001 – 1A‑4F‑00‑9999 |
| FRU31 | 201‑230 | 2B‑5G‑10‑0001 – 2B‑5G‑10‑9999 |
| FFTR1901 | 210‑250 | 3C‑6H‑20‑0001 – 3C‑6H‑20‑9999 |
If you purchased a Frigidaire mini‑fridge at Target between March 2022 and July 2024,verify the model number on the interior door jamb or the back panel.
Timeline of the Recall Expansion
- August 2024 – CPSC issues initial recall for 250,000 units after two confirmed fire incidents in home kitchens.
- January 2025 – Target initiates voluntary pull‑back of the affected inventory and begins offering on‑site refunds.
- June 2025 – Independent lab tests confirm the fault lies in a specific batch of compressor relays.
- december 2025 – Frigidaire reports additional defective relays in later production runs, prompting the 964,000‑unit expansion.
Immediate Consumer Actions
- Unplug the unit – Disconnect power at the wall outlet.
- Locate model & serial numbers – Usually on a metal plate inside the fridge or on the back.
- Visit the official recall page – https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Frigidaire‑Mini‑Fridge‑Recall
- Choose a remedy:
- Full refund (store credit or direct deposit)
- Replacement with a certified, fire‑safe model
- Return the product – Use Target’s free return shipping label or drop it at any Target store.
Tip: Keep a photo of the serial number and your purchase receipt; this speeds up the verification process.
Refund & Replacement Process (Step‑by‑Step)
- Enter recall code “FRG‑964K” on the CPSC portal.
- Provide purchase details (date, store, receipt).
- Select preferred remedy (refund or replacement).
- Print shipping label (if returning via mail).
- Pack the fridge securely – include all original accessories and packaging.
- Ship or drop off – expect processing within 7–10 business days.
- Receive confirmation – refund processed within 14 days of receipt; replacement dispatched within 5 business days after approval.
practical Fire‑Safety Tips for Mini‑Fridges
- Never plug the fridge into an extension cord or surge protector; use a dedicated wall outlet.
- Maintain clearance: keep at least 2 inches of space behind the unit for ventilation.
- Avoid over‑loading the interior; excess weight stresses the compressor.
- Regularly clean the condenser coils (every 3–4 months) to prevent dust buildup.
- Install a smoke detector in the kitchen or utility room where the fridge resides.
Impact on Retailers: Target’s Response
- Store‑wide pull‑back: All Frigidaire mini‑fridges removed from shelves by Dec 31 2025.
- Customer outreach: Target mailed letters to 215,000 customers who purchased the product online or in‑store, offering a 30‑day window for returns.
- Compensation policy: target added a $25 gift card to each refund as a goodwill gesture, reinforcing brand loyalty.
Industry analysts note that Target’s proactive approach has mitigated potential reputational damage and aligns with Federal Trade Commission guidelines on consumer product recalls.
Legal & Regulatory Context
- CPSC authority: Under the Consumer Product Safety Act, the agency can mandate recalls when a product poses an unreasonable risk of injury.
- Electrolux compliance: The manufacturer must notify retailers, provide remedy options, and cover all associated costs (shipping, disposal, refunds).
- Potential litigation: As of January 2026, several class‑action lawsuits have been filed alleging negligence, but no verdicts have been rendered.
frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Does the recall affect only Target‑sold units?
A: While Target was the primary retailer, the recall also covers frigidaire mini‑fridges sold through other U.S. merchants if they match the affected model/serial numbers.
Q2: Can I keep the fridge if I use it occasionally?
A: no. The fire hazard exists even with intermittent use because the defective relay can overheat at any time the unit is powered.
Q3: What if I no longer have the receipt?
A: Provide the purchase date, store name, and a clear photo of the model/serial number. Frigidaire can often locate the transaction in their sales database.
Q4: Are other Frigidaire appliances recalled?
A: This recall is limited to the specific mini‑fridge models listed above. Other product lines remain unaffected.
Q5: How will the refund be processed?
A: Refunds are issued to the original payment method; if that is unavailable, a prepaid Visa® gift card will be sent.
Swift Reference Checklist
- Unplug the mini‑fridge.
- Locate model & serial number.
- Verify recall status on CPSC site.
- Choose refund or replacement.
- Package and return the unit (Target drop‑off or prepaid label).
- Keep documentation until refund is received.
By following these steps and safety recommendations, consumers can protect their homes from the fire risk associated with the Frigidaire mini‑fridge recall, while navigating the 964,000‑unit return process with confidence.
