What was recalled
In February 2024, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving specific Frigidaire side-by-side refrigerators manufactured by the Electrolux Group. This recall targets units equipped with "Slim Ice" buckets that were produced over a four-year period, specifically between 2015 and 2019. The scope of this recall is quite broad, affecting a wide range of model numbers within the Frigidaire lineup. Consumers who purchased these appliances during the specified timeframe need to check their specific unit details carefully, as the issue is tied directly to the ice bucket assembly component rather than the entire refrigerator mechanism.
The models included in this recall are clearly identified by their alphanumeric codes. If you own one of the following model numbers, your refrigerator is part of this recall: DGHK2355TF, DGHX2655TF, FFSC2323TS, FGSC2335TD, FGSC2335TF, FGSS2635TD, FGSS2635TE, FGSS2635TF, FGSS2635TP, FPSC2277RF, FPSC2278UF, FPSS2677RF, LFSC2324VF, LGHK2336TD, LGHK2336TF, LGHX2636TD, and LGHX2636TF. It is important to note that the final letter of each model number indicates the color finish of the appliance. For instance, models ending in "F" and "S" are Stainless Steel, those ending in "D" are Dark Stainless Steel, "E" denotes Black Painted finishes, and "P" signifies White Painted units. This means the recall spans multiple aesthetic options, so the color of your fridge does not determine whether it is included; only the model number matters.
While the official recall announcement does not specify the exact total number of individual refrigerator units sold globally or domestically, it highlights that Electrolux Group has already received 343 reports related to this specific defect. These reports detail instances where plastic pieces broke off from the ice bucket assembly. The fact that hundreds of complaints have been logged underscores that this is a widespread manufacturing issue rather than an isolated incident. The recall applies to these units regardless of where they were originally purchased, as long as they fall within the defined model and production date range. If you are unsure whether your specific serial number is included in this recall, you can verify your unit’s status by visiting https://www.frigidaire.com/en/frigidaire-recall-information. The model and serial numbers required for this check are located on a serial plate inside the refrigerator compartment, so you will need to open your fridge door to locate this information before proceeding with any next steps.
The hazard, explained
To understand why this recall is necessary, it helps to look closely at how the ice-making mechanism in these specific Frigidaire side-by-side refrigerators is designed and where it can fail. The core issue lies within the "Slim Ice" bucket assembly, a component responsible for collecting, freezing, and dispensing your daily supply of ice. Under normal circumstances, this assembly should remain intact while cycling through its freezing and harvesting phases. However, in the units subject to this recall, certain structural parts of this plastic assembly are prone to breaking apart during regular use.
When these components fracture, they do not simply disappear; small shards or chunks of hard plastic break off from the main body of the bucket. Because these pieces are now loose within the ice-making chamber, they become mixed in with the actual ice cubes being formed. The danger arises when you reach for a glass and activate the dispenser. The machine pushes the ice out through the chute, and unfortunately, it also pushes out these sharp, jagged fragments of plastic along with the edible ice.
This creates two distinct and serious risks for anyone in the household. First is the risk of laceration. Plastic shards can be surprisingly sharp and rigid. If a consumer bites down on an ice cube that contains a hidden piece of broken plastic, or if they attempt to catch the dispensed ice with their mouth or fingers, those sharp edges can easily cut the lips, tongue, gums, or skin. This is not merely a minor annoyance; it can result in significant bleeding and tissue damage.
The second risk is choking. If these plastic fragments are swallowed along with the ice, they pose a immediate obstruction hazard. A piece of hard plastic lodged in the throat can block the airway, preventing breathing. For children, elderly individuals, or anyone with swallowing difficulties, this risk is even more pronounced because their airways are smaller and less able to clear obstructions on their own. While we often think of choking hazards as small toys or food items like grapes, rigid plastic debris from an appliance is equally dangerous because it does not break down in the mouth and can be difficult to cough up.
The severity of this hazard is confirmed by real-world data. Electrolux Group has received 343 reports specifically citing plastic pieces breaking off from these ice buckets. More alarmingly, there have been two documented incidents where consumers suffered actual laceration and ingestion injuries. These are not theoretical risks; they are physical outcomes that have already occurred when the brittle plastic components failed under the stress of daily freezing and dispensing cycles.
