January 28, 2026 – A consumer has reported significant safety concerns regarding their Frigidaire FFRH2522R2E air conditioning unit, which they claim exhibits problems identical to those of products on a recent recall list (CPSC # 25-320) despite their specific model not being included. The unit, purchased in May 2020, has been producing a persistent musty odor and developing visible mold, leading to health issues for family members and ongoing frustration with the manufacturer’s response.
Product Details
Incident Overview
The incident, reported on June 11, 2025, details a consumer’s ongoing struggle with their Frigidaire FFRH2522R2E air conditioner since its purchase in May 2020. From the outset, the unit has emitted a noticeable “funny smell” which has since developed into a strong, musty odor pervasive throughout the property, accompanied by visible mold growth on the device.
The consumer made multiple attempts to resolve the issue with the manufacturer. Initially, they were informed a new filter would be sent. A subsequent contact led to a promise of unit replacement. However, this promise was later retracted, and the manufacturer instead offered to send a technician. Upon inspection, the technician reportedly stated that no action could be taken since the AC unit was still “working,” failing to address either the mold growth or the unpleasant smell.
This lack of resolution has caused significant distress to the consumer, particularly due to the severe health implications for their family. The consumer states that their son suffers from asthma, and their husband has Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), both of which have been exacerbated by years of exposure to the malfunctioning AC unit. Compounding the issue is the necessity of using the air conditioner during warm spring and summer months, leaving the family in a difficult position between enduring the heat and risking their health. The consumer is urgently seeking inclusion of their model on the relevant recall list, compensation, or a replacement unit to mitigate the ongoing health and comfort issues.
Safety Concerns
The presence of mold and a persistent musty odor in an air conditioning unit like the Frigidaire FFRH2522R2E poses several significant safety concerns:
- Immediate Dangers: Mold exposure can trigger allergic reactions, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, skin rash, and shortness of breath. The musty odor itself indicates the presence of mold or mildew, which can irritate respiratory passages.
- Long-Term Risks: Prolonged exposure to mold spores, especially for individuals with compromised respiratory systems, can lead to chronic respiratory problems, exacerbate existing conditions like asthma and COPD, and potentially cause persistent coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. For the consumer’s son with asthma and husband with COPD, this exposure represents a serious and ongoing health hazard.
- Who Might Be Affected: Anyone using the product, particularly those with allergies, asthma, COPD, infants, young children, and the elderly, are at heightened risk. Even healthy individuals can develop sensitivities or respiratory issues with sustained exposure.
- Property Damage Potential: Unchecked mold growth within an air conditioning unit can spread to the air ducts and potentially to other areas of the home, leading to structural damage, degradation of indoor air quality, and costly remediation efforts beyond just the appliance itself.
What Consumers Should Do
If you own a Frigidaire FFRH2522R2E air conditioner or any unit exhibiting similar issues of mold growth or persistent musty odors, especially if it’s not on CPSC recall list #25-320, take the following steps:
- Immediate Steps to Take: If you are experiencing respiratory symptoms, unusual smells, or visible mold, cease using the unit immediately. Increase ventilation in your home by opening windows and using fans if possible.
- How to Check if You Own the Affected Product: Verify your air conditioner’s model number, typically found on a label on the unit itself. If it matches Frigidaire FFRH2522R2E, be vigilant for any signs of mold or unusual odors. Even if your model isn’t on a current recall list, issues like those reported warrant attention.
- Prevention Measures: Regularly clean or replace your AC filters according to manufacturer guidelines. Inspect your unit periodically for any signs of moisture, leaks, or mold growth. Maintaining proper indoor humidity levels can also help deter mold.
- Reporting Procedures: If you believe your unit is defective or poses a safety risk, even if not part of a formal recall, it is crucial to report the incident to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at SaferProducts.gov. Also, contact ELECTROLUX/WHITE CONSOLIDATED directly to report your specific concerns and request a thorough investigation and resolution.
Manufacturer’s Response
The manufacturer, ELECTROLUX/WHITE CONSOLIDATED, acknowledged the incident report. As detailed in the incident overview, the consumer had multiple direct interactions with the company, which included offers of a filter, a unit replacement that was later rescinded, and a technician visit that did not resolve the issue.
Legal Help Available
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product or suffered property damage due to a product malfunction, you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced product liability attorneys at Farzan Law understand the complexities of defective product cases and can help you navigate the legal process.
Contact us today for a free consultation: 424-325-3112
Our legal team has successfully represented clients in product liability cases involving defective appliances, automotive defects, medical devices, and consumer products. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Note: This information is based on incident reports provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. If you find information that is incorrect, please contact us immediately so we can correct the post to reflect accurate information.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. This article is based on publicly available incident reports. The incidents mentioned have not necessarily been independently verified or adjudicated.