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Heatwave hack turns electric fans into 'AC units' – but there's huge problem

24 June 2024 , 10:02
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Think twice before trying to turn your electric fan into an
Think twice before trying to turn your electric fan into an 'AC unit' (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Weather forecasters have issued a yellow warning as temperatures are expected to climb to a sweltering 30C for the first time this year.

The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) has said the extreme June heat could pose a risk to people who are vulnerable, with almost every corner of the country set to scorch.

As a result, many are looking for ways to beat the heat. While some are turning their hot water bottles into ice packs, others are using tin foil to stop sunlight creeping through their windows.

But before trying out the hacks you see online, be sure to do your research. They may have hidden dangers you weren't aware of – and one viral video in particular has been branded "dangerous".

A TikTok clip tells people how to make their own "AC unit" by throwing a frozen towel over an electric fan. But as you can probably imagine, it's not safe to do this.

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Heatwave hack turns electric fans into 'AC units' – but there's huge problemSome hacks are best avoided for safety reasons (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

While some hope the cold towel will help cool air waft through the home, it comes with big risks. Consumer safety charity Electrical Safety First urged Brits to avoid the social trend as it can cause melting ice to get into the motor.

Not only does this increase electric shock risk, it can also damage your fan completely.

Giuseppe Capanna, product safety engineer at Electrical Safety First, said: "Yet again, we are seeing TikTok influencers who are demonstrating 'heat hacks' with their fans which are potentially unsafe.

"Placing a freezing towel on a plugged-in fan could destabilise the device and cause it to fall over, causing the blades to hit the guard and put the motor under pressure, and could even break the device altogether.

"The biggest risk comes from the towel, which would eventually thaw and become sopping wet. Water and electricity do not mix and, by copying this hack, water could come into contact with the motor or the plug and its socket, increasing the risk of an electric shock."

Looking for more ways to make the heatwave more bearable? We've got you covered.

Here are the signs of heatstroke you should keep an eye out for. While symptoms may not seem serious initially, they can end up turning deadly.

Meanwhile, there are products out there to improve sweaty season. Shoppers have been loving this game-changing Aldi product that keeps them cool. They also love these Radley sunglasses and a Dyson fan that "makes sleep possible" even when it's roasting.

Katie-Ann Gupwell

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