Shoppers urged to stop using $30 fan sold at TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and Sierra after fires

The recall centers on about 18,000 Merkury Innovations Hot + Cool Heating and Cooling Fans sold for about $30 at TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and Sierra from October 2024 through October 2025. Federal regulators with the Consumer Product Safety Commission warn the unit can overheat, creating a fire hazard and potentially causing serious injury or death, with two reports of the fan igniting after being plugged in as of April 20. The recalled device is a portable bladeless fan-heater identified by model MI-DHC02 on the bottom label, distributed by New York City–based Merkury Innovations, which sourced the product from factories in China. Consumers who own the recalled fans should unplug and stop using them immediately. Merkury Innovations is offering a full refund; purchasers must complete steps including writing the date, their initials, and the word 'Recalled' on the unit, unplugging it, and safely cutting the cord, then uploading a photo showing the disabled product to the refund portal. For assistance, contact Merkury Innovations at 888-232-3143. The recall highlights ongoing safety oversight in discount retail channels and emphasizes the risk posed by affordable household devices, though no injuries have been reported.