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USA Today
2 days ago
- Health
- USA Today
1.7 million air conditioners recalled over mold exposure, respiratory issues
1.7 million air conditioners recalled over mold exposure, respiratory issues Show Caption Hide Caption How to maintain your A/C during summertime With the temperatures heating up, FOX 7 Austin checks in with a professional about how to keep your air conditioner up and running this summer. Fox - 7 Austin A home appliance company whose window air conditioners were chosen as the New York Times' best units has recalled 1.7 million of the devices due to possible mold growth leading to sickness. The New York Times (NYT) listed the Midea U Window Air Conditioner as the number one contender on the newspaper's list of six best air conditioners of 2025, while the U+ model won runner-up. The units were recently recalled because pooled water in the air conditioners may not drain quickly enough, leading to mold growth and possible health issues. 'Mold exposure poses risks of respiratory issues or other infections to some consumers,' according to Midea. The recall was issued on June 5, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). About 1.7 million of the devices have been recalled, and about 45,900 were sold in Canada, according to the announcement. There have been at least 152 reports of mold in the air conditioners, including 17 reports of customers suffering from respiratory infections, allergic reactions, coughing, sneezing or sore throats from mold exposure, Midea said. Read more: USA TODAY's recall database Where were the recalled air conditioners sold? The recalled air conditioners were made in China and Thailand and sold under brand names such as Comfort Aire, Danby, Frigidaire, Insignia, Keystone, LBG Products, Mr. Cool, Perfect Aire and Sea Breeze. The units were sold at Costco, Menards, Home Depot, Best Buy and other stores nationwide and online at and other websites between March 2020 and May 2025. The unit prices were listed between $280 and $500. "This U-shaped Midea air conditioner is the quietest model we've ever tested, and it's designed in a way that still allows you to open your window. But the installation process isn't fun," the New York Times wrote about the U model. Regarding the runner-up U+ model, the NYT said the "Plus has improved efficiency and some minor feature upgrades. A redesigned bracket improves the installation process (slightly)." The NYT added an editor's note once the paper got wind of the recall. How to determine if you have a recalled air conditioner? The recalled air conditioners were designed to fit in windows, and they were sold in three sizes of cooling power, including 8,000, 10,000 and 12,000 British Thermal Units (BTU). The air conditioners measure about 22 inches wide and 14 inches high, and the model number can be found on a label on the front right side of the unit, Midea said. The units have remote controls and can also be controlled with a mobile app. Impacted model numbers include: Comfort Aire: RXTS-101A, RXTS-121A, RXTS-81A RXTS-101A, RXTS-121A, RXTS-81A Danby: DAC080B6IWDB-6, DAC080B7IWDB-6, DAC100B6IWDB-6 DAC080B6IWDB-6, DAC080B7IWDB-6, DAC100B6IWDB-6 Frigidaire: GHWQ125WD1, GHWQ105WD1, GHWQ085WD1 GHWQ125WD1, GHWQ105WD1, GHWQ085WD1 Insignia: NS-AC8WU3-C, NS-AC8WU3 NS-AC8WU3-C, NS-AC8WU3 Keystone: KSTAW12UA, KSTAW10UA, KSTAW08UA KSTAW12UA, KSTAW10UA, KSTAW08UA LBG Products: QB-8K CO QB-8K CO Midea: MAW08AV1QWT, MAW08AV1QWT-C, MAW08U1QWT, MAW08V1QWT, MAW08V1QWT-S, MAW08V1QWT-T, MAW08W1QWT, MAW10U1QWT, MAW10V1QWT, MAW10W1QWT, MAW12AV1QWT, MAW12AV1QWT-C, MAW12U1QWT, MAW12V1QWT, MAW12V1QWT-M, MAW12V1QWT-S, MAW12W1QWT MAW08AV1QWT, MAW08AV1QWT-C, MAW08U1QWT, MAW08V1QWT, MAW08V1QWT-S, MAW08V1QWT-T, MAW08W1QWT, MAW10U1QWT, MAW10V1QWT, MAW10W1QWT, MAW12AV1QWT, MAW12AV1QWT-C, MAW12U1QWT, MAW12V1QWT, MAW12V1QWT-M, MAW12V1QWT-S, MAW12W1QWT Mr. Cool: MWUC12T115, MWUC10T115, MWUC08T115 MWUC12T115, MWUC10T115, MWUC08T115 Perfect Aire: 1PACU8000, 1PACU12000, 1PACU10000 1PACU8000, 1PACU12000, 1PACU10000 Sea Breeze: MWAUQB-12CRFN8-BCN10, WAU310YREX, WAU312YREX, WAU38YREX What is Midea doing to fix the issue? Customers with recalled air conditioners must contact Midea, the company said, for a free repair or a full or prorated refund based on the purchase date or the date the product was made. Customers who want a refund will have to send the unit back to Midea using a free shipping label or submit a photograph showing that they cut the unplugged power cord of the unit. Those who want their units repaired must contact Midea so a technician can install a new drain plug or send customers a repair kit that includes a new drain plug and bubble level, depending on the unit model. Customers who continue using the air conditioners while awaiting a repair should visit for instructions on how to inspect their unit prior to continuing use. What should I do if I have one of the recalled units? Consumers have multiple options to contact the company, including: Calling Midea toll-free from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET at (888) 345-0256. Emailing midea4028@ Visiting By visiting and clicking 'RECALL INFORMATION' for more information. Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757. Email her at sdmartin@
NDTV
6 days ago
- Politics
- NDTV
US Teen Who Became Honorary Secret Service Agent, Faces Health Struggles Again
