Warning over homemade 'heater for pennies' that could set your house on fire

Experts are warning Brits not to trust an every energy-saving tip they see online this winter - no matter how tempted they are. After the 10% Ofgem price cap rise at the start of October, many homes are now truly feeling the pinch and looking to steal back pennies wherever possible.

The winter fuel allowance has also been cut for many pensioners. Both measures have left hard-up Brits looking for ways to save money this winter.

At the same time, some influencers and social media users are touting a homemade ‘heater for pennies’ using terracotta plant pots over a few lit up candles. The hack promises to heat your rooms without turning on the heating at all, claiming the terracotta material distributes and stores heat as well as a radiator but for far less money.

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However, expert Adeel Ul-Haq from BunkBeds.co.uk highlighted the worrying fire hazard this hack poses: “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."

Instead, he suggested some other fire-safe methods to keep cosy this winter, including investing in quality blankets and duvets to keep you warm during the coldest hours of the night. Getting oversized duvets or blankets can also let you double up on the material and avoid arms or legs slipping out into the cold. He noted: "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."

Energy bills this winter

The warning comes as people face pressures with energy bills. The average household energy bill increased by £149 a year in October.

Ofgem raised its price cap from the current £1,568 for a typical dual fuel household in England, Scotland and Wales to £1,717, or about £12 a month more on average bills. The latest cap is, however, 6% or £117 lower than it was compared with the same period last year.

From the beginning of October, homes on a standard variable tariff who pay for their electricity by direct debit were told to pay on average 24.5p per unit, with a standing charge of 60.99p per day. For gas, the average is 6.24p per unit with a standing charge of 31.66p per day.

Ofgem blamed increased political tensions and extreme weather events. The regulator said these factors had led to rising prices in the international energy market.

Millions of pensioners also face less financial support this winter. It comes after the Government axed winter fuel payments for those who do not receive pension credits or other benefits.

About 10 million pensioners will now miss out on the payments of up to £300 this year.