Urgent nationwide recall of 1.7m popular home appliances as 17 people are poisoned
A wildly popular home appliance used in millions of American households has been urgently recalled after it was found to be exposing people to dangerous mold growth.
Officials say at least 152 customers have reported mold contamination in the units, with 17 of them falling ill. An investigation is underway to determine the source and full scope of the outbreak.
Midea, a major appliance manufacturer, pulled approximately 1.7 million U and U+ window air conditioners from the US market on June 5, following reports of mold contamination.
The brand names included in the recall are: Midea, Comfort Aire, Danby, Frigidaire, Insignia, Keystone, LBG Products, Mr Cool, Perfect Aire, and Sea Breeze.
These names appear on the front of the units, while the model number can be found on a label located on the front right side when facing the appliance.
The products were sold through major retailers both in physical stores and online, including Costco, Best Buy, Home Depot, Menards, Amazon.com, Midea.com, Lowes.com, and Walmart.com from March 2020 to May 2025 for $280 to $500.
Each unit is white and measures approximately 22 inches wide by 14 inches high. According to the CPSC, they were sold under 13 different brand names.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a warning that the affected units have drainage issues, which can cause water to pool inside the machines, creating the perfect conditions for mold growth.
Pictured are the recalled air conditioners and model numbers
'Pooled water in the air conditioners can fail to drain quickly enough, which can lead to mold growth,' the CPSC said in a statement.
Exposure to mold can result in respiratory infections, allergic reactions, and other health issues, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions.
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in moist environments and can release harmful allergens or toxins into the air.
Affected customers are eligible for either a free repair or a refund, depending on the model and date of purchase.
'Consumers who want a refund will be asked to return the unit using a free shipping label, or they may submit a photograph showing that they've cut the unplugged power cord to qualify for the refund,' the CPSC explained.
Federal officials are urging consumers to stop using the recalled units immediately, particularly if anyone in the household is experiencing symptoms consistent with mold exposure.
The recalled units come in three sizes, capable of cooling rooms at 8,000, 10,000, or 12,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs). They were manufactured in China and Thailand by GD Midea Air-Conditioning Co, Ltd.
Each unit was sold with a remote control and can also be operated via a mobile app.
The specific issue lies in the internal drainage system. If the reservoir does not empty quickly enough, stagnant water can accumulate, leading to mold growth inside the appliance.
As the mold builds up, the unit may begin dispersing spores into the air, posing a health hazard for anyone nearby.
Mold exposure poses a heightened risk for individuals with chronic respiratory issues such as asthma, lung disease, or weakened immune systems.
According to the CDC, common symptoms of mold exposure include a stuffy nose, wheezing, fatigue, and red or itchy eyes or skin. Severe cases may result in fever or difficulty breathing.
'People with asthma or who are allergic to mold may have severe reactions,' the CDC states. 'Immunocompromised people and people with chronic lung disease may get infections in their lungs from mold.'
Consumers who choose to continue using their air conditioner while waiting for a repair should follow the safety inspection instructions provided on Midea's recall page.
To begin the refund or repair process, visit the Midea recall website or call 888-345-0251 between 8 am and 5 pm ET, Monday through Friday.
The official recall number issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission is 25-320.
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