Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Yes—the recall is real. On June 5, 2025, Midea voluntarily recalled approximately 1.7 million U and U+ window air conditioners in the United States because pooled water may not drain quickly enough, creating conditions that can lead to mold growth. The recall also covers about 45,900 units in Canada.
Owners should check the complete model number, stop using any unit with visible mold, standing water or a strong musty odor, and contact Midea for a free repair or a full or prorated refund. The U.S. recall is 25-320. Read the CPSC recall notice.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What was recalled?
The recall covers U-shaped and U+ window air conditioners with cooling capacities of 8,000, 10,000 and 12,000 BTUs. The units are approximately 22 inches wide by 14 inches high, are generally white, include remote controls and may support mobile-app control. They were sold from March 2020 through May 2025 for approximately $280 to $500 through retailers including Costco, Menards, Home Depot and Best Buy, online marketplaces and manufacturer websites.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →A unit may be recalled even if “Midea” is not printed prominently on the front. The affected products were sold under these brands:
#1 Best Overall
- ULTRA QUIET - The U-shape design of Midea U Smart Inverter AC uses your window to block noise outside. The highly-efficient inverter system warrants ultra-low noise and vibration, 9x quieter than traditional units with operation as low as 32 dBA.
- MORE THAN 37% ENERGY SAVINGS - With the advanced DC Inverter technology, Midea U window air conditioner achieves over 37% energy savings compared to other traditional units. It is the first window AC to obtain the ENERGY STAR Certification.
- SMART CONTROL - Midea U Smart Inverter air conditioner is Wi-Fi enabled and can be controlled from anywhere using the SmartHome app on iOS or Android. You can also use voice commands throughout your house, office, or apartment using Alexa or Google Assistant devices.
- FLEXIBLE WINDOW OPENING - The U-shaped design allows your window to open, bringing fresh air into your home and maintaining more of your view when the window air conditioner is installed. When the window is closed, the Anti-Theft Mechanism locks the window for added safety.
- ROBUST INSTALLATION - Install the included quick-snap bracket, set the air conditioner on the bracket, and secure the sidearms. Then you are all done and ready to enjoy. Available for single-hung or double-hung windows with width 22"-36", minimal height at 13.75".
- Midea
- Comfort Aire
- Danby
- Frigidaire
- Insignia
- Keystone
- LBG Products
- Mr. Cool
- Perfect Aire
- Sea Breeze
Check the model number
Look for the model-number label on the front-right side of the unit when viewed from inside the room. Match every character, including suffixes such as -C, -M, -S and -T. A U-shaped appearance alone does not establish that a unit is included.
| Brand | Affected model numbers |
|---|---|
| Midea | MAW08AV1QWT, MAW08AV1QWT-C, MAW08U1QWT, MAW08V1QWT, MAW08V1QWT-S, MAW08V1QWT-T, MAW08W1QWT, MAW10U1QWT, MAW10V1QWT, MAW10W1QWT, MAW12AV1QWT, MAW12AV1QWT-C, MAW12U1QWT, MAW12V1QWT, MAW12V1QWT-M, MAW12V1QWT-S, MAW12W1QWT |
| Comfort Aire | RXTS-101A, RXTS-121A, RXTS-81A |
| Danby | DAC080B6IWDB-6, DAC080B7IWDB-6, DAC100B6IWDB-6 |
| Frigidaire | GHWQ085WD1, GHWQ105WD1, GHWQ125WD1 |
| Insignia | NS-AC8WU3, NS-AC8WU3-C |
| Keystone | KSTAW08UA, KSTAW10UA, KSTAW12UA |
| LBG Products | QB-8K CO |
| Mr. Cool | MWUC08T115, MWUC10T115, MWUC12T115 |
| Perfect Aire | 1PACU8000, 1PACU10000, 1PACU12000 |
| Sea Breeze | MWAUQB-12CRFN8-BCN10, WAU310YREX, WAU312YREX, WAU38YREX |
If the label is damaged or unreadable, photograph it and ask Midea how to proceed. Do not guess based on the retailer listing or a similar model number.
Why was the air conditioner recalled?
Air conditioners naturally produce condensation. The problem identified in this recall is that pooled water may not drain quickly enough. Persistent water inside the cabinet can create conditions that allow mold to grow.
This does not mean every recalled unit contains mold. The CPSC notice does not establish a particular mold species, toxin or disease risk. It reports at least 152 mold reports and 17 consumer reports of symptoms including respiratory infections, allergic reactions, coughing, sneezing or sore throats. Those are consumer reports cited by CPSC, not proof that every symptom was caused by a recalled air conditioner.
What owners should do now
- Turn the unit off and unplug it while checking the model number.
- Compare the complete model number with the official list above or the CPSC notice.
- If it is included, contact Midea through the official recall channel.
- Choose the repair or refund option Midea confirms for that model.
- Keep your receipt or order confirmation, model and serial information, label photographs, installation records and correspondence.
Do not open, dismantle, drill or improvise a drainage modification before confirming Midea’s instructions. If the unit has visible mold, a strong musty odor, leaking or standing water, avoid operating it to “test” it and avoid circulating air from it.