Who is most at risk
While this recall affects any household that owns one of the specified Frigidaire side-by-side refrigerators manufactured between 2015 and 2019, the physical danger posed by the broken ice bucket components does not impact every user equally. The primary group at heightened risk consists of young children, particularly those under the age of five. This vulnerability stems from their natural developmental curiosity and lack of awareness regarding safety boundaries. A child approaching a refrigerator to retrieve an ice cube or a glass of water may look directly into the ice bucket opening. If the plastic assembly has fractured, small, sharp shards could be visible or accessible within the bin. Because children often explore objects by touching them with their hands and then bringing those same hands to their mouths, the risk of accidental ingestion is significant. Furthermore, their smaller airways make any swallowed fragment far more dangerous than it would be for an adult, potentially leading to choking or internal damage.
Equally important to consider are individuals who may have reduced manual dexterity or vision, such as elderly family members or those with disabilities. The hazard here is not just about ingestion, but about the potential for laceration during routine use. When retrieving ice from a damaged bin, a person might naturally reach in to clear debris or adjust the remaining cubes. If the internal plastic structure has compromised integrity, sharp edges can easily slice through skin, especially if the user’s grip slips due to the cold temperature of the bucket or the slickness of ice. Two reported incidents already involve laceration injuries, highlighting that physical contact with the broken component is a direct pathway to harm. For someone who relies on steady hands for daily tasks, even a minor cut can lead to complications or infection if not treated promptly.
Additionally, anyone in the household who frequently dispenses ice without inspecting the source is at risk of unknowingly consuming plastic fragments. The recall notes that 343 reports of broken pieces have been received, indicating this is a recurring issue rather than a rare defect. When ice is crushed or ejected into a cup, tiny shards can mix in seamlessly with the cubes. A consumer might drink water containing these particles without noticing until they feel pain or discomfort. This risk is heightened for people with dental work, such as crowns or veneers, which can be chipped or dislodged by hard plastic pieces. Therefore, while the mechanical failure affects the appliance itself, the human cost falls most heavily on those who are physically vulnerable, unable to see clearly, or unaware of the defect until it is too late.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your refrigerator is part of this recall requires a bit of detective work, but the process is straightforward once you know exactly where to look. The primary target of this recall is Frigidaire-branded side-by-side refrigerators that feature what is known as "Slim Ice" buckets. These units were manufactured during a specific window between 2015 and 2019. If your fridge falls outside these years, it is likely not part of this specific safety notice, though you should always verify using the official tools mentioned below.
The most reliable way to confirm if your unit is affected is by checking the model number. You can find this information on a serial plate located inside the refrigerator compartment. This plate is typically found on the interior wall or ceiling of the fresh food section, though it may also be located behind the vegetable drawer in some configurations. Do not rely on the external branding or the general appearance of the door handles alone; you need the specific alphanumeric code printed on that sticker.
The recall covers a distinct list of model numbers. Your refrigerator is included if its model number matches one of the following: DGHK2355TF, DGHX2655TF, FFSC2323TS, FGSC2335TD, FGSC2335TF, FGSS2635TD, FGSS2635TE, FGSS2635TF, FGSS2635TP, FPSC2277RF, FPSC2278UF, FPSS2677RF, LFSC2324VF, LGHK2336TD, LGHK2336TF, LGHX2636TD, or LGHX2636TF. It is helpful to understand that the last letter of each model number indicates the color finish of the appliance. An "F" or "S" denotes Stainless Steel, a "D" stands for Dark Stainless Steel, an "E" represents Black Painted, and a "P" indicates White Painted. This means all these color variations are subject to the same safety concern regarding the ice bucket assembly.
If you have already checked your model number against the list above and are still unsure, or if you need to verify your specific serial number for absolute certainty, you can visit the official recall information page at https://www.frigidaire.com/en/frigidaire-recall-information. This online tool allows you to enter your serial number to see if it falls within the affected range. Alternatively, you may call Electrolux Group toll-free at 888-377-7563 between 8:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, to speak with a representative who can help you confirm your unit's status. Taking these steps ensures you are not relying on guesswork, which is crucial given the potential for injury from the broken plastic components.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the affected Frigidaire side-by-side refrigerators, taking action right away is the most important thing you can do to protect your household. The remedy provided by Electrolux Group is clear and straightforward, but it requires immediate attention to prevent any potential harm from broken plastic components mixing with your ice supply. Please follow these steps carefully to ensure your safety and secure your free repair.
