A concerning recall has just been expanded, affecting approximately 964,000 minifridges under the Frigidaire brand, following alarming reports of fires. This situation raises significant safety concerns for consumers.
As reported by The Associated Press on January 15, 2026, an appliance distributor is broadening a previous recall issued last year, which initially involved about 634,000 units. The company, Curtis International based in Canada, announced on Thursday that it is now recalling an additional 330,000 units of a different model due to safety hazards linked to electrical components. These components can short circuit, igniting the plastic parts of the minifridges and posing risks of fire and burns to users.
The latest models affected by this recall are labeled EFMIS121 and were sold exclusively at Target stores. Disturbingly, there have been six reported incidents of fires associated with these fridges, which resulted in property damage.
In response to this critical issue, The Associated Press has sought further information from both Target and Curtis International regarding the recall.
The initial batch of 634,000 recalled minifridges included models EFMIS129, EFMIS137, EFMIS149, and EFMIS175. At the time of the first recall, there were 26 reported cases of the products overheating, melting, or catching fire, alongside two injuries due to smoke inhalation.
For those who own these potentially dangerous minifridges, immediate action is required: users are strongly advised to cease using the appliances right away and visit Curtis International's official website for instructions on how to obtain a refund. To qualify for the refund, owners must cut the power cord of their fridge, write "recall" in permanent ink on the front door, and submit photographic evidence to the company.
Curtis International has indicated that the recalled fridges were manufactured between January 2020 and December 2023. The specific EFMIS121 model was priced around $30 and available for purchase both in-store and online through Target. Meanwhile, the previously recalled Frigidaire products were sold at various retailers, such as Walmart and Amazon, with prices ranging from $36 to $40, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
It is worth noting that Curtis International holds licenses for manufacturing and distributing a variety of consumer electronics and appliances, including some Frigidaire products. However, the Frigidaire brand itself is owned by Electrolux Group, a prominent Swedish company.
As consumers, it’s crucial to stay informed about product recalls like this one. Do you think enough is being done to ensure appliance safety? Share your thoughts in the comments!
