Midea recalling 1.7 million of its popular air conditioners due to mold concern

⚠️ Recall Alert: Midea Recalls 1.7 Million Window AC Units Due to Mold Risk

As summer temperatures begin to soar, Midea has issued an important voluntary recall affecting approximately 1.7 million of its U and U+ Smart window air conditioners in the U.S. due to a mold hazard. If you’ve purchased a Midea or Midea-manufactured unit in recent years, it’s time to check your model.

🌬️ What’s the Issue?

These air conditioners have a unique U-shaped design that lets you close the window through the unit for a better seal and quieter operation. While this design has been a hit with consumers, it has also created an unintended moisture issue. Water can pool inside the unit and may not drain quickly enough, especially in humid conditions. When standing water is left untreated, mold growth becomes a serious concern.

🧫 Mold Risk and Reported Health Issues

So far, 152 cases of mold growth inside these AC units have been reported. Even more concerning, at least 17 consumers have experienced health effects such as:

• Respiratory infections

• Allergy-like symptoms

• Coughing or sneezing

• Sore throat and sinus irritation

Mold exposure can be especially harmful to individuals with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems.

🔍 Affected Brands and Models

The recalled units were sold between March 2020 and May 2025 and include cooling sizes of 8,000, 10,000, and 12,000 BTUs. They were widely available at retailers like Costco, Menards, Home Depot, Best Buy, and online through Amazon, Costco, Midea, and others.

Even if your unit doesn’t say “Midea,” it could still be part of the recall. The affected units were also sold under the following brand names:

• Midea

• Comfort Aire

• Danby

• Frigidaire

• Insignia

• Keystone

• LBG Products

• Mr. Cool

• Perfect Aire

• Sea Breeze

Over 45,000 additional units were sold in Canada.

💡 What Should You Do?

If you own one of these air conditioners, stop using it if you see or smell mold, and follow these steps:

1. Locate Your Model Information
   Check the nameplate on the side or back of the unit for the model and serial number.

2. Visit the Official Recall Website
   Go to MideaRecall.com or call Midea’s recall hotline to verify if your unit is affected.

3. Choose Repair or Refund Options

   • Refund:
     Send the unit back with a prepaid shipping label or submit a photo proving you’ve cut the power cord.

   • Repair:
     Midea can either send a technician to install a new drain plug or mail you a repair kit that includes a new drain plug and a leveling tool (bubble level) to help prevent future water buildup.

🛠️ Why This Matters

This recall underscores the importance of preventive maintenance and design in HVAC systems. Even trusted brands can run into product flaws, but Midea’s voluntary recall and multiple options for resolution show a commitment to consumer safety.

✅ Bottom Line:

If you bought a U-shaped smart AC between 2020 and 2025, act now to prevent potential mold exposure. Whether you’re looking for peace of mind, a refund, or a quick repair, Midea has resources in place to help make it right.