Air Conditioners Recalled Over Mold Exposure

An air conditioner that made The New York Times’ list of six best air conditioners of 2025 has been recalled over mold concerns. The Midea U Window Air Conditioner was the newspaper’s No. 1 pick and the U+ model won second. However, earlier this month the unit’s manufacturer Midea America Corp. recalled 1.7 million of these devices in the U.S. and 45,900 units in Canada due to possible mold growth leading to sickness.

The manufacturer said water pools in the air conditioners and may not drain quickly enough, which could lead to mold growth and possible health issues.

“Mold exposure poses risks of respiratory issues or other infections to some consumers,” the recall said.

Midea is 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.

This recall involves U and U+ Window Air Conditioners made by Midea and sold in brand names including Midea, Comfort Aire, Danby, Frigidaire, Insignia, Keystone, LBG Products, Mr. Cool, Perfect Aire, and Sea Breeze. The air conditioners are designed to fit in windows, and they were sold in three sizes of cooling power: 8,000, 10,000, and 12,000 BTU. 

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. Owners also can elect to repair their units themselves, using a free repair kit from the company “that includes a new drain plug and bubble level.” The company created two instructional videos to guide customers through the process of replacing the drain plug and cleaning the unit.

Midea suggests customers go to www.MideaUrecall.expertinquiry.com to see if their unit is impacted by the recall and what steps to take next. Customers can see their unit’s model number on a label on the front right side of the unit when facing the air conditioner.