Step 1: Stop using the ice maker immediately. The first and most critical action is to disconnect or disable the automatic ice-making function on your refrigerator. Do not wait for a replacement part to arrive before doing this. The hazard involves plastic pieces from the ice bucket assembly breaking off and entering the ice bin, which can then be dispensed into your drinking water or food. By stopping the use of the ice maker now, you eliminate the risk of ingesting or coming into contact with these sharp plastic fragments. This is a temporary safety measure; it does not affect the cooling function of your refrigerator, so your food and beverages will remain safe to consume.
Step 2: Verify your model number. Before contacting support, locate the serial plate inside your refrigerator compartment to confirm whether your specific unit is part of this recall. Look for the model number on the plate. If your model number matches one of the following—DGHK2355TF, DGHX2655TF, FFSC2323TS, FGSC2335TD, FGSC2335TF, FGSS2635TD, FGSS2635TE, FGSS2635TF, FGSS2635TP, FPSC2277RF, FPSC2278UF, FPSS2677RF, LFSC2324VF, LGHK2336TD, LGHK2336TF, LGHX2636TD, or LGHX2636TF—you are included in this recall. You can also visit https://www.frigidaire.com/en/frigidaire-recall-information to enter your serial number for confirmation.
Step 3: Contact Electrolux Group for a free replacement. Once you have confirmed your unit is affected, reach out to Electrolux Group to request the remedy. They will provide you with a replacement ice bucket assembly component at no cost. You can contact them via their toll-free number at 888-377-7563, available from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may email IceBucketRecall@electrolux.com or visit www.icebucketrecall.com for more information. You can also go to www.frigidaire.com and click on "Recall Information" at the top of the page.
Step 4: Install the replacement part. After receiving your free replacement ice bucket assembly, follow the instructions provided by Electrolux Group to install it correctly. This will restore the functionality of your ice maker while ensuring that the safety hazard has been fully resolved. Do not resume using the ice maker until the new part is securely in place.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have identified your refrigerator as part of this recall, the good news is that Electrolux Group has established a straightforward remedy to address the safety issue without costing you anything out of pocket. The company is not asking you to return the entire appliance, nor are they offering a cash refund for the unit itself. Instead, the specific solution provided in the recall records is a free replacement for the defective component responsible for the hazard. This means your primary action item is to request a new ice bucket assembly component, which will effectively eliminate the risk of plastic shards breaking off and potentially entering your ice supply.
To initiate this process, you need to contact Electrolux Group directly through one of several convenient channels. You can call their dedicated toll-free number at 888-377-7563, which is staffed from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or need to reference specific details about your model, you may also send an email to IceBucketRecall@electrolux.com. For those who like to manage these matters online, the process is equally accessible via www.icebucketrecall.com or by visiting www.frigidaire.com and clicking on "Recall Information" at the top of the page. These digital portals allow you to verify your eligibility and likely track the status of your replacement part request.
It is important to understand why the remedy focuses solely on the ice bucket assembly rather than other potential fixes. The hazard stems specifically from a component within that assembly that can break, creating sharp plastic pieces that pose choking and laceration risks if dispensed with the ice. By replacing this specific part, Electrolux addresses the root cause of the danger. Until you receive and install this new component, safety guidelines advise that you immediately stop using the ice makers in your recalled refrigerator. This precaution is crucial because continued use could result in more plastic fragments breaking off, potentially leading to injury or ingestion hazards, as evidenced by the 343 reports received by the company.
