Whirlpool is likely to be served with a recall notice by the government for unmodified tumble dryers.
It comes four years after Whirlpool issued a warning after it found its Hotpoint, Creda and Indesit dryers had a fault which needed fixing. The fault was blamed for at least 750 fires over an 11-year period, according to the government.
From the millions of products sold, it is estimated that 500,000 unmodified tumble dryers still pose a potential fire risk.
The brands affected are:
Hotpoint, Indesit, Creda, Swan, Proline
Whirlpool has urged anyone with an unmodified machine to contact them immediately on 0800 151 0905.
The full story can be read here on the BBC website
Registering all your white goods on www.registermyappliance.org.uk is recommended to ensure that you are made aware of this or any other safety issues or recalls.
Members of the public are urged to check their own tumble dryers at home and check those of family members who may be unaware of this fire risk.
This area has seen numerous tumble dryer fires [photo used is from an actual incident] and there have been some famous brands in the national spotlight for the wrong reasons.
What is the problem?
Probably the number one thing to remember when it comes to tumble dryers is to always keep the airway clear. Blockages will lead to overheating and may even result in a fire. Your tumble dryer will also need to be kept clean to stay in working order.
HFRS has issued some generic tips for the safe use of tumble dryers whatever the make and model:
• Remove the lint from the trap after every load of clothes dried
• Do not cover the vent or any other opening
• Ensure the vent pipe is free of kinks and is not crushed in any way
• Only used recommended vent pipes, and not improvised ones
• Only vent the warm air to the outside of a building
• Do not put rags or materials into your tumble dryer if they have been used to soak up flammable liquids.
Signs that your tumble dryer is not properly ventilated:
• Clothes take a very long time to dry, especially heavy articles of clothing such as towels or jeans
• Clothes feel hotter than usual at the end of the cycle
• The flapper on the vent hood remains closed when the dryer is on
Tumble dryers and washing machines contain powerful motors with fast moving parts that get very hot. If you do not clean and maintain your machine, excess fluff or lint can build up over time and catch fire.
Remember to:
• Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before using your dryer
• Never leave your appliance unattended or running overnight
• Never overload your washing machine or dryer or put items in that have been used to soak up flammable liquids
• Keep your dryer well ventilated ensuring the vent pipe is kink free, not blocked or crushed in any way
• Clean the filter in your dryer after every use
• Have your dryer serviced regularly by a qualified engineer
• DON’T ignore the warning signs – Does your tumble dryer smell of burning? Are your clothes taking longer to dry? Do the clothes feel hotter at the end of the cycle?
• Does the external vent flap stay shut when the dryer is on?
If you notice any of the above, clean the filter and check the vent pipe immediately.
Cleaning the inside of your tumble dryer:
- Make sure your tumble dryer is a cool temperature and is switched off from the mains.
- Unscrew the back panel and remove
- Vacuum the blower area
- Vacuum around the pipe connection area
- Refit panel back in place