Brits are being cautioned against falling for every energy-saving tip they spot on social media this winter, as experts warn that a viral ‘heater for pennies’ could lead to disaster.
With the 10% Ofgem price cap hike from the start of October biting hard, plus many losing the winter fuel allowance, households across the nation are scrambling to cut costs wherever they can.
The trend of creating a DIY heater using terracotta plant pots and candles has exploded online, with claims that it can heat rooms just as effectively as a radiator but at a fraction of the cost.
However, Adeel Ul-Haq from BunkBeds.co.uk has raised serious concerns about the potential fire risks associated with this method.
He said: “I worry that to save a few pennies, families could end up risking their lives.
“There are so many dangers with this hack from burning yourself on the terracotta pots to the candle glass exploding and the candles tipping over and causing a blaze within your home.
“Those with younger kids are also at more risk as they could hit these pots over or try picking them up as they won’t associate the danger of a pot with high heat.
“The heat output from these devices is more than likely minimal too so it’s just not worth the risk.”
The expert recommended safer alternatives to stay snug this winter, such as purchasing top-notch blankets and duvets for warmth in the chilliest parts of the night.
Opting for oversized duvets or blankets can also provide extra material to double up on, preventing any limbs from sneaking out into the cold.
The expert pointed out: “While these solutions aren’t as out there as lighting candles and pots, they are practical and will keep you warm without putting your life at risk.”
It comes as homes look for ways to heat up cheaply as households grapple with rising energy bills. In October, the average household energy bill saw an increase of £149 annually.
Ofgem, the energy regulator, raised its price cap from the existing £1,568 for a typical dual fuel household in England, Scotland and Wales to £1,717, translating to roughly £12 more per month on average bills. However, the latest cap is 6% or £117 lower than it was during the same period last year.
Starting from October, homes on a standard variable tariff paying for their electricity by direct debit were instructed to pay an average of 24.5p per unit, along with a standing charge of 60.99p per day. For gas, the average cost is 6.24p per unit with a daily standing charge of 31.66p.
Ofgem attributed the hike to increased political tensions and extreme weather events, which have led to a surge in prices in the international energy market.
This winter, millions of pensioners are also set to receive less financial support following the Government’s decision to scrap winter fuel payments for those not receiving pension credits or other benefits. Approximately 10 million pensioners will now miss out on payments of up to £300 this year.
