Millions of Americans are at risk of respiratory infections and allergic reactions as Midea recalls 1.7 million window air conditioners due to dangerous mold growth that has already caused 17 reported health incidents.
Key Takeaways
- Midea is recalling 1.7 million U and U+ window air conditioners across multiple brand names due to a drainage issue causing hazardous mold growth
- The affected units were sold between March 2020 and May 2025 at major retailers including Costco, Home Depot, Walmart, and Amazon
- Consumers can choose between free repair options (technician visit or DIY kit) or prorated refunds after verifying their unit’s eligibility
- The company has received 152 mold reports with 17 cases involving health effects including respiratory infections and allergic reactions
- Units can be verified through Midea’s recall website by providing the serial number and brand name
Health Hazards From Popular Air Conditioners
The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission announced on June 5 that approximately 1.7 million Midea U and U+ window air conditioners sold in the United States are being recalled due to a serious design flaw. The units suffer from a drainage issue where water pools inside the machine and fails to drain properly, creating ideal conditions for mold growth. This mold poses significant health risks to users, particularly those with respiratory conditions or allergies. The recall also extends to 45,900 units sold in Canada, highlighting the widespread nature of this consumer safety issue.
“THE INTERNET’S FAVORITE AIR CONDITIONER HAS BEEN RECALLED,” Said Emily Long.
The recalled units were sold under various brand names including Midea, Comfort Aire, Danby, Frigidaire, Insignia, Keystone, LBG Products, Mr. Cool, Perfect Aire, and Sea Breeze. These white units measure approximately 22 inches wide, 13 1⁄2 inches tall, and 19 inches deep, and were sold in three sizes: 8,000 BTU, 10,000 BTU, and 12,000 BTU. Major retailers like Costco, Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart, Best Buy, and Amazon distributed these units between March 2020 and May 2025, with prices ranging from $329 to $539.
Mold Exposure Symptoms and Dangers
According to the CPSC, the company has received 152 reports of mold in these air conditioners, with 17 cases resulting in documented health effects. These health impacts include “respiratory infections, allergic reactions, coughing, sneezing and/or sore throats from mold exposure,” According to the CPSC. For individuals with asthma, compromised immune systems, or existing respiratory conditions, exposure to mold can trigger more severe reactions and potentially lead to long-term health complications.
“Pooled water in the air conditioners can fail to drain quickly enough,”highlighting the root cause of this dangerous defect. The stagnant water creates the perfect breeding ground for mold spores, which then circulate throughout homes when the air conditioner operates, potentially exposing entire families to respiratory hazards. This design flaw is particularly concerning as these units were widely promoted as premium, innovative cooling solutions that commanded higher price points than standard window air conditioners.
Repair and Refund Options for Consumers
Midea is offering affected customers two main remedy options: repairs or prorated refunds. The repair solutions include either scheduling an in-home service call with a technician or receiving a DIY repair kit with a new drain plug, depending on the specific model. For those preferring a refund, Midea requires either returning the unit with a pre-paid shipping label or submitting proof that the unit has been disabled by removing the power cord and providing photographic evidence. Refund processing typically takes 3-4 weeks after submission.
To determine if their unit is affected, consumers must visit Midea’s recall website and enter their air conditioner’s serial number and brand name. The company has established a dedicated recall page to manage this process efficiently. This massive recall represents yet another example of regulatory agencies stepping in to protect American consumers from faulty products that threaten public health. With summer temperatures rising across the country, affected homeowners now face the uncomfortable choice between potential health risks or going without cooling while waiting for repairs or refunds.