A US teenager, recently sworn in by the Secret Service after inspiring President Donald Trump with his fight against brain cancer, has been recently diagnosed with additional tumours. Devarjaye "DJ" Daniel's father, Theodis, revealed his 13-year-old son has three new tumours. "We're lifting up Agent DJ Daniel in prayer after his dad, Theodis, shared that DJ is now facing three new tumors," the White House said in an X (formerly Twitter) post. "DJ is one of the strongest, bravest young men and has now been sworn into 1,351 law enforcement agencies across the country. Agent Daniel, you're a true legend." Mr Theodis told FOX 7 Austin that his son is 'just winging it day by day' in the face of new health hardships. 'He does have three new tumours. It's rough, there isn't a class that can teach you how to deal with it. You're hearing that your child has a nasty disease," he said. 'We're just going around showing people, 'Hey, you do care for one another. Let's give compassion and let's try to join and help each other get through things.'" We're lifting up Agent DJ Daniel in prayer after his dad, Theodis, shared that DJ is now facing three new tumors. DJ is one of the strongest, bravest young men—and has now been sworn into 1,351 law enforcement agencies across the country. Agent Daniel, you're a true legend. 🇺🇸 — The White House (@WhiteHouse) May 30, 2025 Also Read | Smuggled North Korean Phone Reveals Extreme Censorship, Surveillance: "Screenshot Every 5 Min" The Texas native was first diagnosed with brain and spinal cancer in 2018, with doctors giving him five months to live. However, DJ persevered and after seven years and more than 13 brain surgeries, he is still going strong in the face of adversity. DJ, whose dream is to become a police officer, was in the spotlight when he was sworn in by the president before a joint session of Congress on March 4. "Tonight, DJ, we're going to do you the biggest honor of them all. I am asking our new Secret Service director Sean Curran to officially make you an agent of the United States Secret Service. Thank you, DJ," Mr Trump said at the time. DJ's father lifted him as the House thundered with applause and cheers of "DJ, DJ, DJ". Meanwhile, Mr Curran handed a badge to the teenager. The following day, DJ also visited the president in the Oval Office. Most recently, DJ was sworn in by the Williamson County Sheriff's Office in Texas.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Potential THC ban in Texas: Business owner reacts to passage of SB 3
The Brief Texas lawmakers have passed SB 3, a ban on THC products SB 3 still needs Gov. Abbott's signature to become law Business owners are still hoping Abbott vetoes the bill AUSTIN, Texas - Texas lawmakers passed a ban on THC products which have become widely and legally available in recent years. Business owners are pushing back against the ban, which still needs Gov. Greg Abbott's signature. What they're saying Jake Bullock is the CEO and Co-Founder of Cann. "SB3 is a total ban of our products, of any hemp-derived THC products, and this will decimate the Texas hemp industry," said Bullock. Senate Bill 3 would not only prohibit some hemp sales, but those in possession could also face fines and jail time depending on the amount. "We're CANN, we make a range of microdose, THC, and CBD-infused drinks," said Bullock. "They're social products and they're meant to be similar in sort of strength and potency to half of a glass of wine or a light beer." Bullock said his infused drinks benefit many Texans with sleep issues, inflammation problems, or even people who want a buzz without a hangover. "Some of our customers have been able to give up drinking alcohol entirely, which has a huge transformative positive impact in their life from a wellness standpoint," said Bullock. While he wants to see Abbott veto SB3, he still agrees that THC products need stricter regulations. "They should be regulated, they should be taxed and use those tax dollars to help enforce against the bad actors, against those illicit products, against those highly potent gummy candies that no one thinks should be in the market," said Bullock. Dig deeper The ban does not apply to CBD or CBG products. It will also not have an effect on the Compassionate Use Program. If Abbott signs the bill, it will take effect in September. The Source Information in this report comes from reporting/interviews by FOX 7 Austin's Katie Pratt
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Vigil held for recent high school graduate shot, killed at Uhland house party
The Brief Vigil held at Toyota-Rattler Stadium in San Marcos for Andrew Farias Farias was shot and killed at a house party in Uhland over the weekend He had graduated from San Marcos High School just over 24 hours before the shooting SAN MARCOS, Texas - A vigil was held Tuesday night in San Marcos for a recent high school graduate who was shot and killed at a party over Memorial Day weekend. What we know The family of 18-year-old Andrew Farias said the field at Toyota-Rattler Stadium had a special place in their hearts after four years of games played there. Farias walked across the stage to get his diploma just this past Friday. He played cornerback and runningback for the San Marcos Rattlers. A little more than 24 hours later, Farias was shot and killed while out celebrating at a house party on Rocky Road in Uhland later Saturday night. What they're saying "Coach felt in his heart, our head coach, to give Andrew, give Andrew's mom, the last jersey that he wore on his last game that he played," said Mark Carrillo, the