Curtis International Expands Recall of Frigidaire Minifridges to Nearly 964,000 Units Over Fire, Burn Hazards
Curtis International expanded a recall to about 964,000 Frigidaire minifridges, adding roughly 330,000 EFMIS121 units sold at Target; owners are urged to stop using them, unplug immediately and register for a full refund due to fire and burn risks.
Key takeaways
- Scope: The recall now covers roughly 964,000 Frigidaire minifridges after an early‑2026 expansion added the EFMIS121 model.
- Affected model: EFMIS121 (serial numbers A2001 to A2310) — sold exclusively at Target from Jan. 2020 to Oct. 2023 (~$30).
- Hazard & action: Internal electrical parts can short and ignite plastic; owners must unplug, disable and register for a refund at the recall portal.
- Resources: Official recall details are available from the CPSC recall notice and the Curtis International recall page.
Details of the recall
Curtis International, a Canada‑based importer, first recalled several Frigidaire minifridge models in July 2024 after reports of overheating, smoking and fires. In early 2026 the company expanded the recall to include the EFMIS121 model — an estimated 6‑can unit — bringing the total recalled to about 964,000 units.
Owners are directed to check the model and serial label on the back of the appliance. For official guidance see the CPSC recall notice and the manufacturer’s Curtis International recall page.
Models and serial ranges
Newly added: EFMIS121 — serial numbers A2001 to A2310. Previously recalled models included: EFMIS129 (A2001–A2308, excluding -B or -C suffixes), EFMIS137 (A2001–A2312), EFMIS149 (A2001–A2308) and EFMIS175 (A2001–A2310).
Where the units were sold
The EFMIS121 units were sold exclusively at Target stores and Target.com from January 2020 through October 2023 for about $30. Earlier recalled models were sold at multiple retailers, including Walmart and Amazon. For retailer statements and compliance, consult the CPSC recall notice.
Incidents and the fire risk
The expansion followed at least six reports involving EFMIS121 units catching fire and causing property damage; no injuries were reported in those new incidents. In the earlier recall authorities reported 26 incidents of smoking, sparking, burning, melting, overheating or catching fire, including two reports of smoke inhalation injuries and over $700,000 in property damage.
“Investigators say the problem stems from internal electrical parts that can short‑circuit and ignite the plastic housing, creating a serious minifridge fire hazard.”
Federal law bans the sale of recalled products; any remaining stock should be removed from resale immediately.
What Curtis and retailers say
Curtis International issued the recall notice and maintains a dedicated recall portal on its website. Target has been identified as the exclusive seller of the EFMIS121 model and is cooperating with the recall. Consumers who find these units for sale should contact the seller or the CPSC recall notice.
Consumer steps: What owners should do now
- Stop using the minifridge immediately. Unplug it from the outlet.
- Disable the unit: Cut the power cord and mark the front door “Recall” with a permanent marker to prevent accidental use.
- Register for a refund: Register for a full refund at the recall portal.
- Dispose safely: Follow local and state regulations for appliance disposal; contact local waste authorities for guidance.
- Contact Curtis with questions: 888‑727‑0198 (8 a.m.–12 a.m. ET, Mon–Fri) or email recall@curtiscs.com. See the Curtis International recall page for details.
Investigative questions and accountability
The expanded recall raises important questions: Why did the same electrical defect appear across multiple production runs and models, and how did units with a known risk continue to reach store shelves into late 2023? Regulators and consumer protection agencies may pursue enforcement if recalled units are still offered for sale.
Local and state authorities — including attorneys general and consumer protection offices — can escalate enforcement if recalled units reappear for sale. The recall underscores the need for stronger oversight of imported consumer goods and clearer post‑sale manufacturer and retailer communication.
Where to find full recall details and verify your unit
- CPSC recall page
- Earlier CPSC recall page (July 2024/2025 release)
- Curtis International recall information
- Recall registration portal
- Fox Business coverage and Fox 26 Houston for news context.
Implications for Hesperia, California
Hesperia residents who purchased inexpensive red Frigidaire minifridges at Target should check their units immediately. A household appliance fire can spread rapidly in single‑family homes or apartments common in the area. Local families should follow recall steps—unplug, disable and register—to reduce fire and burn hazards.
Local responders: San Bernardino County and City of Hesperia fire officials may receive calls or requests related to recalled units; the recall highlights the value of public safety outreach, functioning smoke alarms and family escape plans.
Retail compliance: Target stores in and around Hesperia must ensure any remaining EFMIS121 stock is removed. If residents find recalled units for sale, they should report it to the CPSC and Target management.
For disposal assistance, contact San Bernardino County waste services or local solid waste providers for proper appliance removal and recycling guidance.
Resources and contacts
- Curtis International recall page; email: recall@curtiscs.com; phone: 888‑727‑0198 (8 a.m.–12 a.m. ET, Mon–Fri).
- CPSC recall information and safety guidance.
- Register for a refund and check eligibility.
Reporting
Reporting by Times Media Service staff confirmed the expanded Frigidaire minifridge recall and compiled data from official CPSC notices and company recall statements. For Hesperia residents, prompt action — unplugging, disabling and registering the unit — will reduce the risk of a minifridge fire hazard at home.
