Latest news with #Frigidaire
Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- Yahoo
‘Game changing' air conditioner recalled due to mold growth — here's what to do if you own one of these units
A highly rated window air conditioner has been voluntarily recalled for mold buildup. Midea AC units have been reported on and raved about by The New York Times for five years. The Wirecutter team — the Times' product recommendation service — describes these window ACs as a game changing product that provides 'quiet, efficient cooling.' However, early this month, approximately 1.7 million units made by Midea and sold under brand names like Midea, Comfort Aire, Danby, Frigidaire, Insignia, Keystone, LBG Products, Mr. Cool, Perfect Aire and Sea Breeze were recalled due to mold growth from pooled water in the air conditioners not draining quickly enough, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. And for those unaware, 'mold exposure poses risks of respiratory issues or other infections to some consumers,' explained the CPSC. Although the recall went into place on June 5, this isn't the first time this issue has been brought up. After hearing from readers complaining about apparent mold on their Midea products, Wirecutter looked into the issue back in 2023. It turned out that in order to prevent any mold growth, owners should keep the AC's fan running to dry it out and make sure it's installed at a slight backward angle to drain excess water. However, despite this helpful advice, mold complaints continued to roll in. There have been 152 reports of mold in these AC units, with 17 of them being respiratory infections, allergic reactions, coughing, sneezing and sore throats from mold exposure, according to the CPSC. This may be a mechanical issue — 'if there's something wrong with the plastic or there's not enough airflow to prevent mold growth,' Jonathan Midgett, PhD, the consumer ombudsman at the CPSC, told Wirecutter. 'Consumers with the recalled air conditioners should immediately contact Midea for a free repair or a full or prorated refund, which will be based on the purchase date or date of manufacture,' the CPSC advised on its site. Air conditioners aside, you could be living in a moldy home without even realizing it. A 42-year-old woman and her two-year-old toddler suffered horrible allergic reactions, complete with painful red rashes and blisters, due to mold growing in an apartment they recently moved into, according to SWNS. Supposedly, mold was growing on the walls of Joanna Hayes' home and at the bottom of her cupboard. And one of the grossest discoveries was mushrooms visible growing on the living room couch. 'I initially treated it myself, but the mold got worse and worse, the colder it got, to the point where the wallpaper was falling off,' she said, according to the outlet. 'We are sorry that Ms Hayes has been experiencing problems with damp and mold in her home. We have been working closely with her to rectify the problem and deal with other repairs she has reported,' a spokesperson said.
Fast Company
3 days ago
- Business
- Fast Company
1.7 million air conditioners recalled just as summer heat hits
Before you install that window AC unit to beat the summer heat, it's worth taking a closer look: Yesterday, the appliance manufacturer Midea, who makes units for a number of brands including Frigidaire and Insignia, recalled more than 1.7 million AC units due to the risk of mold exposure. The news comes as, according to industry experts, AC units are expected to get significantly more expensive this summer due to tariff-based supply chain issues. Here's what you need to know about the recall: What is the reason for the recall? On June 5, Midea issued a voluntary recall for about 1.7 million window AC units sold in the U.S. and another 45,900 sold in Canada, according to a notice from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). According to the notice, the reason for the recall stems from potential mold growth inside the affected units: 'Pooled water in the air conditioners can fail to drain quickly enough, which can lead to mold growth,' it reads. 'Mold exposure poses risks of respiratory issues or other infections to some consumers.' Further, the report notes that Midea is aware of at least 152 reports of mold in the air conditioners so far. Which products are being recalled? The recall involves U and U+ window AC unit models made by Midea. These models were sold under a variety of brand names, including Midea, Comfort Aire, Danby, Frigidaire, Insignia, Keystone, LBG Products, Mr. Cool, Perfect Aire, and Sea Breeze. Affected units were sold in three sizes of cooling power: 8,000, 10,000 and 12,000 BTU. Customers can find a full list of impacted model numbers, organized by brand name, on the CPSC webpage. Where were the recalled units sold? The recalled units were sold at a number of big box stores, as well as a wide variety of online retailers. The physical retailers include: Costco Menards Home Depot Best Buy The affected units were also available online at retailers including: Each unit sold within the span of March 2020 to May 2025 for between $280 and $500. Have the recalled units hurt anyone? Unfortunately, yes. Midea has received 17 reports so far of consumers 'experiencing symptoms such as respiratory infections, allergic reactions, coughing, sneezing and/or sore throats from mold exposure,' per the CPSC. What should I do if I have a recalled unit? If you have a recalled unit, do not use it. Instead, you can contact Midea for a free repair or a full or prorated refund. The company told The New York Times that all Midea U buyers will be eligible for a refund (although the amount will depend on how long you've had your air conditioner) or it will mail a free DIY kit to anyone who would prefer to fix their unit. For those who have attempted to repair the unit at home, Midea will still offer refunds or fixes.
Daily Mail
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
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, and 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.