San Marcos High School football team's chaplain. "He had so much in front of him," said Shannon Vasquez, Andrew's mother. "He was ready to start Texas State in August. Everyone loved him, everybody." "I know that it's a difficult time during this time, so we just cover your prayers and keep us in your prayers and thoughts," said Carrillo. "I just want to thank the Uhland Police Department and Texas Ranger Bible for doing everything, from the bottom of my heart, to get justice for my baby," said Vasquez. "This is so hard and something a mother cannot deal with." His family, friends, and loved ones at the vigil said Andrew will be remembered most for his smile and that he always lit up a room. Timeline Reportedly, there was a fight at the party before the Uhland Police Department received reports of a shooting around 1 a.m. The preliminary investigation, police say, indicates that an altercation took place during which a firearm was produced. Farias was shot and was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect, 18-year-old Chad Lee-Gardner, fled before officers arrived. He was later taken into custody in Austin and booked into the Travis County Jail on Memorial Day for murder. The Source Information in this report comes from reporting/interviews by FOX 7 Austin's Katie Pratt and previous reporting by FOX 7 Austin.
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Hundreds of Texas House bills set to die at midnight
The Brief Hundreds of Texas House bills are set to die Tuesday at midnight One bill on the chopping block was SB 646, which was saved by a recount Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, State Rep. Gene Wu spoke on the deadline and session overall AUSTIN, Texas - Texas House members had 21 pages of bills and resolutions to work through before a critical Tuesday midnight deadline. What we know Among the items on the chopping block was Senate Bill 646. The legislation, filed by state Rep. Aicha Davis (D-DeSoto), would create a school loan program for school counselors. During the debate, state Rep. Donna Howard (D-Austin) noted that the bill faced pushback by Republicans. "Representative Davis, I understand that there are some in this body who are just simply opposed to repayment of loans no matter what. It has nothing to do with your bill," said Howard. The loan bill was initially voted down, but a few minutes later was saved by a recount. What they're saying The Tuesday debates brought Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick to the House floor. He spent several minutes talking with Republicans and later spoke to FOX 7 Austin. Patrick indicated his threat of forcing a Special Session may no longer be needed. "This will be the most productive session. Will there always be some bill that didn't make it? Of course. But school choice alone would be a session. The public financing for public education and how we're redoing that and focusing on teachers and students really for the first time. That would be a Session bill. All of these, all of these big issues alone would be a session if you just passed one of them and we're passing all of them," he said. Some political hard ball has also been played in the final days of the session within the ranks of the Texas GOP. When asked about that, Lt. Gov. Patrick downplayed the decision to twist some arms. "You know, there's been less arm twisting this session than ever. Better communication than ever, the relationship between the Speaker's office and the Lieutenant Governor's office is lightyears where it's been the last four years where there was no communication, quite frankly. The relationship between the Senators and the House members, Republican and Democrats, better than it's ever been," said Patrick. What they're saying The Lt Governor did have a few losses in the House this session and a split decision on one of his priority issues. Several bail reform bills did pass, but a bail ban for undocumented immigrants in SB 552, and SJR 87, a bail ban for violent repeat offenders, were both blocked by Democrats. State Rep. Gene Wu (D-Houston), the Chairman of the House Democrat Caucus spoke to FOX 7 Austin about their strategy for hot button issues. "We're fighting hard on some really tough bills. This is when they put the very, very worst things on the calendar. So, Democrats are going to fight like hell to protect Texans," said Wu. In an effort to save time, and to move up non-controversial legislation, Republicans postponed votes on several bills. The items were identified as possible targets for long debates and put into legislative time out. State Rep. Wu made no apologies for forcing that move. "This is the process and eventually what ultimately kills bills here is not us, it's time. And the people who are in charge here, the Republicans who are in charge of this place, have run this place with an iron fist, they had the option of putting big bills that will generate a lot of arguments, a lot of fights or do bills that everyone agrees on. Well, they choose to do the controversial stuff. And we can't, we don't have any control of that," said Wu. What's next Another big deadline comes Wednesday in the Senate. Conference Committee negotiations are still underway on several big priority bills and the Lt. Governor said he expects work will continue Monday. That means no early Sini Die before next Tuesday. The Source Information in this report comes from reporting/interviews by FOX 7 Austin's chief political reporter Rudy Koski.
