Recall Doubles: 330,000 More Fridge Fires

At a Glance

• Curtis International adds 330,000 Frigidaire minifridges to an earlier recall
• The six-can models were sold only at Target for about $30 each
• Six new fire reports bring the total property-damage tally to at least six incidents
• Why it matters: Owners must unplug, mark, and photograph units to secure refunds and prevent fires

Curtis International is expanding a recall of Frigidaire-branded minifridges after six additional reports of units catching fire and damaging property. The Canada-based distributor is adding 330,000 six-can models to the 634,000 units recalled last year, according to a notice released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Newly Recalled Model

The expansion covers model EFMIS121.

• Sold exclusively at Target stores and Target.com
• Price: about $30
• Manufactured January 2020 through December 2023

The refrigerators contain electrical components that can short-circuit and ignite the plastic housing, creating fire and burn hazards, the commission said.

Earlier Recall Details

Last year Curtis recalled four other models:

Those models were linked to 26 incidents of overheating, melting, or catching fire, plus two smoke-inhalation injuries, according to the CPSC.

Required Owner Action

Owners of both the original and expanded recalls must:

• Stop using the minifridge immediately
• Cut the power cord
• Write “recall” in permanent marker on the front door
• Take photos of the disabled unit
• Upload the photos through Curtis International’s recall website to request a refund

Corporate Structure

Curtis International holds licenses to produce and distribute select Frigidaire appliances. The larger Frigidaire brand is owned by Sweden’s Electrolux Group.

Key Takeaways

• Total recalled units now top 964,000
• All recalled models pose the same short-circuit and ignition risk
• Target shoppers who bought the six-can version should check model EFMIS121 on the back
• Refunds require proof the unit has been permanently disabled