The Verge
5 days ago
- Business
- The Verge
Midea is recalling its U-shaped air conditioners because of potential mold growth
Midea is recalling around 1.7 million of its U and U Plus window air conditioners sold in the US, plus another 45,900 sold in Canada. The air conditioners launched in 2020 with a unique U-shaped design that allowed windows to close with the unit installed, reducing the amount of noise heard while they were running. But the design can sometimes prevent water from draining quickly enough resulting in mold growth that 'poses risks of respiratory issues or other infections to some consumers,' according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (USCPSC). The USPSC says it's aware of 'at least 152 reports of mold in the air conditioners, including 17 reports of consumers experiencing symptoms such as respiratory infections, allergic reactions, coughing, sneezing and/or sore throats from mold exposure.' The affected units were sold under brand names that also include Danby, Frigidaire, Insignia, and Comfort Aire at stores like Costco, Menards, Home Depot, Best Buy, and Amazon. A full list of the recalled models is available on the USPSC and Midea websites, which includes 8,000, 10,000, and 12,000 BTU options. The company is offering both repairs and refunds of the recalled air conditioners. However, refunds are being prorated based on either the purchase date or the unit's date of manufacture. If you're okay with only getting a partial refund, Midea is asking consumers to send their air conditioners back to the company using a free shipping label to ensure they're no longer in use, or provide a photo showing that the unit's unplugged power cord has been cut. Given the popularity of the air conditioners, it's more likely that consumers will instead opt to contact Midea to arrange a free repair. Depending on the model, the company will either schedule a technician to come and install a new drain plug, or send consumers a DIY repair kit that includes the requisite hardware. Those who choose the repair route are encouraged to visit Midea's website 'for instructions on how to inspect their unit prior to continuing use.'
Global News
02-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Global News
The best coolers you can get in Canada in 2025
The Curator independently decides what topics and products we feature. When you purchase an item through our links, we may earn a commission. Promotions and products are subject to availability and retailer terms. As the temperatures rise and outdoor adventures beckon, it's time to rethink one of summer's essential companions: the cooler. Luckily, 2025 brings a fresh lineup of coolers – perfect for Canadian summers, from city patios to rugged wilderness escapes. We've scoured the market, from trusted outdoor brands to innovative newcomers, to bring you the best coolers that suit every need and budget. Ready to upgrade your chill game? Here's our curated guide to the coolest coolers available across Canada this year. Ninja FrostVault 30qt Wheeled Cooler Ready for the perfect family picnic? With all-terrain wheels, premium ice retention, and it's spacious design, this cooler makes packing smarter and grabbing your favourite snacks super easy. $399.99 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement YETI Tundra 45 Cooler The YETI Tundra 45 can keep up with all your day trips and outdoor plans. With its tough-as-nails build, and those iconic T-Rex Lid Latches, this cooler isn't just durable – it's seriously cool, literally and style-wise. $425 on Amazon Cooler Backpack with Padded Top Handle As sleek and sturdy as your favourite adventure gear, this cooler backpack is ready to be slung over your shoulders and taken absolutely anywhere. Generously padded and effortlessly portable, it's built for cold drinks, warm days, and long walks to the perfect picnic spot. $54.99 on Amazon YETI Hopper Flip 12 Portable Cooler Compact in shape and dressed in a playful baby blue, this YETI cooler has a confident, go-anywhere charm that suits everything from beach days to weekend hikes. With its wide opening and clean, boxy silhouette, it echoes the practicality of vintage lunch coolers – only tougher, colder, and far more stylish. $330 on Amazon Story continues below advertisement You may also like: Falcona Wild Golf Cooler Bag – $34.99 Ice Packs for Coolers – $27.95 Patio Umbrella Light – $17.99 6Pcs Silicone Lids for Cups – $11.99 Frigidaire EFR372-PINK 3.2 Cu Ft Pink Retro Compact Rounded Corner Premium Mini Fridge Styled with a splash of nostalgia, Frigidaire's retro mini fridge looks like it rolled straight out of a 1950s diner—chrome accents, curved edges and all. Don't be fooled by its playful exterior though – it's cleverly kitted out with a freezer, can opener, and just enough room for midnight snacks and ice cream emergencies. $383.84 on Amazon More Recommendations The ultimate Father's Day gift guide for every budget Lifewit Large Lunch Bag Insulated Lunch Box Crafted from durable, water-resistant fabric with insulated lining, this bestselling cooler bag keeps your treats fresh and your style on point. $32.99 on Amazon (was $39.99) Story continues below advertisement Cooler Cruiser Floating Cooler Built to float and tow, this 32-quart cooler keeps up to 25 cans cold for 60 hours, perfect for any water adventure. $299.99 on Amazon Outdoor Cooler Side Table Chill out with this adorable 2-in-1 cooler table that keeps up to 48 cans icy-cold for 12 hours. Perfect for sunny patios, poolside hangs, or balcony brunches. Buy on Amazon You may also like: Kate Spade 890008 with Love Dessert Set – $90.70 Story continues below advertisement Giantex 10 Gallon 4-in-1 Cooler – $145.99 Backyard Discovery Cedar Springs Outdoor Bar – $1,999.00