Please keep in mind that while the component replacement is free of charge, the recall does not mention coverage for labor costs if you choose to have a third-party technician install the part. It is highly recommended that you follow Electrolux’s instructions closely regarding installation or ask their customer service team if they can assist with arranging professional installation. Do not attempt to fix the issue by ignoring it or trying to repair the original broken component yourself, as this may not fully resolve the safety defect. Your peace of mind comes from ensuring that the defective part is completely removed and replaced with a safe, compliant alternative provided directly by the manufacturer.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable that receiving a recall notice for a major appliance like a refrigerator feels like an inconvenience. These machines are central to our daily routines, and the idea of stopping their use or waiting for a repair technician to arrive disrupts the rhythm of life. You might look at the ice maker, see it still functioning perfectly, and think, “It’s only ice. How bad could it really be?” This is a natural reaction, but in this specific case, ignoring the recall carries tangible physical risks that go far beyond mere annoyance. The core issue is not mechanical failure of the motor or a leak; it is a structural integrity problem with a plastic component designed to hold and dispense your food and drink.
When you continue to use the ice maker on a recalled unit, you are essentially allowing a broken part to remain in active service. The recall facts indicate that the ice bucket assembly component can break, sending shards of hard plastic directly into the stream of ice being produced. These are not small, harmless specks; they are fragments sharp enough to cause laceration injuries. If you rely on this appliance for drinking water or cooking, those plastic pieces do not stay in the machine. They travel with the ice into your glass, your pitcher, or your food preparation area. The danger arises when that ice is dispensed without careful inspection—a habit many of us have developed over years of use. We grab a handful of ice on autopilot, unaware that a jagged piece of plastic is mixed in with the cubes.
The consequences of this oversight are serious and documented. According to reports received by Electrolux Group, there have already been two confirmed incidents resulting in laceration and ingestion injuries. While the total number of reported broken pieces is 343, the fact that physical harm has already occurred highlights that this is not a theoretical risk. A laceration from plastic shards can require medical attention, stitches, or even surgical removal if the piece is swallowed and moves through the digestive tract. For children, who might be more likely to put ice in their mouths or play with it, the choking hazard is equally grave. Swallowing a sharp object can cause internal damage that is difficult to detect until significant harm has been done.
Furthermore, ignoring the recall means you are betting against the reliability of a known defect. Plastic components degrade over time, especially in the cold, damp environment of an ice maker. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that another piece will break. By acting now, you eliminate the variable of “when” it will happen and replace it with the certainty of a safe, free repair. Continuing to use the appliance transforms a simple administrative task into a potential medical emergency for your family.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a particular defect in the ice bucket assembly of certain Frigidaire refrigerators, maintaining a safe kitchen environment involves looking at the bigger picture. Refrigerators are among the most essential appliances in any home, yet they present a variety of hazards beyond just mechanical failures. By adopting a few proactive habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury and ensure your appliance serves you reliably for years to come.
First, consider the stability of your large appliances. Refrigerators, especially larger side-by-side or French door models, are tall and heavy. If not properly secured, they can tip forward if a child climbs on the open door or pulls out drawers with excessive force. Always ensure that your refrigerator is level and stable on the floor. If your model came with anti-tip brackets or straps, install them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This simple step prevents catastrophic tipping incidents that can cause serious injury to children and damage to your home.
Secondly, regular maintenance of your ice maker and water dispenser is crucial for both safety and hygiene. Over time, mineral deposits from hard water can build up in the internal mechanisms, potentially leading to cracks or breaks in plastic components similar to those recalled in this incident. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and descaling your ice maker regularly. Use only recommended cleaning agents to avoid damaging seals or internal parts. Additionally, inspect your ice cubes periodically for any unusual debris or discoloration. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, stop using the dispenser immediately and contact customer support.
Another often-overlooked aspect of kitchen safety is electrical safety. Ensure that your refrigerator’s power cord is in good condition, without frays or cuts, and that it is not pinched behind the appliance. Always plug your refrigerator directly into a grounded outlet rather than using extension cords or power strips, which can overheat and pose a fire hazard. If you notice any sparking, burning smells, or unusual noises from the motor, unplug the unit and seek professional inspection.
Finally, stay informed about product recalls by regularly checking official government websites like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or signing up for email alerts. Manufacturers may issue recalls for defects that are not immediately obvious but could become dangerous over time. Being proactive about these announcements ensures that you can address potential issues before they result in harm. By combining vigilance with regular maintenance, you create a safer and more reliable kitchen environment for your family.