Experts issued warnings about a popular viral heating hack that claims to save money, revealing it could pose serious fire risks whilst providing minimal savings on bills
Winter invariably delivers dreary and depressing conditions alongside a harsh plunge in temperatures. Discovering ways to warm your property reliably without spending a fortune remains an ongoing struggle, prompting many homeowners to seek guidance from trending social media clips, reports the Express.
Yet specialists have recently warned Ideal Home about the risks and problems linked to certain popular heating tricks circulating online. They stressed that these so-called solutions might actually cause more damage than benefit when it comes to warming your house safely.
One widely-shared hack suggested that positioning tin foil behind radiators ranks among the most effective home heating methods. The theory claimed the foil should reflect warmth back into the space and prevent heat from seeping through walls.
It supposedly functions as a thermal shield, directing radiant warmth outwards into your living areas rather than allowing it to escape, allegedly cutting heat loss through non-insulated exterior walls considerably whilst potentially slashing energy costs. But specialists have cautioned that viral status doesn’t guarantee accuracy when it comes to household tips.
Scott Byrom, Energy Expert and Chief Executive at The Energy Shop, explained to Ideal Home: “Ordinary foil isn’t designed to sit behind a heat source. Over time, it can degrade or oxidise at higher temperatures, increasing the risk of smouldering or even fire. And without proper insulation backing, the heat-saving benefits are minimal at best.”
Andrew Topping, a firefighter with 26 years’ experience, highlighted the hazards of positioning tin foil behind radiators, saying: “Kitchen foil can oxidize and degrade over time and will lead to smouldering or burning at high temperatures if not replaced.”
The firefighter added: “These hacks gain traction because they seem simple and cheap, but what social media doesn’t show is the danger behind them.”
Scott advised: “Instead, if your radiators are on external walls, use purpose-made radiator reflector panels that are fire-safe and designed to improve efficiency, or focus on draught-proofing, which delivers far more reliable savings.”
Rather than using tin foil, experts suggest switching to radiator reflectors instead. These are slim panels or sheets specifically engineered to prevent heat from escaping through the rear of radiators.
They’re usually constructed with foil or another reflective surface, and occasionally feature a thin insulating layer. These specially designed reflectors are available at DIY retailers.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, radiator reflectors made from foil or other reflective materials can cut your carbon footprint and save up to £25 and £20 on your energy bills, respectively.
Radiator reflector foil and panels are available at ScrewFix, B&Q, and Amazon.
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