Rank #2
- ULTRA QUIET - The U-shape design of Midea U Smart Inverter air conditioner uses your window to block noise outside. The highly-efficient inverter system warrants ultra-low noise and vibration, 10x quieter than traditional units with operation as low as 32 dBA. Cooling Watts: 710W, Rated Cooling Amps (AHAM): 8.78.Airflow (CFM) Roomside (hi low): 215/150. Refrigerant: R32.
- MORE THAN 37% ENERGY SAVINGS - With the advanced DC Inverter technology, Midea U window air conditioner achieves over 35% energy savings compared to other traditional units. It is the first window AC to obtain the ENERGY STAR Certification.
- SMART CONTROL - Midea U Smart Inverter air conditioner is Wi-Fi enabled and can be controlled from anywhere using the SmartHome app on iOS or Android. You can also use voice commands throughout your house, office, or apartment using Alexa or Google Assistant devices.
- FLEXIBLE WINDOW OPENING - The U-shaped design allows your window to open, bringing fresh air into your home and maintaining more of your view when the window air conditioner is installed. When the window is closed, the Anti-Theft Mechanism locks the window for added safety.
- ROBUST INSTALLATION - Install the included quick-snap bracket, set the air conditioner on the bracket, and secure the sidearms. Then you are all done and ready to enjoy. Available for single-hung or double-hung windows with width 22"-36", minimal height at 13.75".
How to claim a repair or refund
Contact Midea using one of the channels identified by CPSC:
- Phone: 888-345-0256
- Email: [email protected]
- Recall portal: MideaUrecall.expertinquiry.com
- Website: midea.com/us, using the recall information area
Repair
The announced repair is free. Depending on the model, it may involve a technician installing a new drain plug or a mailed repair kit containing a new drain plug and bubble level. A mailed kit is not appropriate for every model, so follow the instructions Midea provides.
Refund
Midea announced a full or prorated refund determined by the purchase date or manufacturing date. The CPSC summary does not provide one universal dollar amount. Confirm the amount and claim requirements directly with Midea.
Some refund claims may require returning the unit with a prepaid label or submitting a photograph showing that the unplugged power cord has been cut. Cutting the cord permanently disables the appliance. Obtain confirmation of the required evidence and remedy path before destroying the unit, and retain it until Midea confirms what to do.
| Repair | Refund |
|---|---|
| Free drain-plug repair or approved kit | Full or prorated amount, depending on date |
| Keeps an otherwise useful appliance in service | May suit owners who no longer want the unit |
| May require technician scheduling | May require return shipping or cord-cut evidence |
| Does not necessarily remove mold already present | Provides a path to replacement after confirmation |
Can it be used while waiting?
Midea directs owners who continue using an affected unit while waiting for repair to consult the recall website’s inspection instructions. Do not replace that model-specific guidance with a blanket “safe to use” or “never use” rule.
Rank #3
- ULTRA QUIET - The U-shape design of Midea U Smart Inverter AC uses your window to block noise outside. The highly-efficient inverter system warrants ultra-low noise and vibration, 9x quieter than traditional units with operation as low as 32 dBA.
- MORE THAN 37% ENERGY SAVINGS - With the advanced DC Inverter technology, Midea U window air conditioner achieves over 37% energy savings compared to other traditional units. It is the first window AC to obtain the ENERGY STAR Certification.
- SMART CONTROL - Midea U Smart Inverter air conditioner is Wi-Fi enabled and can be controlled from anywhere using the SmartHome app on iOS or Android. You can also use voice commands throughout your house, office, or apartment using Alexa or Google Assistant devices.
- FLEXIBLE WINDOW OPENING - The U-shaped design allows your window to open, bringing fresh air into your home and maintaining more of your view when the window air conditioner is installed. When the window is closed, the Anti-Theft Mechanism locks the window for added safety.
- ROBUST INSTALLATION - Install the included quick-snap bracket, set the air conditioner on the bracket, and secure the sidearms. Then you are all done and ready to enjoy. Available for single-hung or double-hung windows with width 22"-36", minimal height at 13.75".
The conservative choice is to stop using a unit with visible mold, a strong musty odor, standing water or leakage. Unplug it before inspecting it. Do not touch suspected mold with bare hands or spray chemicals into energized electrical components. Renters should coordinate removal or temporary cooling with the landlord or property manager, especially because U-shaped units can be heavy and difficult to remove safely.
Recommended Free Tools
What about cleaning?
Cleaning a filter is routine maintenance, not necessarily a solution to the recalled drainage problem. Mold or contamination may involve coils, drain channels or blower components that are not accessible through normal filter cleaning.
Do not use bleach, ozone generators, indiscriminate aerosol sprays or DIY disassembly as a substitute for the recall remedy. A drainage repair may address the defect but does not automatically remove contamination that already exists. Visible contamination, water damage around the window or a persistent odor may require qualified professional cleaning or replacement.
What if the model is not on the list?
An unlisted model is not confirmed as part of recall 25-320, even if it looks identical or has mold. Contact the manufacturer first for product-specific support. You can report a suspected unsafe product to CPSC through SaferProducts.gov.
