January 7, 2026 – A recent incident report highlights serious concerns regarding mold growth in a Midea MAW08V1QWT portable air conditioning unit, impacting an elderly consumer’s health and raising questions about the scope of an existing product recall. The consumer, a 78-year-old on disability, experienced extensive mold odor for two months, despite being informed by Midea that their unit was not part of an earlier recall.
Product Details
Incident Overview
The incident, reported on July 29, 2025, details a troubling situation involving a Midea MAW08V1QWT portable air conditioner. In early June 2025, the consumer initially received recall information via their Amazon account. Upon contacting Midea, they were informed that their specific A/C unit’s serial number was not included in the recall. A few days later, on June 13, 2025, the consumer saw the recall notice from another source and again contacted the manufacturer. Despite providing their unit’s information, they were again told their serial number was not part of the recall, leading to an escalation of their case (Escalation I.D. # [REDACTED]).
Over the past two months, the consumer has reported an extensive mold odor emanating from the A/C unit. Living in a mobile home where temperatures become “extremely hot,” the 78-year-old consumer, who relies on the A/C due to health concerns and being on disability, has resorted to weekly DIY measures. Every Sunday, they spray bleach into the two exterior vents, then remove the front interior grill to spray bleach inside. They also attempt to remove and scrape molded parts using a mold cleaner. A critical observation from the consumer is that the unit’s water often fails to drain properly, contributing to the mold issue. The consumer expresses significant concern that more A/C units than those officially listed may be affected by similar mold problems.
Safety Concerns
The described incident raises several significant safety concerns for consumers:
- Health Risks from Mold Exposure: Extensive mold growth, as reported, can lead to severe health issues, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly or those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Symptoms can include respiratory problems (coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath), eye and skin irritation, headaches, and allergic reactions. Prolonged exposure can exacerbate conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The consumer’s specific situation, being 78-years-old and on disability, underscores the heightened risk.
- Ineffectiveness of DIY Mold Remediation: Spraying bleach into the unit’s vents and attempting to scrape mold is not an effective or safe long-term solution. Bleach primarily treats surface mold and may not penetrate porous materials where mold spores can thrive. Furthermore, it can corrode internal components of the A/C unit, potentially leading to further malfunctions or even creating more hazardous conditions. Improperly handled bleach can also release harmful fumes.
- Compromised Unit Function and Drainage Issues: The consumer’s report of water frequently not draining properly is a critical indicator of a design or manufacturing flaw that directly contributes to mold growth. Stagnant water within an A/C unit creates an ideal environment for mold and bacteria.
- Potential for Broader Recall Scope: The consumer’s concern that more units may be affected than those currently recalled is a serious issue. If units outside the official recall list are exhibiting identical safety hazards, it suggests an incomplete recall or a wider manufacturing defect, leaving many consumers unknowingly at risk.
- Property Damage Potential: Undrained water and extensive mold can lead to damage to the air conditioning unit itself, and potentially to the surrounding property (e.g., walls, flooring) if moisture leaks or mold spreads beyond the appliance.
What Consumers Should Do
If you own a Midea MAW08V1QWT portable air conditioner or a similar unit from the manufacturer, especially if you suspect mold growth or have experienced drainage issues, please take the following steps:
- Immediately Discontinue Use: If you notice an extensive mold odor or visible mold, or if your unit is not draining properly, stop using the air conditioner immediately. Continued use can spread mold spores and further expose you to health risks.
- Do Not Attempt DIY Repairs with Bleach: Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals to clean mold inside your A/C unit. This can be ineffective, cause further damage to the unit, or expose you to dangerous fumes.
- Check Recall Information, But Remain Vigilant: While Midea may have an existing recall, verify if your unit’s serial number is included. However, as this incident demonstrates, *even if your unit is not on the recall list*, but exhibits symptoms like mold odor or drainage issues, it may still be defective.
- Contact the Manufacturer: Reach out to Midea America Corporation directly to report your concerns, especially if your unit is experiencing mold or drainage problems. Clearly state that you believe your unit is exhibiting the same issues as recalled products, regardless of its serial number. Document all communications.
- Consider Professional Inspection: If mold is extensive, consider having a qualified HVAC professional inspect the unit and surrounding area to assess the extent of mold growth and recommend appropriate remediation.
- Report the Incident: File a detailed report with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at www.cpsc.gov. Your report helps identify broader safety issues and can prompt further investigations or expanded recalls.
- Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of your purchase, communications with the manufacturer, and any symptoms or issues you observe with the product.
Manufacturer’s Response
The manufacturer, Midea America Corporation, did respond to the consumer’s multiple inquiries. While initially stating the unit was not part of the recall, they subsequently escalated the consumer’s case, indicating that the issue is under further review. Specific details of their proposed resolution or investigation into the broader concern regarding units outside the official recall list were not available at the time of this report.
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.