2023-11-01 14:16:08
Fire Specialist Issues Warning About Radiator Hack Gaining Popularity
Amidst the current cost of living crisis, many individuals are seeking ways to reduce heating expenses while keeping their homes warm and families safe.

A trending tip on social media suggests placing tin foil behind radiators to reflect heat back into the room, promoting it as a cost-saving measure.
Is the Tin Foil Hack Effective and Safe?
However, there's an important question to address – does placing tin foil behind radiators actually work, and more importantly, is it safe?

In order to shed light on this matter, HuffPost UK consulted Chris Wagstaff, the director of health and safety at Croner.
While Wagstaff does not advise against using tin foil, he warns homeowners to exercise caution. He states, "Using foil behind radiators may seem like a good idea to save costs, but over time, this foil can oxidize and deteriorate. If the damaged foil is not replaced or is exposed to high heat, it could potentially catch fire or start smoldering."

Differentiating Tin Foils and Potential Risks
While some sources recommend using regular kitchen tin foil, Wagstaff emphasizes that not all tin foils are suitable for this purpose.
He explains, "The tin foil commonly found in kitchens for baking is not designed for this specific use. It should never be placed behind radiators. Kitchen tin foil degrades more easily, oxidizes faster, crinkles, and fails to stay in place as intended, rendering it ineffective and increasing the associated risks."

Thankfully, there is a specialized radiator foil available at DIY shops or home stores like B&M, priced at less than £10.
Fire Risks and Home Insurance Liability
Wagstaff concludes with a cautionary message regarding potential fire hazards and the impact on home insurance liability. He warns, "Using radiators in unintended ways also introduces additional risks, such as invalidating your home insurance if a fire occurs and it is discovered that modifications, like using tin foil to reflect heat, have been made."

Take note, homeowners: it's crucial to be mindful of potential risks and adhere to safety guidelines to avoid any unpleasant consequences.
Time to safely store that tin foil back in the kitchen drawer.
If you would like to know other articles similar to Beware: Fire Specialist's Warning on Popular Radiator Hack updated this year 2025 you can visit the category UK News.
Leave a Reply