Do not generalize this recall to every Midea air conditioner or every U-shaped window unit. Midea’s older dehumidifier recalls involving fire hazards are separate recalls and do not establish that an unrelated air conditioner is affected.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #4
- ULTRA QUIET - The U-shape design of Midea U Smart Inverter AC uses your window to block noise outside. The highly-efficient inverter system warrants ultra-low noise and vibration, 10x quieter than traditional units with operation as low as 32 dBA. Cooling Watts: 890W. Rated Cooling Amps (AHAM): 9.97. Control Type: Electronic. Refrigerant: R32.
- MORE THAN 35% ENERGY SAVINGS - With the advanced DC Inverter technology, Midea U achieves over 35% energy savings compared to other traditional units. It is the first window AC to obtain the ENERGY STAR Certification.
- SMART CONTROL - Midea U Smart Inverter AC is Wi-Fi enabled and can be controlled from anywhere using the SmartHome app on iOS or Android. You can also use voice commands throughout your house, office, or apartment using Alexa or Google Assistant devices.
- FLEXIBLE WINDOW OPENING - The U-shaped design allows your window to open, bringing fresh air into your home and maintaining more of your view when the unit is installed. When the window is closed, the Anti-Theft Mechanism locks the window for added safety.
- ROBUST INSTALLATION - Install the included quick-snap bracket, set the unit on the bracket, and secure the sidearms. Then you are all done and ready to enjoy. Available for single-hung or double-hung windows with width 22"-36", minimal height at 13.75".
Should you replace it?
Use the official remedy before choosing a replacement. If cooling is urgently needed, a temporary alternative may be a standard window air conditioner, portable air conditioner, through-wall unit or mini-split system.
Compare room-size BTU requirements, window dimensions, installation safety, noise, energy efficiency, condensate handling, filter access, warranty and service-part availability. Standard window units may not preserve the U-shaped design’s window-opening characteristics; portable units may require floor space and an exhaust hose. Portable systems also require maintenance and are not automatically free of mold-related condensate issues.
Current product pages from LG, GE Appliances and Frigidaire can be starting points for checking specifications and availability. Check the exact replacement model against current safety notices before buying; no product should be described as “recall-proof.”
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.For people with symptoms
CPSC says mold exposure presents risks of respiratory problems or other infections for some consumers. Seek medical advice for persistent breathing problems, wheezing, severe allergic reactions or symptoms affecting vulnerable household members. The recall notice does not establish that every reported symptom was caused by an air conditioner.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesCanada
Canada announced a related recall. Canadian owners should use Health Canada’s recall notice and country-specific contact information rather than relying on U.S. procedures.
Best Value
- Creates a Peaceful Home Environment – The innovative U-shaped design creates open window flexibility and helps block outside noise when closed, while Midea Inverter technology keeps sound levels as low as 32 dBA. That’s up to 9x quieter than traditional window ACs making it ideal for remote workers and families with young children.
- ENERGY-SAVING PERFORMANCE – This Energy Star certified AC unit delivers airflow you can feel up to 20 feet away and cools rooms up to 250 sq. ft. Midea’s Inverter technology automatically adjusts cooling based on room temperature, keeping your space comfortable with low temperature variance, providing up to 37% energy savings compared to other traditional window ACs.
- INTEGRATES WITH SMART HOME ECOSYSTEMS – Control your Midea air conditioner from your smartphone and your smartwatch using the Midea SmartHome app (currently the only AC brand app that supports smartwatch control). Works with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control and is also compatible with Matter, making it easy to integrate with your smart home system. It also comes with a remote control.
- GET ONE BEFORE THEY’RE GONE – The only Midea U model available in Jet Black. This special edition adds a refined look that blends seamlessly into darker window frames and room decor and still allows your window to open for fresh air and won’t spoil the view. The dark side panels reduce ambient light versus the white version. Ideal for sleeping and movie nights.
- STRAIGHTFORWARD INSTALLATION PROCESS – The Midea U is easy to install. Everything you need to install the unit is included. The flat sill adapter and built-in gradienter ensure proper leveling, making setup fast and frustration-free. Unit fits single or double-hung windows 24" to 36" wide with a minimum opening height of 14.5". Also included is an Anti-Theft Mechanism window lock for added security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Midea U-shaped air-conditioner recall real?
Yes. CPSC announced recall 25-320 on June 5, 2025, covering approximately 1.7 million U.S. units because pooled water may create conditions for mold growth.
Does every recalled unit contain mold?
No. The recall concerns a drainage problem that may allow mold to grow; it does not establish that every unit has mold.
Do I have to cut the power cord to get a refund?
Some claims may require a photograph showing the unplugged cord has been cut, while others may require return shipping. Confirm the requirement with Midea before cutting the cord.
Can a retailer process the recall?
Retailers may have their own procedures, but Midea administers the announced remedy. Start with Midea’s official recall portal, phone number or email and keep your purchase records.
Does this recall cover every Midea air conditioner?
No. It applies only to the specified U and U+ models and rebadged products listed in recall 25-320.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
